Sceptremass III The Council

Noon of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals

Heldris The Dove Knight

“The beast is terrifying indeed, as is the thunder for the mice. And we too thought it was responsible, but our investigation revealed that it was the doing of a curse on people’s minds. We were set to resolve the matter, but our attention was diverted by greater things occurring to the south of the realm.” The Dove Knight pauses for a moment, while the tapping of a light rain against the large windows echoes slowly throughout the library. “I intend to defend the creature, as is my oath to protect the realm and all who dwell within. And I would hope the hunters’ presence here has not some ulterior motive, and an innocent creature, albeit terrifying, won't have to die simply to favour some political deal.” The Dove Knight's last words end on a stern, almost wolfish, look.

Referee

Timea inclines her head weighing your words. “The trial will be in the afternoon when the King listens to the plight of his Vassals. The Sheriff will brief him at noon during the Council meeting but of course we won't know what is discussed there. You better prepare your defence, Dove Knight, maybe talk to the hunters or find these witnesses.'' She looks unconvinced as she gets up straightening her silken robes. “Politics is the art of making concessions to trade a small injustice in order to prevent a worse outcome. I fear we will all learn this valuable lesson by the end of Sceptermass.” After Timea has returned to her room to freshen up for her audience with the King you wander around the library looking for legal texts when you hear somebody behind you clearing their throat. An elderly woman with a sour expression looks at you quizzically but when you explain yourself she wordlessly puts books and scrolls on a table next to the stained window overlooking the courtyard. They read “Legal Decorum” “Various Precedents” ”Distinguishing Cases ” “Common Masurian Law” ”Law and the Limits of Power” From outside you hear the crier announcing high noon. You have two hours before the trial will be held.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"So be it." Anastaz half-sighs, stands and leaves the hall.  

Referee

Outside the hall the air tastes fresh after the constant rain and the courtyard is almost deserted. You hear Tibor bickering in the stable probably harassing other horses. In the antechamber to the Throne Room Gundhilde waits next to a woman in an old uniform with whom she shares the same broad face and the same green eyes. Your squire steps forward and makes sure to sweep mud from your boots and adjusts your tunic, while Lady Margaret holds her hands out:” Your sword, Sir Anastaz.” She doesn't acknowledge the presence of her daughter and you suspect they were both waiting in silence. While you hand her your weapon she leans forward and whispers: ”Sir Ulrich doesn't have to learn about the … incident. He has enough to deal with right now.”

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris sits down at the table and opens the scrolls before him. Outside in the courtyard small figures hurry under the light rain, but no noise penetrates the thick stained window. Heldris begins to read, looking for a keyword or a hint of something overlooked.  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight nods. "I understand. My goal is always to preserve the King's peace." As he goes to walk into the chamber, he casually states, "Gundhilde has been an exemplary squire."

Referee

The windowless room is dimly lit with candles. Margaret and you take seats next to each other on one of the strange roofed benches on the side, with the rest of the Council sitting opposite of you. Sir Ulrich holds a scroll to the light and squints at it. His elegant robes are stretched over his imposing belly. Sir Vladislav is leaning back and his face is hidden in the shadows. King Andrasz sits on the throne under the taxidermic head of a giant bear and studies his ring while his steward is whispering something in his ear until the King motions her to begin proceedings. She adresses the room with a flat, monotonous voice:” Priority are external threats, internal threats and harvest. Concerning the latter we expect major problems due to a persistent fog blocking out the sun. At this point we can't rule out a complete failure of crops.” She looks around. “Thoughts?”  

Window of the Castle Library

Referee

Heldris, you delve into the old scrolls finding obscure cases and scribble down notes on odd rulings. Deeper and deeper you immerse yourself until at last you think you might have a strategy. When you look up you realize to your horror that you have completely lost track of time. It is already afternoon and for all you know the trial might already be over.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

The Gilded Knight pauses at the gate to the main keep, and looks up at the Lady Inga. No matter how heavy his heart, it is lifted in her presence. His troubled features are crossed by a smile, though the knowledge of Lord Ulrich at his side banishes it swiftly. For a moment, he entertains that he could simply pass by Zoltan's father and seek solace from the evening's troubling events - would that be cowardice? He pauses in unfamiliar hesitation. And a flash of anger burns through the disappointment; the boy's vengeance is one passed down to him, a burden of the blood. Did Ulrich intend this? To walk the path of peace but to leave the bloody business to his son... Perilake does not want to believe. Perhaps now is not the time - it is certainly not the place. He resolves to seek out the Lady Inga's wisdom before he entangles himself further in the matters of Kranach.

Referee

You hear the Envoy of Barow inquiring about the noble woman's steed as you walk past him and you hear her inviting him to take a ride if his busy schedule allows. Lady Inga turns around on her balcony when she notices the door opening and your heart stops for a beat as her smile illuminates the room. In two steps she is in your arms embracing you tightly. “My love, oh how I missed you!” she whispers in your ear mindful of anyone who might pass her room.  

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Their embrace drives all the shadows from Perilakes mind, and he breathes in Inga as he holds her tightly. "I am here" he whispers. "And you are here with me. A moment of joy in this painful night...." At his words, Lady Inga pulls back and takes his hand, her face an unspoken question. Perilake sighs, and leads her over to a chair and table. His voice low, he explains the events of the Karpat tent, leaving nothing out. "You know how much I care for Zoltan. But today, he attempted murder - murder in righteous vengeance, but murder no less. He broke his word to me." He sighs. "I know not what to do." His face clouds with the anger from before. "The burden of Kranach's retribution should never have been placed on his shoulders. If this was Lord Ulrich's desire - then he has ill served his son. But I know not. And I know not whether I can trust Zoltan." He sighs heavily "Dagmar's betrayal was to save lives, but the Landsknechts -" He studies Inga's face as he utters the name of the Svenrik mercenaries. "- killed instead of spared. And it was all done in the name of the King.... I would have there be an end to this, but it seems the wounds will tear open once more, and drown us in blood. And the boy will never find his own path."  

Referee

Inga blushes when you mention the mercenaries. “The battle took place before my time in Swanstone, “she says slowly,”... but I can feel the pain of the family that took me in and I am ashamed of what has been done by our troops.” She mindlessly touches her necklace: the wooden falcon that you made for her. “Zoltan is still young and foolish. The death of his grandfather has been weighing on his soul since he was a child … and he still is but a boy. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive him.” She is quiet for a moment searching for words, nervously playing with the figurine and her cheeks are flushed. “The wounds of war have not been healed …” She looks at you pleadingly. ” ... because they fester in the dark! Maybe we need to rip them open one more time … and … and … we can finally live together in peace!” It almost sounds as if she is trying to convince not only you but also herself.  

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake's hand finds Inga's, and their fingers intertwine.

  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"My comrades and I have encountered a strange red mist on our travels, but I did not realize it posed such a dire threat. We could seek its cause, if it is the most grave concern."  

Referee

Lady Hildrad nods.”Well there is the small issue of two warbands approaching from… “ The melodic voice of Sir Vlad cuts her off from the shadow of his seat: “They have retreated. Lord Ulrich' s sources confirmed that.” Hildrad blinks.”Oh, well, … internal threats then …, Lady Margaret?” The Sheriff stands up and gives a longer overview of troubles within the Realm: a new Cult that is finding new followers rapidly, skirmishes between Szalai and Karpat troops over contested land, more huts that had been destroyed by floods in Swinjo, a great winged beast that had been caught and will be brought to justice… until the King clears his throat and she falls silent. “We all know that the most pressing issue right now is the other trial: That of Lady Bianca. Her conduct is unacceptable, but … will Kranach accept our ruling whatever it might be?” He looks around until his gaze lands on you. “And are you willing to repeat your accusations publicly, Salt Knight?”  

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris heart jumps when he realises how late it is. He quickly collects the relevant scrolls and rushes to the hall of the trial. He steps into the hall, out of breath, yelling: “Wait! You're making a mistake, the creature is innocent!”  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz raises an eyebrow when he hears about the Bat, and frowns when the King asks him about Bianca. "Lady Bianca has blackmailed another knight, Lady Dagmar; I know this to be true, and the Iron Knight has admitted as much to me in private. But the blackmail is over actions Lady Dagmar took during the civil war, and I fear a public trial may stir up old resentments and undermine the peace in the realm."  

Envoy of Barow: Sir Ulrich of Kranach questioning his life choices

Referee

Sir Ulrich rises and leans heavily on the balustrade that seperates the benches. “My Lord, I fear that the accusations against Lady Dagmar's … actions during the war are already whispered on the corridors of the castle by Knights and Courtiers, servants and vassals. Lady Bianca has been officially summoned to defend herself. Even those who still don't know why will ask questions. A trial behind closed doors will only further divisions between the houses.”  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz adopts a more open expression, and nods slowly as Sir Ulrich speaks. "Perhaps. Of course, as a friend of Lady Dagmar, I cannot claim impartiality..." He pauses for a moment, looking around the council. "I defer to His Grace's judgment."  

Referee

The King sits still for a while massaging his right hand, his delicate figure dwarfed by the massive throne. “ The actions of Lady Bianca are unacceptable and a desecration of the oath.“ He says slowly. “However … we need to tread carefully." He looks over to you apologetically. "House Barow must appear neutral in this matter. It will hopefully be seen as a gesture of goodwill if the prosecutor is an outsider instead of the Sheriff of Barow as would be the custom under normal circumstances. Lady Margaret will oversee the prosecution of the beast. But I want you to prosecute Lady Bianca, The Iron Knight." 

Sceptremass II - The Threat

 Morning of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Zuraw flashes as the Salt Knight draws it from its scabbard to block Zoltan's attack. His eyes light up as he regards the squire, though his expression remains dispassionate.

The blade catches Zoltan's dagger and the squire's momentary surprise at Anastaz's intervention quickly dissipates. He feints, seeking not to defend himself from the Salt Knight but only to harm Lady Dagmar, and his quick maneuver nearly catches Anastaz off guard. The knife clangs off Zuraw mere inches from Lady Dagmar's heart, and as the bastard sword wrenches the dirk high into the air, Zoltan's eyes leave his target and regard the ornate crane comprising the sword's hilt. He steps back, off balance, and Anastaz yanks him by the collar and throws him toward the back of the tent.

Referee

The two Knights of Karpat scramble to their feet, Lamberta takes a step towards a rack of weapons where her rune staff and Dagmars roped axe lie, blocking the way for the Snare Knight.”Don't!” she shouts but her Marshall turns away from her and draws her dagger instead. Her face is pale and her bloodshot eyes dart over to Zoltan. "you little rat ...” she mumbles stepping forward, towering over the squire.

Heldris The Dove Knight

Following the Bat’s words, Heldris crouches in silence listening to the coarse breathing of the beast, as it mixes with the faint chattering from above. After a while, he addresses it again: “This isn’t right. Have they told you when you are supposed to be judged? Will the trial be open, so that we that have met you before, can vouch for your innocence before the King?”

Referee

"Yessss" the creature hisses "zej will shpeak at noon and burn mee tomorrow. Will huuu shpeak for mee?” Its voice seemed dispassionate before as if talking about a sad fate for someone else but now you sense an eagerness and maybe even hope.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake steps between Dagmar and Zoltan forcefully. "You would have more Kranach blood on your hands then?" The Gilded Knight's normally buoyant visage is twisted in rage and disappointment. "Does the Snare Knight's blade hunger only for foolish youths and the backs of her friends?" 

Referee

Dagmar flinches at your words as if slapped. “I …I ...“ she stutters and the dagger drops from her hands.”I have forgotten my oath ...” she whispers as she stares down at the boy she was about to kill. Lamberta grabs Dagmar by the shoulders, yanks her away from the Kranach heir and pushes her down onto the rug. ”Sit and be quiet, you fool … You brought shame onto our name … again!" The guards who were about to rush in are immediately sent away with harsh words from their ruler. Zoltan scrambles to his feet, shocked as much by his own actions as by Dagmar's threats. He wipes away his tears and blindly stumbles towards the entrance.

Heldris The Dove Knight

The light of the candle flickers gently against the walls of the old tunnel. The Dove Knight falls silent again, as this injustice weighs on his chest while he considers if the judgement of King Andrasz could ever be clouded by the beastly appearance of this poor creature. He feels something old but not forgotten rise inside him, a wolfish sigh clutching his throat once again… finally, Heldris clear his throat, recalling those who always stood beside him. “My oath is to protect the Realm, and that means all who dwell within. I’ll vouch for you, poor creature, let’s hope the King’s ear will favour the truth.” 

Referee

After Zoltan flails wildly to brush the tent flap away you see him fleeing deeper into the bog and when you finally catch up with him he is sitting on one of the fallen dolmen where the Feast of the Stars took place. He has his head in his hands and you hear him sobbing..

The Standing Stones 

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz sits next to Zoltan, their legs not quite touching. For a long time he does nothing. "You are a fierce warrior; Sir Perilake has taught you well."

Referee

Zoltan looks up and sniffs: “He has … but I mumbles down.” He moves slightly away from you looking at the castle in the distance. “My lord will send me away and regardless if my father hears of the … incident ... he will order me to return to Swanstone … and … I … I want to learn from … I want to follow The Gilded Knight … all the way … to mumbles!” He buries his head again.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz follows Zoltan's gaze to the distant castle and remains silent for a moment. "Whom does a knight serve? The king, their house, the realm? I have heard it said that a man cannot serve two masters: every day we knights must choose one to favor over the other. You show great loyalty to your house, but sometimes the needs of the realm come first. In aiding House Barow, the Snare Knight tried to prevent bloodshed. Perhaps she erred. But better a flawed knight than a false one." He slides Zuraw from its sheath, the shhhink resounding in the quiet night. "I believe this is yours? I will keep it safe for now, but when you are dubbed knight, The Crane will return to its rightful owner, I swear it."  

Referee

Zoltan gasps and turns around to face you. “Are you …?” He wipes away his tears. He is shaking his head searching for words and when they come he makes sure to pronounce every syllable carefully . “I … don't know how … I will … try to live up to expectations of a true Knight … even if it means ...” He exhales with a sigh. “ … even if it means showing forgiveness when the heart yearns for revenge!”

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz puts a light hand on Zoltan's shoulder. "I know you will do your master and your house proud."

Referee

Heldris, when you leave the derelict building that dominates the court yard you see Tîmea and a plump man emerging from the Great Hall. The man wears a woven bonnet on his bald head and fly plaid wrapped around his shoulders with a decorative dagger in his belt. He is gesticulating emphatically. They pass a hunter who is following the smell of freshly baked bread into the castle. You recognize him from somewhere and suddenly it dawns on you that this is Radlev, the bat hunter you met outside the cave far in the North.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Back in the tent, Perilake composes himself, clenching his fists as Anastasz pursues his squire. "I apologise for my squire Lady Lamberta. I apologise for the disrespect brought here." He sighs heavily. "I ask that you forgive him this. And that you forgive Lady Dagmar for her wrath. I had hoped that together, we might recognise the past and break the cycle of retribution. That the power that day holds over my squire...and over Lady Dagmar -" He gestures at the scattered goblet with a weary hand. "- might be broken." He turns to speak to Dagmar. "I know that the Iron Knight wields this secret over you still, and it sickens me. Yet it is a secret shared by too many to stay hidden. Whatever may come of that, my squ-" He bites his lip. "Zoltan has thrown away his right to an accounting with this insult. And my trust in him."

Referee

The sun has risen above the hazy clouds that blanket the Realm when you return to the castle. You see Inga standing on a balcony with her back to the court yard. Lady Zdenka has placed a hand on her shoulder talking to her insistently. At the gate to the main keep Sir Ulrich exchanges pleasantries with a noble woman from Szalai's entourage. Above him Inga - now alone on the balcony - has turned around looking down at the coming and going of guests and servants but so deep in thought that she doesn't seem to observe anything and she hasn't spotted you.

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris walks towards Timea and the bald man. “Dear Timea, it is good to see you here. I wanted to thank you for making this possible.” He shows the iron arm and its elegant carvings. “But I hope I'm not interrupting anything.” He bows slightly to the bald man.

Referee

Timea's big brow-less eyes light up and she grabs your right hand. “My sweet Dove Knight it is a delight to see you in good health.” She gestures at the plump man that trailed behind her. “You haven't met Sir Dragan, I assume?” Dragan musters you curiously. ”The tales of your company are told everywhere … they are sung even at Castle Altan far to the South.” , he finally says. “The Hound that his in the… and The Eye sprouting uh… Is it true you defeated a warband all on your own and that you can turn into a wolf at night?”

Heldris The Dove Knight

“It's a pleasure to meet you sir Dragan.” Heldris smiles uneasily at the man's odd praise of his deeds. “You shouldn't always trust a tale when it has travelled that far. But I haven't had the pleasure to visit castle Altan. What is it like? And what brings you up here to Barowia?” The Dove Knight then turns to Timea and adds, almost in a whisper: “I would be most happy to talk to you in private, dear Timea, there are things afoot on which I’d love to have your opinion about.”

Referee

“Marvellous!” Dragan exclaims with a wide gesture. ”Altan Halls is … it's uh ...” “.... you really should visit Altenburg,” Timea interrupts him, ”It is quite lovely during Harvest.” She bows before the bald man. “I don't want to waste any more of your time, my dear Sir Dragan. I am sure Lady Bianca can benefit more than us from your council and we don't want to keep you away from her any longer.” And before the perplexed man can protest she leaves him behind and leads you to the castle. On the stairs to the library she stops and leans against the banister. ”Dragan is a fascinating man but easily excitable … ” She laughs ” … and frankly a bit exhausting. Now, on what matters do you need my advice?”  

Heldris The Dove Knight

In the old library, the imposing shelves tower upon the two courtiers, undisturbed. “It has come to my attention that at midday a creature of this land will be judged by the King, I'm afraid for crimes it didn't commit.” Heldris watches Timea's expression attentively. “The creature was caught by Waldochians hunters. You've travelled much, what do you know about this land? I've heard our King has a claim on their throne.”  

Referee

”Waldochia is a vast steppe, a land without borders. Naturally many have laid claim to it and so did the King - but no one ever conquered it and neither has Sir Andrasz. The riders of Waldochia are fierce fighters, cunning hunters … and talented merchants once you've won their trust.” Her pensive smile seems to imply a clever trade deal the nomads struck with the Merchants Guild. "What is your business with the hunters? They brought in that terrifying beast and the trial is all but decided. You must be mistaken: All its crimes are proven by witness accounts … clearly you aren't thinking about defending it?"

Heldris The Dove Knight

“The beast is terrifying indeed, as is the thunder for the mice. And we too thought it was responsible, but our investigation revealed that it was the doing of a curse on people’s minds. We were set to resolve the matter, but our attention was diverted by greater things occurring to the south of the realm.” The Dove Knight pauses for a moment, while the tapping of a light rain against the large windows echoes slowly throughout the library. “I intend to defend the creature, as is my oath to protect the realm and all who dwell within. And I would hope the hunters’ presence here has not some ulterior motive, and an innocent creature, albeit terrifying, won't have to die simply to favour some political deal.” The Dove Knight's last words end on a stern, almost wolfish, look.  

Referee

Anastaz, you leave Zoltan in the ring of standing stones with the holy oaks keeping watch on the troubled young man. Rain drops from the helmets of the guards at the gate and pools in puddles on the court yard. From a servant you learn that Bianca is enjoying a late breakfast in the Great Hall where the tables have been arranged in a square for the upcoming trial. When you enter the Hall you hear the bellowing laughter of Sir Adalbert. The Iron Knight sits with the ruler of Szalai Keep and an elderly lean woman in a traditional red and green blouse. Bianca is leaning back in her chair lazily taking a bite from a dried apple pierced on her dagger. There is a group of hunters across the room sitting together and drinking in silence.

The Great Hall

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz takes a seat near Bianca. "Sir Adalbert, it is an honor to see you again." He turns toward the elderly woman. "I have not had the pleasure of meeting you, good lady. I am Anastaz."

Referee

"Has our sweet Lady Inga caught your eye?" Bianca asks mockingly, "If so, I have to disappoint you. She is promised to your friend Perilake. Or is it about his squire, young Zoltan?" Bianca shrugs and gets up. "Whoever it might be: Follow me, Salt Knight, I know just the place for a private conversation." Adalbert waves vaguely in your direction and shouts for more wine. Lady Bianca leads you across the court yard to the abandoned building in its centre. The smell of old wood and dust takes you back to that strange winter night when you climbed the shaft and found the spy hole to the Throne Room shortly before your candle burned down. The Iron Knight takes a seat on one of the benches. It is very quiet except for the rain against the curtained off windows. Into the darkness she asks: "Or do you want to talk about the traitor?"

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"Her 'betrayal' served His Grace your King, while you upset his peace for your own gain. I am here to warn you, if you make your accusations against Lady Dagmar public, or spread rumors about her, I will pursue you mercilessly. I will seek a trial for your crimes. A trial by combat, a duel to the death if need be. And while the Snare Knight is formidable, I am eager to face you myself. Withdraw your accusation, make amends, and we can be at peace."

Referee

You hear her clothes rustle in the darkness as she shifts her weight. Is she coming closer? "Are you threatening me?" she whispers. "Trying to silence me?” A cold laugh echoes through the hall. “I served under Sir Zigmunt and saw his head being paraded on a pike.” You can feel her breath on your face and the warmth of her body next to you. “I lay between the dead bodies while the landsknechts moved slowly from one to the next to kill the wounded and the dying.” She is now so close that your lips almost touch. “I am the Sheriff of Kranach now and I will relish fighting you. There will be no peace.“

Sceptremass I - The Dagger

Night of the 2nd Silverday of Petals

The moon is hanging large over Castle Barow. Dogs are barking and a soldier is raising a torch as you are passing a large tent with the banner of house Karpat.

Guards open the gate to the courtyard. Next to the derelict building a pyre has been erected with a large stake and chains hanging from them. At the stable Perilake spots Pearl - Lady Inga's steed - and Anastasz recognizes another but can't recall from where. You are led by servants to your room.

Morning of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals - The Day before Sceptremass

At dawn a rooster crows and you all wake up in canopy beds. The glow from the dying ember in the hearth illuminates a wall of antlers and tapestries depicting hunting scenes. Outside the stain glass window the sky is grey and a fine rain falls onto the courtyard. Your squires bring in a meal of stewed apples and a message for Sir Anastasz: At noon the Council of the King will meet in the throne room. 

Anastaz The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight takes his breakfast from his squire with a gracious nod, and eats while looking out at the gloomy sky. He says, to no one in particular, "Despite all we've done, I fear the realm is in more danger than ever."

Heldris The Dove Knight

The Dove Knight mulls over his breakfast for a while. "Our actions have been just, Sir Anastaz, and justice can only bring good to the Realm.” He brushes the wavy carvings on his iron arm, slowly. “It’s how justice is served, that can lead to discord… I don’t like the look of that pyre out in the courtyard." He adds, although with a smile. "But be true to yourself today with the King, my friend, and I'm confident all will be good.”

Referee

Perilake, when Zoltan sets down the platter you can see his hands are trembling and he doesn't look at you as he mumbles a morning greeting.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake thanks Zoltan, and watches the boy as he exits the room. He stands suddenly, and with swift strides, catches his squire in the corridor outside. "What troubles you my friend?" Perilake speaks softly, resting a hand on the lads shoulder. "I have my own thoughts. But I would know yours."

Referee

Zoltan is turned away from you and shakes is head. His voice is hoarse from suppressed anger: ”The traitor … my father … he told me …” He turns around, his eyes are unsteady and his hands are balled into fists, ” ... he told me it is the Marshall of Karpat, Lady Dagmar.” He has raised his voice enough for the Knights inside the room to overhear the name.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz raises an eyebrow at Zoltan's outburst. He departs, taking a walk around the keep before peeping inside the Karpat tent.  

Referee

You walk through the deep mud that was the tiltyard of the tournament - where you won your sword Zuraw, the Swan - suspiciously eyed by a handful of soldiers in Karpat uniform but the guards at the tent salute as if expecting you. They must have announced your approach as a young woman steps out of the tent, Lady Adalgunde, who greets you formally before adding more quietly: “If you want to talk frankly to Lady Dagmar, remember that the King will hear all as long as Lady Lamberta wears the ring.”

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris throws a worried look over to Perilake, but the confident eyes of the Gilded Knight dissolves any concern. He gulps down the last bite of his meal and stands up. "I'll better inquire about that pyre, before any surprise befalls us ahead of Septremass."

Referee

When you enter the courtyard and approach the pyre you hear a faint melody from below, a song you heard in Swinjo before. The sound must come from the tunnels under the Game Hall or maybe the oubliette. The stake in the pyre is huge and the chains that hang from it could hold a giant.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake's fist clenches on Zoltans shoulder, and he leans in close. "And Lady Dagmar is here... and a friend to Sir Anastasz no less." Perilake sighs. "Your father has placed a heavy burden upon your shoulders with this knowledge. But what do you wish? To pursue vengeance unchecked would be to throw away the duty I hoped to teach you." Perilake nods as Heldris passes by, his voice lowering further. "And Dagmar's betrayal was done in loyalty to the King. War washes clean the honour of those who prove useful to the victor; there will be no justice there, and your father is certainly placed to know it."

"That would leave only the path of a duel." Perilake stands back from Zoltan, and looks him in the eyes. "You are brave. You are strong. Your demand would be honourable. But you are young, and not yet a knight. She is not bound to honour your challenge... But she is mine."

"Let us seek the truth of this betrayal, the story unheard. Then, my brother, I swear I will help you in whatever you decide is the path. As long as we walk it together, with our eyes open and clear."

Referee

“Will the truth come out? The traitor is not summoned to be punished … she is protected by the King … and by your fr... “ He chokes and curses but then takes a deep breath, finally looking you in the eyes. “My lord, have I not served you loyally? And I will do so until I am dismissed or knighted. But revenge is mine and mine alone … and if the King cannot serve justice ...” He sighs. "I will honour my oath to you, my lord, and obey your orders. But I will not forget my duty to those who have been slaughtered."

A troubled young squire: Zoltan of Kranach

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"Your duty is to justice, Zoltan. Not vengeance." His words harden as the gilded knight squares his shoulders. "As you say, Vengeance is for you - and you alone." He pauses for a long moment. "Come then. Let us seek an audience with Lady Dagmar. We will put these deeds to her."

Referee

Zoltan follows you hesitantly. You have left all your weapons in your room except for the daggers - as is customs during Sceptremass. Outside the tent the guards cross their polearms. "Who demands an audience with her majesty?"

Referee

Anastaz, inside the tent the two Knights sitting opposite each other on colourful rugs turn to face you. Lady Lamberta is wearing the simple tunic of a soldier and an iron crown. She is playing with the ring on her finger, turning it thoughtfully. Lady Dagmar is wearing a battered gambeson over her tunic. She looks distraught. Lamberta motions you to sit beside her. "I knew you would come, Salt Knight. You are a man of honour."  

Heldris The Dove Knight

Recalling the eerie encounter at the old auditorium, Heldris silently slips away to the forgotten back door and steps into the domed hall once again. He listens for a moment and watches the morning light filtering through the disturbed dust flying in the air. He steps towards the chessboard grid and looks for the tile with the beehive, ready to step down the dark corridor again.

Referee

Inside the song gets softer but as soon as you enter the tunnel behind the slate with the crest of beehive and sickle the humming echoes through the corridor. When you reach the shaft you realize that there is a trapdoor. From above you hear the chatter of a small crowd and from below – the song the bard sang in Swinjo … but it is the breathy voice of The Bat you hear!

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz half-bows to the Ladies as he takes the offered seat. "You are kind, my Lady. Honour means a great deal these days, when many have forgotten the word's meaning. I hope your House is well."

Referee

A servant hands you a goblet of watery wine. Lamberta inclines her head. "Thanks to your integrity my house is well. The King will not accept that a Knight who swore the oath to protect the Realm will be coerced for coin and personal gain." Lady Dagmar flinches at her words and looks down. Her knuckles are white as she holds on to her own goblet of wine.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"Bianca of Altenburg has forgotten her vows." He rubs his chin and stares off into space for just a moment. "I will do what I must to ensure that she does not harm the standing of your house or its members."

Heldris The Dove Knight

The Dove Knight crouches near the trapdoor, and as the rhymes get clearer, he suddenly joins humming in a higher tone: "The great winged one grows... and we are the feast." As the dark tunnel falls silent for a moment, Heldris asks with a whisper through the trapdoor: "Are you the Great Winged One? Do you remember my voice? How did you end up imprisoned here?"

Referee

It stays silent for a while and you crouch there with your candle in the dark. Then you hear a croaking sound over the laughter from above: "Huuuu" the voice breathes "I remember huuu. Huu shang to mee." It sounds as if the words a pressed through the bellows of a forge. "Ze hchunters caught meee. Zej chwill chudge mee and zej will burn me at the shtake …"

Referee

Lady Dagmar looks gratefully at Anastaz as he utters words of encouragement for her cause but her smile falters when she hears Ser Perilakes voice.

Perilake, when you mention Zoltan's family the guards look grimly at your squire and Zoltan looks back at them defiantly but then a voice from inside calls for the guards to let you pass and the guards obey. Lady Lamberta looks past Perilake at the Kranach heir and says sternly as if reprimanding a child: "I will not suffer any foolishness nor will I accept a lack of respect for my Marshall." Softer she adds, "Under these condition I welcome you both, may the spirit of Sceptermass guide us all." She glances quickly at Dagmar.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake steps past the guards, and into the tent. "Thank you Lady Lamberta." He nods at Anastasz. "I bring you no foolishness, and no disrespect to Lady Dagmar. For I know that loyalty and honour are no laughing matters to House Karpat." He places a firm hand on Zoltan's shoulder and squeezes, warning the lad to mind Lamberta's warning. "And I respect the Snare Knight's honour to know she will speak truthfully when I ask her a question, one I sense she knows is coming." "If these words are true, then why?"

Referee

Lady Dagmar sits still for a while and then downs the goblet holding it out for the servant to refill it. Her hand is unsteady as if it wasn't her first drink today. "Why?" She gives a laugh, a terrible sound that doesn't match her expression. "Why? … Because I knew the war was lost. Because I wanted the brave men and women of Karpat and Kranach to live. Because the battle was supposed to be over quickly and without bloodshed. Because I thought the landsknechts of Svenrik had any honour ..."

While Dagmar is talking you feel the muscles in Zoltan's shoulder flexing. His right hand moves slowly toward his belt.

Drama in the Karpatian Tent

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake's grip squeezes ever tighter on Zoltan's shoulder, forcing a gasp of pain. He pushes the boy behind him as he steps between Zoltan and Dagmar. "So, you sacrificed your word - your honour for the lives of others..." He grimaces. "I would call such a thing noble, in its own strange way. But mercenaries honour nothing but coin, and whatever the intention, it was washed away in the very bloodshed you hoped to avoid." He turns his gaze to Lamberta. "I mean no insult, but ask for your wisdom. Karpat bled as deeply as Kranach. Why do you keep this secret? Why do you hold Dagmar close?"

Referee

Dagmar stares at you furiously. Lady Lamberta looks puzzled: "Dagmar kept the secret from me for the longest time. Only when the Salt Knight pressed her during the tournament she first revealed it to him and later to me. She was ashamed and afraid that her family would disavow her." She shakes her head. "Letting Dagmar fall … my own blood? Preposterous!" Suddenly Zoltan leaps forward from behind Perilake and past him with a dagger in his hand.  

Appendix N for my Mythic Bastionland

Apparently it is appendix-n-day on September 8^th and a good reason as any to mention the media touch stones of my Mythic Bastionland campaign. Grab a spoonful of halva and a strong tea from a samovar, listen to pilentse pee by the Bulgarian State Television Female Vocal Choir and get into the right mindset for Barowia

Costume by Agnieszka Osipa

Music

Le Mystère des VoixBulgares 

My Realm is distinctively not pseudo-Arthurian England but rather pseudo East-European pagan middle ages without roads. My houses are Szalai, Karpat, Barow, Masur and Urban

Richard Wagner: Tannhäuser Overture 

Ok, there is also Kranach and Altenburg to spice things up but they all get Slavic given names. Also my version of Mythic Bastionland is heavily informed by the way German Romanticism hallucinated the middle ages.

Literature

Wolfram von Eschenbach: Parzifal

Hans Bemmann: The Stone and the Flute

A story about a young man who is given a mysterious stone and a magic flute. Lauscher (listener) travels the world to find happiness. Full of stories within stories and dreams and songs. He is cursed and turned into a statue for ten years and later lives as a faun. Not particular well written and with 800 pages quite the challenge but beautifully captures the fairytale vibes of Mythic Bastionland.

Movies

Eric Rohmer: Perceval LeGallois 

Sergej Parajanov:  The Color of Pomegranates 

The Green Knight is always mentioned and for good reasons but I just love the look of these films, the stage design and the colours. Parajaov's film has exactly one knight but the vibes are 100% Barowia

Costume by Agnieszka Osipa 

Other media

Fashion: Agnieszka Osipa

Illustrations: ValinMattheis 

Mythic Bastionland: Example of Prepping a One-Shot

For a recent one shot I made a 7x7 map with half of the Realm creation Landmarks and three Myths. I use an uneven number of hexes so that I can start them on a random location in the middle of one of the borders. I also randomized the time of year with a d4 (1 Feast of the Sun 2 Sceptremass 3 Feast of the Stars 4 Eldermass). They started in the West and arrived at the Seat of Power on time for Sceptremass which was a neat coincidence that I wouldn't have felt comfortable of just deciding. Arriving from the South by boat and passing the sanctum of the Winged Seer during Eldermass would have given the one-shot a completely different feel and being surprised like that is what I enjoy about refereeing the most. 

The Myths

1 The Toad

2 The Forest

3 The Eye

The Rulers:

Lady Hedwig of Altenburg fortified pillars /solemn library / cauldron (centrepiece) heraldry (detail)

The Willow Knight (ancient sword)

Crest: rearing horse and star

relationship /w Gunter: Intimate supporter (she is in love)

drama: redemption brawl (two courtiers duel)

Sir Gunter of Orlow: Wild Dome / Immaculate Garden / Guards (centrepiece) Tapestry

The Cosmic Knight:

Crest: bale and sickle

relationship /w Hedwig: tumultuous peer (they were in the same company but fell out)

drama: ambition inheritance (son Andrasz wants to take the throne)

Landmarks

The Seers

The Cured Seer: echo caves

The Winged Seer: salt grotto

Ruin of The Sun

Ruins 

Dried up well (The Sun)

Collapsed Wall (The Wheel)

Hazards

Rat Territory 

Biting Thorns 

Curses

Smoke Clouds

Foul Shadow

Dwelling

Southcliff

woe: Prophecised famine (acolytes of the eye blame the Winged Seer)

Mouments

Elder Tree

Obsidian Henge

Pretty minimal prep as you can see but the game ran very smoothly. I delivered the 1^st Omen of all Myths as news / rumour to the Seat of Power, and they triggered the 2^nd and 3^rd Omen of the Toad. The players didn't resolve a Myth in the three hours we played but got a decent idea about how the game would look like in a campaign. If you prefer a more streamlined experience you could just use one Myth and start them at the Set of Power but if you enjoy the sandboxy feel of a campaign in your one-shot I recommend giving the above set-up a try.

Session 16

They watch the war camp of the elves from a vantage point. Under the autumn sun the hills extend to the horizon perfectly symmetrical like waves and if painted on a stage. The Knights of the Black Fleece decide to send the prisoner and are granted an audience with the Steward of Seasons. 

The Elf

As they slowly ride between the warriors shrill pipes sound and they are allowed into the tent of the Elf who is always too close to be viewed as a whole and out of focus if they try. When they speak the Knights don't remember their voice but are aware of what has been said. -What is it that they seek? Perilake suggests a duel for the future of the Realm. -Who will be the champion of the King? Who else then the champion of the Grand Harvest Tournament, Sir Anastasz The Salt Knight. - You will serve me as a Courtier, they remember the Elf saying, for I will be the Ruler of this Realm and leave forever if I lose. Time passes and they are served exotic food washed down with spiced wine.

The Knights demand a bountiful harvest if they win. Assured of their superiority the Elf agrees but lusts for The Gilded Knight's sword.

The Gilded Knight: “What do I get in return?”

- He is offered an unbreakable compass in return and it is agreed.

The Salt Knight:”What do you strive for?”

- To rule the Realm.

The Salt Knight: ”Why do you disturb the natural order of the seasons?”

- It pleases them.

Later they sleep but won't remember their dreams. Before dawn the Rune Knight carves a sigil into his body. The Dove Knight offers Anastasz his River Helm, Ser Perilake Death Head, the sword he might lose, and Sir Valamonte whispers a rune into the Salt Knight's ear.

The unbreakable compass

The Champion of the Realm steps into the square formed by elven warriors. There stands the Steward of Seasons. As soon as the dissonant pipes sound The Elf attacks with a flurry of blows, faster than any human. Anastasz holds his ground, bashes the golden falx to the side and strikes. Back and forth they move until at last Death Head eagerly digs into the Elf's chest, who kneels holding their bleeding chest.

They stand between three hills covered in blood red flowers under a misty spring sky. The Elf is gone and with them their army and only a single tent remains. It holds the unbreakable compass watched by the longly viper: ”Salt Knight!” it hisses, “Henceforth you will be know as Elfbain” and then it slithers away.

Session 15

 2^nd Woodsday of Petals

Valamonte, The Rune Knight approaches the cave on his warhorse, his body inscribed with stories and sigils and carrying a pillar of stone. He is sent by the Drowned Seer to aid the Company of the Black Fleece. Sir Davith and Sir Anastaz inform their fellow Knight about their plans. Mist rises from the nearby lake as they ride south. At noon they arrive at a strange forest, past crumbling pillars and broken statues.

2^nd Armsday of Petals

The Rune Knight rises before dawn and hides behind a statue to carve a figure onto his body when the statue suddenly moves. The Grey Stone Hunter asks Sir Anastaz: “Who shall I punish?” but the Salt Knight remains silent. Should a Knight use foul magic to enact his revenge? Finally he says: “Lady Lydia of Szalai.” The Hunter answers: ”She shall be punished!” and disappears.

"Who shall I punish?"

They press on through a dark forest of twisted trunks and watched by silent toads until they reach a spiral of natural steps and find at its bottom a dried well that displays the story of the Feaster, a golden giant emerging from the sun to come down onto the Realm. He feasts on many before three brave Knights slay the giant.

They decide to turn east to finally conquer the mountain that had denied them, hoping to find the Elf. Instead they are approached by one of his heralds with cold eyes and strawlike hair. He carries a bow and presents it to Anastaz as a gift from his master. Reluctantly the Salt Knight takes it and holds it in his hands: An ornate bow, twisted like braided reeds with symbols of flowers and grain. “Bring news to your lord, that I will challenge him to a duel.” The scout agrees and turns around. At the summit the Knights rest.

More signs of harvest arriving early

2^nd Riverday of Petals

They lead their horses down the mountain through ferns that grew to unusual height and observe from a vantage point the lands to the south: rolling hills covered in a sea of glowing poppies but when they pass through the field of flowers and under the glaring sun they cast no shadow. They see another herald carrying a snake and covering a distance with each step for which humans would need many more. The viper will bring a message to the King, they hear, and no one else. Sir Davith confronts the season scout and charges forward. He breaks his foot with a forceful blow. The scout is bound and pressured until he finally agrees to bring them to the Steward of Seasons. The viper eyes The Salt Knight and doubts his wisdom but Anastaz doesn't trust the symbol of treachery. From a blood red hill they see a large camp of tents and in between a warband each of scouts with swift bows and destroyers wielding golden falxes.