NationStates Jolt Archive

Daphne faked a smile before saying, "It is the most miserable feeling in the world..." A shiver shot down her spine as the night's air had become cold.

Again she persisted her question attempting to change the subject matter away from herself, "So what draws you to court?"

After the duel, Alric had walked around the grounds and had watched the commoners festivities on the castle green. It reminded him of a similar festival in his home in northern England that his father used to thorw. It reminded Alric of why he was here. "I will not fail father. I will bring honor back to your name by any means necessary." He said quietly to himself.

As it got later, he looked up at the peak that stood at the center of the castle. He wondered when he would get his chance to meat the king.

"I came simply because it was on the way of my journey." Alejandra replied

"And where were you journeying too?" asked the Princess.

"Nowhere and everywhere." Alejandra replied cryptically.

"Right..." said the Princess. "Well at least you are going somewhere," she commented as she sighted.

"After the festival, I'm going on a quest." Alejandra said, "Would you like to join me?"

"Ha," she said as she cracked a laugh. "Would I? Yes. Could I? No."

"Why not just come with me then?" Alejandra asked

"I doubt my father would allow me to leave upon a journey," said Daphne. "They would say it wasn't proper for a princess to go on a quest."

"Who said anything about asking permission?" Alejandra asked

Princess Daphne didn't say anything, but rather pointed her finger in the direction of the stairwell.

Alejandra looked in the indicated direction.

Alejandra looked in the indicated direction.

Daphne signaled for Alejandra to wait here. She then walked over to the stairwell and a quick murmur could be heard.

"I am cold, may I have your cloak."

"Certainly..."

She returned a moment later wearing a cloak that was over a foot too long for her. She then pulled out the cloak and pointed back towards the stairwell.

Alejandra was puzzled at what was happening, and continued to look in the direction Daphne had indicate.

The Princess sighed and then leaned in and whispered to Alejandra, "I can't just leave... people are going to be watching and looking for me, like Bane who is sitting on the stairs right there."

Alejandra leaned over, and wispered back, "Why not leave a note in your room, or somewhere out of the way, and ride off on your own?"

"Somebody will notice the Princess of the castle sneeking off," she said. "Even if it is only a stableboy... the message will in turn return to my father, and then he will send everybody out after me."

"Plus... Rusty is suppose to escort me to the Grand Hall," she said pointing back in Bane's direction.

"Alright," Alejandra replied, "Perhaps you could convince your father to let you escort me for the first bit of my quest at least."

"Now thats funny," said the Princess stifling a laugh, "I would have a better chance convincing Sir Bane to not say anything and then go steal a horse."

"I'm sure we will be able to figure something out." Alejandra replied

"Maybe..." said Daphne. Although before she could continue she heard Sir Bane's voice, "Are you two done? Or are you still talking..."

"Be patient, Bane," said the Princess

"As you command, M' Lady," he said as the sound of Bane's armor could be heard clinking against the stone stairs again.

"He is impatient, isn't he." Alejandra said, refereing to Bane.

"I am not," came Bane's voice.

"Bane!"

"Sorry, Princess."

"Don't eavesdrop or interrupt our conversation!" said Daphne in an authoritative tone.

"As you command, M' Lady." said Bane as the sound of him moving down several stairs could be heard.

"Nosy too." Alejandra said

"Yeh..." Daphne said. "But can you blame him? After all... he is just a man," she commented with a giggle at the end.

"Yes, just a man." Alejandra agreed with an answering giggle of her own.

"So... how am I going to get out of here," Daphne said as she stopped giggling.

"Do you have any friends to the north?" She asked

"Sadly... no," said the Princess as she frowned.

Before she could say anything more, Sir Bane had returned. "I have plenty of friends in the north. Why?" he asked.

"Bane!" scolded Daphne.

"How loyal are you to the royal family?" Alejandra asked, "Would you defy one member to help another?"

"Loyal until death," Bane said proudly, "Why?"

"We'll tell you later, and don't speak of this." Alejandra said

Bane looked over to Princess Daphne who gave him a slight nod. "Yes, M' Lady," he said as he bowed to them. "Is there anything else you require?"

"Not at present." Alejandra replied

"Very well," he said as he backed away and down the stairs until he was out of hearing range.

"What did you have in mind?" asked the Princess.

"We convince him to escort us to his friends house, then we part company with him." Alejandra replied

"I guess it might work..." Daphne said as she pondered the idea, "But I doubt he will escort me to the north lands and then just leave us."

"If he keeps his word he will." Alejandra replied

"Well... I guess its worth a try, even though I doubt he would risk leaving me," said the Princess.

"Perhaps." She replied, "Thought I believe he will keep his word."

"Okay..." she said warrily, "When shall we depart?"

"After the festival." Alejandra replied

"Alright then," she said, "Shall we wait to tell him?"

Sven did not eat much, he was used to eating so little food on his travels that anyone who was in his company long would be amazed he didn't starve to death.

After finishing his food, he wiped his hands neatly on a napkin and drank some, but then got up and made to go to his room. One could say that he looked as though his mind was occupied.

"Yes, we should." Alejandra replied

"Ok," said Princess Daphne. "I will meet you at my chambers on the last night of the festival during the end feast." She ten walked away and down the stairs to where Sir Bane sat.

"Lets go," she said, "Take me to my chambers... I don't wish to return to the festival tonight."

"As you command, M' Lady," said Sir Bane.

He walked behind her down the long corridors until they reached her chamber. "What was all that about up there?" asked Sir Bane.

"Nothing, nothing at all," she responded with a twinkle in her eye.

"Good night, Princess," said Sir Bane as he closed the door and proceeded back towards the Grand Hall. When he arrived many of the guests had already dispersed and gone to bed, but nonetheless he walked over to the King's table.

"What of my daughter?" asked the King when he noticed Sir Bane returning.

"She was having a friendly chat with Lady Alejandra. It seemed the two were getting along quite well, so I decided not to insist she returned. After they finished conversing, I escorted her back to her chambers as she requested," said Bane in response.

"Very well. It does not matter anyway, I am tired and will be going to bed soon," said the King as he rubbed his forehead. He stood up and announced to the remaining guests, "A very good first night's feast this was... but now I retire to my chambers. I bid you all good night." He then proceeded out of the Grand Hall and upto the Royal Chambers where he promptly fell asleep.

*
The next few days passed with many more feasts that filled everyone's bellys. There was music some nights with dancing and singing, while other nights there were bards that would come and tell an old myth or story.
*

Finally the seventh and final night of the Spring Festival was here. Preparations were underway for the final feast that night, while guests readied themselves for the journey home in the morning. The morning's jousting tournament had been won by Sir Gawain, as Sir Lancelot decided not to participate.

The afternoon came and went and soon it was near five o'clock. The King strode down to his reception chamber where he sat on his thrown with crown on his head. To his left there was a seat in which sat his wife, Queen Cordelia, and to his right was another seat in which sat Sir Lancelot. The King beckoned his hand at a guard and he opened the door to allow people to enter, in order to request what they will. Many people from the town and surrounding countryside at come asking for everything from justice to gold - the King evaluated each and decided what to do. Some even came asking for knighthood (*this is when those in search of knighthood should come and ask the king*).

Meanwhile, Princess Daphne waited in her chamber as Sir Bane sat in his own chamber with the door open. Sir Bane's chamber was the door before Princess Daphne's in the hallway.

Over the next few days Sven talked little and ate less, even at the feasts. He was always polite, but never let on much of what he was thinking, preferring to leave people guessing.

He could also never be spotted at the chapel, or the church, or anything of the sort. One particular day, at around five in the afternoon, he was in his room, the door closed, observing his religion. He had made himself a little shrine in the corner, and was conducting his prayers to the gods of his land there. Several candles were lit. He was almost done, but had no idea what he'd do for the rest of the day.

Alejandra made her way down to Princess Daphne's chambers. She saw Bane's room door was open and wondered whether he intended to be good, and helpful, or annoying and not.

As Alejandra passed, Sir Bane bowed his head quickly before returning to what he was doing.

Daphne's Chamber door opened and Alejandra walked in and the two were alone in her room. "We should leave now while my father is busy," said the Princess. "He won't be looking for me for many hours."

"Alright, are you ready?" ALejandra asked, "Did you pack travel clothes?"

"Yes," said the Princess. She then threw on a traveling cloak over her dress and picked up her pack. "Lets go,"

"Then I just need to grab my armour, and we'll be ready to go, come-on." Alejandra said

"Ok. Where is your armor?" the Princess asked. "I don't want to look suspicious by wandering around the castle."

"In my chamber with my saddlebags." Alejandra replied, "You could go down to the stables and ask them to saddle your horse and Alonso."

"Okay," said the Princess, "I am going to head down to the stables." She thought for a moment. "Here, take this," she said as she handed Alejandra her bag and cloak, "It would seem odd if I was carrying a bag with me." She then walked out of the door, leaving Alejandra behind, and proceeded down to the royal stables.

As Sir Bane saw the Princess pass his door, he lept up and walked after her by no more than twenty feet.

Alejandra took Daphne's cloak and bag, returned to her room, and grabbed her saddlebags and armour and headed down to the stables.

When Alejandra arrived at the stable, Daphne was sitting on her white horse with Alonso next to her. She was waiting at the stables exit, but standing in front of the locked gate was Sir Bane.

Alejandra but the saddlebags on the horse. "Why hello there Sir Bane, come to join us?" She asked

"Actually, I have come to take the Princess to the Grand Hall for the end feast," said Sir Bane. "It doesn't look like you are going for a simple ride... where are you going?"

"We were going for a ride yes." Alejandra said, somewhat side-stepping the question.

"Then why have you packed your bags and why do you have armor and traveling cloaks?" asked Sir Bane sceptically.

"Are we not allowed to take food, and stuff to prevent us from inclement weather?" She asked

"You wouldn't want to spoil your appetites would you? The feast begins in another hour," said Bane. After pausing for a moment he said, "Just tell me what you guys are really doing... you story thus far, has been terribly unbelievable."

OOC: My apologies for the lack of response but I've been away for a while;)

IC:

Asengar was sitting in the kitchen singing northern songs to the disgust of the head cook. Nevertheless he was a Knight and deserved respect as such.
"Oh come now, why would you spoil such a dish with..." He looked down at the meat from the table he was sitting on.
"Odd...sauce. Fon du....what is, oh never mind get off. Off. Away with you!" He waved the assistant chef away.
"Spoiling honest food with such crass. I ask you." He juggled apples idley and looked around, the main hall was full of people who looked down thier noses at a northern knight which his sash denoted him as such so he had taken refuge with the more common born in the kitchen, although the head cook was acting as hauty as a dutchess to him too.

ooc: Not sure if you read the pages that you missed, but we have moved onto the final feast.

"You wouldn't want to spoil your appetites would you? The feast begins in another hour," said Bane. After pausing for a moment he said, "Just tell me what you guys are really doing... you story thus far, has been terribly unbelievable."
"You want the truth?" Alejandra asked, "We'll, we're off questing."

"Questing!" spat Sir Bane. "Is that a joke? I can't let the princess go questing!"

"Then you can follow us." Alejandra replied, "But no interfering."

"Are you crazy?" said Sir Bane again, "I can't let her just ride out of the castle..."

"Bane! I am leaving the castle now. You are to escort me to the north, where you will leave us at your friend's house and then depart us," said the Princess in a light yet stern tone.

"Princess, I am sure the King would now allo-"

"That is a command, Bane," interrupted Daphne.

"Yes, M' Lady," said a defeated Sir Bane. He walked over to his massive black horse, Mars, and loaded up his saddle. He then put on his brown traveling cloak and opened the stable's gate.

He jumped onto his horse and they proceeded out of the castle's walls and onto the northern path out of town. Sir Bane followed slightly behind the two ladies.

As the rode off, Alejandra leaned over, giggled and said, "I told you he would be a good boy."

"Hehe... yeh," said Princess Daphne as she giggled. "So, where to?"

"Well, first we're going to Bane's friend's home, and then off on our quest." Alejandra replied

"Bane!" the Princess called back to the cloaked knight behind them before turning back to Alejandra, "You never told me what your quest was."

"To find Merlin's staff." Alejandra replied

"Ah, sounds interesting," said the Princess to Alejandra.

As Bane rode up beside them, Daphne asked, "How far north is this friend of yours?"

"About four days at a good pace... I must really insist that you return to the castle," implored Bane.

"That is enough, Bane. We will be returning when we have retrieved the... what did you call it... the Staff of Merlin," responded Daphne.

Bane become strangely alert when he heard her say that. He became abruptly quiet and slowed his pace so that he was again about twelve feet behind the two ladies.

"Yes the staff of Merlin." Alejandra replied, she twisted around to look at Bane, "What is up?" She asked him.

"Hmm?" Bane said as he had been deep in thought, "Nothing... um... just sounds... umm... interesting."

"Don't make me set Daphne on you, spill what's interested you." Alejandra said

"I said it was nothing," said Bane as he maintained his stare straight foward - the cloak blocking his eyes from view.

"Fine..." said Bane as he realized they clearly didn't believe him, "The scroll the King showed you... I saw it."

"What about it?" She asked

Alric stood with the other men meeting to wait the king. Everyonce and a while the doors would open and a man would walk out and another man would walk in. Alric paitiantly waited.

"I saw it," Bane said again. "The picture of that the King showed to you... I saw it."

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Back at the castle, the King was still seeing people for their requests. "You shall be granted a small sum of money. Tell the assisstant in the green clothes out there and he will give it to you," said the King to a commoner.

The guard opened the door and the commoner walked out with a smile on his face. The guard then walked to the line of people and said, "Next," as he pointed to Alric.

"So, did I." She replied, "Why, if we fail, you intend to try?" She asked

Bane sighed. "You clearly aren't grasping what I am saying," he said with a frustrated tone, "Just forget I said anything at all..."

"No, explain." She said, pressing him to speak his meaning.

"It is this simple... I saw the staff," Bane said as he raised his tone.

"Bane, calm your manner.... now!" the Princess commanded

"My apologies. But, there isn't really another way I can say it... I saw the Staff in the picture."

"You know where it is?" She asked, thinking that's what he might be meaning.

"Finally she gets it," Bane thought to himself as a sigh of relief came over him.

"Well not really," Bane said. "Well I did... er... that is to say that I saw the person who had it... er... not really a person." Bane paused for a moment as if trying to remember something before finally bursting out, "A Mage! Yes thats it... he called himself a mage... well, actually he called himself something much more complicated but he eventually just said that he was a mage."

"What name did he call himself, where did you see him, and what did he look like?" She asked

"I saw him up north in the highlands, but he disappeared one day when I came to his cave to talk." Blane struggled to remember the rest, "Umm... I can't remember what he said his name was. I was much more concentrated on his appearance than anything else... he was short - probably half my height. He wore clothes that were too big for him, as well as a hat that shrouded his face. I only ever saw his eyes... big eyes they were... one might say they were glowing."

Bane stopped for a moment before saying, "And there it was in his hand... that staff that the King showed you the picture of. Although he used it as a walking stick, most of the time."

"Thank you." Alejandra replied, "It shall aid the quest."

"I am sure it will aid our quest," said Bane.

Alric walked in and bowed before the king.

"Yes, yes. What do you need, m' boy," said the King as Alric entered and bowed before him.

"I am sure it will aid our quest," said Bane.
"And how did you get invited along?" Alejandra asked

"My name is Alric, son of Tostig Fitzgilbert who was a knight once. He has been branded a coward for running from battle. I have made a promise to him." Alric began.

"Well, considering I am the only one of us who has made contact with or seen the mage, let alone know where he last was... I figured I would come along. Besides, I was going to ask him some questions before he disappeared..." said Sir Bane.

---------------------------------------------------

"Well this sounds a bit more interesting than your average begger or complainer, no?" said the King to Sir Lancelot as his attention had been raised.

Turning back to Alric he said, "Go on... what do you need?"

"Well then it's Daphne's decision whether you come along." She replied

"He has been shamed." Alric continued, "I made a promise to him. A promise to bring back honor to our familiy name in any way I can."

Although Bane knew differently he decided not to say anything. Instead he waited for Daphne's response.

After a moment of thought Daphne said, "If you swear an oath to me, saying that you will never argue with one of my decisions or orders... I will let you accompany us. But that means you have to be completely obedient."

"What if you order me to leave after I swear the oath?" asked Bane smart-assly. But Daphne wasn't laughing, instead she just stared at him. "Fine, fine, I will swear," Sir Bane finally said.

He then began into a chant, "I swear, upon my sword and savior, a holy oath to Princess Daphne of the house of Stuart. May your power guide me and give me the strength to uphold my oath to she. Guide my sword and let it strike true so that I may defend and guard this solemn oath of will. In thine I trust my sword, my duty, and my life - let you guard until thine Kingdom come. O, Lord who art in heaven, hear my prayer and bind me to my oath. Amen."

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"Do not test my patience boy," said the King. "Out with it... what do you want? Why are you here?"

"Now isn't that better Bane, you're now Princess Daphne's private Knight and Champion." Alejandra commented

"I suppose so..." said Bane as he thought about it. "I have a hypothetical question for you. What would you do if you had to break one oath to follow another?"

Alejandra turned to look at Daphne and wondered at the answer herself.

"Me?" Daphne said as she was startled. "Umm... I don't know... its not fair, thats a hard question.

"Well it was directed to either of you..." Bane responded to her startledness, "Well there are some hard questions to be answered in life."

"Um... I would go with my heart," said the Princess finally.

"A good answer, but would you not mind disrespecting someone you honored and breaking an oath to them, in order to fufill another?"

"I don't know!" said the Princess emotionally. "Its not a decision I have ever had to worry about..."

"Ah."

"It depends on the situation for me." Alejandra replied

"How so? Would you break the most solemn of vows and disrespect the one you swore an oath to?" asked Blane quickly. "What then is the meaning of an oath if you can choose when you want to break it," he said as more of a statement than a question.

"If an order violates the codes I hold, or the laws." She replied

"Circular logic..." said Bane before explaining. "You say that you would break one commitment for another, if it would break a commitment of yours."

"But I ask you this," he continued, "Wouldn't it be breaking your ethics or code to violate an oath, meaning that you couldn't break an oath because it was violating your code, without in fact violating your code. It seems you are caught in a paradox," said Bane cryptically.

"Not at all. If an order is ethically or morally wrong, there is no dishonour in disobeying it." Alejandra replied

"You miss the point of a solemn oath then. What good is blind faith if you can question it, when you feel like it," said Bane.

After a few moments of silence he added, "The human mind is an amazing thing. It can trick itself into believing whatever it wants. So complicated it is, yet driven on impulses it remains."

"It is of no concern though... Just a question to pass the time. Quite boring, traveling really is... I don't see why anyone sees it glorious or exciting."

"Ah, but I have never sworn an oath akin to what you are talking about." Alejandra replied

"That is why the question was hypothetical... but lets just forget the toilings of a mind with too much time," said Bane. "It was just to pass the time... it is quite boring to see these same sights when you have seen them as often as I have."

"Ah, but I havn't seen this terrain before, and am unsure if Daphne has." She replied

"Only from afar..." Daphne sighed.

"Well, unless you guys have anything to talk about, I am going to sleep," Bane said in all seriosness.

"Be sure you don't fall out of the saddle." She replied

"Ah, dont worry. I have a lot of experience with this... Mars will keep steady," Bane said with a smile on his face.

He leaned forward and laid is cloaked head on the back of Mars' mane. He wrapped his arms around Mars' neck and locked his hands together so that he would not fall off. As for his feet, he put them through the stirrups and angled them so that they wouldn't slip through. His body was now locked in place so that he wouldn't fall of his horse.

"Just stop Mars or wake me up if you guys decide to stop," Bane said as he fell asleep quickly.

"Alright." Alejandra replied, turning to Daphne, "So...."

"So?" said Daphne as she looked back at Bane who had just slipped into a deep sleep. "He is much more philosophical than you would think, eh? Its strange... I have never heard of any of the tales of his quests - you would think the stories of someone who was gone for so long and often on quests, would be known."

"Perhaps he is simply modest, or perhaps his grand quests have come to naught." She replied

"Perhaps he is modest, though very few knights are," she giggled, "But certainly his quests have amounted to a lot... the court holds him in high respect, as does my father."

"But don't you think there would be traveling bards that knew of his stories. I have heard the stories of Sir Lancelot, Sir Gawain, and even Sir Brax when he was in his youth... all from traveling bards."

"Then it could be that his quests are secret ones, those that force him to disguise or conceal his identity." She suggested

"That is a good point... I have always wondered why he wears that cloak," said Daphne as she looked back and saw the cloak covering Bane's whole body. "So, anyway, what should we do, for now, to pass the time on our long journey?"

"Sing perhaps." Alejandra replied

"I don't think my voice could hold out for four days," said Daphne as she giggled. "Any other ideas?"

"We could talk, or simply ride." She said

"To tell you the truth, I have never really liked riding. It seems to unnatural to me... I can't see how he can fall asleep like that," she said looking back at Bane again. "I would be terrified of falling off..."

"I've dozed before, but never slept like he is." She replied

"Yeh... that is a deep looking sleep," observed Daphne. "I wonder happens if someone attacked him while he was sleeping."

"Doubt he sleeps like that on a quest." She said

While Asengar was waiting upon an audience to the king he fingered his sash impatiently hearing the complaints of beggars and serfs, he did not consider the people themselves trivial but the matters brought to audience should not take up the time of a king. In his opinion there were many people suitable to make those judgements. Then again he shrugged, things were done differently on the lowlands.

[OOC: Have to make this quick; class]

With the feast, the conversation with Hadrusbal had ended, but the young Rodriguez was not ready to embark to France yet; he was still undermanned. Two men, plus some number of retainers, would not be able to retrieve the grail if they were put up against the French crown. So, on the seventh day, he again approached Lancelot, and he said,"My fellow knight, I wish to adress you to see if you have changed your mindset. I do not know if you are aware, but Hadrusbal will be embarking with me to France tomorrow, after the festivities. I know that a man like you likes to be in the lead, and unfortunately, for this quest, because I think I know where it is, I will technically be the head of the party, you are still a powerful knight, and your companionship and your arm will be a powerful asset. What do you say noble Lancelot?"

Sir Hasdrubal was annoyed of the crowd in front of him, seeking an audience to the king. He was not arrogant or pompous enough to push the peasants away, but felt too much of a noble to wait behind them in the line. Therefore he decided to wait for another opportunity to ask kings permission for his journey.

He was about to leave the sitting room whne he noticed another knight that wasn't known by him. Therefore he approached the man, extended his hand and asked "Who are you, Sir, and why haven't we been introduced?"

Sir Hasdrubal was annoyed of the crowd in front of him, seeking an audience to the king. He was not arrogant or pompous enough to push the peasants away, but felt too much of a noble to wait behind them in the line. Therefore he decided to wait for another opportunity to ask kings permission for his journey.

He was about to leave the sitting room whne he noticed another knight that wasn't known by him. Therefore he approached the man, extended his hand and asked "Who are you, Sir, and why haven't we been introduced?"

"Asengar Harne'" He grinned and grasped the mans hand, then patted him on the shoulder heavily with a chuckle.
"Northern knights aren't given a parade like the kings men I'm afraid to say. No doubts I'm just barely on the guest list" He laughed again.

"I am Hasdrubal, son of Hamilcar of Nugartho, and it seems like the peasansts have have walked over me, too!" he answered, smiling. "Are you to wait untill all these lowborns have complained about whatever they have to complain to the king, or is could your possibly join me in the practise hall? I was going to join the group fight practise. There are couple of youngsters that are in need of decent beating to let them know where is their actual place in the swordmanship ranking! I would be honored to do it with you."

Alric was nervous at this point, "My father told me to come hear to train and become a knight."

King's Appearance

"Ah," said the King, "We have reached the heart of the matter."

"Well, to become a knight is no easy task. You will have to complete a quest before I knight thee." He turned and whispered to Sir Lancelot quickly before continuing, "I bestow upon thee, the quest of... Slaying the dragon that stalks the town of Bravium, to the west. Should you complete the quest, bring me something to prove it... but remember this: You have to want to be a knight! Do you understand the meaning?" said the King rhetorically.

"Now go," he said as the guard opened the door and escorted him out. In the waiting room the guard called out, "Next! Enter, Sir Hasdrubal."

As Sir Hasdrubal entered into the appearance of the King, King Alfred spoke, "Ah! Sir Hasdrubal... what can I do for you?"

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Don Rodriguez

"I am afraid you misjudge me again, Don Rodriguez - and as such, I would wish that you stop trying to characterize me. How could you really? You barely even know me... but yet you attempt to tell me what my own personality is.." said Sir Lancelot.

"As for Sir Hasdrubal, I have indeed heard. He is a grown man and a good soldier and as such he can make decisions for himself..." continued Lancelot.

"Unforunately, I have not reconsidered my position and will not be joining your trek to far off lands. However, I will give you a vital piece of advice... go talk to the King," finished Lancelot. "Good day to you. Perhaps I will see you again when you appear in front of the King," he said as he bowed and walked off to attend to other business.

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Two Ladies and a Slumbering Knight

Daphne and Alejandra, with Bane in tow, rode for the next period of time in silence. They had left the town behind and only the very peak of the castle's tower could be seen far off in the distance.

They rode past farms, through grassy meadows, and had finally arrived at a forest. Entering into the massive forest that separated the northern lands from the southern, they eventually arrived at a river that was too deep for them to cross on horseback.

They turned west and rode along the river until they found a bridge to cross over to the other side. Not a large bridge, but nevertheless a bridge that was usable. With the cloaked figure of Bane, still fast asleep on the back of Mars, they took their first few steps onto the bridge. As they made it about half way across, an armored figure on horseback appeared and blocked any further continuance, "Halt! I am Sir Brachmore, keeper of this here bridge. Ye must pay the toll or fight me..."

Alric bowed and left as Sir Hasdrubal came in. Alric thought about what the king had said. He wanted and needed to be a knight more than any other consevible thing.

Two Ladies and a Slumbering Knight
Daphne and Alejandra, with Bane in tow, rode for the next period of time in silence. They had left the town behind and only the very peak of the castle's tower could be seen far off in the distance.
They rode past farms, through grassy meadows, and had finally arrived at a forest. Entering into the massive forest that separated the northern lands from the southern, they eventually arrived at a river that was too deep for them to cross on horseback.
They turned west and rode along the river until they found a bridge to cross over to the other side. Not a large bridge, but nevertheless a bridge that was usable. With the cloaked figure of Bane, still fast asleep on the back of Mars, they took their first few steps onto the bridge. As they made it about half way across, an armored figure on horseback appeared and blocked any further continuance, "Halt! I am Sir Brachmore, keeper of this here bridge. Ye must pay the toll or fight me..."
"What kind of toll?" Alejandra asked as she gazed at the 'Sir Brachmore'.

Don Rodriguez narrowed his eyes as the haughty man turned around. Rodriguez was not a judge of chracter, it was just that Lancelot painted himself as a brute and an ignorant fool, and so Rodriguez, choosing his words carefully simply said as Lancelot turned away,"You best choose your own words a bit better Sir Lancelot, for I am no fool. I will not bother you again, and I need not your advice good sir, and Alfred is not my king, my king is that of Castille, and as such I, by the laws of chivalry, am not bound to give him honorous titles when not in his presence. So please, if you wish respect, give respect to others."

He didn't allow Lancelot to reply as he turned around walked off to find Hadrusbal.

"I am Hasdrubal, son of Hamilcar of Nugartho, and it seems like the peasansts have have walked over me, too!" he answered, smiling. "Are you to wait untill all these lowborns have complained about whatever they have to complain to the king, or is could your possibly join me in the practise hall? I was going to join the group fight practise. There are couple of youngsters that are in need of decent beating to let them know where is their actual place in the swordmanship ranking! I would be honored to do it with you."

"You sir said the magic word. I've been hoping to get some practice in" He streched his arms to loosen them up.
"All the fluer de lous and 'fencing' I was watching was getting me down. Shall we go?" He inclined his head towards the arena.
"We'll give them somthing to really watch" He grinned

On a Bridge

"A toll of gold, of course," said Sir Branchmore. "I require one large pouch of gold per person. Come now... pay up or fight."

-----------------------------------------------------

Don Rodriguez

As Don Rodriguez turned to walk away from Sir Lancelot, he found himself face to face with Sir Gawain. "I don't believe my friend called you a fool... in fact he speaks highly of you. However, you may not be a subject of the King... but for now you are in his household and on his lands - so you are bound by the laws of hospitality. His highness as followed the rules, as he has invited you in, allowed you to dine, and even offered you gifts... all he asks for is a little respect in turn."

"As for speaking to the King, I highly reccomend it. He would like to speak with you on the matters of your quest..."

----------------------------------------------------

King's Appearance

The guard called again to the waiting line, "Now calling, Sir Hasdrubal and Sir Asengar to appear before the King."

Don Rodriguez inclined his head and said,"Sir Gawain, I am not living in his castle, and I show him respect when it is due, but your knights too should show respect when it is due. To treat me like scum because I decide to offer him it once more, is not reason to turn his back on me. Regardless, I never implied I wasn't going to speak to the King; indeed, Hasdrusbal would have most likely forced me to. Nonetheless, I beg you to not push me further, for I am no mood to argue. Good day sir."

On a Bridge

"A toll of gold, of course," said Sir Branchmore. "I require one large pouch of gold per person. Come now... pay up or fight."

"Then draw your sword." Alejandra said as she drew hers.

"Hah! You would fight me!" screamed Sir Branchmore, "So be it."

The knight dismounted his horse and drew his blade walking cooly towards the lady. "After I am through with you, I think I will take the lady..." he said as he looked to Daphne.

The princess sat motionless as fear had come over her.

She also dismounted, "You will not get a chance to bother her." She said as she walked onto the bridge to meet the knight.

OOC: You guys post so fast, I'm kinda lost here.

The knight was wild and reckless with his attacks yet he did draw a lot of strength. With his massive two handed sword he began swiping at Alejandra. He put all his strength behind it and then swung the blade heavily across her body.

ooc: Callisdrun, just read back a little ways. If you have questions post in the OOC thread or TG me.

This Sir Branchmore's style was quite similar to sone of the moorish warriors she'd faced and slain. As such, she discarded her shield, turning it into an obstruction on the bridge. As the sword was hefted and swung, she stepped back out of reach of the blade, knowing that unless he had a great deal of control, and even greater strength, the blade's tip would likely lodge in the planking of the wooden bridge.

As Alejandra stepped back, Sir Branchmore's blade missed her chest by a good six inches. As the blade swung past her, Branchmore curved it down so as to miss the small wooden side rails, and then continued it into a loop. He now swung the blade in an infinity sign in front of his body, as he stepped forward at her.

As she watched, she knew that what he was doing would be incredibly stressful and difficult to maintain. As he swung his sword in the pondulous arc, she simply continued backing away forcing him to expend his strength in futile action.

Sir Branchmore continued his steady pace forward while continuing to spin his blade. She had nearly backed up to the horses, when suddenly Branchmore, instead of continuing the loop, used the momentum of the sword to bring it above Alejandra and bring it down.

As he swung up, she saw the opening she'd been waiting for. As the blade reached the zenith, she stepped forward, well inside his range, and casually smashed her gauntleted fist into his groin, where she'd noticed the lack of a cod-piece. She figured it was because of him being use to fighting men who would find such a blow rather painful in sympathy pains.

Sir Hasdrubal, who had already taken few steps to leave the waiting room, stopped immediately as he heard the voice of the guard. "Ah, my typical luck! When I finally come up with something better to do, the peasants suddeny run out of complains..." His smile however was in conflict in this expression of displeasure. He turned to Sir Asengar. "But we cannot let the mighty king wait. After you, my friend."

As Sir Branchmore swung down, Alejandra stepped inside and hit him squarely in the most sensitive area of the body. Branchmore continued the swing down of the blade, and although it missed horribly the weight pulled his gauntled hands down directly into the square of Alejandra's spine.

As Branchmore stumbeled back from the pain, he dropped his blade on the bridge and fell over the side into the river.

"Very good job," clapped the Princess as Branchmore lay floating in the water.

Leaving the sword where it had fallen, she vaulted herself onto Alonso and brought him into the river after the fallen Sir Branchmore. While she'd take his sword, and perhaps some of his armour, she wouldn't let him drown.

Interesting Sven thought, as he watched the line of regular folk one by one have an audience with the king. He had slunk into the hall silently, and now stood towering, leaning against the wall in a corner, dressed in black as usual. While this practice he saw before him lacked efficiency, he approved of monarchs being in touch with their people.

Suddenly, Sir Hasdrubal and Sir Asengar were called in, causing Sven to make a faint half smile, the most evident sign of happiness he ever showed. He had not met Asengar personally, but he knew that the man was, like himself, from the north, and as such had a certain respect for him. Taking up Sven's profession in the northlands was more dangerous, as simply surviving was more difficult. He toyed idly with one of his several pendents, which depicted the Spear of Odin, as he watched the scene.

Rodriguez made it to the king's chambers after Hasdrubal had gone in, much to his chagrin, but he was patient. Making his way to the guards he politely inclined his head and said,"Noble sirs, please, direct me or aid me to further proliferate my effort to speak to the king tonight. If I must wait, I must wait, but I must speak to him tonight in all haste. Thank you."

Sir Hasdrubal, who had already taken few steps to leave the waiting room, stopped immediately as he heard the voice of the guard. "Ah, my typical luck! When I finally come up with something better to do, the peasants suddeny run out of complains..." His smile however was in conflict in this expression of displeasure. He turned to Sir Asengar. "But we cannot let the mighty king wait. After you, my friend."


He smiled and walked into the audience chamber, then knelt at the foot of the throne.
"Your majesty" He looked up
"Me and my friend, Sir Hasdrubal, we both come seeking boons"

Over a Bridge

When Alejandra entered the river to collect Sir Branchmore he had already passed out and was unconscious. Once he was pulled to land, he was lying on his stomach not moving.

Daphne sat on her horse and watched as Bane slumbered on the back of Mars.

--------------------------------------------------------

King's Appearance

Outside the hall the guard's spoke to Don Rodriguez, "But of course, you will be the next to appear."

The other guard then turned to the line and said, "The King will see no more then two more souls tonight - the chosen two are Don Rodriguez and Sir Sven. Everybody else... disperse." The line began grumbling with frustration as they turned and left the waiting room, leaving Sir Sven, Don Rodriguez, and the two guards.

Inside the King spoke, "Ah, Sir Asengar and Sir Hasdrubal. What can I do for you two?"

Rodriguez saw Lord Sven across from him, and quickly approached the other man, inclining his head in respect and he adressed him,"My fellow knight, Sir Sven Akkerhaugen. How do you do tonight?"

Sven hid his surprise by continuing to fiddle with his pendant. It was not silver or anything fancy, just regular metal. "I am well," he said quietly. "How are you, Don Rodriguez?" He had a notable Callisdrunian accent, but was not hard to understand. He raised his icy eyes to meet those of Rodriguez.

Don Rodriguez didn't remove his stare and his expression turned to glee as he looked for questions to ask this man. He never started a conversation without a purpose, but he would have to lead up with it,"So, why are you waiting to speak to the King? If you don't mind me asking, of course, good sir."

"I'm not waiting to speak to him, really, just observing how things are done in this land," Sven said, still fiddling with his pendant. "I must say that I do like the fact that the King has such close contact with his people. Rulers can accomplish their duties more effectively if they have a good understanding of what their subjects need. That was the problem with the Batory clan. They shut themselves in their own little world of intrigue, and so their lands were easily conquered becaue the people who lived there felt no love for them." Sven seemed unaware of the fact that Rodriguez probably had no idea who the Batory moroii clan were or where they had ruled, since to Callisdrunians it was common knowledge. "And I do not mind your questions at all," Sven added pleasantly. He continued to look directly at Rodriguez. If anyone spoke to him for long, when he was in a good mood, as he was now, they would realize that his gaze, though frosty, was not hostile.

Rodriguez thought about it for a second and then replied,"Perhaps, but then again, it would take an awfully long time, and I doubt this King as any clue as to what his people outside this village think. However, I must not speak too much about this, or too loudly, because the knights that serv him seem to have blind loyalty, which I do not criticize in and within itself, but the fact that they can take no criticism themselves forces me to speak low."

With that said, he pressed to his point,"This might be a bit quick, but I do not have much time. I am embarking to Languadoc tomorrow with Sir Hasdrusbal to look for the Holy Grail, which I believe is there, and you seem like the perfect candidate to come with us, if you're interested. I know it seems crazy, and I know it will take a lot, but for some reason, I just know it's there. Lancelot, in all his rudeness, outright denied his presence twice, but Hasdrusbal agreed, and I hope that you can agree as well, if you are interested."

Alric was not yet ready to leave on his quest. He drew his sword in the practice room and practiced many different strikes and parries. Then, thinking for a moment, he decided most of them would be useless if the dragon would breath fire apon him. He continued to practice anyway, trying to quicken the pace of his attacks and blocks.

Sven looked down at Rodriguez, with a considering gaze. He had to look down, to look at him, because Sven was significantly taller than most at the castle. Sure doesn't hide his opinions... he thought. "I know that this might not be the most efficient system, but it seems to serve their needs here. Of course they don't like it if you criticize the King. We are, after all, guests here, eating his food and drinking his wine. I don't believe in having blind loyalty. Loyalty should be deserved, but that's enough about that."

When Rodriguez told of the quest he was undertaking, Sven leaned back, looked up and exhaled before looking back to the Spaniard. "As for Lancelot, perhaps he has other matters to attend to, I don't know much of him. Why do you need this holy grail so badly? I understand that it has great significance in the religion practiced in these southern lands." His voice quieted somewhat. "I have also heard that the search for it has sent several knights to their deaths. I am not against going after this chalice, but I don't know if I would really be wanted on an expedition to find it, seeing as how I am of a different religion." Naturally, Sven was quite critical of himself. He looked around cautiously. "I'd like for that last bit to remain somewhat quiet. I've been threatened with death for it before." He suddenly realized that his fumbling with a pagan pendant might make it obvious, and so tucked it away and started fiddling with a pendant of the Sorvik clan, a crossed rose and axe, in metal miniature, instead.

Over a Bridge
When Alejandra entered the river to collect Sir Branchmore he had already passed out and was unconscious. Once he was pulled to land, he was lying on his stomach not moving.
Daphne sat on her horse and watched as Bane slumbered on the back of Mars.

Alejandra checked to see if he was breathing.

Only the faintest of breath could be felt coming from Sir Branchmore as he lay motionless on the riverbank. Underneath his visor his face had lost much of its color and his lips had turned purple from the frigid water.

Rodriguez noticed he had spoken a fallacy,"No, no, my apologies, I did not want to demeanor King Alfred in that way; his system is perhaps better than any other I have seen, it is only that I have always been a man of the people, and I am a very cynical man, and perhaps that is my weakness. Regardless, yes, people have died for the chalace, however, they have all looked in the wrong places, and I, after a year of travel, think I know where it is. So, it is to say, these travels would not take us anywhere unknown, so death due to mysticism is unlikely."

Pausing, he then continued,"And why would you look for this? Apart from fame, power, and wealth, it may aid me to get one step closer to my final goal, making sure the people of Barcelona, and Christian Spain, survive the Moors and themselves."

Only the faintest of breath could be felt coming from Sir Branchmore as he lay motionless on the riverbank. Underneath his visor his face had lost much of its color and his lips had turned purple from the frigid water.
As he was cold, she unbuckled his breastplate, and wrapped a blanket from her saddlebag around him. While she'd defeated him, she wasn't about to let him die for no reason.

Although the blanket helped, Sir Branchmore was still unconscious.

"Lets go," said the Princess from her saddle, "Lets try to make it to the edge of the woods before we stop for the night."

"Alright," Alejandra said, making sure he was out of the wind, and would likely recover. She then took his shield, lashed it to her saddlebag and got on Alonso, "Shall we be off?" She asked

"Certainly," responded Daphne as her horse began to move forward. Instinctively, Mars began to follow Daphne's horse.

Leaving Sir Branchmore behind, the party crossed the bridge and was back into the thick of the woods.

"So, how do you like the quest as yet?" She asked Daphne.

"Um... its been nice. That knight fellow was quite disruptive but other than that I have like the journey. I have already seen so many places that I had not otherwise known of..." said Daphne.

"I'm sure if you'd have asked the king for a tour of the country he'd have given it to you." She replied

Rodriguez noticed he had spoken a fallacy,"No, no, my apologies, I did not want to demeanor King Alfred in that way; his system is perhaps better than any other I have seen, it is only that I have always been a man of the people, and I am a very cynical man, and perhaps that is my weakness. Regardless, yes, people have died for the chalace, however, they have all looked in the wrong places, and I, after a year of travel, think I know where it is. So, it is to say, these travels would not take us anywhere unknown, so death due to mysticism is unlikely."

Pausing, he then continued,"And why would you look for this? Apart from fame, power, and wealth, it may aid me to get one step closer to my final goal, making sure the people of Barcelona, and Christian Spain, survive the Moors and themselves."

Sven crossed his arms, leaving the pendant bearing the symbol of his wife's, and hence his own family exposed. "Being cynical on occasion is no great fault," he said. "I would be quite a hypocrite to condemn another person for being cynical."

"I see," he said in response to why Rodriguez wanted to find the religious cup. "I have never really known wealth, but it is not important to me. I have all I need." Callisdrunians were remarkable in their disinterest in accumulating wealth for its own sake. "As for power and fame... those I knew." The Moroii clans were the closest thing to nobility that Callisdrun had, though they were more accurately described as warrior families. The Sorvik clan and the Royal family were very friendly, and had been for the last couple hundred years. "I will give serious thought to joining you and Sir Hasdrubal on your quest," he paused and made a wry half smile; "if you still want me to accompany you of course."

Sir Hasdrubal kneeled in front of his king, and after the permission to rise up, stood tall and proud, took a deep breath and started.

"My king, I have come to you to ask your blessing for the quest I have volunteered in. It is the Search Of The Holy Grail that Sir Rodrcs has committed himself. I find this attempt to save that sacred relic of Jesus, son of God, and to bring it safely here worth taking part of. I promised Sir Rodrogs that if you, my king, give your permission we shall start the journey (OOC: If I got it right?) early tomorrow. I am prepared.

All I need is your blessing. Without it, I wouldn't dare to even consider this."

He kneeled again, waiting for the response of the man he vowed loyalty.

Asengar listened to this with mild interest, and then stood up alongside the fellow knight pointing a thumb in his direction.
"What he said" He smiled
"My lord" - The nothern knights recognised no man king but god and the highland king - " The knights of my order seek nothing in life but to test themselves in challenges set by great men and themselves. This seems a worthy test of a man, and you are a man of sufficient standing to grant this test" He bowed
"I would be honoured to take up the challenge" He sidled slightly closer to his new friend
"We'll talk in a second" He winked conspiritorially

The King listened carefully as the two knights presented their requests. After thinking about it for a few silent moments, he spoke, "I will grant you my blessings in under taking the search for the Grail. But, I must warn thee that unless your heart is pure, your search shall be in vain. Nobody who has motives that are unpure is able to retieve the coveted Chalice. Even when you have found it... you may not be able to retieve it.

I warn you that, and that alone. Now go."

The guards opened the door to show the two knights out. After the two left, the King and Lancelot had a hurried discussion before the the guards called to the remaining two knights, "Don Rodriguez and if you would like Sir Sven you may also appear in front of the King."

Don Rodriguez whipped his head around and nodded at the guard, and then turned back to Sir Sven whispering,"Let us finish this conversation later. But yes, please think it over, you are always welcomed."

With that he inclined his head to Sir Sven and led the way into the King's courtroom, immediately kneeling in front of the King, inclining his head in honor, and greeting with,"Su Majestad."

"Ah, Don Rodriguez... how good to see you again," said the King as Don Rodriguez entered. "Now down to business. I hear that you plan to venture after the Holy Grail and that you have already convinced a few to join you." The King paused before continuing, "A noble cause... but one that may be impossible for you to complete. The legend of the Chalice says that it will only reveal itself to those who are worthy and pure at heart... however I have been informed that you wish to retrieve the Grail in order to gain political power.

I think you see what my point is and the possible impossibility of your quest. Nontheless I have given permission for all knights who wish to, accompany you on your quest - although I have my doubts about their motives and the purity of their hearts.

Now is there anything else you would like to request or say?" said the King as he finished his speech.

Sven slowly walked a distance behind Rodriguez. He had always found it flattering that he be called "sir" in the southlands. In Callisdrun, it was a title for those who militarily outranked one. Even the King was simply called "Sir."

When he was in front of the King, he made as if to kneel. "Kneeling is proper in this court, is it not, your majesty?" He was never sure, since the action was unnatural for one. In their own country, Callisdrunians kneeled to no one.

Rodriguez stiffled a laugh before it erupted and he replied to the King,"Su Majestad, I do not know who you have spoken to and has told you such fallacies, and I mean no disrespect, but I do not think that you know me well enough to make that assumption, Su Majestad, again with no disrespect meant. Even then, I care little about legend, only about what I know. Regardless, those lies about gaining political power have been set in stone by someone, most likely one of your knights, who has little or no understanding of politics in Barcelona, again no disrespect meant, just attempting to establish my argument. However, anything to do with Barcelona is a distant thought, and so perhaps I should continue this conversation when the time comes. As for now, I truly have nothing to argue or speak about, I merely am in front of your majestic presence in case you had anything to adress me about. I am under your humble bequest, unless you have said what your devine voice has said. If that is the circumstance I request leave, as I must prepare to awake early tomorrow." When he was finished, he had not twitched in his position and he never directly looked into the eye's of the King.

"Indeed it is, but at the moment such formalities are not needed... arise." said the King to Sir Sven.

The King then turned back to Don Rodriguez to continue the talk of the Chalice, "Are you telling me that you spoke a fallacy earlier when you told Lancelot, 'I am willing to search the seven seas and go to the corners of the Earth to bring back the most lucritive items to Alfred and gain his trust, so that I may lead a host of the most infamous English knights south and lead a coup in Barcelona'. Do you not wish to retrieve the Chalice so you can gain the trust of this court and march on Barcelona?

It matters not whether your motives are good or bad that dictates whether the Grail will reveal itself... it only matters that you have motives other then to protect the Grail and restore it to its proper glory."

Sven stood behind Rodriguez, and off to the side a little bit. After all, the King was discussing matters with the Spaniard, not himself. He contemplated these legends about the chalice that was so sacred to the Christians. Who knew if they were true, or not. He was not willing to dismiss them, as there was much in this world that coud not be explained.

Rodriguez pushed his point further,"Yes, your majesty, I do not deny that, but Sir Lancelot forgot to explain to you the purpose of any coup in Barcelona, and perhaps I should quote myself in that same exact conversation, although I would think that it would be much better for myself and for my head to simply explain, since I do not want to redicule you, as for one, you are king, and for another, I am not a man to leave another in redicule, unless insulted myself first. Regardless, the politics within Barcelona are tricky, and I much rather explain them later, and worry about the grail for the time being, if of course, your Majesty wishes the same. If not, I will gladly spill into Spanish politics."

"Go on... speak of the Spanish Politics. After all if your motives in finding the Grail have anything to do with those politics, it is something we should delve into," said the King as he then waited for Don Rodriguez to continue.

Don Rodriguez nodded and continued,"The grail truly has little to do with Spanish politics and motives, although concerning the long run, the grail is just a step in the process. But as far as Spanish politics go, I am not the sun of the wife of the Count of Barcelona, I am the son of a concobine and of the Count. I've known the heir to his land for all my life, he trained and fought next to me, and he was a man of an unpure soul. At the same time, Aragon has been wishing to annex Barcelona for the past hundred years, and I fought and almost died at a battle to thwart their efforts. Regardless of the loss of the battle, Aragon sensed that it would be too costly to take Barcelona, and so the fall of Barcelona was put off, however, if my half-brother takes command I fear the worst. He is known for his abuse of the people under his own rule, and even command when in a battle, and I do not doubt that his relative stupidity when it comes to combat will lead to a final debacle at the field against Aragon, even if Castille steps in again. Therefore, as protector of Christian Spain, I feel the need to make sure Barcelona survives and Christian Spain is at peace, or I fear that the Moors will sweep again through a land fractured through Christian conflict."

"That much I know already," said the King, "The question is how does the Holy Grail come into play? What do you seek to accomplish my retrieving the Chalice?" said the King as he waited for a response.

Don Rodriguez responded in kind,"That is an untangible concept, for I'm not sure. At the very least, it will gain me honor and reknown, and my name will not be scoffed at when I return to Spain. That at the very least, and that is good enough for me, because it is more than I have now. However, anything to do with Spain should not be considered immediate. It will be many, many long years before I return to my beautiful Barcelona."

In the Forest

"Maybe..." said Daphne, "But it isn't the same type of freedom to be exploring where I want."

As an owl hooted on a high branch, Daphne noticed that the sun had descended behind the hills and it was now getting dark out. "I think we should stop and make camp for the night and tomorrow we will make it out of the forest... I think."

----------------------------------------------------------

King's Chamber

"Well, you are correct about the many long years..." said the King as he listened closely. "But I still worry the coveted Chalice will not present itself to you... that worry however is for another time," said the King as he rubbed his head.

"You have heard the ramblings of an old fool, now how about you accompany me to the end feast," said the King as he stood and smiled. "You too Sir Sven."

"Come now... I am starving."

In the Forest
"Maybe..." said Daphne, "But it isn't the same type of freedom to be exploring where I want."
As an owl hooted on a high branch, Daphne noticed that the sun had descended behind the hills and it was now getting dark out. "I think we should stop and make camp for the night and tomorrow we will make it out of the forest... I think."

"Yes we should." Alejandra replied, "Hey Bane, wake up, it's time to go to bed." She yelled at him as they dismounted at a suitable clearing.

"Indeed it is," said Bane as he 'woke up'.

Unlocking himself from his position, Bane rode up inbetween the two ladies at the clearing. Looking at Alejandra, he said, "That was a low blow... you know that?"

"Anyway, this seems like a good camping spot. Shall I get some wood for a fire and put up some dinner?" asked Bane as he dismounted.

"Low? Well it was slightly below the belt, but was above his ankles, so not that." She replied, a slightly teasing note in her voice. "It was also effective and that is of greater import." She added in a more serious tone, "And yes, please get some firewood."

Brushing off her comment about the low blow, Bane bowed his head and said, "Alright then, I will go find some wood for a fire. In the meantime why don't you get some food out of the packs so I can cook it when we return." With that, Bane petted Mars on the nose and whispered something into his ear. He then turned on his heel and walked off into the woods with his cloak waving in the breeze.

Bane returned slightly later with an arm's full of fire wood, "Here we are."

While he'd gone, Alejandra set about creating a fire pit. "Daphne, could you get the food out of Bane's pack?"
"Sure thing." Daphne replied
As she got the food out, Bane returned with the wood.

Bane layed the wood down in a small pile and set out to begin a fire. After much work and labor the fire was finally lit and warmed the three travelers.

Bane took the steaks and cooked them over the fire until they were a juicy pink color. "I hope you like... although I am not much of a cook - just good enough for my own taste."

"So has the ride been eventful so far?"

"Just that little encounter with Sir Branchmore." Alejandra replied, "Are you two going to hobble your horses, or stake them?"

Daphne was slightly confused, never having to do either before. "I think I will stake your horse for you Daphne," Bane said.

"Umm... ok," she responded as she watched Bane walk over to her horse and stake it to the ground.

"As for Mars," Bane said as he pet Mars on the nose, "I don't do either..."

"Ah, well trained is he?" She asked

"Very," Bane responded, "And I won't be sleeping tonight anyway so I can keep an eye on him."

Bane finished the rest of his food and leaned back against a tree trunk.

"You really should sleep when you're suppose to." Alejandra commented

"I have already slept my share for the night," Bane responded. "I will keep watch tonight as you two sleep."

Daphne became slightly nervous and reassured at the same time. She had not thought of her security while she was sleeping until Bane had said something, but knowing what he would be keeping watch was reassuring.

"Alright, don't worry if Alonso wanders a bit." She said, knowing how her horse behaved at night.

"Alright," said Bane.

"Well, I for one am going to sleep. Its been a long day and we have a lot of traveling ahead of us," said Daphne.

"Good night, Princess."

"Don't call me Princess out here... its dangerous."

"You're right. Good night M' Lady."

Daphne curled up on the ground with a blanket and resting her head on one of the traveling packs. Bane sat poking at the fire with a stick as it crackled in the silent night.

Alejandra likewise layed down to rest, thought she made sure to cover her armour from any possibly rain and dew, and utilized a shrub as a pillow, while her cloak was her blanket.

After they had left the kings chamber Asengar looked beside him at sir Hasdrubal and smiled
"I hope sir, that you do not snore"

Rodriguez nodded when the king spoke and stood and then stood himself, only after the king had passed him, and then followed the king, along with Sven, to their destination outside. Tomorrow he would set out.

The King, flanked by his wife Cordelia and Sir Lanclot, walked down to the Grand Hall. When he arrived he ushered a servant to announce the beginning of the feast, so the servant ran to the top of the tower where he told the four guards there to announce the beginning.

As the King sat down at his table, the sound of trumpets could be heard piercing the night's cool air. The feast was the largest of any of the seven nights and the members of the court drank and were filled with glee.

At one moment the King leaned over to Sir Lancelot and said, "Where is Sir Bane? He is not one to be late for a feast..."

"Maybe he has already left?" suggested Lancelot as he sipped a goblet of wine.

"That must be it... always off to somewhere," said the King as he went back to his feasting.

At the center of the Grand Hall a troop of bards performed the lengthy story of the Illiad as the court cheered and clapped for the mock battles of Achillkes.

At the end the King stood up for his final speech, "Very good, very good," he said as he clapped. "A most enjoyable Spring Feast this has been and I thank you for all attending. As for me... I have eaten my fill and will be going to bed soon. I welcome you all to stay longer at my castle, but I do know that many of you need to head off on your quests so I will understand if you do not take me up on my offer."

The King continued his long speech that ended the Spring Festival and then sat down to finish any small conversations that were left.

Sven had sat fairly near Rodriguez during the feast. As usual, he ate little, but he merrily enjoyed the performance of the Illiad.

He then listened attentively to the King's speech, after the conclusion of which he turned to Rodriguez. "When are you planning to set out? Tomorrow?" Due to eating very slowly, he had just finished the last bits of bread on his plate.

At Court

Shortly after his speech, the King rose again and bid everyone good night as he left the Grand Hall for his own chambers. The members of the court began dispersing to return to their rooms before leaving in the morning. Servants moved busily about cleaning the Grand Hall and removing the decorations... The Spring Feast was officialy over.

It was a short night for many who arose with the sun in order to depart. The stableboys at the Royal Stables were busy saddling and preparing horses for their travels, but soon the stables had only a few horses left.

*The Sun Rises*

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In the Forest

That night the two ladies slept well as Sir Bane kept watch. He sat the entire night leaning against a tree close to the fire. As he sat there in his cloak, he removed a knife from his side and began deftly toying with it. His hands were scarred with cuts from past times he had played with his knife, but now it moved quickly and controlled in his hand - never stopping or hitting anything as he spun it and maneuevered it.

As the sun rose from behind the hills and rays of light burst through the leaves, Bane began gathering the horses up and preparing them to continue their journey. As the last embers of the fire burned out, Bane removed a load of bread from his pack and pulled off a few pieces.

As the sun rose, Alonso appeared and nudged Alejandra, waking her up. With a yawn and a stretch, she got up to see Bane with breakfast.

Sir Hasdrubal was already awake and cleaning his equipment when the rest of the castle begun to wake up after the magnificent feast of the previous night. He smiled, remembering the question of Sir Asengar. "No, I don't think I do, but I am rarely able to carefully listen myself as I am often sleeping during the night, so this is not a certain fact." Well, ast night he had not slept too much, but heard no snoring neither. Laughing to his own jokes he finished the packing of his compact saddle bags and called for the servant standing in the hallway to come and help dressing up his brestplate.

When they were ready he thanked the man and said "Tom, would you do me another favor? Take these bags to the stables. I need to get some breakfast now, before we leave."

He stood up as the servant left the room, checked his chamber was all good and headed to the kitchen.

In the Forest

"I thought we would have a light breakfast... if thats ok with you?" said Bane as he offered her the loaf of bread.

Bane stood up from his tree and walked over to where Daphne slumbered. Touching her on the shoulder woke her up as the sun's rays broke through the trees and filled the clearing with light.

"I have prepared our horses and when you guys are ready... we will continue our journey." Bane sheathed his knife under his cloke and said, "The edge of the forest is not far off... soon we will be in the midland... the land of plains."

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In the Kitchen

In the corner of the kitchen sat thirty large packs full of food. Cooks and assistants were filling them with all sorts of things from fruit to bread with the main cook directing them. When the main cook caught sight of Hasdrubal he said, "Ah, Sir Hasdrubal. You must take a pack with you for your journey... but now, what would you like for breakfast?"

[OOC: Callisdrun, I'll assume I answered your question, but since the day is technically over, bleh.]

The next day Rodriguez awoke early, getting up and preparing everything he had where he was staying. He took his battle sword Fortuna, and tucked Madalena into a bag, with the rest of his clothing, and then he set out, nodding to the tavern bartender. In full armor he walked through streets of the village, dust kicking up, and the women looking at him and gassoping together on the stranger, like women, and men alike, normally did when they saw someone they did not know. Once within the castle walls he looked for the boy servant he had left his stead to, and after an hours worth of looking he found the boy, screaming,"Boy, come here!"

The servant scurried to him, keen on doing what the Spaniard said since so far Rodriguez had given him enough money to allow him to live alone. The boy nodded and Rodriguez asked,"Have you taken good care of Tegulcigalpa?" After nodding so more the boy led Rodriguez to the stables where Rodriguez found his horse, put another gold coin into the sweaty palms of the servant, loaded everything up, and then told the servan,"I want Tegulcigalpa and everything on here before the keep's bridge within an hour, no more, no less."

With that, he turned around and headed back to the Keep where he would awake Sir Sven and Sir Hadrusbal, and prepare for their journey. The guards, who knew him well by now, let him through without a squeek, and as he entered the castle he recruited two servants to find Sir Hadrusbal and Sir Sven and tell them to meet Rodriguez in the castle's kitchen within twenty minutes. The Spaniard himself then headed to the kitchen to prepare food for the first five days of the journey. Making his way to the kitchen he greeted the women and other knights of the castle, who by now knew him, and then walked into the kitchen where he found the same cook who had given him food before, and suddenly, he also saw Sir Hadrusbal, and the Spaniard greeted him,"Sir Hadrusbal, so glad to see you awake. Sir Sven will be joining us as well, and he should be making his way down here soon enough. For now, I will prepare some meals which should last us enough to make it to Calais, where I know some people who will feed us and give us enough for the ride to Paris."

Sir Hasdrubal nodded, as his mouth was full of bread and porridge (he had a habit of stucking everything in his mouth at the same time) and swallowed it with a help provided by a full pint of beer. "Actually, how big is our group going to be? Just the three of us?" he asked when capable of doing so.

Rodriguez nodded,"Unfortunately, for now, yes. Once in Calais I can speak to the Count and he will give us retainers if I ask for him, and our party will grow to perhaps around ten men, and we will certainly pick up men as we move through France; of course, none should ever know of our true intentions of picking the grail, unless they are trusted, but it shouldn't be too hard to recruit them through the offer of money. But, regardless, I rather not have too big of a group, because once we find what we were looking for a larger group means larger problems to move, and larger problems within the context of trust."

"That sounds wise" Sir Hasrdubal replied. "I'm just wondering...How can it be that the Grail has not yet been taken from those heretics who have it at the moment? I find it odd that they have managed to keep the secret this long..."

Rodriguez smiled and said,"Indeed, I do not know why. Men have lost their lives to look in the wrong places. And I guess the fact that it has never been retrieved from its current location may undermine my argument, but I'm sure that it is there, for if it isn't then God is no longer on my side and I have no purpose on this green Earth. But, alas, everything that sorrounds the Grail is elusive, so your question might not be answered yet. Regardless, at Languadoc our answers shall be responded to."

In the Forest
"I thought we would have a light breakfast... if thats ok with you?" said Bane as he offered her the loaf of bread.
Bane stood up from his tree and walked over to where Daphne slumbered. Touching her on the shoulder woke her up as the sun's rays broke through the trees and filled the clearing with light.
"I have prepared our horses and when you guys are ready... we will continue our journey." Bane sheathed his knife under his cloke and said, "The edge of the forest is not far off... soon we will be in the midland... the land of plains."
"Sounds good." Alejandra said as she took the proffered bread. She then went over to Daphne, and shook her gentlely, knowing if this was her first day riding all day, she'd be stiff as a board, if she was lucky.

"Sounds good." Alejandra said as she took the proffered bread. She then went over to Daphne, and shook her gentlely, knowing if this was her first day riding all day, she'd be stiff as a board, if she was lucky.

As Daphne woke up she realized her body was quite sore from the riding. Bane helped her to her feet and then handed her some water and bread. "Here eat up... its going to be a longer ride today - but if we hurry, we might be able to stay at an inn tonight."

"Beyond this forest is the great plains of the midlands, where you can see for miles in every direction. Not much civilization out here except for a few small towns."

"Ah, then once you are ready Daphne, we should be off." Alejandra said

"Very well... we will leave soon," said Daphne in a tired voice as she yawned. Bane sat by and watched passively although he was eager to get going so they could reached a town by nightfall.

Daphne moved slowly in the mornings. She walked around with no sense of urgency, doing various things from finishing the bread to washing her face.

Finally after twenty minutes of her dallying, Daphne mounted her horse, "Lets go she said... as she pointed her horse forward."

Alejandra likewise mounted Alonso, and they set off.

When Asengar awoke he yawned, looked round, and got up. He had no need to get dressed as he had fallen asleep fully clothed as he usually did. It was safter to do so while travelling. After a short while of searching and a few quietioned pages he found a pair of knights in the kitchen, one of which was Hasdrubal.
"Sir knights" He drew his dagger and plunged it into the wood point down.
"My dagger is my word and this I give to you know. I request to accompany you on your quest, it would be a worthy endevour, worthy to test a man. Do I have your acceptance?"

Alric lead his borrowed horse out of the castle and into the open country surrounding it. He had found a map and traced out on it which roads he would take on the way to Bravium. He was hopping that when he got there that he could ask questions to the villigers about the dragon.

Sir Hasdrubal stood up and slammed the shoulder of the man in front of him, smiling. "I was already counting on your presence during this travel and the dangers we might face during it."

Of course, Sven woke quite a bit later than Rodriguez and Hasdrubal. To him, the morning was a very cold time of the day best slept through. He had packed his bags the previous night, and was ready to go. He hooked his axe to his belt, picked up his bags and left his room, which he had made sure was completely in order.

Entering the kitchen, he set his bags down out of the way. "Good morning," he said, in his usual low voice. "What's for breakfast?"

Rodriguez eyed the new man up and down, and did not totally trust him, but Hadrusbal did, and Hadrusbal was a smart man when it came to knowing who he could trust, so the Spaniard gave him the benefit of the doubt and simply said,"Yes, of course good knight! I will tell this good cook to give us another group of meals for a fourth rider!"

As Sven walked into the kitchen and greeted the others Rodriguez grinned and responded,"Alas, you have decided to join us! Thank God. We will part as soon as these meals have been readied and our steads are prepared. My own will be waiting for me in a short while infront of the keep."

Sven quickly ate quite a bit of porridge for breakfast. It was apparent that breakfast was usually his largest meal, and dinner his smallest.

"I should probably thank the king for his hospitality," Sven mused. After all, the feasts had been most excellent, even if he hadn't eaten much. "Then I will get Drakker at the stables."

"Very well, then let us meet at the front of the keep within fourty minutes." With that, Rodriguez bowed to all the men, and then turned to the cook,"I will return in thirty minutes to retrieve the meals, thank you for the job well done." He turned around and headed out, most likely looking to relieve himself.

After breakfast, Sven walked the halls, asking servants where he could find the King, so as to thank the monarch for being so hospitable. He liked this castle, though of course, no castle could compare to Sorvik castle, in his mind, as that was home. The home he had not seen in years.

"Hello there," he said to a servant he encountered in the hall. He hoped the servants were paid well, they appeared to work hard. "Could you tell me where I could find the King? He has been most hospitable, and I mean to thank him such."

The servant bowed his head quickly before saying, "He is most likely in his chambers... though he will probably be sleeping at such early hours of the morning."

"If he is indeed asleep you could try finding the Queen... she is in the library in the northern part of the castle."

"Thank you," Sven said as he left the servant. Out of his bags he found a piece of parchment (he kept some in case he needed to write letters, documents, etc.) and proceeded to write out a thank-you letter to the king, in which he expressed his sincere gratitude for Alfred's generosity, and his regrets that he had to leave so early in the morning that he could not thank the king in person.

He then headed over to library, where the servant had said she would be.

As Sven approached the library's entrance a pair of guards crossed their pikes in his path, "Halt! State your name and reason for entrance." The guards waited for a reply as the queen continued to read a book behind closed doors.

Sven stopped, slightly taken aback, and very surprised as the guards barred his way. He looked down at them, somewhat confused. "I wanted to thank the King for his hospitality before I left, however, a serving person informed me that he was probably asleep, but told me that the Queen was here in the library. I wrote out a note to the King, that I intend on giving to the Queen, as I figure that way my message will reach him. My travelling companions are probably impatient to go."

The guards had a quick whispered conversation before removing their pikes from Sven's path. "You may enter," said one guard as he knocked on the door and opened it.

The queen sat on a comfortable couch, dressed in a night robe, with a book in her hand. "Enter," she said to whoever was outside.

"Good morning, your majesty," he said as he entered. "I was trying to locate your husband, so as to thank him for the hospitality I've been shown here, but I was told that he is probably still asleep. I have put my gratitude in writing, and if I may, I would humbly request that you please pass it on to him for me, as my travelling companions and I are leaving today, at this almost intolerably early hour. You and your husband have hosted a splendid fest. Thank you."

Sven held out the small piece of parchment, carefully folded so as to reveal its words only when opened all the way. There was of course, no sensitive information in the letter, as it was simply a grateful thank-you, but it was polite to make letters quite private, in the views that most held where he came from, and he suspected most here did too.

"Thank you," said the Queen as she took the parchment. "It was our pleasure to have you as our guests and I will be sure to pass your thanks onto my husband. I am sure he would be happy to have you all back... next time you are coming by this way, stop in."

She then waved her hand as to usher the Knight out so that he may begin his quest.

Sven bowed on his way out, and quickly proceeded towards the stables. Once there, he found Drakker and saddled her, talking quietly to the horse while he did so. He didn't know exactly why talking to a horse in a certain way made her more manageable, he just knew that it did. After strapping his saddle bags onto her, he led the large mare out of the stable, tossing the stableboy who had taken care of her a coin as he did so.

His pace was fast as he led Drakker to the front of the keep, where the others said they would meet.

Rodriguez had a quick pace as he left the keep and he immediately left the castle grounds and entered the village. He had twenty minutes to complete his duties. Entering a tavern he stepped onto one of the wooden tables and yelled,"Who here has seen Spain?"

One of the others retorted,"Sit down ye' ol' craze."

Rodriguez smiled and replied,"Crazy, but rich. I shall pay one man to take a message for me to Cataluña a full thirty gold ingots! I swear this upon my soul, or let me be damned for enternity."

Most brushed him off, but one man rose and saluted,"I will go to Spain."

Rodriguez nodded,"Very well. Here's the message. Take it to a lord named Duke Dacio de la Manga. He will understand. Here is forty gold coins for your effort." He took out a brown leather pouch and took out the money and then continued,"He will give you the rest." With that the two men departed, saying not another word. It was ironic how many men there were that were insane enough to carry out something like this, merely for material gain.

With that done Rodriguez returned to the keep where he took the prepared meals, and then he walked to the gate of the keep where met with Sir Sven, and his horse and his equipment waited for him.

[OOC: At work, meh.]

Sven was leaning on the wall, staring off at nothing when Rodriguez arrived. "Hello," he said. "How are you?" He had his huge shield, round and black with the Sorvik crossed axe and rose insignia, leaning against the wall beside him. By all accounts, he looked ready enough to simply jump on his horse and leave.

Sir Hasdrubal gave quick goodbyes to the stableboys and young knight errants that he saw in his way from the kitchen to the stables and from there to the gate. He saw Sven and Rodscs already waiting there, and hurried his mount towards them. "Sorry for the inconvenience, gentlemen. It took a bit longer than I expected. So. Shall we go then?"

Rodriguez' face showed no emotion. It never did when he foresaw hard work ahead. Indeed, he liked festivities, but he knew when to work and when to play, and the next months would be all work and little play. Looking at Sven, his face unmolding, he replied,"Greetings and good morning. Once Sir Hadrusbal and Sir Alric arrive we will be off."

Sven chuckled. "A good morning is a very rare thing, I find. I sleep much later than this most days. Of course, here the mornings are much warmer." He resumed staring off into the distance. "Any word on when Hasdrubal and Asengar will..." He didn't complete his sentence, as Hasdrubal had arrived just as Rodriguez was speaking.

The horse, Drakker, took to nibbling some grass. She was a fierce looking animal, and black as the shield of her rider. Therefore, it was somewhat humorous seeing the warhorse nibbling harmlessly on foliage.

"Well, now I suppose we'll go as soon as Asengar gets here. There is no need for apologies, we only just arrived ourselves." Sven still seemed to be peering off in the distance, though by now he was fiddling with one of his pendants again, this one a representation of Mjollnir, Thor's hammer.

OOC: The end of the previous page... ;)

"Aye, I'm here" Asenger walked over looking sulky, and leading a mean wirey looking horse.
"It's embaressing I tell you, man was given feet to walk!" He looked at his horse with distain
"And I'm not sure the fellow who sold me the horse was entirley trustworthy." He was rather afraid to get on the horse fearing his armours wieght would break the animal, nevertheless after a false start he got on and froze for a moment to see if it collapsed. It just looked blankly ahead with the dullness of an unintelligent beast of burden.
"Northern knights have little use for horses" Asenger explained with an apologetic grin "Besides food" He said under his breath to the horse

Sven laughed at Asengar's comments about horses. "Many areas of my country, horses are of little use as well, but they can be useful if you want to travel in a hurry." Swiftly climbing up on his mount, he lifted his enormous shield up and wore it on his back. "I must admit, I prefer longships." He made sure his axe was secured well enough to his belt, and then looked to the others to see if they were ready. If one paid close attention to such things, they'd notice that he slouched a little in the saddle.