Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he expected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotted the sellsword, standing next to the door, bare-chested and only wearing pants. Tariel herself was standing behind a thin, dividing wall, only her shadow visible. The sellsword meanwhile glared at him. “You're coming at a bad time”, he growled and Drent glanced from him to the dividing wall.
“So... you and her?”, he asked and Garen rolled his eyes. “It's a secret. Exciting, isn't it?”, he sighed, just as Tariel walked around the wall. She had dressed herself hastily, though still with care. Only her hair was still in a disarray, just like the sheets of her bed. “And if things would have gone my way, it would have remained a secret for longer”, she said sharply and Garen smirked. “So, what is it?”
“As I said, Princess Argella demands your presence in the courtyard”, Drent repeated and Tariel sighed. “Fine”, she said as she glanced at the mirror. “Just... give me a moment” With these words, she rushed over to the mirror, grabbing a brush next to it and starting to get her hair in order. Garen grinned widely, as he shamelessly admired her body from behind.
“In retrospect, this... certainly explains a lot”, Drent said, feeling the need to say something to break the silence. “How long has this been going on between you?” Through the mirror, Tariel sent a glare at Garen, who just shrugged. “A couple of months. She caught my eye shortly after I arrived at Storm's End”, he explained nonchalantly.
Before he was able to continue, another loud set of horns was audible outside and he chuckled. “A good fuck, followed by a good kill. What a day”, he said. “I wonder how far the raiders advanced” Drent raised an eyebrow at this last sentence. “You know what is happening out there?”, he asked and Garen gave him a nod. “It's not exactly easy to ignore, you know. Made it way harder for me to have a little fun”, he answered.
“I would have already been out there”, Tariel interjected, as she started to tie her hair into a loose, messy braid. “But no, the sellsword first wanted to finish” Garen rolled his eyes. “Didn't even get to do that, thanks to you, Drentie”, he growled. Tariel turned around, finally satisfied with her looks, as she glared at Garen. It seemed as if she wanted to say something, though she ultimately just shook her head in annoyance. “You're driving me crazy sometimes”, she sighed.
She approached the door, but stopped and turned around towards Drent. “You must stay silent about this”, she implored him and despite the sharp annoyance on her face, a soft, pleading tone found its way to her eyes. “Please, don't tell anyone. I mean, I have... it's not befitting to my status to be linked to him”
“Right, because the sellsword is so much below you, ain't that right, Lady Flowers?”, Garen responded, not less harshly and Tariel clenched her fists. “Please, Drent. Getting into my position was hard work and if people would know about me and Garen, they would see it as weakness”, she explained. Now, Garen only grinned. “It's strictly physical anyways. Nothing any lord would take offence to”, he interjected. “But still, would be damn fine of you to stay silent about this, Drentie”
Drent narrowed his eyes, before he gave both a nod. Then, he looked solely at Garen. “For her”, he told him and the sellsword shrugged. “Whatever”, he said. “Shall we get going? I'm itching to kill someone” Without waiting for either of them, he opened the door and walked through it. Tariel sighed and as she glanced back towards Drent, she blushed delicately.
“My apologies for his behaviour”, she said. “I know, he can be an asshole, but... there's gotta be something good in him” Drent raised an eyebrow. “Gotta be?”, he asked and Tariel gave him a soft nod. “Please. It's not only for my sake that you should keep this a secret. Do you know Baron Schodek?”
“I do”, Drent said, remembering the old knight, one of King Argilac's closest friends. “Well, he's almost like a father to Garen”, Tariel explained. “And he hates me. If word gets out about this, he'd be so disappointed in him” She smiled thinly, before she turned to the door. “I will keep it a secret”, Drent promised, as he followed her.
From the hallway, both had a good look on the courtyard, where Argella was already arguing with Ser Emphryus and Sergeant Montclair, just as Garen stepped outside the building. A knight was there as well, a young man, whom Drent did not know. He had reddish-brown hair and even from afar, Drent saw that his armour looked slightly scorched, as if the man had to walk through fire to get here.
“I have a bad feeling about this”, Tariel said and Drent narrowed his eyes. “We're only here because of you”, he reminded her. “If it wouldn't have been for your trick, we would have all remained in Storm's End” Tariel stopped walking and turned towards him.
“My trick?”, she asked and shook her head. “This hasn't been my trick. It has been Sherryl's, from the very beginning. She has been the one approaching me about this” Her voice was shaking slightly, though she kept her composure. “Yes, I wanted revenge on these people. Wanted to prove to them that I am better. You can think of my reasons whatever you want, but you haven't been there. This sheer hatred they had for me, have for me...” Now, her voice did crack. “Sherryl offered me an opportunity. I took it and found out only too late that she's not my friend anymore”, she explained in a hushed tone. “It would have worked, if she wouldn't have turned against our agreement”
“I hold no grudge against you, Lady Tariel”, Drent assured her. “But neither do I feel pity for you” A thin, sad smile flashed across Tariel's face. “And I don't want pity”, she answered. “Pity is for the weak. And I don't want to be weak” Once again, she glanced out of the courtyard. “Sherryl made me feel weak though. Nothing hurts like her betrayal”
“And yet you remain strong”, Drent said, admiring how calm she was despite obviously being hurt by what happened. Tariel shook her head. “I would love to cry”, she revealed. “I would love to scream and rage, but what good would it bring? Argilac's little brat down there, she would certainly do that, but what good will it ever bring her?” Though as she spoke, Drent saw the hint of tears in her eyes.
Both walked down the set of stairs and politely, Drent held the door for her. This caused her to smile, ever so slightly and she gave him an acknowledging nod. Then, they approached the Storm Princess and her entourage. Even from afar, Drent was able to hear the conversation taking place. “... in front of the gates!”, Emphryus argued. “How long have they planned this attack, for fucks sake?”
“I agree, there's something else going on. This is one of the reasons we need your help now”, the other knight said, just as Argella noticed Drent and Tariel. She turned towards them and silently gave Drent a nod, before she looked at Tariel. “Ah, you're here”, she greeted her quickly. “Lady Tariel, as my advisor, you should hear this” She pointed at the knight. “This is Ser Leonard Constantine, currently in charge of defending the southern gate”
Tariel raised her eyebrows. “The gates?”, she asked. “I thought they just attack from the sea” Leonard bowed deeply in front of Tariel. “Mylady, let me inform you about the severity of the situation”, he started to explain. “The Ironborn have landed and an initial force of guardsmen has been overrun. At the same time additional forces have appeared on the paths to the east and to the south, no Ironborn, but hostile nonetheless. At the southern gate, things are particularly dire. It will fall without help”
“Our help”, Tariel deduced and the tone in her voice was enough for Leonard to gulp. “Without you, this city will be lost”, he pleaded and Emphryus gave him a nod. “Aye, I say we go out there and give these raiding turdbags hell”, he exclaimed. “I've been waiting for a long time to get such an opportunity” He turned to Argella. “My princess, allow me to lead these men to your honour”
“Excuse me?”, Tariel said and it seemed she had decided on her position quickly. “So, you wish to take our men out there? I say the Stormlanders better remain here, by the side of the princess, to protect her” Montclair raised an eyebrow. “Protecting her? Sure you don't mean yourself with this, mylady?”, he asked mockingly, before he looked at Argella. “I will follow whatever your order will be, my princess”
Argella pressed her lips together. “My order...”, she sighed, though Tariel cut her off again. “The people will come to the castle in either way. In time, they will be the strongest group within these walls”, she argued. “If you send our men out there, who guarantees they will still be allowed to enter? It would be wiser to leave them here, to protect us and this castle”
“We need your men!”, Leonard urged her. “Please, there are people dying in the streets. My people!” Argella looked at him, her face showing no sign of emotion, even if Drent could guess at the battle she was waging in her mind. “Please, princess, without your men, none of mine will see the light of dawn again” Just as Argella opened her mouth to answer, Tariel cut her off. “And why should we be concerned, Ser?”, she asked. “Why should we send our own men to death? Who among you would be willing to do the same for us? Tell us one good reason why your lives matter more than ours”
Leonard stared at her, wide-eyed and angry, though shocked by her position. His fists were clenched and it was clear that a lot of his current attention was used just to calm down. “Precisely”, Tariel stated triumphantly, before she turned to Argella again. “Princess, this is nonsense. These people rejected you. They did not want your leadership, your help, when you offered it. Now, they beg for it. Let them beg, but don't give in. Your father wouldn't send our troops to their deaths. Your father would understand why it is better to leave them in the castle”
And now, Drent finally noticed Argella's anger. “Tariel”, she said in a tone that wasn't even remotely sweet. “Could you kindly shut your lying mouth for a second?” She glared at the other woman, whose confidence instantly turn to shock. “First of all, you will never again speak of my father as if you know him better than I do. My father would be the first in battle!”, she hissed. “Admittedly, he'd do it solely to fight and to kill. I am not my father. I'm doing this because it is the right thing to do”
Drent noticed how Emphryus' eyes widened as she spoke, just as a small, baffled smile appeared on his face. “And it is the right thing”, Argella continued, before she glared back at Tariel, who cowered under her fury. “What kind of a person would suggest otherwise? What kind of a person would suggest leaving them to die?” She trembled with anger by now. If her father's fury was like a growling thunder, Argella's was like a flash of lightning, sharp, quick and terrifying “Coward”, she spat. “Coward! You say they rejected me? They didn't even get a say in what happened here! Your friend made sure of that!” She shook her head. “But no, it was you whom they rejected, isn't that right? Poor little Tariel Flowers, what they did to you... and now? Do you hate them so much that you'd leave them all to die? Women? Children? Are you truly that petty?”
Tariel had taken another step back and the look in her eyes was one of fear, but also one of shame. Perhaps it would have been kinder if the Storm Princess would have just slapped her. “No...”, she mumbled, her eyes focussed on the ground in front of her. “No, I... you are right. Please... f... forgive me”
Without even wasting another look at her, Argella focussed back at Ser Leonard. “You will get your men”, she promised and the knight sighed in relief, baffled gratitude in his eyes. “Thank you”, he stuttered. “It appears Lucas was right about you” Despite her anger, Argella managed a thin smile. “I believe your gate needs you”, she advised him and he nodded, before he turned around. “Yes, they...”, he started, but she stopped him.
“But you will not go alone. With the state of the city right now, you might not make it back on your own”, she growled. “Most of my men need time to get ready, but you need help now” She quickly glanced around the courtyard, until she spotted Garen. “Garen!”, she barked. “Take the soldiers you see here. Follow Ser Leonard to the gate. Hold it until we arrive with reinforcements!” For once, not even the sellsword dared to object, as he only gave her a nod, before starting to shout orders at the few soldiers who had already approached them.
“Sergeant, gather the men!”, Argella continued to order. “I want all of them in the courtyard once I am ready!” This sentence took not only Drent off guard. He tensed up, while Montclair's eyes widened, though it was Emphryus who spoke. “Do you mean to...”, he said, though she cut him off immediately. “Precisely”, she stated. “In ten thousand years, not one Durrandon cowered from a fight and I don't intend to be the first. Today has been exasperating, I am frustrated, tired and angry and I refuse to hide behind these walls and let others fight my battle!”
Emphryus gulped, but before he could say anything, she continued. “My men will go out there and they will save this city. But I will not demand what I am not willing to give myself”, she said and her words only amplified her fury. “The Ironborn may bring their storm, but I shall raise them mine. And I will remind them why they never dared to raid our shores”
She stopped and looked around, just as Drent stared at her. Emphryus meanwhile had a smile on his face that slowly turned wider. “Now what?”, she asked and clapped her hands once. “Sers, stop gasping at me and follow your orders! There are people out there that need our help!” She looked at Montclair, still the calmest of them all. “Sergeant, the men!”, she growled again, before she looked at Tariel, who was silently staring at the ground with fear. “Save for two men. They will remain to protect Lady Tariel”
Tariel looked up in surprise, though Argella already continued. “Drent!”, she said and Drent tensed up. His heart was beating furiously, as it finally sunk in that she genuinely intended to lead the Stormlanders to battle. He himself was not sure if this was an admirable display of bravery, or if he should be worried for her safety. He settled for a mixture of both. “You will find me a sword, the finest in the castle and a sturdy shield”
Now, she switched her attention back to her knight. “Emphyrus!”, she said and he looked at her, baffled, but with something that came close to reverence. “Yes, my queen?”, he asked, before he realized what he just said. “I... I mean...” Immediately as he said this, Argella's expression changed. The anger was instantly replaced by surprise and a pretty smile appeared on her face. “I know what you meant”, she said softly, before her expression hardened again. “You're going to help me find armour to wear. They have female guards here and one of them just has to have something that fits”
With these words, she marched off towards the armoury, leaving Drent, Emphryus and Montclair behind. The sergeant shrugged, though he was smiling as well. “That woman is a whole lot like her father and that's not a bad thing”, he stated, though Emphryus immediately shook his head. “No, not like her father”, he stated, still staring at her with admiration. “She's like her brother. By the gods, she's exactly like him...”
“Emphryus!”, Argella yelled from across the courtyard. “Hurry up! You don't expect me to fight in this dress, do you? This is myrish silk! You couldn't even begin to grasp how expensive that is!” Emphryus chuckled happily. “Storm Queen”, he said. “If only her father would be here right now. He would be so proud”
He started to rush after her, while Drent followed them at first, before turning to the door where they kept the weapons. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Leonard and Garen leaving, roughly a dozen men with them, while two soldiers escorted Tariel back to her chambers. Montclair meanwhile approached the barracks.
Then, he reached the arsenal. The door was heavy, though not entirely closed, as Drent noticed. From the inside, he heard the familiar, rhythmic sharpening of a sword and as he opened the door fully, he spotted light inside. He raised an eyebrow. “Hello?”, he said.
The rhythmic sound stopped.”Yeah?”, a young, male voice answered and as Drent stepped into the room, he saw a young man, probably barely grown, sitting on a crate, with a sword on his lap. He had a slight tan and dark, curly hair. “Can I help you?”, he asked.
“Hopefully”, Drent answered. “The name's Drent, I'm looking for a sword for the Storm Princess” The young man raised an eyebrow. “For her? She intends to fight herself?”, he asked and Drent gave him a nod. “Well, she is Argilac Durrandon's daughter”, he explained. “Truth be told, we should have expected it”
The young man smirked. “The name is Federico”, he introduced himself, as he raised from the crate. He extended his hand and Drent shook it. “So then, Drent. You know what kind of a sword she prefers?” Drent shook his head. “She settles for nothing but the best”, he stated and Federico shrugged. “The best sword in this city belonged to Lord Raylan”, he answered. “Ser Harris is currently wielding it”
“Second best then”, Drent answered. “I'm sure she won't notice it” Federico gave him a nod, as he started to approach the wall behind him, where dozens of swords were racked up. “Say, you're all going to leave the castle?”, he suddenly asked. “Yeah, I think that's the plan”, Drent answered. “There are people out there that need our help and Argella... man, I've never seen her that furious before”
“Good”, Federico answered and Drent noticed something odd about his behaviour. “Is everything alright?”, he asked and the young man shook his head. “It's Saerya”, he stated. “She works here in the castle and she's dear to me” He sighed. “She left an hour ago, when the attacks started, to find someone in the city and I... gods, I'm so worried, I can hardly focus”
“Yeah, I can understand that”, Drent said and Federico sighed. “Listen, Drent, you seem like an okay guy. Say, what would you do in my situation?”, he suddenly asked. “A part of me wants to go with you, to find her, to keep her safe. More than half of the castle guard is already out in the field”
Drent raised an eyebrow. “And the castle?”, he asked in return and Federico shook his head. “That's the problem. I think the castle will be well-defended. There are the Rock men and a dozen of our guards. They just have to close the gate and they can hold these walls against hundreds of men. I'm not sure if they truly need my help more than Saerya does”
[Advice Federico to accompany you][Advice Federico to stay at his post]
Maybe. It can also be seen the other way round. More soldiers in the city = good things, that is also a possibility. At the same time, you know Sherryl apparently did something to destroy the gates, which will take away a lot of the defense the castle is able to provide.
Why Hobert why did you abandon us?
Because he is a very sore loser. You haven't seen the last of him, but at least for now, he is on his way back to his castle, with a massive grudge on top. That said, if he and his men would have stayed, a lot of things would have been easier for Raylansfair.
Also 8000th comment. Yay. To 8000 more!
8000 comments, my god. And it is entirely possible that we reach 9000 by the end of Book 1. Back when I started this, I didn't even thought it would reach 2000 comments. This is one occasion where I am happy that I have been proven wrong
Hm. I wonder if telling Leonard about the wildfire will effect what Argella does with her soldiers...Drent especially...wildfire is probably… more something she would be concerned about...
Less soldiers at castle = bad things?
Damnit I should have thought of this earlier...
Why Hobert why did you abandon us?
Also 8000th comment. Yay. To 8000 more!
I mean if you really wanted too, heh. Sorry about that. The end of the chapter not taking too long? That's good! And bad? But good!
It's indeed both, good and bad. Good, because there will be so many moments I am excited to write in the coming parts. Bad, because this part is going to hav the highest death toll by far and some of them will be really painful to write.
Well, if you haven't thought of it, good. That means it probably won't happen, but yet again, that trial by combat will be happening because of reader suggestion (mine, shameless self-promotion) and you didn't think of that either. Sometimes us readers can influence events through means other than choices. I hope I didn't do so here. I hope there's no Jenna/Leonard, no Kersea/Leonard, no Raenna/Leonard, and no Rosalie/Leonard.
It's true, sometimes these suggestions shape the story in a pretty huge way, especially if I like your ideas more than my own. There is one particular incident where I ended up liking one of WildlingKing's drawings so much that I even decided to spare a character who was originally supposed to die in this chapter, as it gave me inspiration on how to use this character in Book 2. And that's quite a list of characters you don't want to see Leonard ending up with. I am very surprised to see Jenna there. It seems I have to throw away the entire part of the storyline I dedicated to their budding romance Just kidding of course, but out of interest, is there anyone you actually would like to see Leonard ending up with?
The "girl-next-door" description makes me think of Walking Dead comic Andrea, who is absolutely awesome. I'm not sure if you have ever read them, but if you did you probably know what I'm getting at, maybe even get some inspiration. It makes me want to like Kersea more, I refuse. Whatever action she plans on taking, maybe has to kill someone "good" to do something, I'm sure it'll irritate me.
That is an interesting comparison. I read the comics semi-regularly and Andrea is one of my favourites (because obviously she is). I actually think there are some unintentional similarities between her and Kersea. So far, not much of Kersea's real, normal personality has been shown, as she has been kinda busy with not becoming like Clayton and Alysanne. Now that she is free from that, maybe you'll see their similarities in time. As for this action, a lot of it depends on your opinion on several factors. I personally think she has no choice and it will be understandable from a certain viewpoint and I actually could see you even agreeing on this, though I might as well be wrong.
You know, I really should have read this one more carefully. Here I was, having written down half an answer, before realizing you wish to wa… moreit for the alternative choices and what ifs XD But alright, I'll remain silent about this until then. It shouldn't take me too long to get to the end of the chapter, hopefully.
I mean if you really wanted too, heh. Sorry about that. The end of the chapter not taking too long? That's good! And bad? But good!
Romance you say? Hehehe, don't give me ideas I can assure you though, I actually haven't thought about anything like that before. That said, I think Kersea would actually very much be Leonard's type, in terms of looks and personality. A brunette, pretty in a "girl-next-door" kind of way, quiet, thoughtful and loyal, basically the polar opposite of the slutty type Leonard has been outright stated to hate. Of course, she's not a rich noblewoman, but then again, the only eligible bacheloret… [view original content]
“So then, Drent. You know what kind of a sword she prefers?” Drent shook his head. “She settles for nothing but the best”, he stated and Federico shrugged. “The best sword in this city belonged to Lord Raylan”, he answered. “Ser Harris is currently wielding it”
Except for that Valyrian Steel that Vaasrand wields. If I recall Rodrik wielded Valyrian Steel to. So the correction would be third best sword.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
This has indeed been mentioned before I even think it has been outright stated in some of Kersea's earlier parts, not just hinted at. Clayt… moreon was the assassin in the prologue, the man who poisoned Lord Raylan and then murdered Maester Eaton. Septon Corbin assisted him during this, by allowing him to get close to the lord for a long time, to steadily poison him. Although that information wasn't exactly the most major so far, only mentioned in a couple of secondary sentences, so you probably just overlooked it.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
[Advice Federico to stay at his post] Again, I think it's not a good idea to storm all the men out of the castle, especially since the gate has been sabotaged. Sure, Federico is just one man, but every man counts.
Anyway, Argella was such a badass in this part, and I loved it! First putting Tariel in her place and then deciding to personally lead her men to battle, my respect for her keeps increasing.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Nay, you're not an idiot, that can happen to the best. It has really been a minor detail before, though it will have some relative importance in this chapter, so I had to make sure that everyone is aware of it now.
Well, yeah, technically you're right. Though Federico doesn't know about Vaasrand or Rodrik. Harris' sword is also not Valyrian Steel and even then, it can be argued that Willfred and Elias have access to better castle-forged swords at Castamere and Highgarden. But what Federico meant was that Harris wields the best sword that actually belongs to the city.
[Advice Federico to accompany you]
“So then, Drent. You know what kind of a sword she prefers?” Drent shook his head. “She settles for… more nothing but the best”, he stated and Federico shrugged. “The best sword in this city belonged to Lord Raylan”, he answered. “Ser Harris is currently wielding it”
Except for that Valyrian Steel that Vaasrand wields. If I recall Rodrik wielded Valyrian Steel to. So the correction would be third best sword.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
[Advice Federico to stay at his post] No good soldier abandons his post during an siege, unless it is a cool character and he would die elsewise. Federico however isn't allowed to ever have any screen time what so ever, because it is funny how many chances he has had to do so but hasn't. Also, we need to have some people to defend the castle.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Also, maybe leaving some people behind, no matter how few, may be a good idea?
Well, I can at least confirm that leaving the castle entirely unguarded is a very bad idea. It's just a question how many guards you are willing to leave at the castle, as the people in the city could definitely use them as well.
[Advise Fredrick to stay at his post]
Well, Tariel definently got put in her place. That was... Fun.
Also, maybe leaving some people behind, no matter how few, may be a good idea?
Great part!
No Federico you are not getting any development. Seriously he'll just get himself killed. Saerya is fine.
Hey I was right about Drent, go me.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Leonard and Garen leaving, roughly a dozen men with them,
Hm. Leonard didn't tell them about the wildfire. I wonder if Leonard will lead them right to it...
I'm getting worried about that choice. Argella, in her infinite wisdom would totally screw that up. She would totally try to attack that. Maybe it leads to good things. Maybe Leonard and Garen die. Damn. Well, at least the south gate should hold. Now if Torvin went there this would be very interesting. I wonder if Orys will meet the 'Storm Queen', heh.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Just kidding of course, but out of interest, is there anyone you actually would like to see Leonard ending up with?
I don't think anyone is actually worthy.
In all seriousness I don't really think anyone. I do like Maya a lot, but I doubt that would ever happen. I would be curious on how those two would react. To be honest, there's isn't really a lot of options I deem remotely acceptable, mostly due to irrational dislike.
But yeah Andrea. I mean who doesn't like her? I'll be watching. Hopefully we don't get any characters like Alpha (shivers), although a Negan or two would certainly spice things up.
I mean if you really wanted too, heh. Sorry about that. The end of the chapter not taking too long? That's good! And bad? But good!
… moreIt's indeed both, good and bad. Good, because there will be so many moments I am excited to write in the coming parts. Bad, because this part is going to hav the highest death toll by far and some of them will be really painful to write.
Well, if you haven't thought of it, good. That means it probably won't happen, but yet again, that trial by combat will be happening because of reader suggestion (mine, shameless self-promotion) and you didn't think of that either. Sometimes us readers can influence events through means other than choices. I hope I didn't do so here. I hope there's no Jenna/Leonard, no Kersea/Leonard, no Raenna/Leonard, and no Rosalie/Leonard.
It's true, sometimes these suggestions shape the story in a pretty huge way, especially if I like your ideas more than my own. There … [view original content]
In all seriousness I don't really think anyone. I do like Maya a lot, but I doubt that would ever happen. I would be curious on how those two would react. To be honest, there's isn't really a lot of options I deem remotely acceptable, mostly due to irrational dislike.
Poor Leonard Constantine, it seems he's up for a life of loneliness then Maya is indeed somewhat unlikely to ever even meet him, given that their storylines had no real connection at all so far. But well, in the end I plan to make every sort of romance in the story largely optional and depending on your choices, so if you dislike a certain pairing, you just have to choose the right options and it won't happen. Should I have anything planned for Leonard, I can promise it will be purely choice-determinant as well.
But yeah Andrea. I mean who doesn't like her? I'll be watching. Hopefully we don't get any characters like Alpha (shivers), although a Negan or two would certainly spice things up.
I haven't gotten any inspiration from Alpha so far (even though that scene would certainly make for a memorable moment), but I think I can safely tease that Negan inded provided inspiration for one particular scene that is (more or less) inevitably going to come up relatively soon.
Just kidding of course, but out of interest, is there anyone you actually would like to see Leonard ending up with?
I don't think an… moreyone is actually worthy.
In all seriousness I don't really think anyone. I do like Maya a lot, but I doubt that would ever happen. I would be curious on how those two would react. To be honest, there's isn't really a lot of options I deem remotely acceptable, mostly due to irrational dislike.
But yeah Andrea. I mean who doesn't like her? I'll be watching. Hopefully we don't get any characters like Alpha (shivers), although a Negan or two would certainly spice things up.
No Federico you are not getting any development. Seriously he'll just get himself killed. Saerya is fine.
Actually, this time Federico is getting some development in both choices! I have made some spectacular breakthrough with his character in this chapter, as I have finally found a way to keep him in the story in both choices. That said, they will have rather different outcomes, so choose wisely.
Hm. Leonard didn't tell them about the wildfire. I wonder if Leonard will lead them right to it...
Indeed, he did not tell them about it, mostly because he has similar concerns as the one you brought up. He was already surprised that Argella agreed to help so eagerly, so he also kind of didn't even think about it. On top of that, it is more or less impossible to reach the wildfire right now. It is located in the old lighthouse, which is outside the city walls. A small group of skilled people, Kersea and Raenna for example, can reach it by climbing over the city walls, but the Stormlanders would have to use the gate, which is obviously impossible right now. Even then, Leonard knows that the Stormlanders are more needed at the gate than anywhere else, so he didn't even risk it. That said, I slightly regret that I haven't been able to show the continuation of his conversation with Kersea, because he actually made plans on not keeping this a secret. Let's just say, he has made sure that the right people know about the wildfire. This is still a choice to be concerned of, because it will have major consequences.
I wonder if Orys will meet the 'Storm Queen', heh.
Well, they are both in the same location. Such a meeting would be interesting and something I would very much like to write about. Add to that the connection between Orys' companion Gordar Celtigar and Argella (or more precisely, her father) and there's all kinds of potential for that. So, it is definitely strongly in the realms of possible.
[Advice Federico to stay at his post]
No Federico you are not getting any development. Seriously he'll just get himself killed. Saerya is… more fine.
Hey I was right about Drent, go me.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Leonard and Garen leaving, roughly a dozen men with them,
Hm. Leonard didn't tell them about the wildfire. I wonder if Leonard will lead them right to it...
I'm getting worried about that choice. Argella, in her infinite wisdom would totally screw that up. She would totally try to attack that. Maybe it leads to good things. Maybe Leonard and Garen die. Damn. Well, at least the south gate should hold. Now if Torvin went there this would be very interesting. I wonder if Orys will meet the 'Storm Queen', heh.
[Advice Fedrico to stay at his post] I'm torn, I think it'll be interesting to bring him but I'm also concerned that the others may need him. Mostly I''m just worried he'll ruin Saerya's plans.
I could go either way.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
[Advise Fredrick to stay at his post]
Also, maybe leaving some people behind, no matter how few, may be a good idea?
… moreWell, I can at least confirm that leaving the castle entirely unguarded is a very bad idea. It's just a question how many guards you are willing to leave at the castle, as the people in the city could definitely use them as well.
Man this part got me excited for what's to come even more. I loved everyone in this part especially Argella who continues to grow on me.
[Advice Federico to stay at his post]
I want Federico to get development, but I feel like this is the more sensible choice. We already have a ton of men going out to fight, and we need as much men in the castle defending as possible.
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he ex… morepected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotte… [view original content]
Drent is going to advice Francis to stay at his post
Well... for the first time, you actually chose what I expected when it comes to Frederik. I have drastically different plans for him on both outcomes and by the end of the chapter, you will see if you have chosen the better option. In general, one of these choices is going to give Francesco a chance to have quite some influence on the way a future storyline is played out. And well, in general it should be a good idea for him personally not to basically desert his post. This choice is, eventually, also going to influence Drent in some capacity. But more about that later on!
The next part is most likely going to be out today. It will include the first parts for Alys and Willfred in this chapter. I have almost finished Alys' part, which leaves me only with Willfred, whom I will finish today for sure. Originally, I had plans for Maya instead of Willfred, but some additional planning made me realize that now is actually the perfect time for Willfred to have this part, especially as it will feature quite an important choice that potentially is also going to affect another storyline which has yet to start in this chapter. That means, Maya will be back in the next part, together with another PoV character. As you know, Willfred is still at the castle and well, Argella actually hasn't even bothered with informing him about what's going on, considering how royally he pissed her off in the last chapter. Meanwhile, Alys is currently more or less forced to accompany Edward Anturion and his men to the archive. We haven't had a part for her in a long time, since she did not appear in the last chapter, but her storyline in this chapter is going to be rather important to make up for it. I hope you look forward for both!
Before that, I have also been informed that there will be a new set of drawings, so that means there's another thing to look forward for as well
I won't be able to post the drawings for couple of hours (I'm visiting relatives), but if you got the parts ready before that then no need to wait for me, I'll just post them after the next voting is closed
The Voting is closed!
Drent is going to advice Francis to stay at his post
Well... for the first time, you actually chose what I expec… moreted when it comes to Frederik. I have drastically different plans for him on both outcomes and by the end of the chapter, you will see if you have chosen the better option. In general, one of these choices is going to give Francesco a chance to have quite some influence on the way a future storyline is played out. And well, in general it should be a good idea for him personally not to basically desert his post. This choice is, eventually, also going to influence Drent in some capacity. But more about that later on!
The next part is most likely going to be out today. It will include the first parts for Alys and Willfred in this chapter. I have almost finished Alys' part, which leaves me only with Willfred, whom I will finish today for sure. Originally, I had plans for Maya instead of Willfred, but some … [view original content]
Ah, I see. Well, it is possible that it will take me a little longer than just a few hours to finish the part, though I will post it once it is done. If you won't be able to post the drawings until then, no problem, the next voting should be closed in a couple of days
I won't be able to post the drawings for couple of hours (I'm visiting relatives), but if you got the parts ready before that then no need to wait for me, I'll just post them after the next voting is closed
Alright, looks like I got back home in time to post this new set of drawings before the next part! The theme this time is that these are all Ironborn who are atm raiding Raylansfair in the story - except for Durren Stallhart, who is raiding Maybros.
Hell yes, these are awesome. Puts me right in the perfect mood to write about them and about the Ironborn attacks on Raylansfair and Maybros in general. First of all, they are all amazing. With the exception of the highly atypical Hjalgar, they all give this Ironborn vibe, especially my favourite in this bunch, with is Cleaver Clint. That is the quintessential Ironborn raider right there. Not only is he perfectly the way I imagined him, this is also a very dynamic portrait and it is scary how close he is to how I envisioned him during this raid. Large, loud and certainly terrifying. Garthon's next part should show more of him in action. Then there is Rell, who is at least optically not a typical Ironborn. That sets him apart especially from the others in this set. I must say, I am kind of glad that people ended up saving his life in Garthon's latest part, because that gives me more opportunities to develop him. Then there is Hjalgar, one of those I have been looking forward for and one of those that will potentially have a really cool role in this chapter. I really, really like him, especially since he seems so harmless compared to the others. Arguably, Wilbur doesn't look too dangerous either, but still, both are great. Speaking of Wilbur, he is probably the most minor character who received a drawing so far, but considering what I have planned for him in this chapter, he certainly earned it and by the end, he should have left quite an impression, I hope. And last but not least, Durren Stallhart, the glorious walrus He's badass, as expected. And just seeing him, with his tusks and all, makes me really excited for his crucial involvement in Sadie's storyline in this chapter. I especially like th texture on his cloak, that is super fine. As always, thank you very much
Alright, looks like I got back home in time to post this new set of drawings before the next part! The theme this time is that these are all Ironborn who are atm raiding Raylansfair in the story - except for Durren Stallhart, who is raiding Maybros.
Wow those drawings are awsome Clint looks very bad ass and then there is hjalgar, it is so awsome to see my character drawn, i really think he ended up very good ( cooler than i invisioned him but i really like that) even tho my charactersheet did not have much to go on on the topic of epearence he ended up better then i imagined. I am very excited to see my other chacters drawn by you (but that will propably not be very soon). All in all thank you. And i was hoping to use the drawing of Hjalgar as profile picture when i can remeber how it works and ofcourse if you are ok with that.
Alright, looks like I got back home in time to post this new set of drawings before the next part! The theme this time is that these are all Ironborn who are atm raiding Raylansfair in the story - except for Durren Stallhart, who is raiding Maybros.
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she saw the look in his eyes. How could she ever think he was gallant? If anything, these past weeks have shown her what he truly was like. Someone who worked with men like Bear. Someone who would raid a city just to get some boring, old book.
He gave Alisa a nod and the woman grabbed Alys by the shoulders, gently, but strenly. “Come on, little lady”, she whispered. “He needs your help tonight and he doesn't like to be kept waiting, not now” As expected, she started to drag Alys along, who narrowed her eyes. “My help?”, she asked and Alisa sighed. “It will make sense soon”, she said cryptically. “Listen, he thinks you owe him that much, for bringing you to Dorne”
“Well, but I'm not in Dorne”, Alys replied sharply. “Who's to say that he's going to keep his promise” Though despite her growing anger, she did Alisa a favour by continuing to walk on her own. The other woman pressed her lips together. “He always keeps his promises”, she told her. “After serving years under his brother, Edward really doesn't seem that bad. Trust me, he will keep his promise, if you help him as well”
Alys sighed. It was as she expected. She had no real choice here. At worst, the Ironborn that surrounded her would make sure of that. Almost a hundred had accompanied Edward to the archive, though by now, only a good dozen of them were still with them, something that clearly upset Edward. Several dozen of the Ironborn had separated from them already, to do things she'd rather not think about. This city was crawling with them by now and she had nothing but pity for the people that lived here.
Right now, the one to her left was Wilbur, the young Ironborn that had previously started a fight in Bear's camp. Not quite the kind of person she would like to have next to her, but there were worse. At least Wilbur was mostly silent in her presence. Intimidated maybe? Alys never saw herself as a very intimidating person. If anything, she was the one intimidated right now, surrounded by hardened killers.
“It's there, at the end of the street”, Edward revealed all of a sudden, pointing down the broad street they were walking down right now. This area of the city had largely been spared the wrath of the Ironborn, though distant sounds of fighting and the screams clued Alys in on the fact that it wouldn't remain that way for long. While Edward's presence was enough to keep the Ironborn still going with him in line, seeing them was still enough to cause any hapless citizen that crossed their path to run away in panic.
Somewhere in the distance, a loud bang echoed through the streets and Alys shivered. “What... what was that?”, she asked and Alisa looked similarly confused. It was Carvin who answered, glancing over his shoulder as he continued to walk next to Edward. “An explosion”, he revealed and Alys' eyes widened. “What?”, she gasped. “How?”
Carvin shrugged, as he slowly shook his head. “I don't know”, he admitted, before he looked at Edward. “Ser, is it really wise to do this right now?” Edward glared at him in return. “Are you kidding me?”, he asked. “We're close. So close. I can almost feel the power” This caused Alys to look at him in surprise. “Power?”, she asked. “Edward, what are you planning? And why do you need my help?”
In return, Edward gave her an almost mild glance. “Lady Alys, you will understand it in time”, he said and this time, Alys tried to stop again, though Alisa and Wilbur immediately grabbed her and forced her to continue. “No!”, she barked. “You will tell me now! I... I refuse to help if you don't tell me!”
Edward sighed. “It is not me who needs your help”, he answered. “It's Alisa” This caused the other woman to look baffled. “Wait, what?”, she stuttered. “Ser, that's new for me” For a second, even she seemed hesitant to continue, though that was when they reached the square.
It was relatively small, which only put more attention onto the large building Alys had already seen from the distance. Now was the first time she was able to see it in its entirety. It consisted of white marble, which gave it a beauty that separated it from the wooden houses that surrounded it. Though not exactly much higher than them, it looked intimidating thanks to how broad it was. It looked ancient, older than anything Alys had ever seen in her life.
“Ah!”, Edward said and a wide grin formed on his face. “Finally!” He looked at the Ironborn, before he began pointing at some of them. “You and you, you as well! Stay here and make sure we won't get disturbed!” About half of the Ironborn separated from the rest of the group, one of them even saluting in front of Edward. Wilbur was not among them, a fact that made him visibly uneasy.
“Ser, what's with the rest of us?”, he asked and Edward looked at him. “You will accompany us”, he revealed, which even Alys found slightly alarming. “But.. Ser, that's half a dozen men. What do you need half a dozen fighters for in there?”, Wilbur asked and Alys found it to be a good question. Instead of answering, Edward turned around again and walked towards the large doors of the archive. “Locked, as expected”, he growled. “Get over here, men. I want you to break through”
Wilbur sighed, before he and the rest of those that were chosen to accompany them rushed towards the door. They were armed with axes, which they put to good use, as they started to hack at the door. Edward used this opportunity to approach Alys, who gave him a distrustful look. “Now, mylady, I think it is time for me to explain...”, he started.
“I'd like to hear that as well”, Alisa responded calmly, though Alys heard a noticeable concern in her voice. “You told me it's you who needs her help. What do I have to do with that?” Edward raised his hands to calm her down. “It's easy”, he told them. “Even though I may have to explain it in a little bit more detail”
“Go on then”, Alisa said and Edward smiled charmingly. “You see, this archive is a lot older than even many scholars are aware of”, he explained. “The architecture, that's early Andal, still with heavy Valyrian influences. But the foundations, the lowest levels of this building, they existed long before the Andals first set foot on the shore of Westeros”
“But... the First Men weren't writing their history down”, Alys responded immediately, repeating what the old Maester back home always used to say. Edward gave her a nod. “And it's not history they have buried down there”, he answered. “I'm talking about something much more powerful. Naturally, they have guarded such power closely”
Now, Alisa narrowed her eyes. “Guarded?”, he asked and Edward gave her a nod. “Though magic has been fading ever since the Doom came upon Valyria, that does not mean that it's gone completely”, he explained. “I have reason to believe that this archive is secured through a powerful set of illusions”
Alys gulped, before she chuckled in disbelief. “Illusions?”, she asked, almost mockingly and Edward gave her a sharp glare, followed by a quick nod. “Precisely”, he answered. “And from the reports I have read, they are not to be taken lightly. Additional safety measures may exist, but the ones I know about are illusions. Visions of horrific creatures, potent enough to scare away any potential thief, or even worse”
By now, it became clear that he wasn't joking and this was something Alys found highly concerning. Edward never struck her as a fool, or a madman. If he was serious, then there was a good chance that he had a reason to believe it, no matter how crazy it sounded. “And... what is it you're looking for?”, she asked.
Edward smiled at her. “Ah, mylady, you surely understand that I can't share every detail with you”, he answered. “But be assured that you will see it in time. And I promise you, there will be a rich reward for you and for everyone else who helps me” He was not a liar, as Alys remembered. He promised it and she believed him.
“And... what do you need my help for? And Alisa?”, she asked. Edward smiled. “Oh, that's rather simple”, he answered. “These foundations of the archive have been built by First Men. They have made sure that only First Men could pass their safety measures” For a second, his smile faded. “The others who tried it have suffered, horribly at times. I have read reports of dornish thieves who were driven mad by what they saw down there. Others just vanished”
“So... you want me and Alisa to go down there?”, Alys asked with a slightly shaky voice and Edward shook his head. “Now that would be irresponsible of me, mylady”, he stated. “No, I have a different idea in mind. It took me a long time, but I have uncovered a secret. A spell if you want to call it that way”
The way he put this caused Alys to tense up. “A spell?”, she asked. “Then... then what do you need me... us for?” Edward sighed. “This might sound more terrifying than it truly is, mylady, but I'm going to need a part of your blood”, he answered frankly. When Alys' eyes widened, he quickly grabbed her by the shoulders to calm her down. Even Alisa looked afraid for a second. “You are northern nobility. The blood of the First Men that runs through your veins is pure, as pure as possible”
Alys gasped, unable to say something immediately and it was Alisa who answered. “What's with them?”, she growled, pointing at the raiders. “Ironborn” Edward shook his head. “Common raiders. The sons of Salt Wives and Thralls, their blood as pure as a puddle of piss”, he explained. “I know how this must sound, but mylady, I'm not asking for much. It won't kill you, it won't even hurt that much. As far as I know, all that is necessary will be a tiny amount. A small cut on your palm, a few drops, you will barely notice it”
Alys noticed that she was shaking and she exchanged a look with Alisa. The other woman was no help here, as she looked stoic, impossible to read. A loud crack echoed across the square. “Ser, we're through!”, Wilbur shouted and Edward smiled reassuringly. “Mylady, I need it now”, he urged her.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood][Refuse to give him a sample of your blood]
Willfred
“What the fuck is going on out there?”, Willfred barked, as he stumbled through the hallway that led away from his room. He had already been asleep and when the horns woke him, he had to put on his clothes, followed by his gambeson. Perhaps he'd even need the full armour in time. Roger was walking next to him and the look on his face was one of concern. “Ironborn”, he answered, as Tallian caught up to them. “They attack the city, from three sides as I have heard”
“And why haven't I been informed immediately?”, Willfred exclaimed. Tallian sighed. “Perhaps it hasn't been a good idea to piss off the girl in charge”, he growled and Willfred raised an eyebrow. “She's in charge now?”, he asked and Tallian shrugged. “I don't know who is in charge”, he admitted. “But she took it. Her men are preparing to leave the castle, to support the southern gate and other such nonsense. The one who is technically in charge has locked himself in the Great Hall. Who else is left? That former acting lord maybe?”
Willfred shook his head. “I'd rather have the princess than that guy”, he answered, still feeling angry as he thought on how close he had been to support Harris Flowers. Tallian narrowed his eyes. “Perhaps you should have supported her then, boy”, he spat and now, Willfred felt anger flaring up inside of him as well, as the three man started to walk down the set of stairs that led to the courtyard. “Do you disapprove of my leadership, general?”, he asked.
“I disapprove of your recklessness”, Tallian answered. “You had a save alliance there, a good offer and you refused, screwed over the Stormlands and the Rock at the same time” Willfred clenched his fists. “I was waiting for a better choice”, he mumbled and Tallian exploded. “Better choice!”, he snarled. “You idiot! She offered you the army we need and this city a stable leader. What better choice have you waited for?”
“This is quite enough, Vashord”, Roger said in a low, calm tone. Willfred sighed. “This man Lady Sherryl mentioned, this Maron Mullendore”, he answered. “He could be our chance” Tallian rolled his eyes. “He better be”, he answered. “It's not as if you left us with much choice” Now, Willfred narrowed his eyes. “It's not as if I ever had much choice”, he replied and he and Tallian glared at each other.
“What do you do if this Mullendore is not like you want him to be?”, the general answered and Willfred sighed. “In that case, I will admit to my mistake”, he offered, which did not help in making Tallian any more happy about the situation. “Then people will die”, he growled. “You better do anything this Mullendore wants from you and then you pray that he's willing to help you and a man of his word”
He shook his head as he fastened his pace, walking past Willfred and Roger and opening the door to the courtyard. “Such foolishness”, he mumbled, as he stepped out. Willfred sighed and Roger gave him a reassuring smile. “You did what you see as the right thing”, his uncle said. “That is at least admirable”
Willfred sighed, as he glanced after the general, who was walking across the crowded courtyard. “What if he is right?”, he asked. “What if I did make a mistake?” He shook his head. “What would have father done in my situation?”
Roger smirked. “Your father does not like risks. He would have accepted Princess Argella's offer”, he answered and this made Willfred feel even worse about the situation. Roger noticed it and affectionately patted him on the back. “That does not mean your father would have made the right decision”, he argued. “Sometimes, it is better to take a risk”
With these words, both stepped through the door and onto the courtyard. Willfred was surprised how crowded it was. The first of the smallfolk started to pour through the gate, to seek refuge behind the sturdy walls. In the centre of the courtyard, the Stormlander sergeant gathered his men, though the princess herself was nowhere to be seen. A hopelessly undermanned castle guard patrolled across the walls. Somewhere in the distance, Willfred saw Captain Nora, shouting orders with a voice that had to be hoarsy by now.
“And what are we going to do?”, he asked and Roger sighed. “I don't know”, he admitted. “It's clear that Princess Argella does not wish our help. Neither has Ser Harris asked for it” He glanced around the courtyard. “That does not mean that we can't find something to help though”, he mumbled. “First, we should find Vashord. Then we can plan”
Willfred sighed. “Maybe you can do that, uncle?”, he asked, as it sunk in that everyone who had some semblance of power in the city right now was either angry at him or not interested in organizing the defence of the city in general. Willfred wanted to help, but with his small, token force, he was not sure how he even could. They needed orders and right now, Willfred did not feel like the man to give them.
Something else caught his attention. Despite the steadily increasing amount of people entering the courtyard, there was one woman who apparently tried to leave it. This at least gained his curiosity. “Uncle, can you find Tallian?”, he asked. “And consult with the captain. We must know where our men are needed the most”
“I'm on it, Willfred”, Roger promised, before he started to approach Captain Nora in the distance. This left Willfred free to check out this surprising scene. Why would anyone from the smallfolk try to leave the castle right now? Even more surprising was that one of the guards actually tried to stop her, as if he had nothing better to do right now.
The guard was a bit older than Willfred, with plain, brown hair that already started to grey. He looked tired, like most of his companions and on top of that, he even seemed slightly annoyed. The woman meanwhile was wearing a plain, brown dress and her raven hair was tied back. “Listen, lady, you can't go out there”, the guard said. “You're too important here”
The woman sighed in frustration and as the soldier glanced over her shoulder at Willfred, she turned around as well. She was young, not older than he himself was, with pale skin. Though quite pretty, it was her eyes that truly mesmerized Willfred. They had a strange colour, unlike anything he had ever seen before. Appearing light brown at first, he quickly noticed that they had a more yellowish colour, leaning towards orange.
“Uh, is there a problem?”, he asked, trying to look more important than he felt right now. The woman gave him a nod. “Yes”, she said sternly. “Maybe you can convince this man to step aside. He won't let me leave” Then, she sighed and extended a hand. “My name is Mathea”, she introduced herself and Willfred shook her hand. “Willfred Reyne”, he replied and her strange eyes widened as she recognized the name.
“Why do you wish to leave, mylady?”, he asked and looked at the guard. “And why do you deny her that wish? Aren't there enough problems already?” The guard gave him a nod. “Yeah, that's the thing. She's not some ordinary peasant. That girl's the only skilled healer we have”
Willfred gave her an impressed look, as he hadn't expected a woman at her age to be a healer. Sh replied with calm annoyance in her eyes. “Yes, that is correct”, she confirmed. “But that is precisely the reason why I have to go out there. What good am I in here when there are people who need my help out in the city?”
“I told you already, these people will come in here eventually”, the guard said and she shook her head, with stern determination. “And I told you that this is not true”, she said and Willfred noticed the passion in her voice, as well as the growing anger. “The ones that will come here are at least strong enough to make that journey. I am concerned for those who are too weak to come”
“And how do you want to help them?”, the guard asked. “Other people can do that. But your knowledge might be needed here” Mathea glared at him, which gave her unusual eyes something unsettling. “Do you know how to move someone that's bleeding out without killing him?”, she asked. “No? Then don't talk about it as if you do” I have patients in my house, heavily wounded people. They need my help or they have no chance to get here!” With frustration, she turned towards Willfred. “Ser, tell him how foolish he is!”, she urged him. “I will not accept being... trapped in here while people die out there, people that need my help, people whom I can save”
The soldier rolled his eyes. “Missy, can't you just stay silent like the rest of your lot? Be happy that you have these walls to hide behind”, he groaned. “Listen, I know for a fact that Captain Nora is going to rip my head right off my shoulders if I let our only healer walk through these gates” He looked at Willfred. “Your opinion, Ser?”
Wow those drawings are awsome Clint looks very bad ass and then there is hjalgar, it is so awsome to see my character drawn, i really think … morehe ended up very good ( cooler than i invisioned him but i really like that) even tho my charactersheet did not have much to go on on the topic of epearence he ended up better then i imagined. I am very excited to see my other chacters drawn by you (but that will propably not be very soon). All in all thank you. And i was hoping to use the drawing of Hjalgar as profile picture when i can remeber how it works and ofcourse if you are ok with that.
Well most of them are not introduced yet and I actually would have to look them up because I made a few characters over a longer period of time and I cant remember the names of most ( I creat characters almost every day but only few do end up here so its hard to remember all their names), but the two that are are atleast already introduced ( but did not have very much screentime) are Benett and Magnus Silverstone. Characters that were also created by me are Leeohn the Liar and Ghordon Khanos, but I only remember them because I recently wrote them, Ghordon is so new that i believe he is not even on the list yet.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] I really want to see what's down there. Plus, we aren't sure if Anturion is working with Mullendore, so in the words of Roger, "It is some times better to take a risk." Plus, sppooookkkkyyy ghosts/notreallyghostsbutillusionsbutstillkindaghostlike.
[Side with Mathea] I think these are one of those choices that have both bad and good consequences. I'm just hoping she will be able to save Urid and Lyria soon because I am pretty sure by later in the chapter Mathea is going to be needed at the castle.
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] Man, I'm too curious to pass this! I wonder what the hell is it that Edward is looking for... Anyway, time for some spoooookiness
[Side with Mathea] I have a feeling this could be surprisingly important choice. Letting her go to the city might save some of our beloved characters who are in grave danger.
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
I choose this, simply because I want to see what's in there. I guess that shadow Maya saw was this just mentioned Illusion. And drop of blood cannot kill Alys, right...?
[Side with Mathea] Well, Willfred don't want to piss her :-p Rosaline and Urid are there and they need her help to have a chance to get to safety.
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] Like it was mentioned earlier, she doesn't have a choice, I imagine if she refuses then he'll simply take it.
[Side with Mathea] Better to do something than sit around.
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had… more informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she sa… [view original content]
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Drent
Heavily, Drent knocked at the door. “Lady Tariel!”, he said loudly and waited for her answer. It came, if a little later than he expected. “Who's there?”, Tariel's muffled voice sounded through the door and Drent noticed that she sounded slightly panicked. He raised an eyebrow. “This is Drent Golton”, he announced himself. “The princess wishes your presence in the courtyard immediately”
He heard movement, someone whispering softly, an annoyed, deep sigh and then he understood. “Is there anyone with you?”, he asked and Tariel gasped audibly. “N... no?”, she lied. “I was... sleeping. I'm getting dressed, then I will unlock the door”
Once again, Drent heard whispering, increasingly annoyed. “No!”, Tariel barked, before someone approached the door and unlocked it. “Come in”, a deep voice answered and Drent's eyes widened as he recognized the man who spoke. He opened the door slightly and slid in.
“Garen?”, he asked, as he spotted the sellsword, standing next to the door, bare-chested and only wearing pants. Tariel herself was standing behind a thin, dividing wall, only her shadow visible. The sellsword meanwhile glared at him. “You're coming at a bad time”, he growled and Drent glanced from him to the dividing wall.
“So... you and her?”, he asked and Garen rolled his eyes. “It's a secret. Exciting, isn't it?”, he sighed, just as Tariel walked around the wall. She had dressed herself hastily, though still with care. Only her hair was still in a disarray, just like the sheets of her bed. “And if things would have gone my way, it would have remained a secret for longer”, she said sharply and Garen smirked. “So, what is it?”
“As I said, Princess Argella demands your presence in the courtyard”, Drent repeated and Tariel sighed. “Fine”, she said as she glanced at the mirror. “Just... give me a moment” With these words, she rushed over to the mirror, grabbing a brush next to it and starting to get her hair in order. Garen grinned widely, as he shamelessly admired her body from behind.
“In retrospect, this... certainly explains a lot”, Drent said, feeling the need to say something to break the silence. “How long has this been going on between you?” Through the mirror, Tariel sent a glare at Garen, who just shrugged. “A couple of months. She caught my eye shortly after I arrived at Storm's End”, he explained nonchalantly.
Before he was able to continue, another loud set of horns was audible outside and he chuckled. “A good fuck, followed by a good kill. What a day”, he said. “I wonder how far the raiders advanced” Drent raised an eyebrow at this last sentence. “You know what is happening out there?”, he asked and Garen gave him a nod. “It's not exactly easy to ignore, you know. Made it way harder for me to have a little fun”, he answered.
“I would have already been out there”, Tariel interjected, as she started to tie her hair into a loose, messy braid. “But no, the sellsword first wanted to finish” Garen rolled his eyes. “Didn't even get to do that, thanks to you, Drentie”, he growled. Tariel turned around, finally satisfied with her looks, as she glared at Garen. It seemed as if she wanted to say something, though she ultimately just shook her head in annoyance. “You're driving me crazy sometimes”, she sighed.
She approached the door, but stopped and turned around towards Drent. “You must stay silent about this”, she implored him and despite the sharp annoyance on her face, a soft, pleading tone found its way to her eyes. “Please, don't tell anyone. I mean, I have... it's not befitting to my status to be linked to him”
“Right, because the sellsword is so much below you, ain't that right, Lady Flowers?”, Garen responded, not less harshly and Tariel clenched her fists. “Please, Drent. Getting into my position was hard work and if people would know about me and Garen, they would see it as weakness”, she explained. Now, Garen only grinned. “It's strictly physical anyways. Nothing any lord would take offence to”, he interjected. “But still, would be damn fine of you to stay silent about this, Drentie”
Drent narrowed his eyes, before he gave both a nod. Then, he looked solely at Garen. “For her”, he told him and the sellsword shrugged. “Whatever”, he said. “Shall we get going? I'm itching to kill someone” Without waiting for either of them, he opened the door and walked through it. Tariel sighed and as she glanced back towards Drent, she blushed delicately.
“My apologies for his behaviour”, she said. “I know, he can be an asshole, but... there's gotta be something good in him” Drent raised an eyebrow. “Gotta be?”, he asked and Tariel gave him a soft nod. “Please. It's not only for my sake that you should keep this a secret. Do you know Baron Schodek?”
“I do”, Drent said, remembering the old knight, one of King Argilac's closest friends. “Well, he's almost like a father to Garen”, Tariel explained. “And he hates me. If word gets out about this, he'd be so disappointed in him” She smiled thinly, before she turned to the door. “I will keep it a secret”, Drent promised, as he followed her.
From the hallway, both had a good look on the courtyard, where Argella was already arguing with Ser Emphryus and Sergeant Montclair, just as Garen stepped outside the building. A knight was there as well, a young man, whom Drent did not know. He had reddish-brown hair and even from afar, Drent saw that his armour looked slightly scorched, as if the man had to walk through fire to get here.
“I have a bad feeling about this”, Tariel said and Drent narrowed his eyes. “We're only here because of you”, he reminded her. “If it wouldn't have been for your trick, we would have all remained in Storm's End” Tariel stopped walking and turned towards him.
“My trick?”, she asked and shook her head. “This hasn't been my trick. It has been Sherryl's, from the very beginning. She has been the one approaching me about this” Her voice was shaking slightly, though she kept her composure. “Yes, I wanted revenge on these people. Wanted to prove to them that I am better. You can think of my reasons whatever you want, but you haven't been there. This sheer hatred they had for me, have for me...” Now, her voice did crack. “Sherryl offered me an opportunity. I took it and found out only too late that she's not my friend anymore”, she explained in a hushed tone. “It would have worked, if she wouldn't have turned against our agreement”
“I hold no grudge against you, Lady Tariel”, Drent assured her. “But neither do I feel pity for you” A thin, sad smile flashed across Tariel's face. “And I don't want pity”, she answered. “Pity is for the weak. And I don't want to be weak” Once again, she glanced out of the courtyard. “Sherryl made me feel weak though. Nothing hurts like her betrayal”
“And yet you remain strong”, Drent said, admiring how calm she was despite obviously being hurt by what happened. Tariel shook her head. “I would love to cry”, she revealed. “I would love to scream and rage, but what good would it bring? Argilac's little brat down there, she would certainly do that, but what good will it ever bring her?” Though as she spoke, Drent saw the hint of tears in her eyes.
Both walked down the set of stairs and politely, Drent held the door for her. This caused her to smile, ever so slightly and she gave him an acknowledging nod. Then, they approached the Storm Princess and her entourage. Even from afar, Drent was able to hear the conversation taking place. “... in front of the gates!”, Emphryus argued. “How long have they planned this attack, for fucks sake?”
“I agree, there's something else going on. This is one of the reasons we need your help now”, the other knight said, just as Argella noticed Drent and Tariel. She turned towards them and silently gave Drent a nod, before she looked at Tariel. “Ah, you're here”, she greeted her quickly. “Lady Tariel, as my advisor, you should hear this” She pointed at the knight. “This is Ser Leonard Constantine, currently in charge of defending the southern gate”
Tariel raised her eyebrows. “The gates?”, she asked. “I thought they just attack from the sea” Leonard bowed deeply in front of Tariel. “Mylady, let me inform you about the severity of the situation”, he started to explain. “The Ironborn have landed and an initial force of guardsmen has been overrun. At the same time additional forces have appeared on the paths to the east and to the south, no Ironborn, but hostile nonetheless. At the southern gate, things are particularly dire. It will fall without help”
“Our help”, Tariel deduced and the tone in her voice was enough for Leonard to gulp. “Without you, this city will be lost”, he pleaded and Emphryus gave him a nod. “Aye, I say we go out there and give these raiding turdbags hell”, he exclaimed. “I've been waiting for a long time to get such an opportunity” He turned to Argella. “My princess, allow me to lead these men to your honour”
“Excuse me?”, Tariel said and it seemed she had decided on her position quickly. “So, you wish to take our men out there? I say the Stormlanders better remain here, by the side of the princess, to protect her” Montclair raised an eyebrow. “Protecting her? Sure you don't mean yourself with this, mylady?”, he asked mockingly, before he looked at Argella. “I will follow whatever your order will be, my princess”
Argella pressed her lips together. “My order...”, she sighed, though Tariel cut her off again. “The people will come to the castle in either way. In time, they will be the strongest group within these walls”, she argued. “If you send our men out there, who guarantees they will still be allowed to enter? It would be wiser to leave them here, to protect us and this castle”
“We need your men!”, Leonard urged her. “Please, there are people dying in the streets. My people!” Argella looked at him, her face showing no sign of emotion, even if Drent could guess at the battle she was waging in her mind. “Please, princess, without your men, none of mine will see the light of dawn again” Just as Argella opened her mouth to answer, Tariel cut her off. “And why should we be concerned, Ser?”, she asked. “Why should we send our own men to death? Who among you would be willing to do the same for us? Tell us one good reason why your lives matter more than ours”
Leonard stared at her, wide-eyed and angry, though shocked by her position. His fists were clenched and it was clear that a lot of his current attention was used just to calm down. “Precisely”, Tariel stated triumphantly, before she turned to Argella again. “Princess, this is nonsense. These people rejected you. They did not want your leadership, your help, when you offered it. Now, they beg for it. Let them beg, but don't give in. Your father wouldn't send our troops to their deaths. Your father would understand why it is better to leave them in the castle”
And now, Drent finally noticed Argella's anger. “Tariel”, she said in a tone that wasn't even remotely sweet. “Could you kindly shut your lying mouth for a second?” She glared at the other woman, whose confidence instantly turn to shock. “First of all, you will never again speak of my father as if you know him better than I do. My father would be the first in battle!”, she hissed. “Admittedly, he'd do it solely to fight and to kill. I am not my father. I'm doing this because it is the right thing to do”
Drent noticed how Emphryus' eyes widened as she spoke, just as a small, baffled smile appeared on his face. “And it is the right thing”, Argella continued, before she glared back at Tariel, who cowered under her fury. “What kind of a person would suggest otherwise? What kind of a person would suggest leaving them to die?” She trembled with anger by now. If her father's fury was like a growling thunder, Argella's was like a flash of lightning, sharp, quick and terrifying “Coward”, she spat. “Coward! You say they rejected me? They didn't even get a say in what happened here! Your friend made sure of that!” She shook her head. “But no, it was you whom they rejected, isn't that right? Poor little Tariel Flowers, what they did to you... and now? Do you hate them so much that you'd leave them all to die? Women? Children? Are you truly that petty?”
Tariel had taken another step back and the look in her eyes was one of fear, but also one of shame. Perhaps it would have been kinder if the Storm Princess would have just slapped her. “No...”, she mumbled, her eyes focussed on the ground in front of her. “No, I... you are right. Please... f... forgive me”
Without even wasting another look at her, Argella focussed back at Ser Leonard. “You will get your men”, she promised and the knight sighed in relief, baffled gratitude in his eyes. “Thank you”, he stuttered. “It appears Lucas was right about you” Despite her anger, Argella managed a thin smile. “I believe your gate needs you”, she advised him and he nodded, before he turned around. “Yes, they...”, he started, but she stopped him.
“But you will not go alone. With the state of the city right now, you might not make it back on your own”, she growled. “Most of my men need time to get ready, but you need help now” She quickly glanced around the courtyard, until she spotted Garen. “Garen!”, she barked. “Take the soldiers you see here. Follow Ser Leonard to the gate. Hold it until we arrive with reinforcements!” For once, not even the sellsword dared to object, as he only gave her a nod, before starting to shout orders at the few soldiers who had already approached them.
“Sergeant, gather the men!”, Argella continued to order. “I want all of them in the courtyard once I am ready!” This sentence took not only Drent off guard. He tensed up, while Montclair's eyes widened, though it was Emphryus who spoke. “Do you mean to...”, he said, though she cut him off immediately. “Precisely”, she stated. “In ten thousand years, not one Durrandon cowered from a fight and I don't intend to be the first. Today has been exasperating, I am frustrated, tired and angry and I refuse to hide behind these walls and let others fight my battle!”
Emphryus gulped, but before he could say anything, she continued. “My men will go out there and they will save this city. But I will not demand what I am not willing to give myself”, she said and her words only amplified her fury. “The Ironborn may bring their storm, but I shall raise them mine. And I will remind them why they never dared to raid our shores”
She stopped and looked around, just as Drent stared at her. Emphryus meanwhile had a smile on his face that slowly turned wider. “Now what?”, she asked and clapped her hands once. “Sers, stop gasping at me and follow your orders! There are people out there that need our help!” She looked at Montclair, still the calmest of them all. “Sergeant, the men!”, she growled again, before she looked at Tariel, who was silently staring at the ground with fear. “Save for two men. They will remain to protect Lady Tariel”
Tariel looked up in surprise, though Argella already continued. “Drent!”, she said and Drent tensed up. His heart was beating furiously, as it finally sunk in that she genuinely intended to lead the Stormlanders to battle. He himself was not sure if this was an admirable display of bravery, or if he should be worried for her safety. He settled for a mixture of both. “You will find me a sword, the finest in the castle and a sturdy shield”
Now, she switched her attention back to her knight. “Emphyrus!”, she said and he looked at her, baffled, but with something that came close to reverence. “Yes, my queen?”, he asked, before he realized what he just said. “I... I mean...” Immediately as he said this, Argella's expression changed. The anger was instantly replaced by surprise and a pretty smile appeared on her face. “I know what you meant”, she said softly, before her expression hardened again. “You're going to help me find armour to wear. They have female guards here and one of them just has to have something that fits”
With these words, she marched off towards the armoury, leaving Drent, Emphryus and Montclair behind. The sergeant shrugged, though he was smiling as well. “That woman is a whole lot like her father and that's not a bad thing”, he stated, though Emphryus immediately shook his head. “No, not like her father”, he stated, still staring at her with admiration. “She's like her brother. By the gods, she's exactly like him...”
“Emphryus!”, Argella yelled from across the courtyard. “Hurry up! You don't expect me to fight in this dress, do you? This is myrish silk! You couldn't even begin to grasp how expensive that is!” Emphryus chuckled happily. “Storm Queen”, he said. “If only her father would be here right now. He would be so proud”
He started to rush after her, while Drent followed them at first, before turning to the door where they kept the weapons. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Leonard and Garen leaving, roughly a dozen men with them, while two soldiers escorted Tariel back to her chambers. Montclair meanwhile approached the barracks.
Then, he reached the arsenal. The door was heavy, though not entirely closed, as Drent noticed. From the inside, he heard the familiar, rhythmic sharpening of a sword and as he opened the door fully, he spotted light inside. He raised an eyebrow. “Hello?”, he said.
The rhythmic sound stopped.”Yeah?”, a young, male voice answered and as Drent stepped into the room, he saw a young man, probably barely grown, sitting on a crate, with a sword on his lap. He had a slight tan and dark, curly hair. “Can I help you?”, he asked.
“Hopefully”, Drent answered. “The name's Drent, I'm looking for a sword for the Storm Princess” The young man raised an eyebrow. “For her? She intends to fight herself?”, he asked and Drent gave him a nod. “Well, she is Argilac Durrandon's daughter”, he explained. “Truth be told, we should have expected it”
The young man smirked. “The name is Federico”, he introduced himself, as he raised from the crate. He extended his hand and Drent shook it. “So then, Drent. You know what kind of a sword she prefers?” Drent shook his head. “She settles for nothing but the best”, he stated and Federico shrugged. “The best sword in this city belonged to Lord Raylan”, he answered. “Ser Harris is currently wielding it”
“Second best then”, Drent answered. “I'm sure she won't notice it” Federico gave him a nod, as he started to approach the wall behind him, where dozens of swords were racked up. “Say, you're all going to leave the castle?”, he suddenly asked. “Yeah, I think that's the plan”, Drent answered. “There are people out there that need our help and Argella... man, I've never seen her that furious before”
“Good”, Federico answered and Drent noticed something odd about his behaviour. “Is everything alright?”, he asked and the young man shook his head. “It's Saerya”, he stated. “She works here in the castle and she's dear to me” He sighed. “She left an hour ago, when the attacks started, to find someone in the city and I... gods, I'm so worried, I can hardly focus”
“Yeah, I can understand that”, Drent said and Federico sighed. “Listen, Drent, you seem like an okay guy. Say, what would you do in my situation?”, he suddenly asked. “A part of me wants to go with you, to find her, to keep her safe. More than half of the castle guard is already out in the field”
Drent raised an eyebrow. “And the castle?”, he asked in return and Federico shook his head. “That's the problem. I think the castle will be well-defended. There are the Rock men and a dozen of our guards. They just have to close the gate and they can hold these walls against hundreds of men. I'm not sure if they truly need my help more than Saerya does”
[Advice Federico to accompany you] [Advice Federico to stay at his post]
Maybe. It can also be seen the other way round. More soldiers in the city = good things, that is also a possibility. At the same time, you know Sherryl apparently did something to destroy the gates, which will take away a lot of the defense the castle is able to provide.
Because he is a very sore loser. You haven't seen the last of him, but at least for now, he is on his way back to his castle, with a massive grudge on top. That said, if he and his men would have stayed, a lot of things would have been easier for Raylansfair.
8000 comments, my god. And it is entirely possible that we reach 9000 by the end of Book 1. Back when I started this, I didn't even thought it would reach 2000 comments. This is one occasion where I am happy that I have been proven wrong
It's indeed both, good and bad. Good, because there will be so many moments I am excited to write in the coming parts. Bad, because this part is going to hav the highest death toll by far and some of them will be really painful to write.
It's true, sometimes these suggestions shape the story in a pretty huge way, especially if I like your ideas more than my own. There is one particular incident where I ended up liking one of WildlingKing's drawings so much that I even decided to spare a character who was originally supposed to die in this chapter, as it gave me inspiration on how to use this character in Book 2. And that's quite a list of characters you don't want to see Leonard ending up with. I am very surprised to see Jenna there. It seems I have to throw away the entire part of the storyline I dedicated to their budding romance
Just kidding of course, but out of interest, is there anyone you actually would like to see Leonard ending up with?
That is an interesting comparison. I read the comics semi-regularly and Andrea is one of my favourites (because obviously she is). I actually think there are some unintentional similarities between her and Kersea. So far, not much of Kersea's real, normal personality has been shown, as she has been kinda busy with not becoming like Clayton and Alysanne. Now that she is free from that, maybe you'll see their similarities in time. As for this action, a lot of it depends on your opinion on several factors. I personally think she has no choice and it will be understandable from a certain viewpoint and I actually could see you even agreeing on this, though I might as well be wrong.
[Advice Federico to accompany you]
Except for that Valyrian Steel that Vaasrand wields. If I recall Rodrik wielded Valyrian Steel to. So the correction would be third best sword.
Well, thanks. I'm an idiot.
[Advice Federico to accompany you]
Poor Federico gets no development, I'll give him a chance this time.
[Advice Federico to stay at his post]
I think he should keep his post.
[Advice Federico to stay at his post] Again, I think it's not a good idea to storm all the men out of the castle, especially since the gate has been sabotaged. Sure, Federico is just one man, but every man counts.
Anyway, Argella was such a badass in this part, and I loved it!
First putting Tariel in her place and then deciding to personally lead her men to battle, my respect for her keeps increasing.
Nay, you're not an idiot, that can happen to the best. It has really been a minor detail before, though it will have some relative importance in this chapter, so I had to make sure that everyone is aware of it now.
Well, yeah, technically you're right. Though Federico doesn't know about Vaasrand or Rodrik. Harris' sword is also not Valyrian Steel and even then, it can be argued that Willfred and Elias have access to better castle-forged swords at Castamere and Highgarden. But what Federico meant was that Harris wields the best sword that actually belongs to the city.
[Advise Fredrick to stay at his post]
Well, Tariel definently got put in her place. That was... Fun.
Also, maybe leaving some people behind, no matter how few, may be a good idea?
Great part!
[Advice Federico to stay at his post] No good soldier abandons his post during an siege, unless it is a cool character and he would die elsewise. Federico however isn't allowed to ever have any screen time what so ever, because it is funny how many chances he has had to do so but hasn't. Also, we need to have some people to defend the castle.
[Advice Federico to accompany you]
Well, I can at least confirm that leaving the castle entirely unguarded is a very bad idea. It's just a question how many guards you are willing to leave at the castle, as the people in the city could definitely use them as well.
[Advice Federico to stay at his post]
No Federico you are not getting any development. Seriously he'll just get himself killed. Saerya is fine.
Hey I was right about Drent, go me.
Hm. Leonard didn't tell them about the wildfire. I wonder if Leonard will lead them right to it...
I'm getting worried about that choice. Argella, in her infinite wisdom would totally screw that up. She would totally try to attack that. Maybe it leads to good things. Maybe Leonard and Garen die. Damn. Well, at least the south gate should hold. Now if Torvin went there this would be very interesting. I wonder if Orys will meet the 'Storm Queen', heh.
I don't think anyone is actually worthy.
In all seriousness I don't really think anyone. I do like Maya a lot, but I doubt that would ever happen. I would be curious on how those two would react. To be honest, there's isn't really a lot of options I deem remotely acceptable, mostly due to irrational dislike.
But yeah Andrea. I mean who doesn't like her? I'll be watching. Hopefully we don't get any characters like Alpha (shivers), although a Negan or two would certainly spice things up.
Poor Leonard Constantine, it seems he's up for a life of loneliness then
Maya is indeed somewhat unlikely to ever even meet him, given that their storylines had no real connection at all so far. But well, in the end I plan to make every sort of romance in the story largely optional and depending on your choices, so if you dislike a certain pairing, you just have to choose the right options and it won't happen. Should I have anything planned for Leonard, I can promise it will be purely choice-determinant as well.
I haven't gotten any inspiration from Alpha so far (even though that scene would certainly make for a memorable moment), but I think I can safely tease that Negan inded provided inspiration for one particular scene that is (more or less) inevitably going to come up relatively soon.
Actually, this time Federico is getting some development in both choices! I have made some spectacular breakthrough with his character in this chapter, as I have finally found a way to keep him in the story in both choices. That said, they will have rather different outcomes, so choose wisely.
Indeed, he did not tell them about it, mostly because he has similar concerns as the one you brought up. He was already surprised that Argella agreed to help so eagerly, so he also kind of didn't even think about it. On top of that, it is more or less impossible to reach the wildfire right now. It is located in the old lighthouse, which is outside the city walls. A small group of skilled people, Kersea and Raenna for example, can reach it by climbing over the city walls, but the Stormlanders would have to use the gate, which is obviously impossible right now. Even then, Leonard knows that the Stormlanders are more needed at the gate than anywhere else, so he didn't even risk it. That said, I slightly regret that I haven't been able to show the continuation of his conversation with Kersea, because he actually made plans on not keeping this a secret. Let's just say, he has made sure that the right people know about the wildfire. This is still a choice to be concerned of, because it will have major consequences.
Well, they are both in the same location. Such a meeting would be interesting and something I would very much like to write about. Add to that the connection between Orys' companion Gordar Celtigar and Argella (or more precisely, her father) and there's all kinds of potential for that. So, it is definitely strongly in the realms of possible.
[Advice Fedrico to stay at his post] I'm torn, I think it'll be interesting to bring him but I'm also concerned that the others may need him. Mostly I''m just worried he'll ruin Saerya's plans.
I could go either way.
Garen's so great.
Auto correct...
Man this part got me excited for what's to come even more. I loved everyone in this part especially Argella who continues to grow on me.
[Advice Federico to stay at his post]
I want Federico to get development, but I feel like this is the more sensible choice. We already have a ton of men going out to fight, and we need as much men in the castle defending as possible.
[Advice Federico to accompany you]
[Advice Federico to stay at his post]
I think Federico never getting any development has become a running gag by this point, and I intend to keep it that way.
The Voting is closed!
Drent is going to advice Francis to stay at his post
Well... for the first time, you actually chose what I expected when it comes to Frederik. I have drastically different plans for him on both outcomes and by the end of the chapter, you will see if you have chosen the better option. In general, one of these choices is going to give Francesco a chance to have quite some influence on the way a future storyline is played out. And well, in general it should be a good idea for him personally not to basically desert his post. This choice is, eventually, also going to influence Drent in some capacity. But more about that later on!
The next part is most likely going to be out today. It will include the first parts for Alys and Willfred in this chapter. I have almost finished Alys' part, which leaves me only with Willfred, whom I will finish today for sure. Originally, I had plans for Maya instead of Willfred, but some additional planning made me realize that now is actually the perfect time for Willfred to have this part, especially as it will feature quite an important choice that potentially is also going to affect another storyline which has yet to start in this chapter. That means, Maya will be back in the next part, together with another PoV character. As you know, Willfred is still at the castle and well, Argella actually hasn't even bothered with informing him about what's going on, considering how royally he pissed her off in the last chapter. Meanwhile, Alys is currently more or less forced to accompany Edward Anturion and his men to the archive. We haven't had a part for her in a long time, since she did not appear in the last chapter, but her storyline in this chapter is going to be rather important to make up for it. I hope you look forward for both!
Before that, I have also been informed that there will be a new set of drawings, so that means there's another thing to look forward for as well
I won't be able to post the drawings for couple of hours (I'm visiting relatives), but if you got the parts ready before that then no need to wait for me, I'll just post them after the next voting is closed
Ah, I see. Well, it is possible that it will take me a little longer than just a few hours to finish the part, though I will post it once it is done. If you won't be able to post the drawings until then, no problem, the next voting should be closed in a couple of days
Alright, looks like I got back home in time to post this new set of drawings before the next part!
The theme this time is that these are all Ironborn who are atm raiding Raylansfair in the story - except for Durren Stallhart, who is raiding Maybros.
Hell yes, these are awesome. Puts me right in the perfect mood to write about them and about the Ironborn attacks on Raylansfair and Maybros in general. First of all, they are all amazing. With the exception of the highly atypical Hjalgar, they all give this Ironborn vibe, especially my favourite in this bunch, with is Cleaver Clint. That is the quintessential Ironborn raider right there. Not only is he perfectly the way I imagined him, this is also a very dynamic portrait and it is scary how close he is to how I envisioned him during this raid. Large, loud and certainly terrifying. Garthon's next part should show more of him in action. Then there is Rell, who is at least optically not a typical Ironborn. That sets him apart especially from the others in this set. I must say, I am kind of glad that people ended up saving his life in Garthon's latest part, because that gives me more opportunities to develop him. Then there is Hjalgar, one of those I have been looking forward for and one of those that will potentially have a really cool role in this chapter. I really, really like him, especially since he seems so harmless compared to the others. Arguably, Wilbur doesn't look too dangerous either, but still, both are great. Speaking of Wilbur, he is probably the most minor character who received a drawing so far, but considering what I have planned for him in this chapter, he certainly earned it and by the end, he should have left quite an impression, I hope. And last but not least, Durren Stallhart, the glorious walrus
He's badass, as expected. And just seeing him, with his tusks and all, makes me really excited for his crucial involvement in Sadie's storyline in this chapter. I especially like th texture on his cloak, that is super fine. As always, thank you very much 
Wow those drawings are awsome Clint looks very bad ass and then there is hjalgar, it is so awsome to see my character drawn, i really think he ended up very good ( cooler than i invisioned him but i really like that) even tho my charactersheet did not have much to go on on the topic of epearence he ended up better then i imagined. I am very excited to see my other chacters drawn by you (but that will propably not be very soon). All in all thank you. And i was hoping to use the drawing of Hjalgar as profile picture when i can remeber how it works and ofcourse if you are ok with that.
Alys
“What are we even doing here?”, Alys hissed towards Alisa, as they rushed through the streets of this city. Raylansfair, as they had informed her. She knew Edward was only using the Ironborn to get to the archive, but what he wanted there, with these dusty, old tomes, that was something she knew nothing about, something she did not understand.
No one answered her. By now, she wasn't sure if she even had a choice, or if they would just drag her along if she would stop walking. Still, whatever they were doing here, it did not seem right. There was a feeling of disgust at what these Ironborn were doing here, but there was an even stronger feeling of concern for the people of this city, who had to pay the price for whatever Edward was doing.
Alys clenched her fists, as she stopped walking all of a sudden. “Could anyone explain to me what we are doing?”, she barked and this time, Edward glanced over his shoulder. She gulped as she saw the look in his eyes. How could she ever think he was gallant? If anything, these past weeks have shown her what he truly was like. Someone who worked with men like Bear. Someone who would raid a city just to get some boring, old book.
He gave Alisa a nod and the woman grabbed Alys by the shoulders, gently, but strenly. “Come on, little lady”, she whispered. “He needs your help tonight and he doesn't like to be kept waiting, not now” As expected, she started to drag Alys along, who narrowed her eyes. “My help?”, she asked and Alisa sighed. “It will make sense soon”, she said cryptically. “Listen, he thinks you owe him that much, for bringing you to Dorne”
“Well, but I'm not in Dorne”, Alys replied sharply. “Who's to say that he's going to keep his promise” Though despite her growing anger, she did Alisa a favour by continuing to walk on her own. The other woman pressed her lips together. “He always keeps his promises”, she told her. “After serving years under his brother, Edward really doesn't seem that bad. Trust me, he will keep his promise, if you help him as well”
Alys sighed. It was as she expected. She had no real choice here. At worst, the Ironborn that surrounded her would make sure of that. Almost a hundred had accompanied Edward to the archive, though by now, only a good dozen of them were still with them, something that clearly upset Edward. Several dozen of the Ironborn had separated from them already, to do things she'd rather not think about. This city was crawling with them by now and she had nothing but pity for the people that lived here.
Right now, the one to her left was Wilbur, the young Ironborn that had previously started a fight in Bear's camp. Not quite the kind of person she would like to have next to her, but there were worse. At least Wilbur was mostly silent in her presence. Intimidated maybe? Alys never saw herself as a very intimidating person. If anything, she was the one intimidated right now, surrounded by hardened killers.
“It's there, at the end of the street”, Edward revealed all of a sudden, pointing down the broad street they were walking down right now. This area of the city had largely been spared the wrath of the Ironborn, though distant sounds of fighting and the screams clued Alys in on the fact that it wouldn't remain that way for long. While Edward's presence was enough to keep the Ironborn still going with him in line, seeing them was still enough to cause any hapless citizen that crossed their path to run away in panic.
Somewhere in the distance, a loud bang echoed through the streets and Alys shivered. “What... what was that?”, she asked and Alisa looked similarly confused. It was Carvin who answered, glancing over his shoulder as he continued to walk next to Edward. “An explosion”, he revealed and Alys' eyes widened. “What?”, she gasped. “How?”
Carvin shrugged, as he slowly shook his head. “I don't know”, he admitted, before he looked at Edward. “Ser, is it really wise to do this right now?” Edward glared at him in return. “Are you kidding me?”, he asked. “We're close. So close. I can almost feel the power” This caused Alys to look at him in surprise. “Power?”, she asked. “Edward, what are you planning? And why do you need my help?”
In return, Edward gave her an almost mild glance. “Lady Alys, you will understand it in time”, he said and this time, Alys tried to stop again, though Alisa and Wilbur immediately grabbed her and forced her to continue. “No!”, she barked. “You will tell me now! I... I refuse to help if you don't tell me!”
Edward sighed. “It is not me who needs your help”, he answered. “It's Alisa” This caused the other woman to look baffled. “Wait, what?”, she stuttered. “Ser, that's new for me” For a second, even she seemed hesitant to continue, though that was when they reached the square.
It was relatively small, which only put more attention onto the large building Alys had already seen from the distance. Now was the first time she was able to see it in its entirety. It consisted of white marble, which gave it a beauty that separated it from the wooden houses that surrounded it. Though not exactly much higher than them, it looked intimidating thanks to how broad it was. It looked ancient, older than anything Alys had ever seen in her life.
“Ah!”, Edward said and a wide grin formed on his face. “Finally!” He looked at the Ironborn, before he began pointing at some of them. “You and you, you as well! Stay here and make sure we won't get disturbed!” About half of the Ironborn separated from the rest of the group, one of them even saluting in front of Edward. Wilbur was not among them, a fact that made him visibly uneasy.
“Ser, what's with the rest of us?”, he asked and Edward looked at him. “You will accompany us”, he revealed, which even Alys found slightly alarming. “But.. Ser, that's half a dozen men. What do you need half a dozen fighters for in there?”, Wilbur asked and Alys found it to be a good question. Instead of answering, Edward turned around again and walked towards the large doors of the archive. “Locked, as expected”, he growled. “Get over here, men. I want you to break through”
Wilbur sighed, before he and the rest of those that were chosen to accompany them rushed towards the door. They were armed with axes, which they put to good use, as they started to hack at the door. Edward used this opportunity to approach Alys, who gave him a distrustful look. “Now, mylady, I think it is time for me to explain...”, he started.
“I'd like to hear that as well”, Alisa responded calmly, though Alys heard a noticeable concern in her voice. “You told me it's you who needs her help. What do I have to do with that?” Edward raised his hands to calm her down. “It's easy”, he told them. “Even though I may have to explain it in a little bit more detail”
“Go on then”, Alisa said and Edward smiled charmingly. “You see, this archive is a lot older than even many scholars are aware of”, he explained. “The architecture, that's early Andal, still with heavy Valyrian influences. But the foundations, the lowest levels of this building, they existed long before the Andals first set foot on the shore of Westeros”
“But... the First Men weren't writing their history down”, Alys responded immediately, repeating what the old Maester back home always used to say. Edward gave her a nod. “And it's not history they have buried down there”, he answered. “I'm talking about something much more powerful. Naturally, they have guarded such power closely”
Now, Alisa narrowed her eyes. “Guarded?”, he asked and Edward gave her a nod. “Though magic has been fading ever since the Doom came upon Valyria, that does not mean that it's gone completely”, he explained. “I have reason to believe that this archive is secured through a powerful set of illusions”
Alys gulped, before she chuckled in disbelief. “Illusions?”, she asked, almost mockingly and Edward gave her a sharp glare, followed by a quick nod. “Precisely”, he answered. “And from the reports I have read, they are not to be taken lightly. Additional safety measures may exist, but the ones I know about are illusions. Visions of horrific creatures, potent enough to scare away any potential thief, or even worse”
By now, it became clear that he wasn't joking and this was something Alys found highly concerning. Edward never struck her as a fool, or a madman. If he was serious, then there was a good chance that he had a reason to believe it, no matter how crazy it sounded. “And... what is it you're looking for?”, she asked.
Edward smiled at her. “Ah, mylady, you surely understand that I can't share every detail with you”, he answered. “But be assured that you will see it in time. And I promise you, there will be a rich reward for you and for everyone else who helps me” He was not a liar, as Alys remembered. He promised it and she believed him.
“And... what do you need my help for? And Alisa?”, she asked. Edward smiled. “Oh, that's rather simple”, he answered. “These foundations of the archive have been built by First Men. They have made sure that only First Men could pass their safety measures” For a second, his smile faded. “The others who tried it have suffered, horribly at times. I have read reports of dornish thieves who were driven mad by what they saw down there. Others just vanished”
“So... you want me and Alisa to go down there?”, Alys asked with a slightly shaky voice and Edward shook his head. “Now that would be irresponsible of me, mylady”, he stated. “No, I have a different idea in mind. It took me a long time, but I have uncovered a secret. A spell if you want to call it that way”
The way he put this caused Alys to tense up. “A spell?”, she asked. “Then... then what do you need me... us for?” Edward sighed. “This might sound more terrifying than it truly is, mylady, but I'm going to need a part of your blood”, he answered frankly. When Alys' eyes widened, he quickly grabbed her by the shoulders to calm her down. Even Alisa looked afraid for a second. “You are northern nobility. The blood of the First Men that runs through your veins is pure, as pure as possible”
Alys gasped, unable to say something immediately and it was Alisa who answered. “What's with them?”, she growled, pointing at the raiders. “Ironborn” Edward shook his head. “Common raiders. The sons of Salt Wives and Thralls, their blood as pure as a puddle of piss”, he explained. “I know how this must sound, but mylady, I'm not asking for much. It won't kill you, it won't even hurt that much. As far as I know, all that is necessary will be a tiny amount. A small cut on your palm, a few drops, you will barely notice it”
Alys noticed that she was shaking and she exchanged a look with Alisa. The other woman was no help here, as she looked stoic, impossible to read. A loud crack echoed across the square. “Ser, we're through!”, Wilbur shouted and Edward smiled reassuringly. “Mylady, I need it now”, he urged her.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] [Refuse to give him a sample of your blood]
Willfred
“What the fuck is going on out there?”, Willfred barked, as he stumbled through the hallway that led away from his room. He had already been asleep and when the horns woke him, he had to put on his clothes, followed by his gambeson. Perhaps he'd even need the full armour in time. Roger was walking next to him and the look on his face was one of concern. “Ironborn”, he answered, as Tallian caught up to them. “They attack the city, from three sides as I have heard”
“And why haven't I been informed immediately?”, Willfred exclaimed. Tallian sighed. “Perhaps it hasn't been a good idea to piss off the girl in charge”, he growled and Willfred raised an eyebrow. “She's in charge now?”, he asked and Tallian shrugged. “I don't know who is in charge”, he admitted. “But she took it. Her men are preparing to leave the castle, to support the southern gate and other such nonsense. The one who is technically in charge has locked himself in the Great Hall. Who else is left? That former acting lord maybe?”
Willfred shook his head. “I'd rather have the princess than that guy”, he answered, still feeling angry as he thought on how close he had been to support Harris Flowers. Tallian narrowed his eyes. “Perhaps you should have supported her then, boy”, he spat and now, Willfred felt anger flaring up inside of him as well, as the three man started to walk down the set of stairs that led to the courtyard. “Do you disapprove of my leadership, general?”, he asked.
“I disapprove of your recklessness”, Tallian answered. “You had a save alliance there, a good offer and you refused, screwed over the Stormlands and the Rock at the same time” Willfred clenched his fists. “I was waiting for a better choice”, he mumbled and Tallian exploded. “Better choice!”, he snarled. “You idiot! She offered you the army we need and this city a stable leader. What better choice have you waited for?”
“This is quite enough, Vashord”, Roger said in a low, calm tone. Willfred sighed. “This man Lady Sherryl mentioned, this Maron Mullendore”, he answered. “He could be our chance” Tallian rolled his eyes. “He better be”, he answered. “It's not as if you left us with much choice” Now, Willfred narrowed his eyes. “It's not as if I ever had much choice”, he replied and he and Tallian glared at each other.
“What do you do if this Mullendore is not like you want him to be?”, the general answered and Willfred sighed. “In that case, I will admit to my mistake”, he offered, which did not help in making Tallian any more happy about the situation. “Then people will die”, he growled. “You better do anything this Mullendore wants from you and then you pray that he's willing to help you and a man of his word”
He shook his head as he fastened his pace, walking past Willfred and Roger and opening the door to the courtyard. “Such foolishness”, he mumbled, as he stepped out. Willfred sighed and Roger gave him a reassuring smile. “You did what you see as the right thing”, his uncle said. “That is at least admirable”
Willfred sighed, as he glanced after the general, who was walking across the crowded courtyard. “What if he is right?”, he asked. “What if I did make a mistake?” He shook his head. “What would have father done in my situation?”
Roger smirked. “Your father does not like risks. He would have accepted Princess Argella's offer”, he answered and this made Willfred feel even worse about the situation. Roger noticed it and affectionately patted him on the back. “That does not mean your father would have made the right decision”, he argued. “Sometimes, it is better to take a risk”
With these words, both stepped through the door and onto the courtyard. Willfred was surprised how crowded it was. The first of the smallfolk started to pour through the gate, to seek refuge behind the sturdy walls. In the centre of the courtyard, the Stormlander sergeant gathered his men, though the princess herself was nowhere to be seen. A hopelessly undermanned castle guard patrolled across the walls. Somewhere in the distance, Willfred saw Captain Nora, shouting orders with a voice that had to be hoarsy by now.
“And what are we going to do?”, he asked and Roger sighed. “I don't know”, he admitted. “It's clear that Princess Argella does not wish our help. Neither has Ser Harris asked for it” He glanced around the courtyard. “That does not mean that we can't find something to help though”, he mumbled. “First, we should find Vashord. Then we can plan”
Willfred sighed. “Maybe you can do that, uncle?”, he asked, as it sunk in that everyone who had some semblance of power in the city right now was either angry at him or not interested in organizing the defence of the city in general. Willfred wanted to help, but with his small, token force, he was not sure how he even could. They needed orders and right now, Willfred did not feel like the man to give them.
Something else caught his attention. Despite the steadily increasing amount of people entering the courtyard, there was one woman who apparently tried to leave it. This at least gained his curiosity. “Uncle, can you find Tallian?”, he asked. “And consult with the captain. We must know where our men are needed the most”
“I'm on it, Willfred”, Roger promised, before he started to approach Captain Nora in the distance. This left Willfred free to check out this surprising scene. Why would anyone from the smallfolk try to leave the castle right now? Even more surprising was that one of the guards actually tried to stop her, as if he had nothing better to do right now.
The guard was a bit older than Willfred, with plain, brown hair that already started to grey. He looked tired, like most of his companions and on top of that, he even seemed slightly annoyed. The woman meanwhile was wearing a plain, brown dress and her raven hair was tied back. “Listen, lady, you can't go out there”, the guard said. “You're too important here”
The woman sighed in frustration and as the soldier glanced over her shoulder at Willfred, she turned around as well. She was young, not older than he himself was, with pale skin. Though quite pretty, it was her eyes that truly mesmerized Willfred. They had a strange colour, unlike anything he had ever seen before. Appearing light brown at first, he quickly noticed that they had a more yellowish colour, leaning towards orange.
“Uh, is there a problem?”, he asked, trying to look more important than he felt right now. The woman gave him a nod. “Yes”, she said sternly. “Maybe you can convince this man to step aside. He won't let me leave” Then, she sighed and extended a hand. “My name is Mathea”, she introduced herself and Willfred shook her hand. “Willfred Reyne”, he replied and her strange eyes widened as she recognized the name.
“Why do you wish to leave, mylady?”, he asked and looked at the guard. “And why do you deny her that wish? Aren't there enough problems already?” The guard gave him a nod. “Yeah, that's the thing. She's not some ordinary peasant. That girl's the only skilled healer we have”
Willfred gave her an impressed look, as he hadn't expected a woman at her age to be a healer. Sh replied with calm annoyance in her eyes. “Yes, that is correct”, she confirmed. “But that is precisely the reason why I have to go out there. What good am I in here when there are people who need my help out in the city?”
“I told you already, these people will come in here eventually”, the guard said and she shook her head, with stern determination. “And I told you that this is not true”, she said and Willfred noticed the passion in her voice, as well as the growing anger. “The ones that will come here are at least strong enough to make that journey. I am concerned for those who are too weak to come”
“And how do you want to help them?”, the guard asked. “Other people can do that. But your knowledge might be needed here” Mathea glared at him, which gave her unusual eyes something unsettling. “Do you know how to move someone that's bleeding out without killing him?”, she asked. “No? Then don't talk about it as if you do” I have patients in my house, heavily wounded people. They need my help or they have no chance to get here!” With frustration, she turned towards Willfred. “Ser, tell him how foolish he is!”, she urged him. “I will not accept being... trapped in here while people die out there, people that need my help, people whom I can save”
The soldier rolled his eyes. “Missy, can't you just stay silent like the rest of your lot? Be happy that you have these walls to hide behind”, he groaned. “Listen, I know for a fact that Captain Nora is going to rip my head right off my shoulders if I let our only healer walk through these gates” He looked at Willfred. “Your opinion, Ser?”
[Side with Mathea] [Side with the guard]
Thanks, and np
May I ask who are your other characters? It's very likely that I'll be drawing them at some point 
Well most of them are not introduced yet and I actually would have to look them up because I made a few characters over a longer period of time and I cant remember the names of most ( I creat characters almost every day but only few do end up here so its hard to remember all their names), but the two that are are atleast already introduced ( but did not have very much screentime) are Benett and Magnus Silverstone. Characters that were also created by me are Leeohn the Liar and Ghordon Khanos, but I only remember them because I recently wrote them, Ghordon is so new that i believe he is not even on the list yet.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] I really want to see what's down there. Plus, we aren't sure if Anturion is working with Mullendore, so in the words of Roger, "It is some times better to take a risk." Plus, sppooookkkkyyy ghosts/notreallyghostsbutillusionsbutstillkindaghostlike.
[Side with Mathea] I think these are one of those choices that have both bad and good consequences. I'm just hoping she will be able to save Urid and Lyria soon because I am pretty sure by later in the chapter Mathea is going to be needed at the castle.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] Man, I'm too curious to pass this!
I wonder what the hell is it that Edward is looking for... Anyway, time for some spoooookiness
[Side with Mathea] I have a feeling this could be surprisingly important choice. Letting her go to the city might save some of our beloved characters who are in grave danger.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood]
This is the best decision ever. Do it now.
[Side with Mathea]
Mathea knows what she is doing.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood]
[Side with Mathea]
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood]
[Side with Mathea]
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood]
I choose this, simply because I want to see what's in there. I guess that shadow Maya saw was this just mentioned Illusion. And drop of blood cannot kill Alys, right...?
[Side with Mathea] Well, Willfred don't want to piss her :-p Rosaline and Urid are there and they need her help to have a chance to get to safety.
[Agree to give him a sample of your blood] Like it was mentioned earlier, she doesn't have a choice, I imagine if she refuses then he'll simply take it.
[Side with Mathea] Better to do something than sit around.
Wow BOTH votes are unanimous. Has this ever happened before?