The Heirs of Britain - Game Ten

   The Heirs of Britain

Session 10: 483; The Hunt for the Hunters

__________ February 483 – Salisbury __________ 

The Earl’s guard, Sir Edar, continues his tirades against Sir Elvorix. He now openly decries the Roman gambler for his actions at Bedegraine, perhaps as a means of deflecting attention from his own un-knightly behaviour. Similarly, Elvorix shies not from his own scathing words; Edar is a dishonourable hypocrite!

Yet, the tall Roman has other priorities: As the snow falls on his manor in Shrewton, he receives a missive from the Lady Diane. It is penned in different style than the first note; this one favourably neat and precise in comparison. She writes that the King Uther does not oppose their engagement, but yet she knows that the great man requires a show of Elvorix’s deference and praise for him. A sign, perhaps, that he is to earn his King’s trust and favour. Once so done, she continues, Uther will tell Earl Roderick to approve; the latter will have little choice in the matter. Her letter ends thus: Uther doth receive tribute at Easter Court, held timely at Castle Brown; do thee speak with him there, Elvorix, and bring with thy person a fine gift. I will acquaint farther with thee there, and then.

Ardent, the scheming Roman resolves at once to spend lavishly on a gift for the King. Spring approaches, yet now the ground is still hard; he moves quickly to set for London. As he rides south and east, he fetches Sir Iwan, of course, and that handsome fellow’s cultured friend and mentor Sir Myles. Their horses clop on the frozen Logres earth, and Elvorix speaks this: He needs their help to search for the finest blade he can wrangle, and he commits the impressive sum of £8 to the task! He knows something of King Uther: The man is a warrior, and proud of his military aptitude. Elvorix hopes the Martial nature of the gift will impress.

The trio and their squires travel several days amiably and unaccosted in the frosty air, arriving well. London is little different from three years gone; it still smells terrible, though slightly less so due to the Winter cold; the widespread effluent and carcasses benefit from the icy morning. Sir Elvorix begs quarter at the White Tower, to where Uther has moved his London Knights' residence. He weasels deftly among the men and women there, his intriguery poised to find scent of one in poor favours; one who may be willing to sell an antique blade for a discounted sum. Through series of cunning conversations, Sir Elvorix soon finds a lead: Sir Argan, Uther's Constable. The men walk deeper into the White Tower, to find his office set within.

Knocking, the Roman find’s the man he seeks: He is not old, perhaps thirty; well built, but his neat hair shows hints of early greying. As the Salisburians enter, he looks not to them but stays focused on his papers and work, focus intent. Elvorix’s introduction prompts him; Argan asks briskly what is needed.

Elvorix explains his purpose: He searches for a gift for the King. Perhaps Sir Argan, abreast of financial affairs, knows a Knight in need of financial aid, and one who doth possess an extra artefact or antique; perhaps, Elvorix adds, of military nature?

Argan pauses his penmanship, and looks up with a raised eyebrow: “You wish me to tell thee,” sayeth he, “of some hapless knight, so that ye might pick at their bones like some base raven? Perhaps kick them while they lay?”

“Not at all!” Elvorix defends, “I do wish simply to help a fellow Knight, a man in need; financially. But not as a gift, nay; as a trade! I would not so insult and demean a man by offering him piteous-finance.”

Argan, impressed little, nonetheless nods and asks for the sum of this trade; Elvorix tells him of the £8. Argan checks his papers and finds a man, giving name and direction. Argan warns Elvorix sternly: If he hears word of trouble, or any attempts to swindle any of Uther’s Knights, the Constable will come for him personally. Sir Elvorix assures the man that he has no such intention. Thus, the Roman learns of his mark: Sir Caradig; also in London. Constable Argan tells him to close the door on the way out. Elvorix swings it closed, but yet leaves it an inch open; he is not this man's pawn! Unseen, a scowl deepens.

__________ The Lows of London Life __________

Sir Elvorix learns more of Caradig: The London knight has spent much of his wealth on drink, and men speak in hushed tones of him; he is miserable and in disfavour. Elvorix hopes to catch him at cups, and thus searches where he's been directed: For a tavern in area of London renowned for its density of sweaty laborers and low folk. Sir Iwan, unused to the ways of scoundrels and caught somewhere unawares, soon finds himself short a purse of 70 denarii. Sir Iwan is more than a little annoyed; his heart wishes for violence. Alas, there is little recourse, and he opts not to hunt for whichever miscreant lifted his purse. He seethes. The knights continue, and soon find the alehouse they seek. The conniving Roman finds his man at a table; Caradig’s clothes and faculties are in poor state. Sir Elvorix breaks the silence: A curt greeting precedes his listing the man's miseries and comparing them with his own affluence; he tells the drunk that he kindly hopes to even these fortunes some.

“Perhaps,” Elvorix offers, “A man of thy storied history still holds some artefact or treasure, which ye may consider trading for more fungible goods? Truly, I come to aid thee: I will trade it, this thing of yours, and for both our Honour offer it as a Gift to the King!” 

The man, his accent common and broad, jabs back at Elvorix: “Whattayou know 'bout what I got?”

Sir Elvorix explains he simply found someone in need of help. Caradig is suspicious, but his desperation wins out. Watchful of the Roman’s tricks, or the risk of robbery, the low Knight organises to meet them at Saint Paul’s Cathedral; Elvorix recalls being knighted there with Iwan and Vandagild, before the then High King Aurelius.

Time passes, and the meeting met.

Sir Elvorix, a thick bag on his shoulder approaches the Cathedral with Sir Iwan, absent a lighter one; Myles trails, the squires in tow. Sir Caradig, now armoured stands in a shadow, a blade on his hip: He demands to see “it”. Elvorix catches the meaning and aquiesces; he opens his satchel, causing gleaming light to twinkle from the pile of treasure within. The lower man, taken by temptation, reaches in; Elvorix pulls the bag away... The Roman asks to see the trade. Caradig nods. He takes a careful step backward. Slowly, the drunkard looks him up and down. He pulls his sword from its scabbard...

And lays the weapon across his arm. He steps forth to Sir Elvorix. He looks his man firmly in the eye, and asks for assurance that the Blade will go to the King; Elvorix gives it.

Caradig then offers him this: A fine blade of quality steel. An elegant inscription graces the blade, which fits handsomely into a masterfully crafted grip and crossguard; The hilt gleams with a large, black opal, set tight in the hilt. All work is of the finest craftsmanship. Caradig explains the weapon’s history, his voice firmer, prouder: The blade goes back several generations. It is of Roman make; his ancestor was the First Officer of the Roman Cavalry, when those proud men first came to Britain. It has been passed through his family since then. He pauses a moment, eying the weapon with adoration and wist. Caradig sighs heavily; he is glad it will end up in the hands of a better man.

Sir Elvorix begs of Caradig that he use the funds to get his lands back in order; “We shall see”, says Caradig, and he leaves in the direction of the tavern.

Myles wonders aloud if the man has lands to order.

Sir Elvorix speaks with his friends of the difficulty involved in securing such a deal! Sir Iwan offers simple words of explanation: It is London. Both agree: They wish not end their lives or service posted to this festering city, and thus end like these sorry men. As they leave, Sir Iwan finds and hires a tutor in letters; he wishes to learn them, and has a good reason to do so: A certain woman has left him a missive in the winter.

The men return to Salisbury; the journey passes easily, the ground still frozen. Sir Iwan is keen to learn the words in his mail...

__________ A Quest Recalled __________

As they travel, the two men have some lingering feeling of forgetfulness; it has been present for some months... They note this on the journey, but cannot pin the source. Once they reach Sarum, it hits them both at once, hard, like a slap: An Oath! They made an Oath to rescue Sir Vandagild, their good friend! Somehow, he had slipped their mind completely these last few months... The completeness of their ignorance is shocking in retrospect. Recovering quickly, they are excited to recall their quest!

Resting at Iwan’s manor at Pitton, the young knights discuss Castle Brown: King's Uther's Easter Feast is set there this year, they must hence deliver Elvorix’s blade. And it is there they hope to find Sir Sigurant, who they wish to bequeath for aid. Moreover, the Bishopric there is a good place for Iwan to search for Holy Aid. Sir Elvorix recalls Diane's intrigue: They will need to find a way to gain invitation. Some consideration offers a few paths: Perhaps their best is to gain membership of some greater Lord’s entourage? Alas, Earl Roderick, the obvious choice, is unlikely to ask the insubordinate Elvorix with him. 

An interruption: A huge man visits! His hair long, in the Aquitanian style, and his features striking: Broad shouldered and silver eyed, he greets them again with a charming accent. It is Sir Vandar, cousin of Vandagild: The towering, physical man is known for his Love of Family, having almost come to blows with Prince Madoc over seating. He is famously Temperate, Merciful and Honest. He is a valorous and capable swordsman, with a keen knowledge of the way of the Fae. Like his Cousin and the other men of his family, Vandar is a favourite storyteller. He is of age with the other men of this quest, and is a sworn Household Knight of Baron Duach.

“I greet ye, friends, and beg of ye this: I am ashamed that I had somehow forgotten, but yet I now once more feel the pressing urgency of rescuing my cousin, and thy friend, Sir Vandagild. Sir Iwan, tales do spread of thy Quest. I pray of thee: Allow me to follow, and lend my sharp blade and strong arm to thy cause! But first; tell me this, and true: I hear accusing words from Golistan, with whom I spent much time in my youth. Didst thou fail his son, Uvan? And didst thou fail Vandagild?”

Iwan is honest, telling the full truth. Iwan's character, and the stories of his fervour in the quest are convincing: Vandar forgives him, holding no grudge not suspicion.

The three men travel to search for Madoc; they hope of him for invitation to Easter at Castle Brown. the Spring thaw comes, and the roads churn with cold, damp mud. The Prince attends his own court, and the young knights wait patiently for his time, which is soon given. Elvorix speaks keenly with the Prince, and Iwan with soft friendship. As the men share small tales, Vandar watches the Prince quietly; he is still suspicious of Madoc after Vandagild’s feast in 480. Madoc is the stronger man, indeed stronger than most men; but Vandar is by far the taller. Still, he is in a forgiving mood, and Madoc’s friendship with Vandagild soothes any malice he keeps. He brings not their conflict to the fore, nor does the Prince; in fairness, the latter may not recall it.

Prince Madoc recalls their search for Sigurant. Elvorix nods, but also tells that we seek Bishop Roger, who hath been prepared by Iwan's Father-In-Law Sir Brannoc, to beg for Holy Support to sanctify the dank grove of the Hag. Madoc is glad to help the men enter the feast, and wishes them luck gaining an audience with the "pompous dickhead" Sir Sigurant. Alas, he cannot come to fight the Hag again. Madoc is pragmatic: Men are lost in battle. While he hopes they succeed, and he truly wants to see Vandagild again, he can not be galivanting through cursed woods again, waiting to be torn to meat-tiles by some demonic elf. He has responsibilities and feasts to attend.

The Prince changes the topic; why do we speak with him, and not the Earl? Though he quickly follows his own question: Uther and Roderick are both making an uncommon effort of this Easter: The King is making a judgement about the betrothal of some lady... the one from Wynchbank. The Prince suggests we have had some experience of her. Elvorix nods, recalling the Lady Ellen. The Roman asks Madoc, however, to help him with his own marriage to Lady Diane; a good word to his father may make the difference, he offers hopefully.

Madoc is thoughtful a moment, then nods, but tells Elvorix plainly: “My father is busy, and his efforts valuable; this will not be for thee a simple favour. There will be a time when I will call on ye, all, and thus expect thee to act so accommodating for me; and I will count on you.” He looks at the knights pointedly, emphasising the “will”.

Sir Elvorix agrees readily; “Your Grace, thou art our Prince, always we do stand ready at thy call!”

Sir Iwan is modest, as usual, and assents without comment. Vandar raises a questioning eyebrow, wondering if he is part of the bargain... 

__________ The Prince’s Pleasures __________

 

The three knights join Madoc the next morning, his entourage full of Knights and courtiers. The Princes wishes all a good morning, but they mount up quickly and ride onward. As they ride, the roads become mud and the air close to warm; the Prince finds time to converse. He finds it better to arrive early to such events; it gives a good impression and gives better access to secure lodgings and floorspace.

Sarum; Levcomagus; Silchester; Stone's Keep; London; then north toward Watling, then a minor road to Castle Brown. It is a long journey, of several weeks.

One crisp morning, in Silchester, the Prince calls a halt: yonder is my father's forest, and today the sun shines bright. He declares a hunt! Sir Jarren and the others agree openly; Iwan is indifferent but attends politely; Elvorix is excited to do anything with the Prince; Vandar enjoys hunting, though he is not the talent as Vandagild. The day is pleasant, and many fair game claimed: Of the Questing companions, Iwan and Vandar succeed in their efforts, netting fine flesh for the camp ovens!

Settling back to camp, the Prince and Jarren produce wine from bags; two bottles each, but it is clear there are more. Smiles cross their faces, and eager courtiers swarm. The festivities escalate! The three young Knights do not indulge: Vandar and Elvorix are famously Temperate, and Iwan modestly so; even the mirthful day of hunting and drinking with the Prince does not dissuade them. Moreover, Vandar still thinks modestly of the Prince, and talks little with him. Elvorix too holds some dissatisfaction at missing his opportunity to impress during the hunt; he wishes to keep his temperance and temper before Madoc; he is Proud. 

The next morning, as the camp looks to break, Madoc once more looks to the sky; it is clear, and he enjoyed yesterday; another hunt! Sir Vandar is pleased enough: He enjoys the forest and, save for meeting Sirs Sigurant and Arnoullant, has little interest in Castle Brown. The others men have neither have concerns, and join the hunt readily. This day’s efforts are less fruitful: Only Sir Iwan finds his prey; the others are luckless. Sir Jarren, unusually, is slow this day and struggles also; perhaps aching from indulgence the night before? Still, many deer are claimed: The afternoon comes, and Jarren, ever keen, produces two more bottles. The Prince cheers! A lute is brought forth once more, and a great fire stoked! The three young knights again abstain; Elvorix still stews at his hunting failures; Iwan is patient, concerned only for making Easter in time.

Still, the festivities intensify: Madoc's voice yet leaps over the noise; “HEY! Who among you has the strongest lungs, the finest pipes!? Yea, a Singing Competition! I do declare it thus!” 

Sir Elvorix is not a good singer, this soon becomes clear, though his enthusiasm draws no ire. Sir Vandar makes an attempt: Though he sings passably and his voice is warm, his heart is not in it. He worries for his cousin, is indifferent for Madoc and this party, and is anxious to set off. Iwan is the better, keeping a full heart but not testing his limits. His gentle song, following a simple folk tune, tells of the Battle of Salisbury, and Vandagild and Elvorix's deeds there while Iwan himself lay wounded. By the time the ballad is finished, he has many ears. O, such fine song!

The Prince points jarringly at the Roman: “Elvorix! Is what he sings true?” he demands; “did thee so capture the banner of Saxons, and slay the Thegn in a single thrust of thy spear!?”

It is, tells Elvorix! The Prince thus calls for his version of the story, “for there must be details that the hero himself may only tell; details that not even the bards know!”; he offers a friendly wink to Iwan.

Sir Elvorix takes the stage and, on the back of Iwan's song, delivers a robust tale full of camaraderie, violence and valour; he tells finely the glory of capturing the foemen’s banner and slaying many a Saxon. He only hints at the saving of Sir Jarren, the excellent warrior: the Roman protects the latter man's pride, and mentions not his nor his father's name. Nonetheless, Madoc turns to Jarren for confirmation of the tale. He gives it: “They are certainly fine fighters” the proud swordsman offers.

A toast is raised: “To the Heroes at Salisbury!”

Elvorix takes a bow, and gestures for Iwan to do the same.

The Roman remains standing as the cheers wane. He asks all to bring attention to their absent companion: “To Sir Vandagild”, he says, “for whom we soon quest!”

The mood turns somber a moment; internally, Elvorix fears that Vandagild is surely dead; the woods are dangerous, and he feels his quest is one of revenge, not saviour. Sir Iwan, however, vehemently, perhaps in delusion, thinks that Vandagild still lives. He is stuck, he hopes, in a timeless realm, where he will remain forever untouched by the ravages of that cruel force. He hopes to find him in that forest someday. Vandar looks with gratitude to Elvorix; he has lost a good cousin, and hopes to find him well and soon. It is clear to all present that the men have formed a strong Bond of Companionship.

Prince Madoc nods, stands, swigs, and bids us all retire for the night. He glances mischievously at Sir Jarren, adding that he would prefer not to have to drag anyone from their cot; a chuckle ripples the air. The three questing companions men retire, untroubled by drink, and rise early and easily.

__________ Blood on the Road __________
 

From Silchester we journey east; on the road ahead we spy many carts and knights, all stopped beside the road: They show proudly the banners of Earl Roderick. We get closer; a number of knights are dismounted; and several bodies lay still on the floor. Among the dead are two knights, and a dozen or so fighters; the latter are ruffian in appearance but equipped like true footmen. The scene confounds.

Sir Elvorix approaches the men of his Lord and asks for news; Sir Vandar, a man of Baron Duach, is curious but does not approach; Sir Iwan hears no invite, and is patient. A footmen tells the Roman that, sadly, Sirs Garent and Grate were slain in the defence. Elvorix wonders at the mountless state of the assailants; were they suicidal? The man kicks the body, we haven't seen men this well armed on the roads, not for a while at least, and there were many more of them than us. Nodding, Elvorix inquires about markings or insignia; there are none.

His attention is brought to a living foe; unconscious, his face a wounded mess. A nearby knight hopes the fellow recovers, so he can be pressed for information. Prince Madoc approaches from behind the Roman: Roderick’s knight bows, previously unaware of the Prince’s presence; he tells him he will move the carts promptly. The Prince shrugs and thanks him, though he is untroubled.

Reunited and informed, Sir Vandar, knowing something of Elvorix's skills, suggests the Roman might use his talents here; he might keep the wounded foe from dying? Elvorix shrugs; he cares not for the man, but makes an attempt regardless; uninspired, his efforts yield little gain, after a brief appraisal he declares there is little more to be done.

Elvorix stands, and turns to his friends… Only to see the looming presence of Earl Roderick behind him. The Roman bows, cleaning his hands on a cloth; when asked, he tells that the wounded man has not come around, and he will likely not live. The Earl sighs; Elvorix comments on the dangerous roads of late. This draws a nod, and the Earl walks away.

The air is tense around the baggage train, and concerns are raised. 

Soon, Madoc leads his entourage onward. Men talk of the foolishness of this assault; Sir Vandar offers that perhaps the attack was organised by another suitor for Lady Ellen, set to make Roderick look weak before the King, or steal from his gifts? Sir Elvorix thinks them to be well-armed robbers; he has several times observed the keenness of thieves and Brigands of late. The mystery remains as yet unsolved…

__________ Castle Brown __________

Several days travel yield a picturesque scene: A broad, slow-moving river winds beside us, and a rocky beach fills a large bend. Insects chirp and flitter, while swifts snatch them from the spring air; stints and Heron prowl the banks, while ducks and coots tread the waters. The sweet freshness of early blooms wafts ‘pon the warm breeze. And above this all a large castle stands, impressive and stone, set high in this bend, defensible and aesthetically wonderful. The water of the vast river, almost a lake, ripples against the thick walls; the forest beyond glints with dew in the sunlight.

Alas, there is a queue ahead, many folk of various ilk. Madoc skips it; the perks of Royalty. As we search for a place to make camp, he tells us to not bother: as members of his entourage we will be given rooms. We share looks of gratitude and joy; he nods to us and leaves us to go about our business. Sir Elvorix offers we should seek our tasks quickly; Sir Vandar agrees; he wants to get into the Fae Forest and achieve our quest. A brief search finds us the name of the man who is best suited to direct us: Once more we are set to call upon The Constable, Sir Argan. Sir Iwan offers that he will talk to the Constable: He recalls Elvorix's explanation of the meeting in London and worries for the impression it left...

The Constable is found in one of the castle's various halls; Iwan, skilled at matters of courtly courtesy, is perfect in his approach. He has the man's attention promptly, bowing appropriately and greeting him with respect. The man's scowl softens a little, and Iwan speaks: He requests a meeting with King Uther, and Sir Sigurant the Brown; he needs only a short time. Argan handles not Sir Sigurant, he tells, but asks after the subject for the King? A petition, Iwan explain, for Sir Elvorix.

Sir Argan, hearing the name, stops writing for a moment. His scowl deepens; and he returns to writing. Iwan is promptly given the details of the petition meeting. The conversation effectively over, Iwan is almost pushed aside from the press of knights and courtiers. He leaves, glad to be rid of the urgent crowd.

The knights reunite: Elvorix will schedule a meeting with the Bishop; Iwan and Vandar will find time with Sigurant. Sir Elvorix, not possessing an impressive knowledge of the religion, knows not to whom he should speak; he travels to the Bishopric, and tells various clergy that he has a question “that only Bishop Roger can answer”. Alas, this does him little good, at each turn he is frustrated by well-meaning but quite-impeding folk. The effort takes time, but eventually he is directed appropriately: he hears of Father Nonnius, who can schedule time with the Bishop. He can likely be found in the yard, listening to qualms of the layfolk; he considers himself a charity worker. The elderly man is found hence, sitting on a bale of hay and counselling a squire. Elvorix approaches; he affords the two men their proper privacy and waits patiently nearby. The squire soon dismissed, the Father, with minor struggle, takes his feet. Elvorix tells the man that he must speak with Bishop Roger about some evil which needs to be exorcised; we need a man trained in such action to aid us in our quest. Prompted, Elvorix explains this is not an evil of within, but a cruel demon of the forest, explaining the tale of the Hag of Imber.

Nonnius is genuinely concerned: He intervenes politely; “This matter, ‘tis is an awful plight, and I thank thee. Ye have come truly to the right place.”

Alas, the Bishop is a busy man; but in the early morning, three days from now in the chapel hall, we will have our meeting. Elvorix thanks the Father, and bids him to tell us if any earlier opportunities present. The old man smiles; all good things come with patience.

__________ The Bold and the Beautiful __________

Sir Vandar strides into the castle, Sir Iwan in tow; both men are distractingly handsome. Vandar stands a full head above even tall men, and his prominence helps him gently gather the attention of a servant; he asks after Sir Sigurant, or someone who can organise his time. A brief conversation reveals the famous man is out hunting… probably... Sir Sigurant, it seems, does much of whatever Sigurant wants and is not easily dissuaded. Sir Galahaut, lord of Castle Brown, may be the man to whom one best speak; per process, Sigurant will need his permission regardless. The servant asks the lofty Aquitanian’s name: Sir Vandar gives it, and explains he is in the party of the Prince. To this, the man says he ought then have no trouble. Vandar nods and thanks him; setting off for Sir Galahaut in the main hall.

At the far end; he spies a group of rich knights, surrounded by servants. Sir Vandar approaches and adopts a bold tactic: He stands nearby, listening politely; but importantly, being very tall, and very handsome. Soon, he discovers Galahaut; a shorter man, across the circle from him. Older than the other Knights, a pudgy face with a round, well-groomed beard; tight cropped black hair clings to his head. The conversation plays between Saxons, inheritance, courtly interest, and the like.

Soon Vandar’s simple tactic finds modest success: From behind, a cough, and a voice; A servant. "Sir Arnoullant, more wine?"

He has mistaken Vandar for the famous man himself! Vandar smiles, enjoying the flattery, but says he in fact searches for that man, or Sir Sigurant. The blushing servant points into the circle.

The Aquitanian turns, slowly, toward the gathered nobles: Many important, powerful eyes look back at him; Somewhat shocked, he is awkward with his attempts at courteously greeting the powerful and diverse group. An unknown man stares at him, unimpressed: “Uhh, excuse me Sir. Are ye just... standing… there?”

Vandar regains his composure, offering an apology and the purpose of his presence; he is in the party of the Prince Madoc, and we set forth to slay a foul Hag and rescue stolen a Knight; we beg the help of Sir Sigurant to find the mysterious woods and track the monster.

"Oh, well, I am in the in the party of Aurelius, and we're off to slay a Titan". The man shakes his head, incredulous and exasperated; he turns away.

Vandar bites back: “Quite rude, sir, to speak so sarcastically of so fine a man, and a dead one.”

This draws no response, perhaps fortunately. Vandar searches the circle, hope in his eyes and heart; he catches the eye of Sir Galahaut; the man, brow furrowed, shakes his head and looks back to his documents; the circle closes, as does the opportunity.

Vandar retreats and, with little else to do, sits nearby. And waits. Someone will speak with him eventually; he is hard to ignore.

Time passes. The servant, who earlier mistook him, takes pity: He offers Vandar wine once more, knowingly this time.

He looks the Aquitanian up and down: “Sir, the importance of thy, uh, stature is not lost; if ye are looking to speak with Sir Sigurant, I humbly suggest ye may be able to find him at the feast.” Prompted, he continues: “He is known to entertain and enjoy certain acts of bravery or uhhh... Glory, perhaps?”

Vandar thanks the man; alas the Squire knows not where Sigurant hunts; but there is hope; the size of this feast, and the prestige of its guests, will likely lure him from his adventures with his husband Sir Arnoullant. Nodding, Vandar confirms that Sir Arnoullant is also a tall man; and yea, he looks similar to the Aquitanian. Vandar thanks for the wine, and sets to depart; he promises the squire he will make some effort to feast bravely and gloriously. The man leaves off further details, offering no suggestions to action; he winks with an impish grin, and looks forward to Vandar's efforts at the feast.

The handsome Aquitanian leaves the hall with handsome Iwan; the latter glad to be moving again. Vandar feels yet he may find Sigurant at hunt; perhaps impressing by doing so. Iwan offers that Sigurant is known for his lengthy hunts; he hasn't built his reputation as a monster hunter for little reason. He is not confident of Vandar’s chances; best to hope to see him at the feast. Vandar accepts the advice.

The Knights retire to their rooms, silently thanking Madoc’s prestige once more. They are furnished and spacious, each greater even than their own dwellings. Iwan thinks of Sir Myle’s efforts to woo Lady Trenia, perhaps this gathering yields him some opportunities. Elvorix thinks of opportunity, and holds close the Black Opal’d Sword of his Roman Kin. Vandar offers his evening prayers, and plots to discover more ways to impress the famous hunter…

__________

Image 1: Confession Of The Giaour, By Eugène Delacroix (1798–1863), [Public Domain] via Creative Commons

Image 2: Contemporary Wall Painting or Fresco of Medieval Knights or Horseman Throwing Spears (Warfare or Hunting), Carcassonne, France

Image 3: Roasted Venison, Stock photo

King Arthur Pendragon 5.2