Gahad IC

[Ezeze]

The Gahad IC Thread

The Gahad OOC Thread

The Human Kingdom of Gahad is a large one. King Joshua of the House of Daniel is in his fifth decade of life and second decade of rule after inheriting from his father, King Ian, who had reigned justly for nearly half a century. The House of Daniel has ruled peacefully in this way, passing the crown from eldest son to eldest son, for seven generations and already King Joshua's oldest son, Crown Prince Michael, has an infant son of his own ensuring the line for many years to come.

The stability has been good for the city of Gerosh, home to the Royal Family's primary palace. It's a bustling place, surrounded by acres and acres of farmland which, vast though they might be, would be insufficient to support the huge population that lives there were it not for the lively trade carried on with other cities.

However, Gahad is at war with the neighboring nation of Urmay. King Joshua is away leading his soldiers and will be for some time, leaving his City and Lands in the hands of Crown Prince Michael who has been proving himself equal to the task.

Edward

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It came as a surprise last year when King Josha left you behind at the palace instead of taking you and your men with him to war. You suppose it shouldn't have - in some parts of Lehi your name is still used to frighten naughty children, and the King has become more sentimental in recent years, more careful with his words and more respectful of life. He has even stopped hunting with you. You think it must have something to do with growing old, or the birth of his grandson, or some combination there of.

Paradoxically as the King's interest in hunting has waned, the Prince has only become more involved in it. In his youth the Prince has almost always prefered scholarly pursuits and you think perhaps this new interest of his is primarily to convince others (and himself) that he is worthy of the title that he is destined to inherit

Prince Michael has conducted himself well this past year or so, though no true test has been presented. He hunts with you as often as twice a month, often bringing with him members of court he feels he needs to garner favor with. He isn't a remarkably gifted hunter, but you understand the intricacies of court well enough to "supplement" his kills at times when he needs to be truly impressive. Perhaps that is why he has brought you so far into his confidence. He will often ask your opinion on matters large or small. Sometimes he follows your advice, sometimes he doesn't, but he continues to ask all the same.

Today, you are hunting with the Prince and as strange an assortment as comrades as ever you have seen. Prince Raymond Hagan III who is the Prince's brother in law, Commander Luca of the City Guard, and King Joseph's bastard half-sister Iria, who fancies herself "Lady Iria of the Tower." Your impression is that this is more a social affair than a political one.

Raymond

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You've been at court in Gerosh for many years now. When you first escorted your sister through the great halls she was scared, but she has come to be happy here; especially since the birth of her son and your nephew Prince David. That he is such a healthy, happy child brings her - and you - a great deal of joy.

The only dark cloud in your lives has been that damned woman, The Queen Mother Ahaziah. She and her cronies sneer at the both of you, and at young Prince David, and seizes every opportunity to make you feel unwelcome in your own homes. You've discussed this extensively with Prince Michael and it seems, in recent years, that the old bat has finally let up just a little. She has become more reclusive, staying to herself within the temples on the palace property, having her companions come to her there.

Acting as confidant and body guard to your sister, her husband and their young child has been as rewarding an occupation as you could have imagined - if difficult and time consuming. This morning Price Michael has invited you on a hunt along with the Master of Royal Game Edward Norwich, Commander Luca of the City Guard, and King Joseph's bastard half-sister Iria, who fancies herself "Lady Iria of the Tower." You've joined him happily, leaving your sister with her ladies back in the safety of the palace.

Fidel

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The palace at Gerosh is a good place, where all of the good gods are given respect. You've been here a number of months, now. At first it felt like a transgression to be using your magic on the rich and powerful as opposed to the meek and helpless but you have learned, in no short order, that power does not protect one from infirmities of the body and the wealthy need your words of comfort as much as anyone. You've done good work here, keeping a large number of people hale and hardy. You believe the other priests are considering offering you a more permanent position, and you aren't completely certain you'd refuse.

It's early morning now and you have a long day ahead of you but Abbot Grange, an elderly man with a long beard that all but brushes his knees, pulls you gently aside before you can leave the temple.

"Father Fidel" he says, speaking in a quiet voice. "Only a few moments ago, a runner arrived with a grave piece of news. King Joseph has died at the front lines of the conflict with Urmay. It's imperative that the Prince learn of this as quickly as possible. He is set to begin a hunt soon, on the Northern edge of the city. Will you accompany me?"

Luca

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Your immediate superior, Senior Commander Sebastian, has made no secret of the fact that he despises you. He's of he belief that only nobility should hold station such as yours, and your humble origins set his teeth on edge. You thought perhaps it was an olive branch when, two years back, he argued for your family to be moved into more comfortable housing on the Palace Grounds, but if so then he quickly forgot it.

He has been more of a pain than normal, lately, to the point where he now actively makes it difficult for you to do your job. He lies to you about Watch meetings, speaks to those under your command without informing you, and has issued orders in your name without consulting you first. It has gotten bad enough that you have complained to the Prince about it. He seemed more interested in the matter than you believed he would be, and invited you to accompany him on a hunt the very next day in order to discuss it.

Iria

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Your life has been dull as of late. Your mother moved back to the elven village from wince she came three years ago, shortly after the birth of the young Prince David, saying that there was nothing for her here and hadn't been since the death of her Ian. She invited you to accompany her, but you have grown up on the palace grounds. Your family is here - you wouldn't even know the elves waiting for you in your mothers village. So here you remained.

For a while, the Queen Mother Ahaziah continued to make life difficult for you but in recent years she has grown more tolerant of your presence, if not necessarily friendly. She has also withdrawn somewhat, and now spends a great deal of her time within the temple on palace grounds. Courtiers sometimes visit her there, but not unduly often.

Since Prince Michael - you suppose calling him your nephew would be most accurate - has begun to rule the country in your half brother's absence he has had less time for the scholarly arguments and discussions that he very much enjoyed having with you at a younger age, and both his child and your newest niece are too young yet to have any such conversations. Queen Consort Jessica has expressed a low, reliable dislike for you if not necessarily active hostility and the Princess Rue, though friendly, has very little interest in magic.

The lack of companionship has left you quite bored and, perhaps sensing this, Michael has invited you to accompany him on a hunt this morning. You suspect that this was at least partially at the behest of Princess Rue, who fancies herself a matchmaker and just a few days ago very subtly asked your opinion of the game master Edward Norwich, who is near your age and both an accomplished druid and soldier. He has come along on this excursion, long with Prince Raymond Hagan III and Commander Luca of the City Guard.

It's early morning and Prince Michael, Master of Royal Game Edward Norwich, Prince Raymond Hagan III, Commander Luca of the City Guard, and Lady Iria of the Tower have gathered on fine steeds with bows and arrows at their disposal at the Northern edge of the palace grounds, overlooking a lush green forest, for the purposes of spending the day hunting together. A servant, unarmed but carrying packs of food and good wine, rides slightly behind politely staying out of the way.

[Cooldanman22]

Luca awakes the scheduled day of the hunt bright and early giving himself time to prepare. He sharpens his knife and makes sure his bow and rapier are in good condition. After donning his best armor and saying goodbye to his family, he walks towards the palace grounds, thinking to himself,"I hope everything goes well, I've never been hunting before..."

When he arrives he says hello to his fellow hunters and calmly stands against a wall, waiting for the actual hunting to begin.

[iTookUrNick]

Edward woke before sunrise to make sure everything is in order for the morning activity. Most things have been prepared in advance of course, and his helpers are used to the job, but it never hurts to be through.

On the other hand, it it quite likely that none of the members of today's party are keen to measure themselves in an actual hunting experience, and the wind is carrying the taste of rain for the late afternoon. His only objective today is provide something to shoot at while they talk politics, and possibly bring something home to show off at dinner. The two might or might not be related.

When everyone is assembled he makes his usual speech when hunting with first-timers:
"Good morning, ladies and gents. The air is perhaps a little brisk, but it will get better as we ride. A few guidelines to follow during our time together: I'll be at the front, leading the group to likely targets, and I expect everyone else to follow. Please call your shots as a courtesy to your fellow hunters.
There will be no wandering off without telling me first, and definitely no galloping in the wood chasing a pray. We are all here to enjoy ourselves, and we will as long as we all remember not to take any unnecessary risks. If no one has any questions to ask, we can proceed".

[Lazy Genius]

Raymond Hagan III, or simply Ray to people that have come to know him, wakes early this morning, doing his exercises before even getting dressed. He does these things extensively, if not obsessively, but is humbled by the peace and quiet this brings him before the rush of a busy day is thrown at him. Also partly necessary to keep his almost square build muscular as it is, the excercises wake him up like nothing else ever could. After a good, solid breakfast, almost good for two men his size, he takes his much-trusted shield with the Ezekial house Crest on it and puts it on the same old place on his back it always is, and gets to taking his mount out of the stables for the hunt when he and the Prince, whose side he hasn't left since breakfast, stumble upon Edward as he does his regular speech for the hunt.

Haven't I heard that one before? Smiling a bit at his own joke, he stays in the background with the preperations, and always keeps half an eye on Prince Michael out of habit. Before making sure the saddle and stirrups on his heavy-set horse are sturdy, who has a similar build as himself, he patiently waits for the others to get ready and puts his own preferred ranged weapon of choice strapped to the saddle. In addition to having a Sword always sheathed at his side, it's times like these where he wished he could just take his Lance with him instead of taking the bow always ready for such hunts. "Actually Edward, I have a question, if I may be so bold; did you have a particular prey in mind for this afternoon or did you aim on hunting nigh anything that comes in our path?" Though the wording could come off as accusatory, in its lack of imagination or forethought it almost assumed in Edward, gruff Ray was clueless to this and he posed it as a genuine query out of curiosity.

[iTookUrNick]

Edward's aim was indeed on hunting almost nigh anything that came in their path, and did not expect this bunch to question him on it. His scar suddenly itched. However, being a hold had at this game, he answered unfazed: "I was thinking his highness might enjoy hunting some deer this morning. I am of the opinion that birds are best left to falconers, but my eagle and I could certainly find some fowls for you to try your hand at if you'd like. As for wild boars, I'd advise against the idea, although I believe we have a few boar spears stashed away with the rest of the supplies".

[Cooldanman22]

Wondering to himself where the other person meant to join them was (Iria), Luca waves to Edward and Ray and says "I've seen you two around the palace, but I don't believe we've properly met. Nice to meet you, I'm Luca, Commander of the City Guard" offering his hand for a shake. His right hand, which, after being cut off, was replaced with one made of metal.

[scrimscraw]

Sunrise found the the palace temple empty except for the quiet preparations of the priests for the day's rites and the meek form of Fidel Pietrose saying his daily prayers.

"Pelor, Pholtus, Rao, and the other good Gods of the host, thank you this day and every day for your healing Light which you empower me to yield in the service of the world.

Boccob, let me remain always in my pursuit of knowledge of all things regenerative, mundane and magical, that I may temper my ability to wield this Light.

Fharlanghn, the Great Strider, though I have remained in this place many months, I still ask for your blessing and praise you for your protection on the pilgrimage I make to spread this Light."

With a quick bow to altar and a smile to the priests, Fidel departs the temple as quickly as his walking staff will allow. Before he is even outside he begins sorting through the patients he will have to attend to this day and preparing his spells.

Upon being stopped by the Abbot, he greets him with a small, genial smile, which quickly draws back into a grimace and his eyes, whose permanent droop make him lok constantly tired, flutter shut for a moment. "Grave news, indeed. Let us hurry to reach the young liege before he departs." Leaning heavily on his staff, Fidel begins to walk north as quickly as he can. "Do the other members of the royal family know yet?"

[Ezeze]

Prince Michael smiles at Edward's reply those boar spears haven't been disturbed for a while. Let them lie a while longer - deer are more than adequate for this morning.

We can set out once Iria gets here. She shouldn't be much longer.

Edward

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Your Fey, who calls himself Vinrel, hisses to you when Luca goes to introduce himself. He's never been invited on one of these hunts before - and for good reason! The tool would as soon stab you in the back as look at you. He's not trustworthy, I say!

Fidel

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No. They do not know yet. The messenger asked to see me directly, and it's well he did. Only he, you and I know at this point. It would be unseemly to allow the Prince to be caught off guard.

There are horses in the stable. We will inform him ourselves and no one else before him.

Abbot Grange calls out to a young boy to make the horses ready. He runs off quickly, while the Abbot prods along behind at a pace more suiting his age.

[scrimscraw]

Fidel nods and regains his slight smile, although it does not quite reach his grave eyes. "I see. Although I am happy to go with you, may I ask why you have chosen me to accompany you?"

[Ezeze]

Fidel

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You were near by. Ask fewer questions.

You find the stable easily enough. The boy Abbot Grange sent ahead helps him onto his horse first, then holds the reigns steady for you.

[Cognomen]

Iria, a tall and somewhat handsome woman with a striking (and, to some, embarrassing) physical resemblance to King Ian despite the golden eyes and pointed ears that mark the elven side of her heritage, walks hurriedly towards the group from the direction of her tower. Her wizard's robes, a brocaded purple today, billow behind her as she moves. She is clearly flustered at her lateness (those who know her well know that lateness is an unfortunate habit of hers - one which has not endeared her to certain more punctual members of court). Her raven, Thought, keeps pace with her.

As she pulls up to the party she inclines her head deeply in the proper reverences to Princes Michael and Raymond and to the Princess Rue. She also nods to the others present courteously enough, though her eyes are, as to be expected, on the ruling Prince, her student (for such is how she still thinks of him, despite how busy he's been).

"My deepest apologies, everyone, my lord. I lost track of time studying that fascinating passage from Ibn-Ayut's Hashradim, about the ancient time-scholars of - you know the one; we spoke of it not long ago." Fascinating stuff, Ibn-Ayut, but undoubtedly this was not the occasion to deliver a treatise.

She takes a moment to catch her breath and looks around for the horse normally brought for her use. Recognizing it among the animals present, she moves towards it. A young stableboy's offer to help her mount it gets a slight scowl and a "don't be silly" before she climbs aboard on her own (if a bit awkwardly given the robes). Once in the saddle, she steadies the horse in a practiced enough way, having gone on periodic outings of this sort during her childhood at court. She checks a few buckles, and makes sure the crossbow she brought with her is properly fastened to the saddle (she has no real intention of killing anything with it, since she's not particularly interested in studying birds at the moment, but it might look good to make an effort).

Meanwhile, Thought settles himself on her shoulder, and throws his beady gaze around at the assembled party. If he has any thoughts, he keeps them to himself.

[iTookUrNick]

Edward shakes hands with the new guy. As he does so, he shakes his head a little, as to clear his mind. He even manages a smile, albeit his eyes remain attentive. "We'll see how he fares today, Vinrel" he thinks.

"All right, now that everyone is here we can proceed. We ride in double file, you'll swap places throughout the morning as you see fit. I'd like to ask Prince Raymond to help me and close the file today, as long as this does not inconvenience him terribly".

He then spur his horse to a pleasant ambling gait, letting his companions sort themselves as they please. Soaring above them, his eagle gives a piercing scream, guiding towards the forest and their prey.

[Ezeze]

Wait - just a moment, Edward.

Prince Michael turns the horse he is sitting on with a graceful movement and stares back towards the way you came. He shields his eyes. At first it's unclear what he is looking at, but it presently becomes obvious to everyone as two riders on horseback approach at a run.

As they get closer you recognize one of the riders as Abbot Grange, a man of steadily advancing years with a long, white beard going to his waist. He's riding at an impressive speed for someone of his age.

The second rider is Father Fidel, a healer who has come to stay at the palace only recently but who has already made a good name for himself as a man of patience, compassion and discretion.

Edward

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You ain't going hunting today, f***khead.

Speaking of f***king, that bastard bitch Vinrel chuckles dryly at his own joke totally wants in your pants. You should hit that.

[Lazy Genius]

Ray shakes the hand of Luca firmly, and smiles at the man in a confused manner as he grips the hand completely made of metal. He absorbs it into his own, and tries not to deform it with his strength as the firm grip quickly tightens out of surprise."Ray, Royal Guard," he manages to say in a normal voice. Though he could do with a more extensive description of who he is, he despises self-glorification and decides this is adequate enough. When Iria makes he delayed entrance, he turns his head slightly, but not enough to exclude the Prince from his peripheries. When he notices who it is, he steps back a bit to enable himself to turn more in her direction while keeping an eye on the Prince. He returns the courteous gesture stiffly, recognizing the King's face in hers but also noticing her elf heritage, confusing him thoroughly.

When Edward had decided that they'd best be off, Ray seems perfectly content to take the place beside the servant staying on the background, so he could do exactly the same. This plan, however, doesn't take off as the Prince delays them for two approaching riders. The riders Ray recognizes, and he mounts his own ride as they approach, simply to be at the same level as the rest, to better observe the goings on. An old abbot and a crippled healer in a hurry to meet the Prince, this can't be good. After quickly analyzing the possible reason for the pair of men coming here, Ray decided two very important things. One; they're not here to kill the Prince, Two; they have urgent news, and urgent news is never good news.

[iTookUrNick]

Chains

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I'll just go ahead abd ignore that last part, you psycothic freak.

Edward face shows all his frustration at the latest interruption, but it vanishes quickly enough. If things are going to turn from bad to worse, as they often tend to do when distraught messengers gallop frantically towards you, one might as well accept his fate with dignity. He recalls his bird and waits with the others for the riders to come to them.

[scrimscraw]

Lagging a little behind Grange, Fidel struggles to both keep the horse at the same speed and to keep it under control. As the two arrive, Fidel dismounts unsteadily and bows to the nobility. "Your majesty, we... Fidel begins, but trails off and steps back, deferring to the Abbot to deliver the news he is unsure of how to phrase.

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Also, I realized I forgot to put up my prepared spells for the day, so back in the temple:

0- create water, resistance, read magic x2, detect magic
1- goodberry, sanctuary x2, lesser vigor, healthful rest
2- close wounds x2, stabilize, benediction

[Ezeze]

Go ahead, young man Abbot Grange encourages Father Fidel to keep speaking. It's strange to hear the Father, fast approaching middle age, referred to as "young" but no one can doubt that the much senior Abbot has earned the privilege.

The Prince needs to know this.

and with that, Father Fidel finds himself under the full intense and concerned scrutiny of Prince Michael.

Edward

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Hey. Hey Edward. How do you know when a dwarf has raided your pantry?

[scrimscraw]

Fidel nods and steps forward to address the king. Your Majesty, the king...your father, has fallen in combat against forces from Urmay. His voice cracks and wavers as he reaches the end of his sentence, and his gnarled hands tremble. I...I am sorry.

[Ezeze]

Edward

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Only the bottom shelves are empty!

Prince Michael's normally expressive face goes blank for a number of seconds. His eyes are pointed in Fidel's general direction, but it's clear he's not seeing him.

Iria

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You've seen the Prince's face go blank like that before, when he has received unexpected news and is trying to process his way to the correct result. The expression remains, however, for longer than ever before.

[Cooldanman22]

Looking towards the grieving prince, Luca quietly says "I'm... I'm so sorry for you loss m'lord."

[iTookUrNick]

Edward stifles a coughing fit into quietness.

"This is a grave matter indeed" he says. He shakes his head again, then continues: "but if true, we must return quicly to the palace and secure your rightful place as the new king. This is not the time for inaction: you might need time to grief, but the realm needs stability above everything. You have to concentrate and decide who among those who wait back at the palace might have some political scheme in place, or take advantage of this situation. Also" he adds, as an afterthought, glancing at the rest of the people assembled "your enemies, both external and internal, might try and seize this opportunity to kill you, so stay alert and make sure you can trust the people around you."

Chains

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There, I made a pun in bad taste, just the way you like it. Now get off my back!
Also, I instruct my eagle to defend the prince and shriek in case of danger.

[Lazy Genius]

Rest in Peace, Your Highness. Shooting a quick prayer up, mumbling a bit as he does, Ray then looks around him, at the reactions of the others. If any of the faces weren't surprised, he'd have to have a word with them later, when the Prince, soon to be King, was safe and sound. Of course, Ray did this subconsciously, focusing on the Prince himself, "I think what's best for us to do now is make sure preparations are being made for your coronation, my liege. I am grieving with you, as you well know, but unless the public already knows," here he looked at each of the people gathered in turn, making eye-contact with each, "there will be time to make arrangements and give the realm a smooth transition." Before he turned his attention away from the Prince and towards all that had gathered, he made sure he had a hand on his still-sheathed sword, should anyone make an attempt for the Prince's life.

Chains

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That's a readied action to draw a weapon or move should any danger arise; one of the gathered draws a weapon or someone comes out of hiding respectively. (someone draws -> he draws; someone comes out of hiding -> he moves) In both cases, issue a Fighting Challenge to the perpetrator.

Also, in the small chance that the Prince does die, what is the line of succession presently, and would Ray know this with his Know (Nob + Roy) +7? (the last one so he can send someone to protect the next in line after the Prince)

[Cognomen]

Iria, despite her court-raised royal bastard's lifetime of training controlling her facial expressions, is unable to hide her shock at the news of the death of the King - the death of her brother, who, though he could never officially be acknowledged as such, was her brother nonetheless, had followed their father in protecting her, and with whom she had been close. Thought, sitting on her shoulder, feels his mistress' pain and lets out a long caw that somehow manages to express pain. The raven then launches himself off her shoulder to circle above, looking for potential threats.

After a momentary struggle with herself and some rapid blinking of her eyes, Iria smooths her facial expression - she'll grieve later, in private, away from the eyes of people whose opinion of her she's only too familiar with. She looks to Michael. At the sight of his expression, her brows draw down a fraction, a subtle echo of a much greater internal worry.

She guides her horse closer to his - close enough to speak quietly only to him. She takes this privilege as his former tutor, fully aware that some present members of the court may disapprove of her approaching him at this particularly moment. Her voice is pitched too quietly for her words to be clearly understood by anyone not within the immediate vicinity of the new King.

Chains (and anyone in the immediate vicinity of Iria and Michael; I'm not sure of everyone's exact position):

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"My king," she says simply, quietly, hoping her student - her nephew, in fact - will hear the care in her voice. "I share in your grief, as I trust you know. The master of game is, however, correct; you will be urgently needed at the palace."

[Cooldanman22]

Quietly to himself, Luca says "He was a good man... and may he rest in peace" Then, to Micheal "I agree with Edward, we must get you back to the palace at once, You can grieve if you wish but you must always stay alert. Now is the most likely time for anyone who wants the throne for them selves to attempt to take your life."

Riding closer to Micheal, Luca says "If you would like, I could come with you to help fend off any would be assassins within the next few weeks. My adventuring days have made my eyes aswell as my ears quite keen."

[Ezeze]

Raymond

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If any of the faces weren't surprised, he'd have to have a word with them later

Roll a Sense Motive check for this.


As far as the Royal Succession goes; very first in line should King Michael die would be his son, your nephew, Prince David who is at this moment three years old and (to your knowledge) safe and happy with his mother, your sister, Princess Rue.

Following that would be Prince Michael's other siblings, in preference of gender then of age. So his brother Ferdinand would be next. After that, his older sister Melissa. You aren't entirely sure where either are right now (unless you want to give me a Knowledge: Royalty check), followed by Joshua's youngest daughter with Queen Jessica whose name is Princess Ashley. She is younger still than Prince David - only about two years of age.

Edward

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Edward stifles a coughing fit into quietness

So I was just gunna let you have that but, uh, Raymond is actively looking at faces.... So roll a Bluff check to pass off your giggles as a coughing fit.

Only those of us gathered here and the messenger know what has happened, your highness Abbot Grange intones in response to Ray's question. And the messenger is locked in a comfortable room with good food and a bottle of wine.

Prince Michael smiles slightly, then reaches out and squeezes Iria's hand. Thank the gods for good council. Yes, we have to control how this is seen both outside and inside the castle. He looks squarely at Father Fidel and instructs Send a priest each to the Queens - my step mother and grandmother. They deserve to be told before we ring the bell. My father was as much theirs as mine.

The bell he is referring to is in the temple tower. It rings a short melody every day at noon. It rings for much longer in the event of a birth, marriage or death within the royal family.

Then he turns to Luca. Your grievances with Commander Sebastian will have to wait. For the moment, I need you to go and tell him that there will be a large ceremony at the palace grounds tonight. Don't tell him of its nature until the bell tolls, but we will require half a dozen guardsmen within the Grand Hall.

Iria, I know you are grieved as much as I, but can you please go to my Majordomo? Tell him only that Prince Michael orders him to meet me in my private quarters. I'll need to set him making arrangements for a coronation and, in a few days, a funeral.

Iria

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You know who he is talking about. Majordomo Williams is a solid, practical man who takes great pride in a job well done. He would most likely be in his quarters, this early in the morning, which abut the administrative offices. He treats you exactly as he'd treat another member of the Royal Family, even though you are sure he understands the circumstances of your birth.

Raymond, please accompany me to inform Rue.

Now, for the first time since he began issuing orders, the Prince King looks a little uncertain of himself. He addresses the question am I forgetting anything? To those of you gathered in general, but his eyes rest on Edward.

[iTookUrNick]

Chains:

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This is so going to fail: (1d20+3)[18]
To the hitchhiker: Ok, never mind. It looks like we might need your talent for mischief after all. Any Ideas?

Edward takes a moment to collect his thoughts before speaking. He seems weary, as if it his age had suddenly become apprent to him. "Well, as much as it pains me to say so, I believe it would be best for you to extend your... protection... to the Queen Consort Jessica and to the Princess Ashley. Right now, General Adrian is sole commander of the entire Gahadian army. We all know the General as a man of honor, but even discarding the possibility of his own initiative (which we should not), anyone could use the Queen and the Princess as leverage to enact a military coup.

That's all I've thought so far. If anything else comes to mind, I'll let you know immediately."

[Ezeze]

Raymond

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Unfortunately you can't add rolls into posts

The priests aren't shocked - but they are both very sympathetic. You don't think Father Fidel expected to be put on the spot like that.

Iria is every bit as upset as King Michael. It makes sense - she's family, after all.

Edward isn't very expressive. You think he must be a very private sort of person. But nothing about his reaction is out of place.


Prince Llem, last you knew, was at the front lines with his father. As for Princess Melissa - you remember there was a huge curfuffle a few years back when the Nobleman she married had the whole thing annulled, but you can't seem to think of why or where she went after that.

[Lazy Genius]

Reacting to Michael immediately, Ray nodded and said, "very well, Your Highness." He then listens to what the others have to say, even the private words to Michael he hears by default and notes them personally. Nodding to himself when Edward speaks of the unlikely military coup, Ray assesses where the royal family is and if he know who has what amount of Royal guard with them at the moment, before preparing himself to get going with Michael to tell his sister the bad news. He frowns a bit as he thinks of the line of succession and seems concerned by the rather young age of the next after the man next to him. Better safe than sorry.

[Cooldanman22]

Ok m'lord, I shall go inform Sebastian of the ceremony. May I borrow one of these horses so I can get there more quickly? If his answer is yes, then Luca rides to the Guards Headquarters, and if not, than he Runs there as quickly as he can.

[Ezeze]

Edward

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Just play it cool.

Yes, take the horse. In fact, you should all probably take your horses.

The young king considers Edwards words for a moment, then says I don't like the thought but, yes, we need eyes on my stepmother. I know now better than ever how... out of character a person can behave if they think it's in the best interest of their child. So, Edward, go with whomever Fidel decides should visit Queen Jessica. I want to emphasize, though, that you are to be eyes only. Do not harm them, and try not to scare them.

King Michael gallops off with Raymond, leaving Iria, Fidel, Abbot Grange and Edward in the field overlooking the forest.

Luca

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The guard's tower is literally on the opposite edge of the palace grounds, on the south side nearest the bustling city, built into the wall separating the two. The comfortable if modest cottages that house the Watch's high officers - including yourself and your family - aren't far off.

It takes nearly 20 minutes to get there, even on horseback.

The door is a solid oak one, with strong iron hinges to support its weight. If barred from the inside, it could withstand assault for a considerable amount of time. You're sure either Commander Sebastian or someone who knows where he is is inside.

Fidel, Edward, Iria

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I am not so old that I can't do the work in front of me Abbot Grange declares. I shall be your second priest, Fidel. Shall I visit Queen Jessica and you Queen Ahaziah, or vise versa?

Raymond

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The Prince's private abode is not terribly far off. All of you will have to move into the palace proper, you suppose, before this is all over but for the last few years Michael, Rue and young Prince David have lived in a well appointed home not too far to the North of the great hall. A second home, smaller but no less well appointed, stands near by. That is where you sleep most nights. It was built specially for you when you and Rue came to stay, exactly to your specifications.

The Prince ties his own horse to a post just outside his door, but doesn't wait for you to do the same before he enters his home. Inside, on a hard wooden floor strewn with soft woven carpets and pillows, you see your sister Rue playing with small, stuffed toys with your nephew. A hand maiden stands not too far off, ready to attend to her mistress if needed. You think her name is Susan, and if you remember correctly Rue is quite fond of her.

Michael? Rue looks up, surprised but not startled I thought you were out hunting today?

Michael walks over to his wife, then kneels and kisses her I was, then I learned of some bad news. The King has died in the fight with Urmay. Would you mind terribly moving yourselves upstairs, or perhaps out into the garden? Very soon this place is going to be flooded with well wishers and funeral planners and people who want me crowned quickly.

The King is very-business like in his approach. While he speaks Rue wordlessly scoops up David, who keeps a hold of a stuffed bird you are given to believe is his favorite toy, and hands him to her hand maiden. Susan bows and ushers the tike upstairs. It's only then that Rue pulls Michael gently, by the hand, over to a couch pushed against the far wall. He doesn't resist and soon finds his face buried in the crook of his wife's neck.

Your sister runs her fingers through her husbands hair as, in the privacy newly afforded him, he begins to cry because his father is dead.