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It is the Year of our Lord, 1135
You are Wilhelm, Lord of Ramla.
And you are in Jaffa, awaiting the finally assembly of Jerusalem's war host. Foreigners have made camp beyond the walls, their ships in harbour, their lords quartered in the court of Count Hugh. It's in this court you wait with half your men, entertained by the Lady Aines and Sir Barisan, who hold Jaffa in the name of their lord.
With you at the dinner table is Count Roger of Foix, who has with him a group of Iberian knights led by Sir Rodrigo. Next to the Count was Sir Paulus Heinrici, 'Sir Stone', who leads the soldiers of Trier. Sent by your father's master, the Archbishop, to execute the war on his behalf and advocate for him in local affairs. The man, face half paralyzed, speaks with Old Pagan the Butler, a grey haired, pepper beard soul who had found high station in the service of Fulk, but was now lord of the frontier called 'Oultrejordan'. He had brought a mighty warhost to throw against the walls of Ascalon, and you knew him to be an able administrator having overseen the erection of castles and fortresses in the south.
Sir Joyce of the Templars kept company with his fellows, including Sir Blaise who commanded their number. A priest sat with them, one you didn't know but said to be attached to the Count of Foix.
Your own Sir Etienne kept you company, running through the provisions you would need for the next stretch of your journey, and how much you had already consumed in only a week's travel. The rest of your company was in camp beyond the walls save the squires, as the keep was crowded with noblemen and no ne else in your number was high stationed enough to jostle those powerful men from their rooms. Hugo and Alexus waited patiently behind you, careful attendants aware of the press of armed strangers at every turn of the head.
You wished you could say every man present was a friend, but some were your bitterest of rivals, not least the Templar Blaise. Who knew what plans other smiling faces hid?
The seneschal of Jaffa came hurrying in, sweating and panting, tabard disheveled. At first you thought something wrong, but the man smiled wide.
"The queen's party on the high road!" he called, causing an outbreak of men rising from their chairs. A small cheer broke out. Many had been anxious for her arrival. With her here only a few stragglers were left to arrive before the war could begin in earnest.
> remain where you are
> rush to greet the queen
>>46298663
> rush to greet the queen
might as well, we're in her faction.
I'm loving these frequent threads, HF.
>>46298663
>> rush to greet the queen
And Hugh our Lord.
>>46298663
> rush to greet the queen
>>46298663
> rush to greet the queen
Queen Senpai please notice the army i made for you!
>>46298663
>rush to greet the queen
>>46298663
> rush to greet the queen
Remember to ask how the family Is and congratulate her on the little princess. Truly she is a blessing
>>46298663
>> rush to greet the queen
Sorry got caught up with something. Writing now.
>>46298925
HF is a Broncos!
Reminder that if we want to secure Ascalon we should arrange for Hugh to have an ''accident'' near the end of besieging Ascalon
>>46299201
I really still cant get behind this...
>>46299201
I cannot and will not support this action. Removing a close ally of the queen will raise hell with her support. Also, theres no way the queen will let her sister's husband be the lowly lord of a town.
>>46299251
And how the hell would they know its us exactly? more to the point what is the point of taking Ascalon if it won't be ours?
>>46299325
Weakening the Queen's faction is just stupid regardless. Also Hugo should really tell us about Aines and Barisan.
>>46299201
I'm not sure why you want Jaffa when Ascalon and its trade routes could be enough to make another county in some time.
>>46299325
You don't know that yet. We just have to keep taking the centrestage. Make our contributions essential to the campaign, keep us as the mastermind and architect of it. Trust in the queen to reward her subjects properly.
>>46299367
Also build some support among the other lords and we should be good to go.
>>46299354
what the hells the point of knowing about Barisan and Aines if we aren't going to use it to our advantage?
>>46299360
because while it may or may not be under our direct control it will help strengthen our position further down the line when it comes to advancing the ambition of alexandria
>>46299367
our lack of actual manpower and supplies does not help in that respect specifically since most of our contributions are not by us but for us by third parties
>>46299455
>when it comes to advancing the ambition of alexandria
I'm sorry, but I hope you're not serious.
>>46299455
We are. We can inform Hugh about it in return he will owe us a great deal.
With the other nobles you are quick to rise, and motioning to Etienne he nods and forces a path for you, shoving aside those minor knights you could risk offending and carefully blocking in the most polite manner those lords whom you could not. Hugo and Alexus helped with the fighting scrum as you concerned yourself with walking as swiftly as possible down the temporary corridor your men made for you, finding yourself first out the door and toward the gates.
A passing old man pushing a wheelbarrow laden with goods got a smile from you as you stepped around him, and you stopped to let a pair of sisters cross the road, but for the rest of the road your mind was on greeting your liege.
Slipping through the gates you found Solomon waiting with arms crossed, and with him Father Desmond. The priest munched on an apple as he watched the line of the horizon, the glittering bettle forms slowly grow larger until they became the distinct silhouttes of people on foot and a-horse, with banners waving.
"How many?" you asked Solomon.
The man turned his head to the side, thinking. "Maybe two thousand," he said, "More, closer to three."
All the remaining soldiery of the Holy Orders, the soldiers of Jerusalem and Galilee, and free adventurers beside that had made for the Holy City. You whistled. With the numbers already here you had a force close to ten thousand.
It took an hour before the first outriders arrived, and by then the Count of Foix and Sir Barisan had joined you. The chill autumn wind was slowly turning to cold winter, and the Count (whose possessions were Mediterranean) wore a heavy cloak around his shoulders to fight the mounting chill. It was nought to you but pleasant, and your surcoat and doublet sufficed.
The first of the outriders wore the emblem of Galilee, and he dismounted before you with a bow.
>>46299474
are you seriously saying that the ambition has driven 2/3rds of this quest isn't serious?
>>46299491
you can't seriously think informing that his sister is fucking his constable counts for as much as a city
"Lord Wilhelm?" he asked. You nodded. "And the rest all ready and assembled." The man seemed glad, and you offered him a drink from your canteen.
It was another half hour when the van arrived. Melisende rode at its head, her maille shirt gilded with gold thread that seemed to give her a majestic glow, her shoulders hidden beneath a long cape that fluttered behind her. The tall horse was near pure white, a stallion. On the horn of her saddle was a helm with a tall plume and at her hip a sword. But you recognised it all as more for show than an intention to fight.
Still, she looked a magnificent warrior queen high in the saddle, her golden hair bound back to show her imperious, almost severe expression, just a simple circlet upon her brow. Behind her carried by the old Armenian soldier Theodore was the banner of Jerusalem itself, and beside that held aloft by a Templar was a great gilded crucifix.
That caught your breath. As it was said to contain a piece of the true cross inside it.
Behind her came the lords of the realm on horse. William Bures, Pons of Tripoli and his son Raymond. Lord Gerard and Lord Walter, twins who could not look any less alike. Raymond du Puy and Ancient Archemboud, both wearing the colours of their orders. Count Hugh, who rode both in armour and hand in hand with his lovely young wife.
And behind them still came the Jerusalem host, Templars, Hospitallers and lay soldiers, with them a carnival of followers who would see to their needs. Knights on horseback and doughty serjeants on foot, with drummers and pipes bringing them up in step like the sound of a traveling circus. So much was the sound of the music and stamping of feet that when it stopped it left a high silence like a great vacuum that couldn't possibly be filled, and it stopped on a sudden, final stamp.
The walls of Jaffa looked out at the host of Jerusalem. Waited.
It broke with the sound of reins, the jingle of maille, hooves on the dirt. The Queen riding ahead alone.
>>46299455
We brought a good amount of siege and the flamethrower.
Also we might not be contribution most of the men but we helped orchestrate this advance on Ascalon, we brought in Greek support as well.
We'd then need to provide the strategic and tactical contributions by leading the siege well.
"Hail Jaffa!" she called, "I see you stand ready. Ready to march. Ready for war."
The men on the walls gave a hearty cry, slamming spears against shields in a racket.
She silenced it with a raised hand. She sat tall, poised. A Roman statue carved from finest marble.
"Who will ride with me to the gates of the Saracen? Who is ready to fight with me for the Great Cause?"
Again that welcoming roar. You felt your own blood stir, chest swell.
"I will!" you saw a boy with tears in his eyes call to the Queen. "Me!" an old man looked ready to weep.
She graced the crowd with a clear smile, stood in the stirrups. She drew her sword with a masterful flourish.
"Then make yourselves ready. We march to war, to eternal glory. In the name of Christ!"
"God wills it!" you don't know who used the rally cry of the army that had claimed this land, but the cry was soon caught up. "God wills it!" you heard Count Foix cry. "God wills it!" bellowed the walls and the camps. You feel it pull at you.
> God wills it!
> Melisende!
> remain silent
>>46299510
>that the ambition has driven 2/3rds of this quest isn't serious?
Guilty me for responding, I guess.
>>46299551
>> God wills it!
For the Queen Melisende!
>>46299510
No but it will add to it. Consider it one good deed in a pot of many.
>>46299551
> Melisende!
>>46299551
> God wills it!
D E U S V U L T
E
U
S
V
U
L
T
>>46299551
>> God wills it!
>> Melisende!
For Lord and Queen, turn the Dues Vult into a chant of the Queen's name as they cheer.
>>46299551
> Melisende!
>>46299551
> God wills it!
Correction for last thread: I kept calling Raymond of Poitiers (Alice's new husband) Raymond of Toulouse. Consider this an admission and correction.
>>46299551
>God wills it!
keep our head clear though
>>46299593
if you think a few good deeds will allow us to become his equal from under him is fucking foolish and naive
>>46299551
> God wills it!
> Melisende!
>thinking you can get ahead without spilling blood
lel
>>46299675
>if you think a few good deeds will allow us to become his equal from under him is fucking foolish and naive
Good thing it doesnt matter. He will have no say in it if the Queen does it. Killing him is completly pointless
>>46299703
except he does considering he's the more ''proper'' choice
>>46299751
It really isnt if we preform well and have the queens favour. hence why i am more
> Melisende!
whoo i caught a live thread!
>>46299551
Both. For God and his kingdoms!
You know guys, we really should pay a visit to our kids someday. I don't think we've met them once. Do people know they're ours?
>>46299831
Their mothers does!
"God wills it!" you cannot help but get caught up in the moment, raising the cheer from your own camp. "God wills it!"
It put an electricity through you, connecting you to the men around you, charging the air itself. It was a battle cry that made you feel invulnerable, as if the hand of god were shadowing you from harm.
Slowly the cheer gave out as more of Melisende's war host trotted forward to the walls, dismounting in Jaffa's shadow.
That's when you noticed the girl riding up behind Melisende. Your sister Mathilde, whom you had been told was now Melisende's handmaiden. You should have suspected she would accompany the queen, but it still made your blood run cold.
Mathilde helped Melisende dismount. The Queen was beaming, looking to her countrymen, drinking in their adulation. The two women were soon being flocked by her supporters.
> force your way to the queen
> remain back
>>46299781
society at this point is not Meritocratic we're only going to get so far on ability alone before nepotism and the 'proper' thing gets in the way
I mean christ we're a lord not even a baron yet and you think we'll get a city without being the only candidate the can rely on
>>46299831
Alain only the mother knows, a few others in the royal circle know but wont tell a soul, anyone else who claims to know are rumourmongerers
>>46299675
>if you think a few good deeds will allow us to become his equal from under him is fucking foolish and naive
Instead of that, then help him keep his life.
The succession means that since barisan is screwing his sister and acting like a lord, if Hugh dies and succession goes to his sister, barisan stands to inherit the land and titles if he marries the sister.
>>46299889
>force your way to the queen
Out of the way!
>>46299890
Which is why we need to build alliances
>>46299889
>> remain back
don't intrude in her stage?
>>46299889
> remain back
In due time, best not to look sychopahntic
>>46299917
>Instead of that, then help him keep his life.
how? their is no concrete plot on Barisans behalf to kill him
thats speculation at best
>>46299932
you honestly think that would do it?
>>46299955
Nah it is just people who are crowding her.
>>46299889
>> other
Approach the queen but hang back for abit.
Don't just bash our way through.
Give the queen some time to soak in the adulation, we have time and we can approach the queen when the crowd dies down abit.
Wait for her like a proper retainer.
>>46299889
>force your way to the queen
>>46299965
His actions are suspect and the succession chain means that we should at least inform him of our misgivings.
>>46299965
>you honestly think that would do it?
If we do everything else, yes. Alone no.
>>46299889
>>46299977
this.
close but out of the picture unless needed immediately.
>>46300004
>His actions are suspect and the succession chain means that we should at least inform him of our misgivings.
Not enough for that to happen.
>>46299889
Force our way to Mathilde.
>>46300004
>His actions are suspect
what actions? acting above his station? thats just being a mouse while the cat is out
>>46300010
your asking for a LOT to work out for us and for no one to screw us over and both are rather unlikely
>>46299889
> force your way to the queen
For our sister too.
Man, I bet Wilhelm aches every night missing the royal pussies. Sure Chiri's great and amazing, but getting to shag royal princesses and the Queen...
>>46299977
this less sycophantic more loyal vassal
>>46299889
>>46299977
>> other
Approach the queen but hang back for abit.
This
>>46299977
supportan'.
I have to step out for a bit. Be back soon.
>>46300184
The Commander goes on Crusade~
Rolled 94 (1d100)
considering you're all relying on alliances to go well I'm just going to ahead and see how favourable the dice are
>>46300514
You just wasted the one good roll of the thread you asshole!
>>46300514
stop throwing away good dice, faggot.
>>46300514
>>46300541
Ahhhh, now this is Crusader Quest, its like we never went on hiatus.
You approach without hurry, allowing others to flock to the Queen and offer their personal service, fighting one another for the privilege to do so. It was a wild immature mess of noblemen trying to curry favour, some knocked each other down in their headlong rush to meet her. As you step around one man in a flapping tabard, your hand finds Mathilde's shoulder.
She looks up at you at first with surprise than delight, and you answer her smile with a kiss on her brow. By then however the Queen was done with the latest of sycophants and turned to you.
"My lord Ramla," she said, taking your shoulders in hand, "This day owes much to you." She turns her neck to look up, a coil of golden hair falling across her face.
"I am just a servant of the crown," you reply, unconsciously tucking back that stray hair behind her ear.
"You serve me well," she said, "If all comes out to our advantage I shall see you especially rewarded."
"At your pleasure," you say, bowing aside to allow her to continue on to the keep in the company of her vassals.
Hugh thumps your shoulder as he passes with a wink of his eye. "Find me later and we'll talk, drink and make merry," he said, before he pulled up his bride to hoist her over the collapsed form of an overeager knight that had tripped and fallen in his efforts to greet the queen.
It was then that came another man you knew, but did not consider half as fondly. Count Elias hand brushed Mathilde's shoulder, drawing her eye from you to him, and you misliked the way her carriage perked and cheeks coloured at the sight of him.
"Lord Ramla," he sad civilly, head cocked, "I thought we might also speak when you have the time." He inclined his head toward Mathilde with a certain smile before continuing after the queen. She watched him walk away. That you most certainly didn't like.
You hoped Bayard had been doing his job, and kept specially guard over her virtue. If a man like Elias claimed it, you could guess how he might use it to tarnish your reputation.
"Should we speak?" you asked Mathilde, more gruffly than you intended. Her eyes widened then she shook her head, looking withdrawn.
"On nothing important at least," she said, "Though you should know there's a man in the company you should speak with. Prince Manuel, a Roman."
"A Greek," you said with clear distaste.
"He can help you," she said, putting a hand to your chest as if touch alone could clear your growing hatred for the Greeks.
> follow the Queen
> go to Hugh
> go to Elias
> go to Manuel
> find someone else (nominate)
>>46300899
> go to Manuel
Queen said later. So it seems it can wait.
>>46300899
>> follow the Queen
>> other
Speak to Mattie while we wait for the queen, ask her to update us on Elias and of Manuel.
>>46300899
>> go to Manuel
>>46300919
That was Hugh.
>>46300899
> go to Manuel
>>46300868
>"You serve me well," she said, "If all comes out to our advantage I shall see you especially rewarded."
I think we're good. Can we not knife hugh in the back now?
>>46300868
>"You serve me well," she said, "If all comes out to our advantage I shall see you especially rewarded."
Think we are pretty secured in reward.
>>46300899
> follow the Queen
>>46300899
> follow the Queen
>>46300999
if others are content to see us rewarded yes we will be but can we be %100 certain that they will?
So, how many of you good folk are in favour of normalising ties with elias and his father? If they're willing to do so. Work more to the benefit of the kingdom rather than at cross-purposes.
I'm not saying trust him immediately but not be so hostile towards him, with an end goal of being able to work together normally.
>>46300899
> go to Manuel
>>46301029
>if others are content to see us rewarded yes we will be but can we be %100 certain that they will?
Wont matter. Someone will be pissed off no matter who does it.
>>46301029
>if others are content
It's the Queen, anon, contain your paranoia
>>46301033
As long as we keep both at an arms reach that'd be ideal.
>>46301029
If the queen wills it, no one can deny it.
>>46301033
>>46301101
I'm actually wondering how a match between elias and mattie would be for us.
The opportunities are fascinating. Trying our family together.
>>46301033
Im pretty willing myself however I'd for Elias to admit to an audience of note that he did not in fact have relations with the princess Iovetta
more personal satisfaction than anything else
>>46301083
no Hugh is poking it with a goddamn big stick
also I feel that I should mention that if we control a portion of the Kingdom by Influence or direct control we would be more able to assist a certain favor we owe
>>46301083
>>46301103
so what? nothing will stop them from sabotaging our chances of succeeding on our own momentum while seizing the glory and favor of the queen for themselves
everyone remember there's only one murderous paranoia vote, and if there's more then it's samefagging
>>46300899
> go to Manuel
>>46301267
[citation needed]
>>46300899
Where the fuck is Hugo with that Silk Road thing?
>>46301267
I'm just going to be voting deny on knifing hugh
>>46301309
They will find Wilhelm, not the other way around
It was not worth it to keep royalty waiting, and this Manuel was not just royalty but Imperial. You allow Mathilde to lead you to this Manuel.
He had a number of soldiers with him, closer to the rear of the procession. He wore armour of banded mail in gold and brown with a red Roman cape across his shoulders and a plumed helm which he carried under his arm. An armoured skirt hung over his thighs and high armoured boots in gold and brown guarded his shins. The man was perhaps a year your juniour, and had black curly hair and thick black beard with strong olive skin.
When he saw you approach with Mathilde he smiled, a brilliant magnetic grin that cut through his finely kept beard, and without greeting of your own had a hand extended.
"This must be the famous Lord Ramla," he said, taking your hand in his, "I have heard of you. All this is your doing, isn't it? Such willpower to turn the wheel of war. I must say that I am impressed."
"You flatter me," you said, but that brought a violent shake of Manuel's head.
"Please, I do not indulge in empty flattery," he said, "After all, for all that you have achieved you've also split the kingdom. Antioch hates you, and looks upon the favour you hold in the royal court with disapproval. Many more indelicacies and you'll be doing my father's bidding without even realizing it, giving Antioch up whole to his dominion."
"You are being awfully candid," you said, a little nettled by his jab on Antioch.
The young prince shrugged. "As I told your sister, I am here to make friends, and between friends there can only be the truth."
You laughed at that. You do not think there was a friend you had you hadn't lied to on some small measure, but Manuel took no offense.
>>46301267
Hugh may or may not need to die, it simply depends on how things develop during the campaign and if Hugh is trying to backstab us or not
remember men of power are not allowed to have friends
"You have lost supplies and men," he said, "I would replace them with my personal levies, my personal supplies. Your sister said you would be amenable to this, but I must hear it from you. In return I ask only a favour, that you do the same in return for me. Come when I'm in need of aid, no questions asked, no quibbling on demands. If you agree, I shall help you in taking Ascalon in any measure at my disposal."
It was a high offer, but his request was steep as well. He gripped your hand still firmly, the other on your shoulder, eyes intense upon you awaiting an answer. Mathilde stood watching with a caught breath in her throat.
> I will
> I won't
>>46301400
> I will
If it wont endanger Jerusalem fine.
>>46301400
>> I will
But not against Jerusalem or Antioch if it remains in Alice's hands.
>>46301400
> I will
''well I promised my queen I would march with Soliders of rome along with the rabble''
I wonder how big Wilhelms rome boner is?
>>46301400
> What is your opinion on pirates?
> I will
>>46301400
If Ascalon is taken, there are many men with ships who will profit. They could be convinced into another venture.
>>46301400
>> I will
But I ask that you share with me your designs. That I might have time to prepare for them.
>>46301400
>I will
>as long as you don't ask me to act against Jerusalem
>>46301400
>I will
He offered to show us his first after all
>>46301400
> I will
>>46301506
That's the problem mate: they know our hand but we don't know theirs
>>46301487
Nah, he might want us to help him attack Jerusalem, and if we get Ascalon, the Byzantines will be a far more valuable ally than Jerusalem.
>>46301571
Yea, he has our balls in the vice, hence the slightly hardball bargaining. But thats why at least I'm asking for what he wants in >>46301465
>>46301583
>attack Jerusalem
for what purpose? they have the Anatolian Interior and their borders to worry about, the most likely scenario is that he may want to make a strike for the throne, which we can dissuade if we strike up a friendship with him, civil strife after all is what marked the end of Rome.
holy shit you're shadow running worse than I am with my murder boner for hugh
>>46301673
I hope he isn't too keen on having Theodore Komnenos around.
"So long as I am never called against Jerusalem, I will," you said.
"No fear on that last, unless the worst of the worst unfolds I have no intention of warring with fellow Christians," Manuel said, "But I do not lack for enemies. My family is large, our empire larger, and we are quick to fight amongst ourselves. More so there are the Turks ever at our doorstep. Too much time has been wasted between our people bickering over little things and minor differences. Our eye should be beyond Christ and on the Muslim."
You couldn't disagree. In fact, you found yourself nodding along to what Manuel was saying. You felt on this matter at least you were of a like mind.
"Then let it be so," you said, and he kissed your cheek to mark the compact made, squeezed your shoulder once and released you.
"Walk with Christ, I say," Manuel said, "Never against him." And he waved you on.
His soldiers would certainly come in hand, more so the food and water his ships would transport.
You walked with Mathilde back to Jaffa, and came upon Melisende in conference with her lords.
A stool had been set for her to sit on, and the lords surrounded her, gesturing, bickering, trying to steer the conversation to their favour. You heard the gist, they were arguing on how best to proceed.
"I say we march at once," Raymond du Puy said, "Dallying will give the Saracen time to fortify, and the longer we wait the more of our supplies are consumed. Five hundred men is no insignificant number, but we cannot wait on them indefinitely. Allow them to catch us up on the coast, or serve as reinforcements should they be needed, assuming Ascalon does not fall quickly."
"Caution, caution should be our watch word," said Pons, "We should ensure we move only at full strength. I would not risk all the might of Jerusalem on a quick marched, under prepared. Wait for the Tripoli muster to join us, for the Genoan ships to be sighted, then march forth."
"Look around you, see for yourself, does this army seem under prepared?" many cheered the Grand Master's words.
Melisende's eyes found yours and you could tell she was enjoying herself even as she wore a stoic mask. She leaned forward.
"What say you Lord Ramla?" Melisende asked, "Should we wait, or advance?"
The lords turned eager for your response.
> wait
> advance
>>46301673
Agreed, A Byzantine's natural enemy is other Byzantines. I for one would welcome the opportunity to loot Constantinople.
>>46301718
>advance
If they aren't here yet and can't catch up, they'll only slow us down, both on the road and the walls.
>>46301718
HF, how much of our expected strength is currently at hand?
How much is expected to arrive in the month?
>>46301718
> wait
but send a vanguard under the guise of raiders to disrupt any who would Inform Ascalon of our arrival
>>46301718
>advance
We have already waited one month the 500 can be our rear guard when they arrive
>>46301744
About three quarters/four fifths.
>>46301718
>> advance
around 90% of our total forces is here. We are ready. The rest can catch up to us when they come.
>>46301718
>advance
"Let the Devil take the hindmost"
>>46301718
>> wait
but do as >>46301763 says and send a vanguard to disrupt any reports of us mustering
>>46301772
>We have already waited one month
No, it's only been a week since the end of the last thread.
>>46301718
> advance
We'll arrive and fortify early
>>46301753
There's literally nothing for hundreds of miles, Ascalon was supplied by ships.
>>46301718
> advance
Have them serve as reinforcements
>>46301804
My point still stand. We have wasted enough time anbd supplies
>>46301779
Is Manuel going to be sending his troops with us at this point? Or does he need to send for them?
>>46301815
There is lots of land to make new forts.
>>46301828
He needs to send for them. They'll arrive by ship.
>>46301815
Our goal should be Ascalon>Gaza>Darum.
>>46301718
> advance
>>46301815
their is Gaza and Daren/Darum
How are we marching.
Are we marching along the coast?
Because if we are, we might as well have the ships continue sailing down towards us along the coast. It'll be faster for them rather than marching to keep up.
>>46301718
> wait
its like none of you chucklefucks heard of the 2nd crusade
>>46301879
We are marching down the coast yes.
>>46301887
You looking to get burned at the stake fortuneteller?
>>46301894
Then perhaps we should give instructions that the ships should continue sailing down to catch up with us after some resupply.
>>46301718
we need to build up internal alliances and logistics and plan
every battle is won before it is fought by patience and planning
>>46301854
>>46301866
I think at least one of those is in ruins by now
>>46301973
Gaza is currently. So it shouldnt be too hard
>>46301973
Gaza is still half smashed from an earthquake, but it is occupied and garrisoned.
>>46301979
Rebuilding Gaza, some Kingdom shit right here.
>>46301887
second crusade is abit more of a different beast.
by comparison to the distances involved in that one, this is a short hop.
>>46301947
by this I mean
> wait
>>46301718
> wait
advancing without planning will leave nothing ashes for us we need to plan
>>46302064
We dont need a fucking month for that and we are going to eat through our supplies
I'm actually tempted to split the difference.
Wait 1 more week, one more week of prep will likely not make much difference but the speed at which the ships and reinforcements catch up to us will be much reduced, if we consider the marching time vs the sailing/resupply/sail to meet us time.
>>46301718
>Wait
While passion is appreciated foresight is needed lest we lose our heads
>>46302080
And the one week will also allow us to do more planning of our logistics and troops.
>>46302064
You can't just throw Cao Cao's face on any lame-brained logic and expect it to fly.
>>46302080
two weeks and you've got a deal especially if they've got ships to transport us quickly done the coast which will mean we can catch them off guard more ready for a fight
>>46302080
>>46302103
Actually quite reasonable...
Seriously, it is just 500 men and they are on ship. They can easily catch up to us.
>>46302140
Two weeks is abit too long. Much supplies can be gathered and wooden structures on walls build in that time.
>>46301987
HF, how long is the march down anyways.
>>46301718
>>46302080
Willing to support this.
We have almost 10k troops right now. The 500 are n ot the important enough if we have to trade a whole month for them, or even 2 weeks
>>46301718
> advance
We can use our extra time to catch what forces they have off-guard, and to make a bad-ass camp for our supplies.
>>46302204
here >>46301779
Can't we send small scouting parties out first?
>>46302279
Or raiding parties. Though, half of this battle will be with ships.
>>46302080
this works and could possibly sate both sides
>>46302172
fair point
>>46302279
I'd rather raiders to disrupt any warning of their advance
>>46301718
>Wait one week, then advance
Be sure to explain our reasoning. More time to plan out logistics, gather up scraps of men and live off the current available food in the area and reduce reinforcement time.
> wait one week then advance
"Rushing forward with no plan of action, with no agreed upon chain of command, and no clear line of supply would damn us before we even begin," you said, "But neither would I have us tarry over long. I say split the difference. Wait another week, get our people into order, have a plan, and then move and move quickly."
That brought a round of approving nods, though others grit their teeth they said nothing.
"My lord Ramla speaks wisely," the Queen said, "We shall take the week to prepare. Let those stragglers that remain behind catch up, get our house in order, and then we advance. Let the rest meet us on the shores of Palestine."
"Here here!" Count Hugh called, and it was caught up by the queen's men.
That issue settled Melisende had her officers disperse to see it all set in order. Then she called for you to attend her in royal quarters, a large tent erected by a near hillside, with armed guards on constant watch. You followed her step behind, listened to the silken shink of the maille coils shifting with her walk, recognizing the adoration many of the men show to her as she passed. This warrior queen look had done much to endear her to the soldiery. And you must admit it had a certain appeal.
A tent flap was held open by a servant, some old greybeard, and she slipped in.
"Don't tarry now Wilhelm," she called, inviting you in.
She unbelted her sword and took a seat by her bedside, sighing as she rolled her shoulders. A girl provided her with a bowl of dates and she ate, plucking each delicately from the plate and eating in little nibbles.
"I would have your advice on military matters," she said, "Chain of command in particular. I will guide from a distance, but have no desire to join the fray unless the hour grows very desperate. As such, I must appoint someone else to command the vanguard. Who would you choose, if you were me?"
She wiped her lips as she waited for your reply.
> nominate a leader of the vanguard
>>46302596
> nominate a leader of the vanguard
Sir Blaise he may be a brute but he knows his trade and hey if he gets himself killed we dont have to deal with him anymore
>>46302596
Du Poy or Hugh actually my Queen both understand what is at stake.
>>46302596
Who do we have who has the right skills for leading the vanguard?
>>46302596
Are we supposed to nominate a lord?
Which type of lord? From those commanding our personal army or one of our officers?
What will the vanguard be doing?
Thinking of Du Poy or Solomon, actually.
>>46302596
advancing won
>>46302596
Du poy
Was the Templar headmaster a noble? Hugo is riding with them, I think
>>46302596
> nominate a leader of the vanguard
Du Poy or Ourselves
also I would advise sending out raiders to stop those who would warn Ascalon of our Approach
>>46302672
Solomon should really stay at our side until we can challenge Ascalons strongest warriors
>>46302596
> I don't know what delusion you're under, but this is my campaign.
>>46302716
He may not be one but by dint of rank, he is treated as one.
Also he wanted to advance as well. This might mollify him.
>>46302716
the Templars are a bit hot headed for the Vanguard, the very sight of the Saracen may make them overextend themselves if we have to we can send them out as raiders I suppose but not as the vanguard itself
>>46302596
Du Poy.
And for the love of god. Ask her how the royal family is going. Wilhelm must be atleast a little curious about Morphia.
>>46302763
as we're stepping out the door anon
>>46302757
Depends on the forces we send as the vanguard, we should clarify that.
>>46302757
You underestimate the Templars. They are very disciplined.
>>46302793
okay so
>Raiders Intially to take out villiages,watchtowers etc generally take out eyes and ears
>Vanguard follows to wipe out any response to the ''raiders''
>Main army follows after
>>46302797
disciplined yes but likely to lose themselves in the glory and butchery
https://youtu.be/QLt0lerdgKs
I made another mistake. Du Puy leads the Hospitallers, not the Templars. Blame losing my notes.
"Du Puy and the Hospitallers," you said, "He leads one of the largest contingents, he's an experienced commander, and he is not chasing higher station or advancement. His concern is only securing victory. He's the least likely to play silly games or make a mistake."
"I agree," she replied, stretching out like a cat. She took the buckle at her waist and undid the belt. The servant-girl came to help her out of the shirt of maille, slipping it off her body and letting it bundle in the girl's arms. Melisende stretched her arms out, now in a padded white gambeson done up the front with ivory toggles, the crest of Jerusalem on its breast. She sighed in relief as a cup of wine was brought to her, and she had one poured for you.
"But of course if I give Du Puy the vanguard, the Templars will be annoyed and want something in return."
You took a sip, a fair point. The two knightly orders were constantly jockeying against each other for prestige.
"There will be glory to share when the fighting starts," you said. Your mind turned to the child, Morphia. As you admired Melisende's long legs stretched out beneath her, you could not help but think of the daughter you shared. "How is your daughter?" you said.
That brought her legs back under the chair and her leaning toward you over her knees.
"My daughter?" she asked, a wicked smile and an emphasis on 'my' in a way that said 'our', "She is a bouncing, healthy handful of hell. She is a terror for the nursemaids and when she screams I think she wakes up half the palace." You smiled a little at that. You'd yet to clap eyes on her. She sipped her wine, then set it aside. "But let's not talk about personal things. I have other matters to discuss. Such as the rearguard. Who do you think should be given the baggage train?"
> nominate
>>46302949
Hugh. Loyal to a fault and will take the job serious.
>>46302949
Pons
Someone overly careful would do well in this regard.
>>46302949
Can we really get a post of who's actually IN the army?
But I guess Pons as he was urging caution before.
>>46302949
> nominate
Gerard of Sidion he has a head for numbers or Hugh who's loyalty to the queen is guaranteed (However his loyalty and friendship to us is not)
I suppose that if he starts screwing around with supplies it convince some of you that he's not as friendly as he seems
>>46303017
http://pastebin.com/VzbLdkUr
the army pastebin
>>46302949
Hugh
>http://pastebin.com/VzbLdkUr
That's a big army.
>>46303031
Thank you anon I thought that was just for Willy's army not everyone's.
>>46303071
>>46303051
>>46303031
7055 Men right now. With more on their way.
>>46303018
Pons or Gerald, both are fine.
i guess we could send Orlando as an attache, a knight with a good head for numbers to help as well.
>>46303051
>Siegfrod is Gerard's sub-commander
HOLY SHIT!
>>46303153
Think Orlando is currently our regent in Ramla right now.
>>46303162
Holy shit. I want him at the front.
Give Pons the baggage train.
>>46303172
Orlando and Hector are with the Queen's army. If you'd like to send him back to Ramla you can.
>>46303207
Whos looking after Ramla now?
>>46303162
Who?
>>46303233
That crazy bandit who surrendered in order to save his men when we went on our first adventure.
We tried to get him freed but we did not move Gerard much that time.
I guess he must have listened and thought it was a good time to use him as a soldier.
>>46303233
ex Varangrian dane bandit we saved from execution at the beginning of the quest
>>46303219
The town reeve, Skander.
>>46303256
Damn, I think we need all our expertise here on this campaign. I think he'd have to make do for now.
'Sir' Hector can rack up some glory and solidify his cover here and Orlando can put his brain to use in the supply train.
"Pons," you said, "The old man is cautious. He'll be careful, and he won't feel disrespected."
"Tripoli is an old hand at war, the kind of steady hand the baggage train needs," Melisende agreed, "I was thinking of either Hugh or Lord Gerard myself, though I trust Gerard less than my cousin."
You had finished your cup of wine and Melisende clicked her fingers. The girl refilled your cup, then Melisende held hers out as well for more.
"And then we come to the last," she said, "Who should command the main body of troops?"
You sensed there was a test in this, from the way she reclined with cup to lips, undrinking and her brows raised, the lightest smile curving her lips.
> nominate
>>46303389
"Me. But since i am of low rank i guess it has to be Archamboud"
Unless she would be willing to let us.
>>46303389
>Queen Melisende
We shall advise and help plan and if she chooses to do so, she can delegate to us.
>>46303389
Why no other than her regal queen with ourselves as her humble Advisor of course
effective control with the right figurehead
>>46303429
>>46303427
>>46303389
Could also work.
>>46303389
Queen Melisende with Archambuad, Hugh, Gerard, and the rest as a council advising.
>>46303389
Bures, he0s a man of Jerusalem first
>>46303389
I am but your Humble adviser in the art of war my queen
Melisande as ''commander'' ourselves as ''advisor
>>46303427
>>46303429
anons pls
>>46303493
Anon this places us as the effective leader but with the queen as the commander that would be accepted by all
>there's a bs test
>let's jump in then
>>46303515
The queen is literally on the field. She has to be in nominal command officially.
>>46303427
>>46303429
>>46303450
Gee this doesn't sound like everyone's favorite villain at allI fucking love it
>>46303644
Shut up Mengde you died a thousand years ago.
>>46303666
The ruse never ends foolish Shu traitor
>>46303389
Hugh. Always good-natured Hugh.
Alternatively, our good Greek friend might like some time in the limelight.
>>46303697
Bitch please. Cao Cao is a loyal Prime Minister and my liege. If I thought you we serious in calling me a shu traitor yo'd be having me jump through my damn computer to rip out an eye and skull fuck you.
>>46303718
Also we have no designs on the kingdom of Jerusalem.
>>46303754
of course we are forging a newer better kingdom upon the bodies of the old
I want to bang the queen again.
>>46303793
later anon, once things are settled and we can figure things out with Iovetta
>>46303793
Not a good idea.
She'd fuck us and then cut off our manhood for going against her edict.
"Why you of course," you said, taking a sip, "With a competent, loyal adviser."
"Meaning you," she replied.
"We do work well together," you said.
The Queen giggled at that, set aside her cup.
"I find your suggestion flattering, and of course I had planned to take the reins, but it is good to know you are with me on this Wil," she stretched out again. The sun had set and night was coming on fast. "I'd suggest you retire now least people think we are more than liege and vassal," she said.
"I'm always at your service," you said, climbing out of your own chair.
"Half of the Levant would kill to have what you have Wil," she said, beginning to unbutton her toggles, "To have what you've had. Such private and intimate access to my company." She let her gambeson drop so that she was now in only her thin white shift. It's nothing you hadn't seen before. "Run along now Lord Ramla, lest I forget myself and do something ill-advised." She smiled as she tugged down a corner of her shift to expose her shoulder.
You bowed and left with a grin of your own. She had an intoxicating manner about her, but what had passed between you was now over, and your mind was on something else entirely.
Waiting for you outside was Mathilde and Hugo. They had talked a little, indeed Mathilde was smiling. You had never seen the two of them so companionable. She gave you a quick hug before slipping past to attend to her queen. And she reminded you that you had others waiting for you, not least Count Hugh and a meeting with Elias.
As you walked back to the keep Hugo fell in behind you, checking the sword in his scabbard. The boy was mostly silent as you walked through the camp, path lit by torch and camp fire light. A man in Jaffa livery came up to walk beside you. "Sir Barisan would speak with you," he said, "At your convenience." And then he peeled away as if nothing had happened.
Hugo watched him leave with a troubled look.
"Something wrong brother?" you asked.
Hugo sucked his teeth, a sign he was troubled. "When I was last here I caught Sir Barisan and Lady Aines...they were...hmm," he turned a shade pink. You nodded. You could guess what he meant. You'd had Aines pegged as something of a Jezebel when she had come to your bedchamber one night, faining a drunken randiness in an effort to seduce you. Perhaps the woman was more than just a bored pretty noble girl, and had her own plans.
> visit Hugh
> visit Elias
> visit Barisan
> write-in
>>46303861
>> visit Hugh
>>46303861
> visit Hugh
We cannot allow all of this to collapse.
>>46303861
>visit Hugh
>>46303861
>> visit Hugh
Oh Queenie, what could have been if we were not meant for Loveta.
Perhaps we should send one of our squires to Elias. Invite him for a dinner together the following night.
>>46303861
> visit Hugh
then Barisan let us see what Machinations are gearing up
if we can allow the scheme to happen at a later date it all falls to Wilhelm's advantage
>>46303861
>>46303894
Can support this if we're not likely to have time to visit Elias.
And now we see the plot to keep Hugh alive.
Hugh will be our fucking downfall even if Wil doesn't get killed mark my words
>>46304004
paranoid anon will just say it is better to kill him anyway to have control of the situation
>>46304043
kek
>>46303847
Queen be wet.
I wonder if Mattie will notice.
Your own liege lord commands immediate attention. With Hugo at your side you return to the Jaffa keep.
The streets of Jaffa were never broad, now with so many people it was a tight packed corridor of humanity. You kept a hand on your coin purse as you pushed through, children darting more nimbly around you. Though night had long since set the town had been transformed into a carnival, with jugglers and performers taking up space to show off their skill, and hawkers taking the opportunity to shill their wares, trying to outshout the crowd and each other. This being a time of war, many were selling protective charms and relics. Splinters of saint bones and clothes said to have been garments worn by long dead holy men and women. Water from blessed springs that seemed dirty enough to have been taken from the very gutter the merchants stood in.
You payed none of this any attention. You had long since grown used to the opportunistic holy merchants of Jerusalem. You had seen enough finger bones of St Judas to make him a fifty fingered freak on this street alone.
Coming out into the keep you found some space to move. In doing so you called over a servant to escort you to Hugh's private chambers. You were expected, and none tried to forestall you.
You pass Sir Rodrigo comparing blades with Solomon, the Spaniard giving you a friendly nod as you pass but not pausing in his conversation with Solomon.
"Thrust over cuts, a thrust kills more surely-" you heard him say in the peppered tongue of his, Solomon nodding along sagely.
Up the stairs and past more guests being entertained by Lady Aines, who had an arm looped around Sabeen's shoulder. The two were talking excitedly, with other women in their company.
"It's all so exciting. Did you see her on that horse? She looked like-"
You continued on until you came to a closed door that the servant opened for you.
A man-at-arms on the inside ushered you in, to find Hugh sitting by a fire with a cup of ale, his Sicilian beauty upon his lap.
Hugh's face perked up at the sight of you. You took a seat beside him, while Hugo continued to stand. His wife slept in his arms, head tucked against his chest, arm about his neck, snoring softly with a thin drool staining his gambeson. He stroked her curling hair, like thick black ivy, fondly.
"She's a treasure," he said, and moved a hand to touch her belly.
"You wanted to talk?" you asked. Hugh nodded, expression growing sober.
"I might not survive this campaign," he said, "Already I feel this strangeness, as if I've lived longer than I was intended to." That talk unsettled you a little, caused you to stir in your chair. "I think...I think my darling is finally with child," he said, "And if she is I want you to take care of them should I fall. And even if I don't...Would you be my child's godfather?"
It made you sit back a tad.
> of course
> no
>>46304146
> of course
Tell him!
We would get his wife away from his sister in case he dies so she wont get murdered
>>46304146
>> of course
It would be my honour to be so. But fret not, you'd not die on this campaign. I'll bring you back to your wife.
>>46304146
> of course
Hell Yeah.
>>46304146
> no
''Hugh.....I can't I'm not even a father myself..I don't even know the first thing of children''
if he persists however
> of course
>>46304146
> of course
>>46304146
You I huh? Why me? If you think it for the best of course.
>>46304146
> of course
Jaffa will remain, by Ramla and the Queen
>>46304146
Get the girl away from Jaffa you fool! Take her to Ramla or Jerusalem!!!!
>>46304146
well okay then, regardless of if he dies by our hand or Barisan we will have Influence over Jaffa in the future.
murder anon is sated so long as we gain Influence over Jaffa
"I would be honoured," you said, "Though, maybe you are being a tad premature?"
He smiled, twined her hair around his finger. "Mayhap," he said. Then sighed. "Still, I am glad to have your consent. I hope my children shall have you as a friend."
You shifted forward. "You might have good reason to fear for yourself," you said, "And her."
"Oh?" he asked, sitting up enough it made his woman stir, but soon she was returned to her slumber.
You thought on if you should tell him what you suspected.
> tell him
> don't tell him
> write-in
>>46304276
> tell him
>>46304276
> write-in
Saracens abound here and at Ascalon it would be unwise to leave her here, send her to Jerusalem or back to sicily for the duration
>>46304276
>tell him
>>46304239
Oddly, the best security would be here.
We should have mattie introduce hugh's wife to the handmaiden inner circle.
If she can hang around there, she would be safest.
Else we can detail some of our men to escort her to ramla. Perhaps hector or orlando.
>>46304276
>> tell him
>>46304276
> tell him
>>46304276
>don't tell him
>>46304276
>> tell him
>>46304276
> tell him
>>46304276
>Don't tell him
