The meeting started off well, his Father was in rare form today, or so thought Mathys.  As much as he enjoyed seeing his older brother be put in his place, he was not about to let the credit be given to another, for the Dornish challenge.

 " I am the reason, Father. I am the cause, for the Dog of Dorn, to cast down the gauntlet, and it shall be Mathys that picks it up.  If we cannot put these men of Dorn in the ground, then at least we can put them in their place."

 Mathys took a drink, and braced himself for the storm that would be his Father's response.

Lord Ascar replies to his son "SO Mathys, you will test the Dornishmen's metal. You will defend our house's honor. You know men dies at these tournaments.... Is this an excuses for you to kill another Dorne, or give this house one less heir?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:47, Thu 03 July 2014.

  In response to his father's words, the young Knight stood to his feet and regarded his father, with a most serious expression.

 " The challenge was made, even if the Dornish thick wits offered a wager to go with it. What would you have me do, Father? Honor demands, that  I accept the challenge, which I did. It is a matter of the honor of our House, and my own. If the Dorn fall and never rise again, in the encounter, all the better."

 His hands where now holding the edge of the table, but his body language and stern glance at his sire, was of challenge. Not a wise thing to do, in Ascar's own Hall, but Mathys was not one to see the angles of a matter, unless it was upon a field of battle or the Lists.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:56, Thu 03 July 2014.

In reply to Ser Mathys Ashfield (msg # 35):

Dyllan grasps Mathys hand, not making eye contact, in an attempt to clam Mathys down a bit. "Mathys please sit down, .... Lord Ascar your son did what was required of him, everyone played their part well and the Dorne have given in to your request."

"But what I don't understand is this separate meeting with the House Kaldor, .... Why is one of our longest enemy been invited here as a honored guest?"


Lord Ascar's focus quickly changes, "Yes Dyllan we will discuss this next, ....."

Merius was now completely befuddled. This was going from bad to worst. Or better, depending on the perspective. He cast a sideways glance at Ser Edric to try to read on his face his take on the events thus far.

May I offer insight. I am not certain, but just as there are rivalries in the the Reach between houses. I believe that it is even more so in Dorne. For the most part, the Reach is of similar lineage and culture, but the Dorne seem to be more separated. If, I am correct Lord Steiner and Kaldor or rivals.

Mara paused and poured some wine for the standing Lord Ascar.

Just upon Kaldor's arrival we heard them make comments about their Dornish brothers being less cultured. My Lord, while the Sers Edric and Mathys accepted the challenge. he Dorne lord wisely neglected to say who their champion will be. This gives Steiner an advantage of placing a champion that might understand their fighting styles and capitalize on it. If, it was I would practice in private, and give them no knowledge of your skills prior to battle less they prep themselves for that style.

As she speaks she hand Lord Ascar, and braces her will to meet his stare. She had found that often by meeting a man in his world she could disarm him quickly of his wits and make her point.

This message was deleted by the player at 01:19, Fri 04 July 2014.

In reply to Mara Neumann (msg # 38):

"Enough of this, We are asked to begin trade agreements with the Dorne, these orders did not come with instructions, just simple open a trade way. Steiner is a sly man and a pirate, just a bit better then the Iron Born. They serve Martell's when it suits their house. And my eyes in ears in the south say they can not be trusted. We will open trade with House Kaldor through the Prince's Pass, they are loyal to House Kowlyn and from the 'Pass' we can open trade to the waters."

Lord Ascar was not really upset about the word spoken or his sons position but now once House Steiner learns they have no trade agreement through there lands they will want to take revenge for this slight, but as Lord Ascar did not let anyone know of his intentions he must bring it to light after the fact.

"These talks about Tourneys will have to wait it's not why I call you all here."

Lord Ascar grabs a servent "Go fetch Lord Kaldor let him know we are ready to sit with him."
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:50, Mon 07 July 2014.

The conversation continue at the table until there guest arrives.

Bruce has little social skills and when they come up he normally finds the smaller ones have something to prove and pick fights. With this in mind he looks over at the men standing around, "Just get back to work and finish what you were doing, The Dorne are not here to fight today"

Bruce then makes his way back up to the walls to finish his guard duties.

Ser Duncan looks over at Bruce, "not to far our orders were clear, we are to be ready and to protect."

Burce just walks away, Ser Duncan knows well Bruce will hold to his word and be ready, but Duncan seems to enjoy testing Bruce when he gets the chance.

Ser Ducan takes a seat just outside the doors and watches the courtyard and its events unfold.

In reply to Corinne Flowers (msg # 29):

As she approached the Stable Hands to ensure the destriers were groomed she found one of the Stable hands, a young one named Richard Flowers who was only 20 Wrestling with one of the destriers on a walking leash. "AYE, AYE CALM DOWN! WHOA!!!" the horse was lifting its front legs into the air and kicking forward as Richard ducked out of the way. "Blood Seven Hells!"

Pulling down on the leash he continued to work the horse as it lashed out. "Thank the Seven you're here Ma'am!" he called to Corinne. "Something's spooked him and I can't get 'im to settle, he hasn't acted this brash since we brok 'im!"

Corinne Flowers sighed heavily having just finished getting herself cleaned up and getting something solid and hot into her stomach, she'd come out to check over the stables and make sure all the horses were settling in as well as keep an eye on the stable hands making sure they were about their business smartly. Then she heard the angry cry of that young destrier that they'd brought out on patrol and cursed heading toward the sound as fast as possible, she was relieved to see that the powerful and expensive young warhorse hadn't injured or killed anyone. The tall dirty blonde woman whistled softly getting the large warhorses attention and raised her hand out toward it slowly walking toward trying to present herself as nonthreatening as possible, still the horse bite and stamped as she got closer.

Corinne spoke softly but clearly to the young groom another bastard like herself and someone she considered a friend as well as someone who worked under her, "I know Richard, this one is dangerous it took a trained lancer to keep him under control on the patrol. Now remain calm and keep his reins firmly in your hands boy." The massive horse stamped and bite angry and afraid as Corinne slowly very carefully moved up and stroked its neck, the horse was obvious shy about being touched but it calmed down for a moment. Which was long enough for Corinne to take is walking rope firmly in her well trained hands and get the horse tied off to something strong enough that she didn't have to worry about the horse breaking it or pulling it up. The destier obvious wasn't please by this and he snorted viciously as twisted against the rope reigning up and kicking once or twice while Corinne stepped back away from the horse pulling the young stable boy with her, as they got farther away the warhorse calmed a little.

With that Corinne sighed in relief, "That was close Richard, I hadn't suspected that she was that shy around people but I guess four trained lancers are experienced enough to keep her from going wild. Unfortunately that destrier is one of the new ones we purchased and she's saddle shy, she scared of her own shadow with a serious hatred for people in general." The tall dirty blonde woman squatted down a safe distance away and check out the destiers stomach then closed her eyes and cursed, "And that would be the reason why, I should have checked when we first took her out on patrol." She pointed to a line of scars along the horse's stomach, "The horse breeder who 'trained' her was an incompetent and cruel to boot, he lashed her regularly on her stomach where it would harder to see when someone bought her. Nasty business."

Lord Garin of Kaldor, is Lord Reinard oldest son and 1st heir. He is well know by name in The Reach because he has lead many victories against those that attempted to march through the Prince's Pass. He is well know for some interesting and bold ambush tactics that forced many to retreat.

His family has not been very recognized, and many other houses have taken credit for both his and his fathers achievements. Never the less they are extremely proud men and respectful on the battle field using many of the old ways, including releasing prisoners, that pledge not to return under any circumstances. They, ...themselves have never been accused of lower tactics like torture or and cruelty.

Lord Garin is a young man, unmarried and has sharp facial features, and has olive tone skin. He stand about 5' 10" and has a med. build, ... he doesn't look over powerful nor does he look like a pushover.

The door opens, dress in Dorne fashion but still dirty from his travels, "My Lords and Ladies, .... " The servant passes a wine goblet to Garin and fills it then from the same pitcher fills the lords glass, a tray of salted meat is then passed to the lord and then his guest, as the normal and tradition exchange of customs is observed, but not discussed. "Thank you, ... both on my behalf and my family."

Bearing several scrolls with different family seals he takes one of the open seats and places these scrolls one by one on the table. As he lays then, "House Kowlyn, and his banner houses, House Kaldor, House Ravenhowe, and the families of House Dylann have all sent their conditions and requests for this trade agreement. These papers confirm I can speak on all their behaves. And that if you are will to do the same they will finalize this at Kings Landing after the nations are at peace by marriage."

 The second son sat there, and watched the man enter, and make what to his mind, was a boring pronouncement. He toyed with the hilt of his dagger, as he said something snarky. " Trade agreements, they smack of matters that concern Merchants, and those with ink stained fingers. Hardly a matter worthy of the attention of Nobles." Mathys reached for his goblet and took a long swallow of wine.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:31, Mon 14 July 2014.

Edric keeps his composer as Lord Ascar take his seat behind. Edric knows that Ascar can be intimidating and is fearful of what can can happen if he does not word himself carefully, but he does not let this fear play out across. Lucky Mathys spoke up before Edric could respond and defend his sister against Ascar sarcastic comments. He simply remains quite returning Merius's look with a nod letting him know that everything will be ok. as talks of trade agreements take place Edric picks up each scroll and looks over all the seals before speaking up. I am sure that these arrangements are all well and good, but what is really going on? I am sure that we all do not need to be present and meeting in secret for such a simple matter that M'Lord and Maester Jon can can easily handle.

In reply to Ser Edric Neumann (msg # 49):

Lord Garin of Kaldor looks at Lord Ashfield for his approval, once the lord nods his approval Garin replies to Ser Edric, "You are correct Ser Edric, if it was only so simple as a trade agreement, Lord Steiner and his banner men are prideful men and they will be extremely upset to know that they will not be included in this agreement. Behind closed doors they are one of a few houses that stand against this peace agreement. So much so, that my house has uncover a plot to assassinate a member of one of the Dorne houses and place blame on the north. I believe that once this trade agreement is in place your house or one of your banner houses will be victim of these despicable actions and your houses should all be careful going forward. Steiner and his house are often compared to the Ironborn in their sea going abilities and sometimes in their actions. Revenge will be their fuel and more war will be their payment. Our family ties are strong with their house in our history and with their banner men. But the Dornish can be fickle about such matters. Lord Kowlyn and the houses in this agreement will travel north by sea to the Stormlands they wish to show a strength in this peace agreement and enter the Crownlands by the side of your houses. The meeting location will be Blackhaven and from their to Kings Landing."

Garin looks about the room taking note of facial expressions, "I will await your answers and leave by morning. I ask that you hold off any meeting with them until I have a day or two start to avoid any interaction with them as I'm sure they will if they can."

"Unless I am needed I will take my leave and rest, ....."

RECAP

msg #32




Vernon Steiner and one of his men-at-arms rides into the courtyard, .... they circle their horses, taking in the structure and layout. They are creating a large dust cloud, a common tactic for Dornish horsemen,......

Vernon stops at the sight of Wulfgang, ... he then takes better control of his horse and moves up to Wolfgang "So the wolf is here then that means the snake is not so far behind, ... Where is your Lord Garin?

Wulfgang has a surprised look on his face, and a look of fear and disbelief of who stands in front of him. "But you were said to be dead .. ?"

"NO BOY A STEINER DOESN'T DIE AT SEA WE KILL AT SEA !" Vernon is clearly very upset at the sight of Wulfgang. Turning to the closest Asfield "I see that House Ashfield has already taken in a Dornish Lord, .... Tell your lord we seek our audience in 2 days or this peace agreement goes back to your king and our prince with mal-contempt."

"Wulfgang tell your lords stay off the eastern seas, ...." he turns the horse away and then quickly back, "OOooo and tell Lord Garin that we know of the 'Butcher' and we send our regards to his brother, ..." he starts laughing.

Again turns to the nearest Ashfield "I come to invite but I think its best now for us to stay clear of one another until we formally meet as diplomats, .... make sure your lord knows this as well, .... he is not welcomed at our site unless he comes with open arms to discuss what we came here for" each time speaking to an Ashfield he circles the horse to strike fear of getting trampled if to close.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:56, Mon 14 July 2014.

Mara was surprised by the announcement. It did not seem to fit the direct approach she had seen at House Steiner. They were more likely to stir up problems through the tourney.

Lord Ascar, you are truly blessed to be so respected that Lord Garin trusted you with this information. I hope all the dealings between you and the Dorne go so well. In this world of ours it is could to have friends.

Mara had learned in court that deceptive courtiers often had ticks to that would display themselves. She smiled outwardly playing the part of a dandy. but she watched carefully for any tell that Lord might have.

In reply to Mara Neumann (msg # 52):

Lord Garin is not showing nervousness, anger, or any real emotions, perhaps too calm. Their is a lot of 'Bad Blood' between these houses. Perhaps as the old saying goes, keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but maybe Garin is trying to get to close. Regardless the orders for Lord Ashfield are clear make a trade agreement and begin commerce to and from Dorne.

Edric leans back in chair  rolling his eyes and grinning at the news of the plot that they have just learned about. And this is the greatness of peace! He says in a sarcastic tone. You trade the fear of getting a spear in the gut for the fear of a dagger in the back, now I understand why everyone loves it so much. Leaning forward and bring his hands together on the table, taking a more serious tone. Lord Ascar, I will make sure that my father is made aware and that he takes all the necessary precautions. turning his attention to Mara. Sister, if we are truly in danger then you will not leave the sight of either myself or Ser Duncan. It is bad enough that we have to worry about Olaf already.  Edric stands and gives a nod to the Lords and those at the table. Well it seems I will take my leave too. It has been a long day of riding and I have had my fill of politics for one day. Lord Garin, it will not be said that House Neumann didn't do it part in sealing old wounds. Talk to my man Merrius and fell free to take as many Blue Lances as you need to see yourself safely home. I look forward to seeing them and your family at Blackhaven.

Edric takes his leave and exits the council chambers. Taking a look out the window he sees Vernon circling the courtyard in his horse, seeming very upset. I wonder what has the snake flustered now. He thought to himself, but seeing that Lady Pella wasn't in the courtyard, he decided in wasn't worth his time to investigate. Anyway, Lord Ascar made him an offer and he wasn't going to reject any offer made by the man who had raised him. Edric wondered about the halls of Poppy Hall, reminiscing on his times he spent running about these halls as youth. Finally making his way to the Maester's Chamber he gives and nod to Maester Jon, who was busying working on some concoction. Leaning against the door he gives out a laugh at the sight of Pella reading one of her many books. It seems you have not change one bit M'Lady. After so many years it can still be counted on that you would be down here reading.

 When Edric bespoke of his soon to be departure, Mathys stood to his feet. "With your permission Father, I shall escort Edric to his horse. He is an old friend, and I wish to say my farewells." The second son of his father, only spoke in such a way, because his father was one of the few people, he actually respected. He could count such on his hands, and have fingers left over to give obscene gestures to the Dorne.

In reply to Ser Mathys Ashfield (msg # 55):

Mathy's father simply waves his hand once in as "just go" fashion, and does not reply to Ser Eric as they dismiss himselves.

"Very well then I will discuss in private the finial arrangements with Lord Garin the rest my go as well."

The activity from the courtyard can be heard through the window, The lord and Garin pay no mind to the noise but for the rest its hard not to think, what all the noise is about. (voices at a load tone, horses and heavy trotting, even some of the dust cloud can be seem if looking at the window).