Swordlord Yasmin Yitis-Aldori sends invitation to a number of you, inviting you to discuss the formation of an Aldori Council in the Southern Region.  Direct recipients are Sword Lord Domitius Aldori-Solanus, Lord Mayor Cassius Mordane, Safiya Vallani, Minia Dosalic and Barbatius Scaurus – along with anyone else who she has seen, or heard of, who uses an Aldori Duelling Sword.

”It is, probably, time that we organised ourselves into a coherent  body, and set some local standards.  I am trained in Mivon, Domitius and Barbatius are trained in Restov, while I understand that Safiya and Minia have not received formal training or recognition of their skills.  All these things have caused tension in the past, particularly between the Aldori of Mivon and Restov, and I think we should try to avoid that.

I need to have a training school, probably in Tusk, to make sure that I have enough trained people to guard my boats.  I imagine that Domitius will want a school of his own, which will probably teach a different style of duelling, and I imagine that Minia will want recognition of her skills, at some point soon.  Safiya, I am unsure about your desires, although you are clearly an extremely skilled with an Aldori sword and are entitled to some sort of recognition within the Aldori community.

One of my people, is due for recognition on a pro-tem basis, and I believe that Barbatius will soon be in a similar position.  I believe that it would be beneficial, for all of us, to come to some sort of agreement – before there is any cause for tension.”

NOTE:  Any player who does not have an ‘Aldori’ character can pick up a temporary NPC, which will let you join in this thread, if you wish to participate.

Domitius had recieved the note and read it with interest, he had only met Yasmin a few times and had yet to see her fight.  Still he knew that the Mivonese cousins wee competent duellists and ones due respect.

"A point in order, Minia has indeed trained with myself and I recognise her skill, she is indeed worthy to be counted amongst our number.  As for Lady Safiya she and I have fought alongside each other many times and I can vouch for her skill.

Now I do intend to open my own school, indeed my own troops will benefit from Aldori training.  I have also been training the officers of the Tusk city guard so many of them could be included in our number.

However I do not believe that Tusk will welcome our students coming to blows in the streets so a council to settle disputes amongst us will have my support.

“A cause for tension?” Cass quipped as he slid into the meeting.“I once held a cause for tension, but Domitius soundly beat it out if me with an Aldori sword.”

Cass smiled and spread his hands in a gesture of non-resistance. “I jest. I jest. But it may now be known by some that rather than follow the path of an Aldori swordlord, that I have instead focused more on the mystical arts.”

Finding an available seat, Cass sat with the others. “There were a number of reasons for that decision. Personal preference, my position as mayor of Tusk, and my overall sense of…politics, I suppose. While I admired what the Aldori had achieved in Restov, I was not a fan of how their philosophies seemed to play out in Mivon. Now, I mean no offense to anyone, simply providing an honest opinion.”

“Is there wine? Or something stronger?” Cass whispered for the benefit of any staff member who might be nearby.

“I do, however, see the benefit of Aldori trained troops for the defense of Midmarch, and spoke to Henry about such at length sometime past. But I believe that proper regulation, namely in the form of duels within schools rather that feats in the streets would be most advantageous.”
This message was last edited by the player at 10:18, Fri 17 June 2022.

"Cass my friend anytime you wish for a rematch it would be my honour." Domitius said with a twinkle in his eye "Though I hope there isn't another wedding at one of our bouts unless there is someone you haven't told me about?" and he gave a chuckle.

"Seriously though I have also spoken to Lord Henry on the matter of training and once I have my own forces in order I will look to assist.  i have also spoken to him about the formation of a Swords guild with an appropriate guildhouse and supporting buildings.  I had planned to build it within my own desmene onch it is established but perhaps Tusk could be more appropriate.  Indeed perhaps its own quarter which is something we can discuss."

"Lord Domitius' recognition is appreciated, and I further acknowledge I am but a humble learner gifted in natural talent and given a chance to hone that."

Minia had dressed in her best, which unfortunately was her armour at rest, complete with a sash and a comb run once or twice through her hair.

"Representing as I do my sister and the family of Dosalic, I support a school but pause to ask what provisions are being made to support the commonfolk? Aldori swords are well and good, would that all could be so disciplined, fortunate and mindful to study the blade, but would measures be taken to not crowd hired guards out of work in the meantime?"

Safiya voices her opinion as well. "I can certainly see advantages of opening a sword school in Tusk, though for the moment I have no plans of opening one in my domain. In part because, like Ser Mordane, my skills are not truly focused on swordsmanship. But I must say I also share his concerns regarding regulations. The place for duels is in the school, not on the street. And, to be blunt, not in politics either."

Yasmin listens to the arguments and comments put by the others, pleased that she has their basic agreement on the formation of an Aldori Council.  However, she has more to add.

”My own status has been confirmed by the Swordlords of Mivon,  Domitious was awarded his status by the Swordlords of Restov – two groups who do not have any tradition of getting along with each other. I imagine that Barbatius will be tested and approved by Restov.  My own lad, Caractus, can get recognition through Mivon.  But I would rather they didn’t feel the need to dispute the quality of each other’s training.  And I am not sure where Minia would be able to achieve proper recognition.” she adds as she strengthens the case for a Southern Aldori council, that can award its own recognition and status.

Then she continues, ”Both Mivon and Restov are somewhat ..  errr ... traditional in their ways, and their interpretations of sword skills.  But there is no reason why we need to follow those traditions quite so strictly.  I understand  that local duelling rules include the ability to use personal magics on the duelling table?” she half asks, looking for confirmation from those with experience of local duels.  ”We could incorporate that rule into our own systems of recognition.  It would seem appropriate, as I am sure that both of you …” ”She looks at Cass and Safiya, ” ..  would be a match for many swordlord, from either city.  Not the best, of course, but I doubt any of us here, could claim that honour.”  And there is an apologetic glance towards Dom, as she says it.

”Equally, I am contemplating training some of my people, mainly house and boat guards,  to fight with the duelling sword and a buckler.  Not the most elegant or sophisticated style, nor something that will serve them well on a duelling table, but I wouldn’t want them excluded from the community.” With a glance towards Minia she adds, "they will not replace all of the marine guards that I use on our vessels, but a few guards with Duelling swords do tend to make people think twice.  And I am sure that there will be just as many opportunities for a career in the military, or as house guards, as there always has been.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:29, Sat 18 June 2022.

Minia smiled with a deferent nod to Yasmin

"That's good ta hear. Seems you've thought of it all already, and there's protections for the people my sister and me care to protect."

“As for a separate district within Tusk, I am not opposed, but you would need to take it up with the city council. I don’t lead them, they lead me.” Cass chuckled.

“Regarding both the Aldori council, and the proposal of an Aldori guild, I support both endeavors. I like to think that I am a bit progressive in my own thinking, and can see only good things from both ventures.”

"I am not sure that we will need a whole district, certainly not yet." Yasmine says with a smile at the enthusiasm, "Although that should be something for the Senior Sword Lord of Southern and Tusk Council to consider."  She says with a nod towards Cass.

"As for our Senior Swordlord, I would like to propose Swordlord Domitius Aldori-Solanus.  He has been here longer than I and, truth be told, is probably a better duellist than I." She adds, following the lead of the Mivon tradition and declaring herself as less skilled than her perceived rival.

Domitius gave a slight smile and nodded towards Yasmin thrn raised an eyebrow at the others in the room.

"Agreed. If a senior swordlord must be chosen, Domitius is the best candidate."

"I have no objections to that."

"Nor I. Says as foppish looking man from the back of the room.  "How broadly do you intend to define The Aldori family?"

He pauses for a moment, before realizing that he hasn't introduced himself.  "I am Tomin Hanvaki, a resident of Ivory Hill and an amateur duellist."
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:29, Wed 29 June 2022.

"That is a question that I have been pondering myself. Master Robert who runs the current salon certainly deserves a place at the table.  Though weather he is deemed a full member of a council of duellists or an associate of the Aldori council is yet to be determined.

As to my nomination as Senior Swordlord of the Southern Region I will accept the nomination. and pledge to look after the interests of the council and it's members.  Further I intend o provide a bridge between our Mivonese cousins and the Rostland Aldori.
he pauses and looks around the room for any sign of dissension before continuing "So what are the views of you all, should we include other styles to join our number?"

For a moment, Yasmine looks shocked, then schools her face into a more disciplined pose.  She knew, academically, that Restov was more liberal,  than Mivon.  But that was the first time that she had come across it in practice.

"Mivon does not recognise any of the other duelling styles." she says after a moment or two, "But that doesn't mean we have to follow their lead." she adds hastily.  "Although perhaps, the Title of Swordlord could be restricted to Aldori?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:41, Thu 30 June 2022.

"Personally, I practice all three main styles.  The discipline of each as so different, although many will say that they are similar.  I find the changes between the disciplines make my body work differently, and I find that both therapeutic and exhilarating." Tomin adds, the enthusiasm of a dedicated amateur clear in his voice.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:05, Thu 30 June 2022.

OOC:  This page lays out the various duelling types and how they are (currently) categorised in some parts of the world.  All of you, will have a basic understanding of this as a subject.

However, it will be flavoured by your background  :)


http://rp.baileymail.net/doku....eral:duelling#aldori

We should probably open this thread up to Non Aldori duellists, seeing as we are now discussing them.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:54, Thu 30 June 2022.

OOC I notice that Magic Hand style is not mentioned, as it is a variation on the Modern, Light blade style. Was that an oversight, or is it held in such low esteem that Aldori duelists will not acknowledge their existence?

OOC:  I wrote that page a couple of years ago, to cover the broad schools of Duelling.:)  There are sub-schools and styles  of each duelling type.

For example -  the Aldori Duelling School has the Swordlord Archetype, the Defender archetype and  the Swordlord Prestige Class.  All of which could be considered styles or sub-schools of the Aldori Technique.

However, in some areas (such as Restov), it is possible to gain Swordlord status without following any of those styles/sub-schools - and inventing a technique of your own.  In that case, the requirement is that you duel to a high standard using a Duelling Sword.  :) Note that the Khavatorov and The Mivon families restrict training to their own houses -  and each house might follow a slightly different style.

The same is true of the Modern style - but there are probably more sub-styles than any other school.  There is the classic Rapier style  (just one rapier) - a Dual Wield style -  often a Rapier and Duelling Dagger  (although it could be  Short Sword and Dagger etc) - Mage Hand is just another variant / sub-school / style of the Modern Duelling Tradition.

The Traditional Duelling Tradition, is a bit more fixed in its ways, perhaps because it was started as a military style.  There is one main style (taught through the archetype) although there is a feat that makes a sub-style.   Which is, Perhaps, looked down on slightly by the older, more traditional members of this Duelling Tradition.

“Perhaps those who do not meet the Aldori requirement may be awarded the title of Master Duelist instead at some point,” Cass suggested. “If a guild is implemented, it could be termed a duelist guild to separate it from an Aldori council. Or two guilds formed, one for Aldori and one for other duelist forms. These are merely suggestions and I defer to the Aldori in this endeavor. As I would not be granted the title of Swordlord, it may be more prudent to have me only in the duelist category. Although I plan to continue with my training and have no desire to relinquish my own Aldori sword for a different blade.”
This message was last edited by the player at 11:54, Thu 30 June 2022.

OOC:  Been playing with the RP duelling rules a bit, straightened them out and modified them for sub-styles etc.

Let me have your thoughts

http://galinia.org.uk/duelling-2
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:20, Thu 30 June 2022.

OOC :


The Defensive Style (Duellist feat) Is this the combat feat Defensive Weapon Training or something only from the Defender archetype?

OOC:  In that specific case, just the Defender Archetype which is specifically Aldori in flavour.  :)

However, that is a  generally useful feat for all duellists, and might be worked into something that gives Master Duellist status.  However, the Aldori in Southern Region (ie the Aldori in this thread)  might decide to accept it as part of a route to Swordlord.  As always, you players are in control of this side of the game :)   However, if the bar is set too low, Restov and Mivon might object.

"My own house is more pragmatic than some in Mivon. We train our guards to fight with the Duelling Sword and a Buckler, however, we know that would never be accepted on the duelling table.  But the Yitis family members who we train as guards, are never likely to be able to take the Aldori name.  We are more rigorous with those who show an aptitude for a duelling.  But those guards are still part of our Aldori family, in the same way that the troops sent out to as mercenaries are."  she shrugs lightly, as she puts the Yitis family position.

“There seem to be three aspects at play here.” Cass continued to offer his opinion in hopes of being helpful, although it seemed more and more that he was more than slightly removed from the Aldori themselves. “Puissance, politics, and prestige. The Aldori as lords encompass the benefits and responsibilities of the political arena. The duelist is concerned with his or her puissance in dueling, and some seek more so to be able to be recognized with a bit of prestige for their efforts.”

“Although I am honored by the title of Lord Mayor, I am not technically a noble. Nor do I have the full requisites or abilities to garner the term swordlord. Neither do I have the full requirements to be considered a Master Duelist as my skill level will most likely remain in the novice category. This is of little concern for me as titles are not necessarily my forte. But, as in the example of the guards who serve the Aldori, it would be a honor to hold some form of specialist title. I am not sure this is a matter for an Aldori council, but may be a matter for the establishment of a guild or guilds, if one wanted to make a distinction. A title of Partisan or Legionnaire perhaps with a corresponding Partisan’s or Legionnaires guild or guild subset? Such things may be of no consequence, merely my diplomatic nature at play.”
This message was last edited by the player at 14:12, Thu 30 June 2022.

Ï don't think there is an issue Lord Mordane with students or indeed those who dabble with the Aldori form becoming members of the guild if indeed we should open one.  I think we are looking towards those who would have a seat upon the council that should oversee the training in the Aldori styles and perhaps other styles as well.

I do believe we have no need to issue titles other than Swordlord where appropriate.
 The main work of the council will be to ensure that those seeking such a title are worthy and those who seek to train others are skilled enough with a blade that they cause more good than harm.  We would also look to settle disputes between schools and formalise duelling practices.

Does anyone have an other suggestions for the council's duties? Domitius said to the assembled group.

Yasmin nods at Dom's suggestion, then adds "I think, perhaps, the first thing we should decide is whether we want to include other styles of duelling. If so, we should invite the masters of those traditions to join us. I always forget the other styles, they don't feature in Mivon." She says with a slightly apologetic look.

Then she addresses the matter that is he primary concern, "We have a clear precedent, from both Mivon and Restov, for leadership within Aldori duelling and training - and we have a Swordlord from each tradition who can form the nucleus of a local Aldori council.  I assume that we will discuss, between us, those candidates who are put forward for Swordlord status, and come to a mutual decision on their status." and there is a slightly questioning tone as she glances across to Dom.  "We have three potential candidates, who might put themselves forward soon.  Barbatius Scaurus, Domitius's friend and a student of the Restov style.  My cousin, Borya Yitis who is a student in the Mivon traditions and Minia Dosalic, who is largely self-taught.  Borya will, eventually, be responsible for our new sword school in Shrikemouth, so it is important that we all accept his credentials to teach." she finishes  with a  reason for moving fairly quickly on the matter.


OOC:  As far as I can see - Teaching Duelling, we have

• Adoven's Duelling School in  Tusk (and possibly his academy) under the  leadership of The Modern Style (Adoven and Robert)
• The Yitis School, which will Teach the Aldori Duelling Style (to a limited number of Students) along with more mundane military skills suitable to house and Marine Guards
  I assume that Dom will build a training establishment, at some point.

Other than that, I think all the other Sword Schools train soldiers, guards and mercenaries.  Although I am will to be corrected.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:51, Fri 01 July 2022.

“Senior Swordlord,” Cass was pleased to acknowledge both Domitius’s new title and his new role. “It seems that you have a clear vision of how you would like to proceed. I believe the Aldori Council is in good hands.”

Cass had not meant to suggest that the Aldori Council was responsible for duelists outside its own ranks, but Dom had suggested a guild as well and Cass thought that separation could be nurtured without incident. But Cass was not always best at expressing himself, despite sometimes being gifted in just that. As he had expressed, his standing within the Aldori was that of a novice and not likely to change anytime soon. He would have felt forward making any more suggestions, even if he had any, considering that it had become apparent that while he might have been a good fit for the council under different circumstances, that he really did not belong among them.

It was more of a courtesy, really, to be invited to participate. And Cass wished them all the best moving forward, but he thought it best to say little more until he was dismissed.

Domitius nodded towards Cass, "My thanks for your wisdom Lord Mordane, you have gien us more to think on.  I do believe we should offer masters of other styles a position on the council and if they prove themselves worthy then I would invite them to take the title of swordlord and stand amongst us as equals. The Aldori name though we shall reserve for those who follow the Aldori way. Is this acceptable Yasmin?" he asled the other Swordlord in the room.

Tomin interrupts before Yasmin can speak  "I believe the preferred title in Restov and New Steven, now, is Duelling Master, with the honorific Master, if it is required."  he pauses for a moment, and then adds "Having seen Lord Adoven practising at the school in Tusk, I believe that he is at that level, although I am not really a practitioner of the Modern School."  With an apologetic glance across at Cass, he continues  "I haven't really seen anyone else there practising as hard, or in the same way ...  although decisions of that type, clearly, rest in your hands, not mine."
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:36, Mon 04 July 2022.

Yasmin looks surprised as Tomin cuts in, but refrains from taking him to task.  Eventually, she nods along with his comments.  "I see no problem with a broader guild of duellists, perhaps with Masters from the other traditions?  I don't think calling Masters of other styles Swordlord would go down well in Mivon  ...  and each tradition would have to be responsible for their own promotions and behaviour."

So where re we going with this?  Shall I announce a Duelling Council - or an Aldori Council when I close down the campaign round?

"Very well an Aldori council then with seats for the leaders of each tradition or school.  In addition we shall sponsor a broader guild of duellists to which other swordmasters may aspire to a position. How does that sound? Domitius asked

I think we gp with an Aldori council for now at least.

Both Yasmin and Tomin, nod their agreement.

Would you like me to open a Duelling Council thread -  which allows Adoven (and Robert) to have a say?