ToG — Legacy Forums — Strolen's Citadel

Re: ToG

#81

Belomas and Velaquo

If Quills thought the quick trip to the palace's inn would make Velaquo forget about the Tale of the Coin, he was sorely mistaken.

Uninterested in the injured man his new friend, the Maester, was tending to, Velaquo kept looking about the palace grounds, as if calculating something, then turned back to Quills, and raised both oily brows in question.

"Like I said, we buried it. Me and the some of the other lads. Not many know, maybe seven. Two may be dead though. But it is as I said, we would need a ship. Its not far though, only a few days sail." Quills whispered all this as Velaquo listened.

----------------

For a moment Belomas thought he smelled the aroma of death, or in this case, the onions as it were. He sniffed again in earnest and realized the smell was awful, but not of onions. The Maester was a man of knowledge and sense, not a religious man, yet this huge knight before him was surely a leaning miracle. Still, he would need tending too, and if the wound became infected...

Re: ToG

#82

"Thank you, and the roads between Casterly Rock and King's Landing are quite clear and safe to travel," Korley said and took a small sip of his wine. "And word of your victory over Stannis has spread only slightly slower than the rising of the sun my King." The words were said to Joffrey, but Korley made sure that he was looking at Tywin as he spoke.

"But yes I did attempt to slay a cockatrice in Tumbleton, the fool spouted about insults and claimed to be one a Stark'sman. The Cockatrice seemed ready to fight and I wasn't going to disappoint him. So I ended up sticking him before he was fully erect and the cockatrice in question went limp. Only then did the piss drunk bastard mumble something about being summoned to King's Landing. I made sure that he survived the trip here and have made sure that his life is in the best care that I was able to procure." He took another small sip of his wine.

Re: ToG

#83

The sword cut having failed to reach stomach, or bowel, or major vessel, the enemy now was blood fever. Carefully he cleaned the wound, and he called for help from those nearbye. "I will close the wound now. Please ensure he does not interfere."

Re: ToG

#84

Korley

Joffrey seemed quite pleased with Korley's reply, pleased enough to lean back in his chair and shut up.

"Summoned to King's Landing you say? We summoned no such man." Said Tywin "Now i am intrigued. where is this wounded cockatrice? We will question him."

"He is outside... the inn the Crown and Stag, mi'lord" came the mellifluous voice of Varys, "a Maester tends to him as Ser Korley has said. Shall we have him summoned,mi'lord?"

"Yes," answered Tywin, then paused, "And so a cockatrice is summoned to King's Landing after all. Ser Boros, bring him here, and the surgeon who tends to him."

Turning back to Korley, Tywin said, "You are a direct young man, that is what I've always admired about you. My brother's able bastard. Need to take a hill, send Hill, is that what they used to say back in Casterly Rock?" Another lip peel, a smile. "And so I will be direct with you. I seek your service, your blade, your will, and your loyalty."

Tywin paused again and speared Korley with a stare...judging the man and his heart.

Tyrion belched loudly.

Re: ToG

#85

"You flatter me, mi'lord," Korley said, unflinching from Tywin's gaze. "I am your man."

Re: ToG

#86

Korley

"Good. That is very good. Now let me tell you what I offer in return. Do this one service for the Crown sucessfully, and you will never be called Hill again. Men will call you only Korley Lannister. Or they will hang."

Tywin paused.

"And you will be given your choice of post. The Kingsguard could use some fresh blood, if you want to follow in Jaime's footsteps. Or, I can offer you some land, and a title, to go with your new name."

Pause for effect

"Now, let us drink, and glance upon this wounded cockatrice, and later we will speak again, you and I, and I will tell you what the Crown needs done."

Re: ToG

#87

"Then it shall be that I will never be called Hill again," Korley said, "Because I will be Lannister or dead." He took a drink from his cup, a real drink rather than a sip. He was curious to find out what service to the crown would be great enough for him to cast off his bastard surname and be brought fully into the family. It was as he said, it would be something he would accomplish, or would die in the trying. He did hope that it wasn't something suicidal.

Re: ToG

#88

Rheyna woke slowly to the sound of hooves plodding along the road, her joints stiff and hurting a little due in no small part to having slept on horseback leaning against a burly warriors back for most of the night.

At the mention of the Marshes she could feel her ears prick, did Kat really think it wise to go through there? If you didn't know your way you could lose yourself for a long time. Many who didn't know, rarely made it back.

Reluctantly she spoke to Katrina, "If you're sure that you know the way through then this would be the safer route. The open road is risky, but at least we'll know our way."

"What do you think, Sir?" she asked Odrin, while rubbing sleep from her eyes.

Re: ToG

#89

Odrin detested swamps. He had become intimately acquainted with their unpleasantness several years back, while protecting a young lordling en route from Norvos to Volantis. Their river barge had caught an unexpected outcropping and the repairs had taken nearly a sevenday to complete, during which time Odrin found that bloodflies had a real taste for his blood. It seemed to Odrin that the wretched creatures had left off biting everything else -- including the pack animals -- to torment him. He had fervently hoped that he would never see another swamp as long as he lived.

None of that showed on his face, however. What Katrina said made sense, and he knew it; without better knowledge of the lands around, Odrin would simply have to trust the girl to find them a safe haven. By the forgotten gods, how blind he felt now!

"If miss Katrina is certain that she can find shelter within the swamps, then we should heed her advice, mistress. At the very least, it will give us some time to consider our course."

As he nudged his horse forward after Kat, Odrin did not curse. But he fervently wished that he could.

Re: ToG

#90

Katrina listened carefully to both her lover and Odrins opinions, unsure for a few moments if indeed she was making the correct choice in returning to the familiar realm of her childhood, nodding in agreement at Odrin's observation that they cold always leave at a later date if they so chose and return to the open road.

"I was raised here in the Neck, and the Reed people are my family, within these lands nothing will find us lest we wish it, and the bounty of the fen is plentiful enough to keep out bellies full and packs well stocked should the need arise for us to travel elsewhere."

Turning from the road she guided them into the largely unknown regions of the neck, the familiar scents and sounds bringing back a flood of emotions and comforting sense of safety. For a time at least, she could let herself relax a bit, and perhaps get some much desired rest before long.

Re: ToG

#91

Kat, Odrin, Rheyna

Kat began guiding the trio into the wild and boggy fens of the Neck.

Legends claimed that when the First Men crossed the Narrow Sea ages ago, and began to settle Westeros, the Fae Children who dwelled there, fought back against the human migration to their shores. It is said the Children attempted twice, through powerful magicks, in keeping the humans from settling their mysterious continent.

The first time, the Children’s primal sorceries destroyed the massive land-bridge that separated Essos from Westeros. This resulted in the land-bridge breaking up into hundreds of islands and atolls, and the area is now known as the Stepstones.

The second attempt the Children made was even bolder, when they tried to cause the seas themselves to separate North Westeros from the South. They failed however, but not before the entire area became a giant swamp…The Neck.

Here, the trees are half-drowned and covered in fungus, quicksand (and worse) hides beneath the soggy soil, and the very land itself “moves” from place to place.

Like the deepest Northern Forests, the Swamps of the Neck were still one of the few remaining places in Westeros, where ‘wonders’ from myth and history could still be found. Here could be encountered giant carnivorous flowers, lurking Lizard-lions, bog-devils, witches, and the ancient, dying Fae, the Swamp Children--both vile and benign.

(Part II of post to come shortly)

Re: ToG

#92

Velaquo grabbed the cockatrice knight's arms as the Maester worked, and as the giant struggled, he waves a few hesitant guards over to do the same - still they were almost tossed off amidst the knight's struggle and roars.

Somehow, Belomas still managed to clean and sew; somehow, the knight managed to stay awake. Catgut went in and out, cleansed immediately prior in hot water.

Velaquo smiled and observed intently - with a learned man at his side, he might lose only half as many soldiers.
"I'm impressed - at your skill, and at the drunk's vigor. Let's make sure he lives, men like that are rare."

Re: ToG

#93

Odrin, Rheyna, Kat

They moved quickly the rest of that day, at times walking their horses across shallow streams, minor tributaries of the Saltspear. That night they reached the edges of the fen, without any further mishap (though earlier they spied an Ironborn Dragonship making its way along a wider tributary, but hid out of sight before continuing on) and paused to gaze upon what seemed to be a forest of shoulder-high cattails and sedge-grass, with an occasional willow tree or stunted alder in the distance.

Not a great place for horses and riding, Odrin considered, more than once as they slowly made their way now through the bogs. At least it was warmer here. The icy, northern wind did not dare enter this ancient realm.

As they traveled, Kat occasionally paused to collect some shrub or handful of leaves from the ground. The shrub she told Odrin to chew on. When he raised a brow in question, she explained that the herb acted as an internal blood-cleanser, and would help heal his shoulder wound faster. Infection, and even gangrene, could set in quickly here in The Neck.

At one point, Kat leapt from her horse and raised her hand for Odrin and Rheyna to stop their mount as well. Poking around with a broken branch ahead, she quickly identified a sink-hole, and the trio proceeded to circumnavigate the natural hazard.

It was getting dark now, and just as Odrin was about to suggest making camp, Kat pointed ahead, and there in the distance, Odrin and Rheyna could see a feint light, and a thin snaking smoke rising up to the moon. Now in fact, under their feet was a soggy, make-shift beaten path, and after a few more minutes, a ramshackle inn came into view.

The Sleeping Toad was the only inn a hundred leagues around, serving as a way-station to those coming in and out of the great swamp. Here could be acquired supplies, and even a guide if one was lucky enough. A stable catered to those who wanted to mercifully leave their mounts before sloshing deeper into the maze-like fens.

Here could be found mushroom pickers, snake-tamers, reed-weavers, eel-hunters, and all kinds of other folk who made their living on the outskirts of The Neck. Here could also be found those who did not wish to be found, or simply those escaping the raging wars and bloodshed.

The three travelers approached.

Re: ToG

#94

Korley, Gargalen, Belomas, Velaquo

(ooc: Mourn, hang tight, you can still go with that entrance, but this post is a few minutes prior to that...)

As the Small Council awaited the arrival of the wounded man and his healer, Lord Varys leaned over and whispered something feverishly to Lord Tywin. Tyrion meanwhile scribbled something onto a piece of parchment with a quill.

"Grandfather, i tire of this. I will leave these trivial matters to you. I am getting married tomorrow, after all. The King must have his rest." said Joffrey in his nasally voice, and rose to go without further ado.

Everyone else rose as well, (except the sleeping Maester Pycelle), and bowed, as Joffrey strode from the hall, accompanied by Ser Mandon Moore..

"Whilst we wait nephew, I will ask you. Do you know who The Brave Companions are? A rather blood-thirsty mercenary company, but relatively new to our shores. Recently, they have been in my--the crown's-- employ." Said Tywin casually turning back to Korley.

Cersei for her part, took this moment to glance at Korley who had just drank deeply from his goblet.

That's the second time she has looked noted Korley without betraying his ignorance to the appraisal from across the table, though his heart skipped a beat faster.

-----------------------

Ser Boros Blount marched across the hall, down the stairs, and out into the courtyard, at which point he veered toward the Royal Inn. As he strode in, his eyes adjusted momentarily to the dim light, then he saw what he came for, across the taproom. Some men were holding down a brutish knight, as a maester worked on his bloody body.

"You there" he announced in a gravelly voice, "Ser Gargalen i presume---he did not wait for an answer--Lord Tywin demands your presence. And you Maester." he pointed a hairy, gnarled ginger at Belomas.

"And who are you supposed to be then?" He garbled, looking at Velaquo and Quills now with mean, piggish eyes.

For his part, Rufus belched some more blood, then ranted somewhat incoherently, still not fully conscious..."Ahh, Ser Blount, I--You have once you of heard of he--who-- i heard---fuggers--- little boys." Rufus tailed off, coughed violently and shook.

Boros Blount did not quite hear the last, and remained standing there like a statue.

Re: ToG

#95

Kat gestured tiredly to the inn, the effort of a nights ride then the lengthy trip through the fen drawing upon the last of her reserves of strength. "The Toad will give us shelter for the night, along with a hot meal and bath if desired."

She shook her hair back out of her face, glancing up at the night sky and reaching out to soothingly rub her horses neck "Our mounts could use a rest as well, the deeper parts of the marsh are no place for horses."

It's been years since I last darkened the inns doorway, long enough for my face to fade into memory?

Re: ToG

#96

Kat, Rheyna, Odrin

Entering the inn, the three looked about before settling into a quiet corner table.

There were a few patrons, though none really of note...except for the two Ironborn and Kenett Cray.

Two Ironborn (the squids on their breastplates were plain for all to see) sat in a corner (other patrons gave them space) and noisly drank, while playing that most dangerous game of knives, called the Fingerdance by men of the North and the Iron Islands. Each man would take turns stabbing the table with a knife as quickly as possible between the fingers of his own hand, the palms splayed out on the wood. So far, all fingers seemed accounted for, though the Fingerdance often ended badly.

Kenett Cray sat limply on a stool, devouring a bowl of eels in butter. He didnt even look up as Odrin and the two women entered. Kat for her part, recognized the man isntantly however. Kenett was one of her childhood friends. The Crays were a minor house of the Neck, liegemen to the Reeds of Greywatre Watch. When she stayed at Greywater, she struck up a friendship with the young Cray lad.

Often they would hunt or get in trouble together. Then there was the time they both took a liking to the same girl, and decided to "duel" for her affections. Kat beat Kenett with a staff, until he yelled for quarter that day. The two still remained friends though, as Kenett was not one to keep grudges, and would actually laugh good-naturedly, whenever reminded by other youths of the "beating" he took at the hands of a "girl".

Another time, the two accidentally came across and discovered the hidden cave of the feared "Bog-Seer" deep in the swamp, a bogey-woman of the fens, who it was said could see the future and read the hearts of men.

The old, gnarled women offered them her services, after accepting some "gifts" for her troubles, and Kenett was first inside her tent. When he had emerged that day, his face was ashen, and he refused to discuss what the old woman had told him, and insisted that they leave immediately, despite Kat's curiousity. He never did again mention what transpired inside the Bog-Seer's tent.

Re: ToG

#97

"You've...the King hired the Bloody Mummers?" Korley asked with a bit of surprise. He had been thinking about the queen regent's fragrant garden, instead. "I've heard of them and their reputation. I must admit I can't imagine why we need their kind of scum and villainy," Korley had a sinking feeling, when you brought in rapists and murderers you were not going to war with the enemies soldiers, you were throwing fire in his fields, snakes in his kitchens. You were going to sow fear and horror. He pondered what outcome this could lead to, sending the Mummers north against the Starks or the Baretheons...

The best thing about leading men like the Brave Companions was that when the time to fight came they were vicious fighters and he seldom felt any remorse for that sort of man when they went to fight and die. He didn't want to be that sort of man.

Re: ToG

#98

Korley

"I must admit I can't imagine why we need their kind of scum and villainy..."

Lord Tywin cocked his head in Korley's direction, "Why, to sow fear and horror of course." Tywin peeled his lips back again, "I' have sent them north to Harrenhal and the Riverlands upon their arrival, to "forage", to harass" Tywin thought a moment, "To muddy the waters so to speak."

"But now I hear word of that lisping Qohorian animal, Vargo Hoat, and how he has over-stepped himself. And now I mean to put an end to his...employment. Seems the Brave Companions had their own ideas, as to their "recreations" on our shores, and we can't allow these rebel scum to harass us with impunity. We look like fools and they look like heroes; that's how kings fall. I want them dead, every one. "

Tywin summed up, and sipped his wine, studying Korley the whole time.

Korley didn't quite understand the quick leap Tywin took from "We've hired them" to "I want every one dead."

"Father, Korley knows nothing of recent events, I am sure" Tyrion chirped

"Nevertheless" Lord Tywin answered. "A lion does not need to know. A lion needs simply act."

"There are three thousand Bloody Mummers. How many men will you need?" Tywin asked Korley directly.

Re: ToG

#99

"The lion kills because it is the right of the lion, and it is the role of base creatures like the Mummers to do the part of the dying," Korley said,stroking his chin. "They are rabble and scum. I'd ask for 300 men and horses enough to carry them into the field. The mummers are undisciplined and will scatter rabbits before the roar. The rest is fear and deception. Ravens can carry word of 2000 riding out..." Korley said after some thought

Re: ToG

#100

Korley

"Good. That is very good" Lord Tywin repeated his earlier mantra of satisfaction. 'You will have four hundred men, and four hundred horse, but not a man or horse more. We are spread thin, for the moment."

Tyrion was still writing something feverishly on a yellowed parchment. Cercei seemed suddenly disinterested, and rose to leave.

"Serve us well, Korley Hill, and earn your Lannister name." She said brazenly, as she studied him with her liquid-emerald eyes.

Again all rose, as Cersei sashayed from the Council's chamber.

"Now" Lord Tywin began again. "As to the other task i set before you. I know you fear no man, and I know your blade-work can rival mine own golden son's skill. But can you kill a woman if need be? Or even a child? How strong is your resolve to the Crown?"

Suddenly the room went extra quiet. Even Tyrion wrinkled his nose in distaste.

After a moment, Tywin spoke again. "Do not answer, nephew. I hear Ser Boros returning with your new acquaintance, the cockatrice, and it sounds like there are others in tow. We shall speak once more on this later."

Re: ToG

#101

Katrina smiled at her two friends, gesturing to an empty table near the back corner of the inn, "Take a seat I'll join you in a bit, I just noticed an old friend and must say hello." She turned almost before the words finished leaving her lips, the rush of old memories making her giddy with recollection.

Approaching silently she stopped a few paces behind Kennet, waiting until his tankard was tipped to his lips and he was drinking deeply before speaking. "Hey there, been beaten by any other young girls with sticks since I left?" Her voice was warm and playful, clearly thrilled to see him, and unable to resist pulling the same simple prank he was famed for during their childhood days..

Last time he surprised me like this I sprayed a quarter mug onto Marsha, the poor tavern wench never did forgive me.

Re: ToG

#102

Odrin, Rheyna, Kat

"K--ka---" Kennett blurted in surprise then predictably blew his ale all over the counter and himself.

"It has been four years now? Or five?" He grinned and got up to embrace his childhood friend, wiping beer from his face.

"I---never thought I'd see you again. Not after you killed Symon Mudd. No man deserved it more, granted, but I didn't blame you for leaving after." Kennett seemed to babble still shocked at seeing his childhood friend, the "Swampcat".

"How are things outside the Neck?" he asked now composing himself. "The wars rage, even Reed sent crannogmen with Robb Stark's makeshift army. They say even the Neck is not safe", he lowered his voice and glanced conspiratorially at the Ironborn pair in the corner. "It is said while Robb marches south, the Ironborn raid the North, and----"

He finally stopped talking at looked upon Kat again, as if seeing her for the first time.

"Buttered eels?" he offered up his plate and smiled. Kat had always hated eels.

Re: ToG

#103

As Kat left them to catch up with her friend at the counter, Rheyna sat down at one of the tables with Odrin.

After taking in the inn and it's patrons, she whispered to Odrin; "Two Ironborn, what do you make off them?"

The mention of Squid on the road, an attack by two riders and two Ironborn here, in the neck. Rheyna wasn't sure what to make of it all.

"Would you bring me some wine dear?" she asked the passing wench with a cheeky purring voice.

Re: ToG

#104

Kat returned the embrace happily, grateful to see another friendly face after the narrow victory against the iron men.

"Far too long my friend," she replied to his first question, unsure how to answer the second without giving away too much of their travels to near by ears. "Things have been enlightening, and far more exciting then the old days I fear," She turned to gesture towards Rheyna with a sly wink and smile "but some things have turned out for the best."

She wrinkled her nose and shook her head at the offer of eel remembering all too well the musky odor and chewy texture that reminded her far too much of a rotten boot. "I'd sooner chew on an old wolfs teats," she laughed at her joke and gestured to the table Rheyna and Odrin had chosen.

"Come let me introduce you to my friends, we can share a pint and I'll fill you in on the doings outside the marshlands."

Re: ToG

#105

Kat, Rheyna, Odrin

Kennett approached the table where Rheyna and Odrin were sitting. He examined the axe-man of Norvos with an undisguised wide-eyed look. Crannogmen tended to be shorter than other men, and to Kennett, Odrin seemed a giant at first. After studying Odrin, he studied the man's axe. Ashreaver was equally impressive. Finally, he looked at Rheyna and blushed, unaccustomed to seeing many women outside the deep swamp. Kennett never did have any luck with the ladies. One time his father arranged a marriage for him with a girl from House Moss, but she died of the flux. Then there was that girl who chose Kat over him. Kennett sighed. Then there was Kat. He could never have her. And here then he thought, was her new lover.

"Well met, I am Kennett of House Cray. I welcome friends of the Swampcat, as I would my own. *That* friend, is the biggest axe I have ever seen."

He nodded his head, satisfied with his greeting, and sat with them, his eels squirming from the sides of his bowl.

"Ah, Kat" He looked once more upon his childhood friend with some affection (brotherly or otherwise, who could be sure?), 'When you came to Greywater Watch you were accompanied by a knight, and now you return in the presence of another---"

He stopped suddenly, realizing that maybe her life story was not his to reminisce about out loud.

After a short pause...

"So what news?" he asked all three, as he began stuffing the slippery lampreys into his mouth.

----------

"Gaaargh!" Came a harsh exclamation of pain, as one of the Ironborn slammed his knife down into his own pinky, nearly severing the digit. The other laughed and grabbed the coins scattered on the table.

Rheyna watched closely, there was a reason they called her "Fingerdance" on the streets of Barrowton. She had mastered the dangerous game of knives and fingers, by the time she was fourteen years of age, and never lost a challenge, much to the chagrin (due to wounded pride and missing fingers) of the much hardier men who challenged her in the past, or more accurately, men *she* had challenged.

Odrin thought of Norvos by the Sea. He was reminded of his home city here in the fens. Norvos was built on seven hills, the "upper city", perching above the salt-marshes of the "lower city" and the inland wilderness. As a youth Odrin spent many weeks and months training with his axe, alone, amidst the flooded forests. Mostly, he reasoned to himself, he missed his home, bloodflies and all. Well no, he did not miss the bloodflies, not after that journey from Norvos to Volantis.

His thoughts were interrupted by a sallow-faced, bent young man, called Kennett Cray apparently, who introduced himself to Odrin.

Re: ToG

#106

Odrin regarded the little man thoughtfully. While he would rather pass through the Neck unrecognized and unheralded, he seemed a dear friend of Katrina's. Here's a chance to learn more about one of my charges, at least . . .`

To Kennet he said lightly "You'd best mind your manners around Ashreaver, son. My lady likes a compliment, but 'big' is rather unimaginative." Though he kept his face stony, Rheyna could see his eyes twinkle with amusement.

As Kennet stammered, off-balance, Odrin covered Rheyna's hand with his own, squeezing gently to indicate that he had heard her and was taking care to watch the Ironborn.

Re: ToG

#107

Kat eyed the hand holding between Odrin and Rheyna without comment or expression, inwardly wondering at the hidden meaning but knowing better then to voice her curiosity, instead focusing attention on the reunion with her childhood friend.

"Don't let Odrin intimidate you, his humor is as stoic as his demeanor most days, he's a trusted comrade, and his axe wife a sharped tongue mistress." She winked at Odrin, hoping he wouldn't take offense at her good natured jibe, and grateful his joke helped divert attention from the unwanted air of her past deeds.

She glanced over at the yelling Ironborn thankful they were paying more attention to lopping off their digits then to their arrival, for now at least. "This tavern is a bit too noisy for personal discussions, perhaps we could all speak somewhere quieter over a pitcher of ale and some roasted cattails?"

As she spoke she casually tossed her hair back from her face, gesturing with her nose in the direction of the bleeding man and his drunken comrade, confident Kennet understood her hesitation to speak in the presence of the squids.

Re: ToG

#108

Smirking at the twinkle in Odrin's eyes and inwardly marvelling at how gentle his hands were she looked up as Kennett joined them, "A friend of Kat's is a friend of mine."

Turning to look at her lover she raised an eyebrow and asked; "Swampcat?"

Hmm, while I don't like the look of them they sure do have some coin, something we could do with.. she thought to herself, grinning at the sound of pain coming from the loser.

Re: ToG

#109

Odrin followed Rheyna's gaze to the two Ironborn, and felt her tense in anticipation. Her eyes seemed to glint with eagerness, though for what he could not say. Still, Odrin had begun to learn when his mistress was about to get into mischief. Squeezing her hand gently to get her attention, he eyed the Ironborn and gave his head a slow, firm shake.

Re: ToG

#110

Rheyna, Odrin, Kat

"Mmm-hhm" Kennet managed between bites of eel, as he picked up on Kat's gesture.

"Well, it is settled then. You three must come to House Cray, and stay with us for a while. What say you lot?"

to Rheyna...

"Yes, Swampcat, quick as a cat, and even more slippery" he smiled "that was our Katrina..." he thought a moment more, "the Reeds called her 'Hurricane' if you prefer that one." his grin was even wider now.

Not knowing what to say to Odrin, Kennet began mopping up the eel sauce with a wedge of bread. He wasn't sure what made him more nervous, the man, or his axe.

Finally done with his meal a few moments later, he seemed to think a new thouht, as he cocked his head, and leaned in closer to Kat.

"So what *does* bring you back to the Neck?" He whispered. The look on his face suggested that he probably wouldn't like the answer, whatever it might be.

Re: ToG

#111

"And who are you supposed to be then?" Ser Boros Blount garbled, looking at Velaquo and Quills now with mean, piggish eyes.

"A knight fom the Free Cities, dear Ser, keeping a man from dying" Velaquo answered nonchalantly, as if such a thing was commonplace.
Friendly, seemingly preoccupied with the task of first aid, no thread to ol' Pig-Eyes.
"This is my faithful squire, Ser" he nodded to Quills - who nodded back.
Over their years together, Quills had pretended to be a merchant, cobbler, messenger, noble, barbarian, slave, dragon and a bride - to name a few. Squire? That one's easy.

With the corner of his eye, he examined the buffoon.
Brutish, yet choked with pride.
Overconfident.
Perchance due to a station he is unfit for, yet clings to?
In confidence of an authority, thinks himself irreplaceable.

His smile may have become predatory, the Myrian's refinement and civilization but thin veneer.
Men can be replaced.

"Maester Belomas, I believe your skills kept this man from the Reaper - no onions' scent, even the blood is staunched, the color and vis back in his countenance. Again, you impress."
He bowed.
"A pleasure to help. Now excuse me, please."

Velaquo sauntered up to Boros Blount and asked, with faked reverence: "Are you the captain of this mighty fort? I am but new to this land, and unaware which coat of arms deserves most respect. You seem well-versed in matters of nobility - care to enlighten a brother in arms?"

If this brute is the best a fort at King's Landing can muster, it will be easy to take his place.

Velaquo listened, and looked for ways to arrange an accident if the need were to arise - precariously positioned barrels, siege engines, steep drops and porticullis that may crush an unsuspecting man...

Re: ToG

#112

Walking in as erect as possible, the pain in his side made it difficult, yet he suffered through it. The cold stares from all those present bore deep into his soul and peered in the very being that lay inside. Pushing out of the hands of the soldiers who were 'helping' him walk he walked as a knight should in the presence of the King and Council. Stopping shy of the stairs he bended knee and lowered his head fighting the spasm in his back with every ounce of strength his powerful frame could, twitching only slightly. Noticing the lack of the King made a slight twitch of the side of Rufus' mouth but little else showed in his face.

"My Queen Cersei. My Lord Hand Tywin. Lord Tyrion and gathered Council. I am here as summoned by Law to swear to the King and Country my name, my armor, my house, and my soul."

Rufus stayed kneeling as the feeling in the room was palpable and unnerving. He was sure that Ser Korley spoke of their encounter which with Lord Tywin being present could actually end up with his head laying six feet from his shoulders. If the rumors were true of the young King, that could be the a more gentle ending. He awaited their reply, any reply, so that he could stand proud and accept whatever fate that befell him.

Re: ToG

#113

Kat nodded in agreement to Kennet's suggestion, giving her friends a reassuring smile and reaching out to give her lovers hand a gentle squeeze and blushing at the mentioning of her old nick names and the memories they carried with them.

"Your hospitality would be most welcome, if you're not worried about or large friend eating you from house and home that is." She gave Odrin a sly wink to show she was only joking, leaning closer to Kennet to answer his inquiry to their purpose.

"We seek a place to recover from the hardships of the road, and with luck avoid any who might be searching for our whereabouts." She glanced over at the Iron Men casually before drainign her cup and leaning back; awaiting her friends thoughts on Kennet's offer.

Re: ToG

#114

Rheyna felt Odrin squeeze her hand and shake his head as he saw what she had in mind, and dismissed the thought. Better to remain anonymous than draw unwanted attention over a few coins.

Seeing Kat blush at the mention of her nicknames, Rheyna made a mental note to ask her when they settled for the night.

She looked to Odrin, waiting for him to make his decision on wether they should accept Kennett's offer of hospitality. All the while smiling her playful smile, not once taking her eyes from his face, wondering what lay beyond those eyes..

Re: ToG

#115

Releasing Rheyna's hand, yet keeping an eye on the agitated Ironborn, Odrin assessed Kennet with a critical eye. The boy seemed honest enough, though it was painfully obvious to Odrin that he had once harbored deep feelings for Katrina. The way he leaned towards her as he spoke, or watched her move from the corner of his eye. More often than not, his voice would stutter and slide over her name, like a bird unsure of its roost. Whether Katrina realized it or not, this Kennet would do almost anything for her. And that was something Odrin could use.

Odrin fixed what he hoped was a friendly, non-intimidating smile on his face. "A respite from the road would be most welcome. Miss Katrina undoubtedly regards you highly, to place our well-being in your hands, and I have learnt to trust her judgement. Just know this:"

Odrin's smile vanished.

"These two are under my protection, and I will not let them come to harm."

Re: ToG

#116

Kat, Rheyna, Odrin

“…and with luck avoid any who might be searching for our whereabouts.”

At this line, Odrin noticed a queer look on Kennet’s face appear momentarily, but just as quickly the small, bow-legged crannogman’s smile returned.

"These two are under my protection, and I will not let them come to harm."

When Odrin spoke these words, Kennet blanched a bit, and then recovered once more.

----------------------

“You cannot bring the horses into the deep mire, Kat.” Kennet reminded her as the four of them examined the animals outside the inn. “But Pennywhistle the barkeep will no doubt keep them fed and stabled for you--if you ever---return this same way again.” He added.

----------------------

Ever on the lookout for merciless Bloodflies, Odrin followed Kennet, Kat, and Rheyna into the deeper swamp. He noticed that both Kennet and Kat moved like reptiles through the muck and mire effortlessly, and even Rheyna had little trouble, lithe and light on her feet as she was. It was harder going for Odrin. The swamp seemed to resent his very presence, and was always looking to suck his massive, weighty form down into its murky depths. Twice, the three had to pull Odrin from some hidden pit of shifting sand, or jelly-like pool of mud.
Six hours into the trek, Odrin’s armor was covered in mud and plant-bits, though this helped with the insects he noted.

Finally they reached that area of the swamp, where narrow rope bridges and dry paths, intersected the waterways. “A highway for the crannogmen”, Kennet noted and proceeded to lead the four through the maze.

----------------------

“Up ahead… House Cray lands” Kennet announced proudly and suddenly, and now the four of them could smell smoke, and cooking food in the distance. Occasionally they could make out one of the thatch and reed houses of the crannogmen, and finally coming into a clearing, they could make out an impressive fort up ahead, situated on what looked like a hilly island floating in the green swamp.

The closer they got to his home however, the more nervous Kennet seemed, Odrin noted silently, his brows furrowing. Something about the man was off. Yet, Kat had named him friend…
“No one will find you here” Kennet said with a weak smile to Kat at that moment, as he gazed about, hand outstretched. “Welcome home.”

Not too many people were out and about. The Cray village seemed quiet, but bilious smoke was gushing from both makeshift chimneys of Fort Cray itself, as if the crannogmen were all gathered beneath one roof.

Re: ToG

#117

Velaquo, Belomas, Rufus, Korley

"A knight fom the Free Cities, dear Ser, keeping a man from dying" Velaquo answered nonchalantly, as if such a thing was commonplace.
Friendly, seemingly preoccupied with the task of first aid, no thread to ol' Pig-Eyes.
"This is my faithful squire, Ser" he nodded to Quills - who nodded back.
Over their years together, Quills had pretended to be a merchant, cobbler, messenger, noble, barbarian, slave, dragon and a bride - to name a few. Squire? That one's easy.

"Are you the captain of this mighty fort? I am but new to this land, and unaware which coat of arms deserves most respect. You seem well-versed in matters of nobility - care to enlighten a brother in arms?"

"A knight?!" Ser Blount made a rude noise, "The Free Cities have knights now?"

He didn't wait for a reply, "Mighty fort? Is this some jape or are ye daft from water-log?!" he bellowed now, "Ye are in the courtyard of King's Landing, where King Joffery Baratheon sits the Iron Throne, and rules the Seven Kingdoms, and where Lord Tywin Lannister serves as the Hand of the King!" Ser Boros was turning red now, his piggish eyes squinting in disbelief at this foreigner's impertinence and ignorance.

'Are ye with the maester then, or this dying ponce?" he gestured first at Belomas, then at Rufus. Again, not waiting for a reply Ser Boros Blount came to a quick decision.

"Come with me" he said to Velaquo, "and bring your squire too, we will see what Lord Tywin says be done with ye!"

With that, Belomas walked with Rufus Gargalen, supporting the big knight as best he could, while keeping up with the marching Boros Blount.

After some time and some walking, mostly through arches and up stairs, the mismatched group arrived at the Small Council's chamber door. Here, half a dozen guards, armed to the teeth, stood vigil.

With a grunt, Boros Blount waved the guards off, and opened the twin doors.

He then shoved Rufus forward, and eyed the maester to follow him inside as well. Turning back to the guards, he said, "Watch these two" indicating Velaquo and Quills. "They may yet be called in by his Lordship."

Ser Rufus Gargalen entered the hall...

Walking in as erect as possible, the pain in his side made it difficult, yet he suffered through it. The cold stares from all those present bore deep into his soul and peered in the very being that lay inside. Pushing out of the hands of the soldiers who were 'helping' him walk he walked as a knight should in the presence of the King and Council. Stopping shy of the stairs he bended knee and lowered his head fighting the spasm in his back with every ounce of strength his powerful frame could, twitching only slightly. Noticing the lack of the King made a slight twitch of the side of Rufus' mouth but little else showed in his face.

"My Queen Cersei. My Lord Hand Tywin. Lord Tyrion and gathered Council. I am here as summoned by Law to swear to the King and Country my name, my armor, my house, and my soul."

Rufus stayed kneeling as the feeling in the room was palpable and unnerving. He was sure that Ser Korley spoke of their encounter which with Lord Tywin being present could actually end up with his head laying six feet from his shoulders. If the rumors were true of the young King, that could be the a more gentle ending. He awaited their reply, any reply, so that he could stand proud and accept whatever fate that befell him.

Re: ToG

#118

Something was wrong. Odrin was unsure of the source, but he had learned to trust his instincts -- a hard-earned lesson that had nearly cost him his life. Moving with deliberate nonchalance, Odrin placed a hand on Kennet's shoulder, stopping the boy in his tracks.

"Such a fine hold! It is a wonder that you manage to support so many within the Neck itself."

Odrin scanned for danger, while forcing his body to remain relaxed. Let's not play our hand just yet, he thought. Aloud, he continued with false joviality for the benefit of any watchers, "You must be proud of your work here!"

Keeping the false smile plastered to his face, Odrin lowered his voice to a low murmur. "You're as nervous as a swam-rat, boy. What's wrong?" He gave the young man's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Tell me, friend. Help me to keep Kat safe, and perhaps we can help you as well."

Re: ToG

#119

Kat turned to give Rheyna a hesitant glance, herself a little unsettled at the scene before her, the village seemed almost deserted, and judging by the smoke pouring from Fort Cray everyone was secured inside, but why?

"Tell me, my old friend, what dangers keeps the majority of folk penned up inside the fortress? IS there an illness or enemy force encroaching on the Neck we should be aware of?" As she spoke she reached down to her canteen as if to ready it for a drink, the hilt of her blade now mere inches from her grasp.

The thought of betrayal at the hands of her closest childhood friend was almost unthinkable, but Kat had learned long ago The Neck held many surprises, and a man desperate to save his family would st6op at little to keep them safe.

I hope to hell this has a reasonable explanation Kennet, you are the last man in Westeros I wish to draw steel against.

Re: ToG

#120

Rheyna stopped as Odrin placed his hand on the small Crannogmans shoulder.

"You're as nervous as a swam-rat boy, what's wrong?" At these low growled words she stiffened. She had thought the deserted village and smoking keep strange enough, but this mans behavior was different, almost terrified.

Slowly she took a sip of water from her skin, turning at the same time. Her eyes scouring the surrounding growth for any signs of their being watched or even followed.