A Journey for Knowledge...

[Maire the serving girl]

The meal had been quite good actually despite the location and the activity in the room.Naught quite up to the standards of the Castle when BhanTiarna was there but better than the cold food they had eaten during the day. More so the fresh drink they were able to consume before bed that night.

The next morning however it is quickly discovered that Prince Dieter had spent the evening on Guard whilst they had all slept. Why had He not gotten someone to take over during the eve? Máire frowned at the thought. Quietly she slipped down to the Main Hall of the Inn and connected with the Guard that drove their wagon the day before. Collecting the canteens from Him she quickly went to fill them, cool crisp water each.

As the cold lunch is prepared she and the girls take it and the canteens and head for the wagon, though she is the last to board the wagon as she offers one of the canteens to the Prince for the ride before they get underway.By now they can each see the toll the trip is taking. Such a journey should never have taken so long but because there were so many souls moving at once..it was taking much longer than normal.

As the horses begin to move with a tap of the reins, the wagon beginning its lumbering pace once more, Máire finds herself mumbling a soft prayer in her own language for their safety and the safety of those they are going to find, before her attentions turn once more...elsewhere.

[Dieter]

He'd trusted the girls to see to themselves getting ready, the Guardsman readying the wagon as he tended to Othello, leaving them ready to go in relatively short order. Accepting the canteen with a quiet word of thanks and settling it on Othello before swinging astride the stallion and moving alongside the wagon as we get underway once more, his lack of a nights sleep not noticeable, but then he's known for such, though most don't know the rhyme or reason of such.

Keeping to the best speed the cart was able to manage, occasionally checking the directions on the scrap of parchment before tucking it away again, but given how often he'd read it, there was little need. Their trip uneventful though occasionally he glances back the way they had come with a faint frown, obviously not happy with being so far from his chosen duty and Windstorm. Lunch a quick affair at a small clearing with a well to one side of the road, an obvious stopping point for several others in their travels as well, standing with Othello as he absently eats the cold meal prepared for them, feeding the big stallion a couple of carrots he'd packed along as treats for his friend. Keeping a close eye on the few that stop for water during their brief stop, the other travelers looking over the small group curiously, not understanding the level of protection for what looks to be three simple lasses. Getting everyone back underway after the brief stop, speaking to the guardsman to try and push a little more speed out of the horses and they should reach their destination by mid-afternoon and with that they are off again.

Their journey continued along uneventfully for several more hours before Dieter raised his hand, calling a halt to the wagon as he turned Othello back long enough for a few hand signs to the Guardsman, a sideroad leading to a barely visible manor just ahead a short distance, the man nodding to him as he checks his sword in its scabbard, then lifts the bow from behind him, stringing it quickly before laying it back down near at hand, the quiver of arrows ready at his knee. Dieter nodding once his preparations are made before turning Othello back forward and cantering up to the sideroad, though the manor seems quiet enough at the moment, nobody coming to see the mounted man visible the short distance away. Deciding that he'd tolerated enough boredom that some small excitement to get the attention of the house was in order, he steadied himself on the great warhorse as he whispered to Othello, and the lightest touch of his heels sending the stallion rearing to the heavens, fore hooves pawing at the sky as his bugled battle challenge echoes over the countryside, THAT should get anyone not dead's attention certainly.

[Cara McKenna]

The challenge echoes across lands of the Manor indeed grabbing the attentions of all in attendance there.Jerking her head up Cara turns looking toward the window with a start. Already she can hear the movement of several of Her men heading for the door. Jumping up she hurries out of the office and runs for the chambers she had set Coilin in. As she feared he too was trying to struggle out of bed and take defence...Get yerself back in bed! Yer not to be moving! Those lads will take care of things. Back to bed wid ye, now lad! Her words are met with an incredulous look but after a moment of a hard stare from her he lays back in bed again and she nods shortly before turning to hurry out of the Manor to see what the comotion is.

The sight of the black Warhorse with its paws in the air bugling his challenge causes her to gasp Othello! B-But how! Only then does Cara realize that all of the lads in her service now stand around her almost blocking her from view, standing with drawn weapons, crude as they might be...Níl! Seas an Dúin! She cries knowing exactly what will befall each of them if Dieter believes her in danger. I said NO! STAND DOWN! Tis mo deartháir! Rory looks back in shock and frowns But mo BhanTiarna! Ye have no... He begins then stops at her expression and simply goes quiet motioning the others to lower their weapons though they do not step away from Her, keeping their guarded positions as well as expressions not yet understanding what Cara means.

[Dieter]

Watching the men gather, the sight of weapons in their hands not unnoticed, drawing the greatsword that rides in his saddle as Othello walks forward, dancing on his hooves and snorting as he is ready for battle with Dieters earlier command. Noticing the familiar golden hair amidst the encircling men as he draws nearer, Othello eying the men as well when Dieter draws him to a stop, the greatsword lowering to point at them, over five feet of razor-sharp steel as he speaks, his voice as cold and hard as the metal of the blade they face.

"Stand aside and let her clear...Now..."

The threat implicit in his tone and the hard look he gives them. It being difficult to tell if they are protecting her or keeping her contained, he is willing to entertain the second notion and deal with them accordingly should it be necessary.

[Cara McKenna]

Síochána a bheith ar tú, Deatháir....Peace be upon ye... she translated softly but loud enough to be heard These dim-wicks are in my service though a few of them seem not to know the meaning of the word DEARTHÁIR! the word is enunciated clearly and with enough force that the younger lads who had naught followed her order the first time with Rory did so now.Swatting two of them in a clear order to move aside Cara herself stepped forward and like always gave a curtsy to the mounted One, before smiling and reaching up to stroke the sleek black nose and down His neck... Why did ye wish ta scare the daylights out o'me hmm? Ye get tired o'naught 'avin yer treats every day?Or were ye two sent to fetch me, eh?

The simple familiarity Cara holds with the Frisian Warhorse and his Rider were quickly noticed and every member of the group behind her is soon seen kneeling in response. Calling to Teagan to ready a stall at the front of the stable for Othello and a good measure of warm mash as she is quite sure he is hungry after the journey, she warns him firmly in English as well as her own language NOT to touch the warhorse or even look like he was to attempt it. The PRINCE would deal with that. Once again her word was enunciated when spoken catching the lad completely offguard and He bowed to Dieter before leading the way to the stables. Only once the two were back did she lead the way into the house, greeting Erlina and Lise quietly but with a quiet soft air about her now before turning to Máire. The look she bestows on the young woman is a measured one.

Good morrow lass.Tis good to see ye, I will but offer this one warning. What happened in da Castle will be forgiven an nay brought up again lest ye push it...but ifn ye EVER speak ta me again as ye did then, naught only will I be liken to removin yer tongue but I will send ye back to Eire on the next ship out back to the service of whatever bloodless half-wit of a cousin that sees fit to think he can hold the High Seat, that ye seemed to be answering to, is that clear? By the words and the tone which is used Dieter might sense clearly that something had changed in Cara's own knowledge as she then turns toward the Manor and leads the way inside. Her steps are graceful but slow as she tries hard to hide the fact that she is indeed nay walking as usual. The actions are easy enough to fool those around her...The Prince mayhaps naught....

I would 'ave, returned by the night of da full, as was naught only my intention but preparation as well, 'owever, circumstances took a drastic change that morn an forced me ta stay longer, and I apologise. Ne'er 'ave I been away during that week, an I am sorry I was dis time.. Calling to Clare, Meara and Shauna, Cara smiles as they appear and she introduces each of them to Him, before asking them to prepare a hot repast for the house before she sinks down into the chair at the head of the massive table there, as they step into the dining chamber now.

[Dieter]

(08/04/12 - 12:43:08 )

Master Sergeant Gerben

•.•
((acting as a storyteller))

-=- Third of Five -=-Ulb: The Master Sergeant be within the Guardsroom, Captain. *the man answered quickly. Testing out a new blade, he is.*

(08/04/12 - 12:45:02 )
-=- Third of Five -=-


Ulbrecht
Captain of the "Gloriarc"
Prince of Fryseland
Windstorm Castle | RPO



•WINDSTORM CASTLE•
...is somewhere in the castle...

ALL: Thanking the man and turning his steps inwards, avoiding the Hall for now as he stops at the door to the Guardroom, knocking quietly...

(08/04/12 - 12:48:45 )

Master Sergeant Gerben

•GUARD ROOM•
...is in the guard room...

-=- Third of Five -=-Ulb: Enter. *the voice was crisp, sharp. Despite nearing his fiftieth year, Gerben had lost little of his sharpness over the years. When he turned with the new shortsword in hand, he executed a crisp and small bow.* Captain? I hope this isn't about the incident at the inn a few days ago? Sailors often have a pint too many.

(08/04/12 - 12:53:39 )
-=- Third of Five -=-


Ulbrecht
Captain of the "Gloriarc"
Prince of Fryseland
Windstorm Castle | RPO



•GUARD ROOM•
...is in the guard room...

Master Sergeant Gerben: Stepping within and closing the door behind them to give them some privacy. "Not at all Master Sergeant...I am used to such and unless it really gets out of hand, I leave such in my First Mates hands to handle." Glancing about as he debates one last time this course of action he has chosen, but really such is already set in his mind. "Another matter entirely....I would ask for a detail of three men from you for a mission I have in mind." Facing the older man and speaking plainly.

(08/04/12 - 12:55:42 )

Master Sergeant Gerben
: A mission? Three men? *his eyes narrowed slightly* You know the guards are at your disposal, but do you think now is the time? *he asked calmly, putting the sword on the table, and turning fully* With your brother and Prince Gregor gone, that would mean only Hawkmoon is left of the knights.

(08/04/12 - 13:03:01 )
-=- Third of Five -=-


Ulbrecht
Captain of the "Gloriarc"
Prince of Fryseland
Windstorm Castle | RPO



•GUARD ROOM•
...is in the guard room...

Master Sergeant Gerben: "Actually their absence is the reason for my request. I am certain Dieter could not have known the matters that would befall Her Majesty during his absence, else he'd never have gone. He'd hoped for a period of quiet and calm, such that Dorian could handle without his aid." Pacing a little as he talks, having had a few nights to mull this over now since he'd first had the thought. "I would ask for three men, of those that study under Dieter, the best of them that you can spare...To follow his trail and seek him out, bringing news of the current situation to him and a small missive from myself." Looking back to Gerben as he continues..."I would send some of my own men, but they are sailors and don't know the land much, and the best horseman I have amongst them doesn't even speak the local tongue. Of course I would take full responsibility for such should Her Majesty find out."

(08/04/12 - 13:04:21 )

Master Sergeant Gerben
says to -=- Third of Five -=-Ulb: *His eyes narrowed even more then.* You'd send for your brother without telling her? And what would be in this missive? I hope only the facts of what happened and a reassurance? With a request not to linger?

(08/04/12 - 13:13:46 )
-=- Third of Five -=-


Ulbrecht
Captain of the "Gloriarc"
Prince of Fryseland
Windstorm Castle | RPO



•GUARD ROOM•
...is in the guard room...

Master Sergeant Gerben: "You know our Queen Gerben. She would not wish to disturb him or upset him in his current affair, seeking to minimize the current affairs here." Pulling a small piece of parchment out of his tunic as he goes on. "I have commanded my brother before, actually both he and Harald. T'is why I have planned it as I have...Three men, whose skill he is very familiar with, to either aid him in finishing his appointed task, or to use as he sees fit so that he can make best time upon his return." Passing the small folded piece of parchment over for Gerben to read, the message short and simple, nothing that would appear out of the ordinary should it become mislaid...'She needs you. Hurry. U.'

(08/04/12 - 13:19:16 )

Master Sergeant Gerben

•GUARD ROOM•
...is in the guard room...

-=- Third of Five -=-Ulb: Effective. *he admitted. it would not be misinterpreted by the one for whom it was intended. And at the same time, it would be extremely effective if his brother read it.* I do not like doing things behind her back. She is queen, and it is my job to respect that. But.. I am also under orders to accommodate you. Very well. Have three men. I will seek them out myself. But you better fess up after he returns, or I will.

And so Ulbrecht waited as the men were gathered, explaining his plan to them quickly, along with a copy of the route his brother had planned to take and coin for any expenses. Explaining they are to make all speed finding him, and when they do, give him the note and answer any questions he might have, then place themselves under his command. Once certain they understand all that, he wishes them godspeed and sends them on their way, hoping it is enough.

[Dieter]

Watching the menfolk as Cara fusses at them and finally steps forward, apparently she has noae been telling stories, since most any in Windstorm would have scrambled to get clear when he spoke in such a tone and with drawn steel. Settling the greatsword back into it's home on his saddle before giving a coded whistle, the cart appearing a few minutes later in response as he slides down from the saddle. Othello nuzzling at Cara, the big mooch looking for the treats he considers his rightful due for being, well, himself. Speaking to all of them..."That goes for all of you...Othello is a war-trained Frisian stallion, and he doesn't know any of you. Getting in arms reach of him is a good way to lose your arm if nae your life." Taking the big black off to the stables and settling him quickly before returning, standing quiet as Cara deals with the girls, though it seems Maire is destined to end up shipped back to Eire, either by himself or by Cara.

Following the small procession inwards and noting her unusual movements, though staying his usual quiet self as he looks about, and over the people here.

"Your absence had been long enough that there was growing a greater and greater concern. Her Majesty agreed that I was the most..logical...choice to travel and ascertain your situation, and take whatever measures I deemed necessary." The battle sword and matching short sword at his belt suggestive of one means of dealing with any troubles.

[Cara McKenna]

Twas nay me that has da problem, Dieter.Twas Coilin, a page here. He is a right good with the horses I hear but this time he was kicked by one of a new set of drafts that was bought to pull the wagon back to the Castle. It took several hours afore a Healer got here ta look at 'im. Now he's laid up in bed upstairs lettin his ribs heal...or least HE BETTER BE! Raising her voice slightly to be heard upstairs afore she smiles softly as Shauna and even Máire steps into the room carrying food and drink. Thank ye lassies...please make sure Coilin gets a platter too, and a good amount of broth. Once the girls have left Cara reaches down and lifts a leather satchel opening it to remove a couple pieces of parchment she lays them pon the table without a word before Him. Upon the parchment sheets are written her parents names and ranks as well as the day they were wed and other pertinent information. After doing so she grows still and silent, except for partaking in the meal, Clare calling to everyone to come eat afore it is all gone and to see what will be needed of them...