House Jasper | Adventure Log | Obsidian Portal

JavaScript is currently disabled. Obsidian Portal has a lot of really cool features that use JavaScript. You should check them out. We think you'll have a much more enjoyable experience.

Campaign of the Month: December 2020

House Jasper

The Women in Pink

After confirming room at the knight’s paddock is available for the Jasper mounts, I head back to the docks and begin unloading horses when I notice two figures obscured behind crates and debris on the docks. Their both looking away, but notably out of place with their fine pink dresses on. I can see they are two older women with grey hair one with short hair and the other with long hair.
Tugged by my curiosity about these dockside oddities, I approach them gently and ask if they’re okay, but they assure me all is well and their coolness makes it unbearable to stick around. As I walk away I can’t shake how strange the sight was, so return to the ship to lock myself away before warging into August and returning to the scene.
I sniff around the debris and overhear their soft chatter, “it’s just a mutt…”, “…the girl meant to harm….”, “…I know, it just makes me uncomfortable…”. They eventually settle into a peaceful silence and take each others hands while looking out over the water.
It ‘s hard to tell if the scene is romantic so in an effor tto get closer, I grab a bit of broken dock in my mouth and bring it to them to drop at their feet. “Oh goodness, now it wants to play,” one says, “now shoo! Shoo!” I ignore her command and drop into a play bow with an excited waggy to try to get them to pay attention to me, but it is to no avail. “Just ignore it,” the other says, "it’ll go away if we pay it no mind." I settle down a few feet away for some time and can’t pick up on their energy, so eventually return to bring the horses to the paddock.

26

JUL/2023

How do you solve a problem like Ser Bruce?

With Ser Bruce in the dungeons, the council gathers to discuss his fate. Lord Theodore recalls that House Belmore is in good standing with House Arryn, following perhaps only house Royce and a few others. We all agree that keeping or killing Ser Bruce is an almost certain bid for war, however, sending him may also have dire consequences. The rest of the small council ruminated on Lady Alys’ warning about their two kills for our nine, along with taking their horses and imprisoning their son, and how that would look to other houses. I reminded the others that it’s important to control the narrative beyond the numbers, that Ser Bruce and his hunting party were systematically hunting down humans and brutally mutilating them, that this kind of cruel insanity going unchecked poses a risk to all in the Fingers. After much deliberation, we agree we will let Ser Bruce go, and send a message by Rhaella to Snakewood’s maester to send to the citadel by raven with a request for new maester. While discussing how to develop more good will with our neighbors after realizing how few friends we have to call on in times of war, we receive an invitation from Lord Daryl of House Pryor, inviting House Jasper to a tournament in celebration of their appointment to Marshall of the Fingers.

17

MAY/2023

Starting a fight with a killer

A few days after leaving Strong Song, we encounter a group of 10 people. It’s a hunting party from House Belmore, Sir Bruce is the leader. I look over to Wilhelm, he gives me a subtle nod that this is the man he saw in his tavern. We make pleasantries with the group for a few minutes. We ask them what they hunt, and Sir Bruce is a bit cagey, only saying they hunt exotic game. He has no regard for land boundaries set by civilized Lordships, claiming he merely “follows the hunt wherever it takes him”. I see he has a battle axe and a purple cloak, exactly the same as the vision I saw in Bethlezar’s eyeball soup! This must be our culprit!

After a few moments with the hunting party at the trail intersection, a line rider begins to approach from the east. Its Ser Darron! What great timing! I feel there’s a skirmish looming and his sword carries great weight! Shortly after, it appears the Dolins tries to pull Darron aside and it makes Ser Bruce uneasy.

As Ser Bruce indicates he’s moving on, Clink pulls out his morning star and clashes it against his shield, accusing Ser Bruce of hunting on Jasper lands and demanding payment. I like Clink, perhaps he’s too blunt, but I appreciate his enthusiasm. Then out of nowhere… AUGUST JUMPS OFF A CLIFF AND LANDS A SURPRISE ATTACK ON SER BRUCE!!! AMAZING!!! We must get in there to help August! I pull my sword and do what I do best… distract my opponents.

12

APR/2023

Tracking the Lavender Cloak, Pt III

I stick around long enough to learn that “Sir” is Ser Bruce, a man with red hair that dons a faded purple cloak every time he complains of a draft. This has to be the man I’m looking for, so I remain, watching and waiting, until an opportunity to get closer arrives. Until then, I can’t help but notice two things. One, that Slim remains in one chair just out of sight for the remainder of our time at the lodge. He occasionally speaks and others bring him food and water to drink, and change his chamber pot, but he does not leave the chair. Two, the lodge is littered with weapons, spears, bows, and most importantly, an axe always within reach of Ser Bruce.

Two days after I arrive, early in the morning, some commotion raises my hackles. Several men in the party saddle their horses, and Ser Bruce walks out into the cold and crisp morning air, shouting at the rest of his group that they are to mount up, as they have a long day riding east ahead of them. Castle Snownook and Jasper lands are east…I can’t let him hunt down another innocent person.

I follow the party from not far behind as their shaggy horses carefully pick their way down the mountain path until we reach an intersection. I’m not sure if the gods have blessed or cursed me when I see the House Jasper party reaching the intersection at the same time. The two groups speak for a few minutes, and there is palpable tension in the air. I creep closer, perched on higher ground, and get close enough to notice subtle but knowing glances among all of House Jasper’s riders. Ser Bruce confirms he’s going hunting but refuses to divulge what exactly he’s hunting for, which tips Clink over the edge. He explodes, shouting, “we know who you are!” Ser Bruce is visibly confused, opening the door for me to descend from above.

I pounce from the stony ledge and sink my teeth into Ser Bruce’s neck, shaking him back and forth, spraying my fur with blood. The shock and horror is clear in his eyes and he screams “rabid dog!” as he pulls his battle axe to swing at me. It hits, but I’m surged with adrenaline and leap at him again, this time, mostly getting a mouthful of fur. I am relieved to see House Jasper charge towards us from twenty yards away as Teddy yells “I bet you eat your victim’s heads too!” raising his long sword above his head. As an arrow from Ser Darron whizzes past us, I fully realize the damage Ser Bruce has imparted on me with only a moment to decide whether to run or continue to fight….

12

APR/2023

Tracking the Lavender Cloak, Pt II

After realizing one of the voices is Slim, I lean in towards the building a bit harder only to hear a few quick footsteps towards the front door. I bolt out front to see a middle aged man toss some more dinner scraps out to the two guard dogs. Seeing an opportunity, I crawl towards the man while the other dogs are distracted and do my very best to win him over. He leans over with a smile, and happily offers up some belly rubs, giving me the opportunity to get a good look at him. The man has light brown hair and freckles, and is dressed in furs and tailored garments and fine leather boots. I make note that he is also carrying a dagger on his hip.
After a few minutes, the man stretches his back and goes to walk back inside. I do my best to convince him that I am, in fact, an indoor dog and not one of these mangy mutts, but with a laugh, he says aloud that “Sir wouldn’t like it if I let you in,” squeezing through the door leaving me out in the cold. Hm…Sir. Who is Sir?
I carry on trying to listen to the goings on of the lodge, deducing there are probably at least a half dozen people milling about, including one pacing in a lofted area above. Between the conversation with Slim I overheard and the yet-to-be-seen man in charge, I decide it’s most important to stick around and continue to observe.

5

APR/2023

Tracking the Lavender Cloak

Feeling a bit shoved aside by these newcomers, Clink and Clank, and not wanting my contributions and value to the house to be overshadowed, I hastily make the decision to pursue the lavender cloaked red haired killer myself, in hopes of ending his reign of terror before the house’s newest additions have the chance. I tuck myself away and warg into August to set out in pursuit of the murderer.

After two weeks of tracking, I catch a whiff of something new…other dogs. This strikes me as odd, so I slow my pace and hunker down to observe over a cliff. I spy two dogs lounging outside kennels of a hunting lodge. Occasionally, a bundled up man or woman will come out to check on the horses. A lavender banner flaps in the bitterly cold wind. After a few hours of limited activity, I slink closer to the building to get closer to the windows.

The backside window peeks into a store room, so needing to get closer I tiptoe towards the next window. The guard dogs are good at their jobs, and come ripping around the corner, snarling and sprinting towards me. I crouch with a low wagging tail, and taking an appeasing stance. They soften and sniff and circle before moving on moments before a woman’s voice rings out into the cold air, banging pots together and calling for meal time. As quickly as the guard dogs arrive, they depart, and I follow on their heels.

The bundled woman stands out front with scraps that make me drool. I flop onto my back and wiggle around in the snow in an attempt to warm her to sharing with me, or even let me inside with no success. She kicks snow and tells me to get lost, and I slink back around the windows where I started, happy that the guard dogs are distracted.

Through the first window, I see a firepit straight ahead and move onto the the second window, where I see a man standing a talking to another. In the third and fouth windows I peek through into a kitchen, so circle back to the second window to get a closer look at the man, who is speaking animatedly to another just out of view. In hopes of hearing more if their conversation I crouch below the window sill and grow very still to listen intently. “What do you mean it’s not her?” the freckled man shouts. “I don’t know what to tell you, its not her,” the man out of view responded, stumbling over his words and exasperating the freckled man. “I can’t believe it’s come to this!” My ears prick up at a third voice, who says calmly, “just be patient, I’m sure that our new friend here will be able to get us exactly who we’re looking for”.

I recognize this stumbling, bumbling nervous voice-it’s clearly Slim. What is Slim doing out in the Mountains of the Moon? Who are they looking for? Is the freckled man the killer? I hunker down closer to the building to try and gather more information.

22

MAR/2023

1 comment

Last commented on:

Apr 04, 2023

Coming up in the world and refining myself

Clink goes maesterly

All without the constant threat of death. Not a bad way to spend some time. Farewell for now. Carsen

…

Now that I am an Honorable Knight of house Jasper it is time I, Clink, take on some scholarly pursuits. I also wish to document my rise as the finest knight of the 7 kingdoms. It was just my luck that as I passed a farm, I came across a wretched farmer who had a book he no longer needed. The fool didn’t know what he had in his possession, even though he all but said these pages are done in Valyrian Guiding. This book is exquisite, and it only cost me 2 dragons. I almost feel bad for the old man, but as they say a book for a farmer is like nipples on a breastplate. I will do far better with this than he ever would, and worst case I can always sell it for a tidy profit!

8

MAR/2023

4 comments

Last commented on:

Mar 18, 2023

HA! That's what you get

Really, What were you hoping to accomplish...?

Ha! Serves him right! What in the world did the lordling think he was accomplishing coming after me? Me?! His only banner man, and a known servant of the vale. Best case he has no bannerman and looks like a fool, and worst case he has a very unfriendly banner man and looks like a fool. How would house Jasper be better off without me?! Good luck next time they want to steal something, sneak around, or take a long shot (Hehe, puns). I guess they’ll try asking nicely now. Good luck with that! Jon Arryn is truly a just and observant lord. If any more trouble stirs up, I think I’ll pay him a visit myself. With all I’ve done for the realm he would surely take me on as a bannerman and protect us Thornes for all we’ve done for the Vale. I mean really, what did our lord hope to accomplish?!

I digress…Hmm… What’s next? Well journal, I am not sure, but I think things will be a lot less eventful for me in the coming months. I guess that means I won’t be writing in you much. Time for some much-needed rest, a rebuilding of my mine, and the finishing of my castle. All without the constant threat of death. Not a bad way to spend some time. Farewell for now. Carsen

8

MAR/2023

2 comments

Last commented on:

Mar 09, 2023

A Visit with a Witch

The next day, Teddy, Ser Dolins and I head to the witches hut. We arrive at Bethlazar’s, and when I announce our arrival she pops her head over her grassy roof, and welcomes us in. I explain the events of the day before while Teddy reveals the eyes we found on the body, laying them on the table. She pokes the eyes, taps her fingers on her side for a moment, and looks to the cauldron…“that WAS lunch…but now, a new purpose!”. After tossing the contents of the cauldron, she rushes around the room gathering bits and bobs to add the the kettle, until she looks at Teddy and asks for a gift. He pats around his pockets with surprise, until he reveals a single copper to hand to the woman. I mumble under my breath, “kind of a crappy gift…” while she throws it into the cauldron with the eyes. “Now we wait,” she says with a smile.

After some time, the cauldron returns to a boil, and Bethlazar pours herself a mug of the mixture and takes a long drink. “Jasper knight!” she exclaims. The three of us look at one another in befuddlement. “She saw one,” the witch tries to explain. She?? “The eyes belong to a female?” Dolins asks, and gets a cackle in reply. “Do you know who the eyes belong to?” I ask. Bethlazar responds, “I do not,” and states again she saw a Jasper knight, who was old. We stew in our confusion further until Teddy proposes Dolins taking a drink to see if he can recognize the person Bethlazar is speaking of. To all our surprise, he agrees, and Bethlazar cackles. She tosses the contents of her cup onto the ground, and thrusts a cup into Dolins hands. Despite his skepticism, he takes a long drink, but says he sees nothing. Teddy looks to me next. “If it’s okay with Bethlazar…” I responded. She cackles again, and hands me a fresh cup of the brew. I toss it back, and nearly gag at the awful taste of rotten blueberries and feet that have been stuck in riding boots for too long without a wash. All for naught-I also see nothing.

When we’ve exhausted our questions about the eyes, I ask Bethlazar about “the singers” the clansmen and the old man in the cave describe. She confirms she’s heard of them, and that they come from the west. The witch declares that they hunt on full moons, the alst being 4-5 days ago, and indicates that she does not think they are a threat to House Jasper.

Before we leave, desperate for more information about Bethlazar’s vision, Lord Theodore asks for the chance to drink the contents of the cauldron himself.

Eventually Lord Theodore agrees to try it himself. He clearly has a reaction which lasts a few seconds, until he returns and asks Bethlazar about what he saw. “You said you saw an old JAsper knight? I saw a young shirtless man with painted skin!” Her eyes grow wide and she starts hustling us out the door. “Time for a nap!”

When we reach the road, Teddy shares that as he was walking out her door, Bethlazar scolded him with a sly smile about the “gift” he gave her. I knew a copper was too low a price for the talents of Bethlazar, but am relieved to get a more accurate vision. He shares that in the vision, the murdered party was killed by a battle axe, and notes that this is a castle forged weapon wielded by a man who looks to be a wild clansman.

22

FEB/2023

1 comment

Last commented on:

Mar 09, 2023

An Eerie Adventure

Several weeks after the deal was made with the treacherous Carsen, the dust seems to settle and the tension in the house becomes a new normal. Cedric gathers Lord Theordore and the small council, myself included, and insists we come to see something he found.
We all hike deep into the woods to the coast, to see a man laying what would be face down on a rock but…without a head. He’s wearing the furs and cloaks of the mountain clansmen and the rock is absolutely covered in blood. The cut on his neck is clean,but has clearly been festering a couple days. Teddy pokes around the man with his sword until he pulls out a paid of piercing blue eyeballs while Ser Darron announces that the weapon used for an attack like this must’ve been castle forged or even Valyrian steel.
We make a quick attempt at tracking the attacker’s footsteps, but neither Clank, nor Gregoriy, nor August make much headway. Theodore looks to me, and after a moment of panic remembering the brutal way my raven companion was killed, I look to the skies for a new feathered friend to warg into. Fortunately, I find a seagull and with only a little difficulty, am able to inhabit it quickly.
I spy a couple miles to the west a group of mountain clansmen, 10 of them, lumbering through the valley. A few are struggling to keep up and they’re travelling light. Some even seen to be leaning on each other for support. I return to the group to see a dumbfounded Clink and Clank confused as to the events of the past few moments, and I smile, embarrassed, promising to fill them in later once we’ve made a plan.
Darron proposes we parley with the clansmen, as we’re better prepared than they and may gather some information, much to the apparent disappointment of Clink and Clank who are ready to fight.
When the clansmen arrive, the look defeated and ragged, and share that a group they call “the singers” have killed some of their fellow party members. For the lives of us, we cannot figure out who they’re referring to, even when they share that they howl like wolves during attacks. I suggest we bring the oddities of the day to Bethlazar, the town witch, to she if she’s ever heard of such a thing when we return and all are in agreement.
At Darron’s suggestion, we carry on a bit further west, and after an hour we notice a cave mouth that we venture into while Cedric stays back with the horses. With luck on our side, Darron is quick enough to notice a trip wire at the mouth of the cave we each carefully step over, deeper and deeper into the cave we venture, through crevasses and over cliffs, until we find a strange man, covered in mud, balled up in the fetal position. When he’s approached, he repeats “don’t…don’t…don’t…” over and over again in the most eerie way possible. He stutters and stammers about “riders from the west” and “can’t escape”. Thoroughly creeped out, I suggest we help him out of the cave and to safety. My heart is warmed to see Clink offer a steadying hand to the man and we head out.

18

JAN/2023

A Message to Lord Arryn

After hearing from Maester Thad that he prepared a message to Jon Arryn in the name of Ser Carsen, Teddy wrote the following message himself:

Lord Arryn,

I write to reassure you that House Jasper, as Warden of the Fingers and Isles, holds a strong presence and respect amongst the houses of the region, and you can rest assured that minor issues between such parties will be resolved swiftly and equitably. Your Lordship need not mind any petty grievances from disgruntled House Lords, for we are seeing they are brought to a close without requiring your intervention.

Yours,
Theodore Jasper

6

DEC/2022

Ser Darron’s Journal 28

Darron steps onstage at Ye Olde Plain Looking Gosling’s weekly standup night

What’s the deal with Snownook food?? I mean, come on! Who is the sausage wizard who came up with this mystery meat?

mild applause

I mean, what’s the deal with the Council of Justice?? Who are these people? Beacon of Light? Maybe I could get behind it if there was a… Bacon of Light!

mild applause

Now, have you seen this trial of Carsen? I mean have you seen this!? Faceless man? Faceless man? I mean, sure he’s ugly, but give him a break!

mild reaction

Thank you! Thank you! You’ve been great! Don’t forget to tip your bartender. I mean what IS with bartenders anyway?? HoHoHo! You’ve been great!

5

DEC/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

Dec 08, 2022

A Letter To Nestor Royce

Delegation

Lord Nestor Royce,

A matter of urgency has come to my attention in the Fingers. House Jasper is trying the head of House Thorne, Ser Carsen, with murder. The knight has written to me voicing concern for the council of smallfolk who passed judgement on him. I’m not of a mind to question how Lord Ronnel governs, the man has earned some autonomy, but I am regretting naming House Jasper Marshall of the Fingers & the Isles. First that business with their Master-At-Arms, now a trial of the head of their lone banner house…

I suspect Ser Carsen’s fate will be secured by the time you reach Snownook, but I command you travel there to oversee the aftermath and resolve the relationship between the houses.

Lord Jon Arryn
Hand of The King
Warden of the East
Defender of the Vale
Lord of the Eyrie
Keeper of the Gate of the Moon

5

DEC/2022

Achieve What You Believe

I'M 50! 50 Years old!!!

The Council said That I would be done
But I with a chuckle replied
That “maybe I would be” but not if I run
Who wouldn’t give it a try
I knocked my arrow with the trace of a grin
My emotions I will not deny
Perhaps I will sing as I tackle this thing
I let it loose, oh my arrow did fly!

2

DEC/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

Dec 05, 2022

Tracking Carsen

I lament in my locked room with a gravely wounded August. The maester refused to treat my very best friend, insisting they only work on house fowl these days, and I am forlorn and lost about what the events of the last few days mean. I sob helpless tears throughout the night as August cries in pain from his wounds from Carsen, the code breaker, traitor and murderer. He is no true knight, and he is no friend to House Jasper.

As dawn breaks, I set my eyes to the sky, knowing I need to take action or I will surely go mad knowing Carsen still walks free. Confirming the door is locked, I warg into a raven and carefully search from the skies for any signs of the murderer. It is not long before I see an untied Bam in Thorne forests, and I swoop down lower to see if I can find any more clues. With no further luck, but hope and hatred in my heart, I return to my own skin, and tiptoe through the castle to find Gregoriy.

I should be embarrassed of my sleep deprived, tear stained, anxious state, but I am too desperate to let that stop me. I explain my concerns, that with the murderous faceless man on the loose, I fear for the safety of the Council of Justice and Lord Theodore, and share that I’ve found some evidence of Carsen’s whereabouts. When Gregoriy confirms he shares similar concerns, I’m overcome with relief, and I agree to lead to Order of the Darkwash River to Bam as a raven, and see if their tracking abilities can pinpoint Carsen.

As the afternoon turns to dusk, we find a smoldering campfire, and they track the murderer deep into the forest. A twig snaps underfoot, and Carsen draws his bow and fires at Gregoriy. I fly into his face, flapping my wings as he fires another arrow at Niall.

1

DEC/2022

3 comments

Last commented on:

Dec 05, 2022

The Trial of Carsen Thorne

I breathe a sigh of relief when Gregoriy arrives to assemble to Council of Justice. All of House Jasper, even the maester who hasn’t been seen in years, gathers for the trial of Ser Carsen.

Before we can even really start asking questions of those present, Carsen launches into a dramatic soliloquy, moaning about how everything is blamed on him and how he thought this matter had been put to rest on the Paps. The men start yelling, and the room erupts before we’ve even begun. “Gentlemen,” I roar, can we keep it to the facts please?", which gets a wholehearted nod of approval from Brock. Lord Theodore begins by laying out the history of Calaila’s murder, stating it occurred in January of 286 on the island of the Paps, during a peacekeeping mission between the Eleshams and Woodhulls, Dolins found Calila’s body in the woods, having been shot in the back with arrows, and stripped of her face and all belongings. Dolins speaks up and states, “it makes me shiver to this day thinking about the sight of it”. It is established by all that Carsen has the ability to remove faces in the manner with which Calaila was found, consistent with the face I found in his bag, and use them to disguise himself in a mystical way. It is also established that prior to the last time the maester saw them each briefly, in succession, Calaila and Carsen were seen leaving the ship together and Calaila was refusing his escort as she was riding to notify Teddy that Carsen had brought Rusty on board the Rambis where house secrets about the now stolen dragon eggs were revealed to him. Calaila was described as being angry with Carsen and accusing him of betrayal. The maester was quick to defend Carsen, emphasizing that they had seen both Carsen and Calaila after this event, but confirmed they were not seen together in the same room. If Carsen is a known faceless man, I cannot put together why the wise maester wouldn’t be able to plainly see that this sighting of Calaila could have been Carsen. The maester’s enthusiastic defense of Carsen is perplexing and seems out of place considering the evidence set before us. I suppose seeing really is believing. It must be hard for the maester to accept that this sighting may have been the well thought out mystical maneuver of a faceless man, making the maester a oblivious pawn in Carsen’s plans.

The council of justice asks further questions, such as the population of the Paps, which is confirmed to be a sparsely populated small island, unlikely to house another rare faceless man of Braavos. And when asked about if Calaila had other enemies, it was confirmed she did, and Carsen had negotiated with this one armed nemesis behind closed doors in the past. With not one but two potential motives, the opportunity, and the means and ability of a skilled marksman such as Carsen to shoot Calaila in the back, as well as the condition she was found, it could not be clearer that Carsen is guilty of the murder of Lord Theodore’s trusted advisor.

Brock, Gregoriy, August and I step into a quiet room, and all are in agreement of Carsen’s guilt. Gregoriy is alarmed by the news of Carsen’s ability and history as a faceless man, and notes that we should be concerned about this, that they are notoriously feared among the people of Essos for their magical abilities. Brock calls the oath breaker a witch and suggests a hefty and specific fine of 687 (?) gold dragons for Ser Carsen. But Gregoriy and I agree that leaving the faceless man alive may put the house in jeopardy should he try to enact revenge and that a life should be paid for with a life, especially considering that this murder was against the knight’s code of chivalry and honor. Gregoriy insists on giving Carsen a last meal, despite my growing concerns of his uncanny abilities to escape.

My fears are realized when upon announcement of the council’s judgement, Carsen demands trial by combat, and immediately flees the Great Hall. “August! Go!” I yell to my dearest companion. August leaps into action, but is unexpectedly stalled by Darron, who tries to grab his fur. August wriggles free and driven by the command, races after Carsen. I look around the see who else is going to back up my pup, and am further confused by the painfully slow 18 seconds to pass before the Darkwash cadre follows them into the hallway. My head is spinning with confusion about how this can all be, from the maester’s loss of logic, to Darron’s interference, to the excruciating delay in response to the guilty party’s fleeing, when a pain erupts in my heart. I collapse to the ground of the great hall, eyes blurring from welling tears, knowing something terrible has happened to August.

30

NOV/2022

THE KNIGHT'S GAMBIT

or: The Thorne Ultimatum?

A cloaked rider goes slowly along the wooded path. Only a sliver of moon hangs above to light the way, but the road is a familiar one. The well trained horse treads quietly and soon the bridge of the Andals is in view. The rider sees another figure standing atop the bridge.

Good. As arranged.

Cloaked Rider: I wasn’t sure you’d make it.

Shadowy Figure: You think they could stop me? I am not easily found when I wish to stay out of sight.

Cloaked Rider: I know that more than anyone. Still, I thank the Father that things haven’t gone worse.

Shadowy Figure: Gone worse? The smallfolk want my head! What has gotten into our lordling to allow justice to flow through those who have no mandate? They wanted to put me in a cell. That is not something I will abide by.

Cloaked Rider: I agree this place is lacking for Lord Ronnel’s guidance. But in the end, mandate is little more than popularity. Who gave King Rob the mandate to usurp the throne? His armies!

Shadowy Figure: That is a good point. And why I demanded my right as a knight to a trial by combat. The gods have always favored the righteous in wars, and in violence. They will show me right here too.

Cloaked Rider: No one would deny you the right to be judged by the Seven. It’s not without risk, but I’ll arrange it.

Shadowy Figure: Good good. Let me know the when, the where, and the who. I will be there and prove my innocence. As a Knight they cannot deny my request, and if they think to try to deny it, I will simply stay away until Lord Ronnel returns

Cloaked Rider: I’ll see to it. You know how to contact me if you need anything, but it’s best to lie-low.

Shadowy Figure: Agreed. Until we meet again…

29

NOV/2022

A letter to Jon Arryn

A Request, An Oath Broke, An End

#EndofanEra

Lord Arryn,

It is with great disgust that I am sending you this letter. I ser Carsen Thorne, have been charged with crimes I’ve not committed, by those with no right to try me. These crimes date years back to a faraway place. These are serious accusations of murder; however, I have already stood accused and acquitted once on the Pabst. Now, my lord Ronnel Jasper is away, and his son has put me to trial by a stable hand, a blacksmith, and a foreigner. The small folk are meant to be ruled, not do the ruling. They are seeking to have me executed for the murder of a commoner. This is unacceptable and I will not stand for this farce of a trial. As I knight, I have demanded trial by combat and am sure I will prevail. That said, I no longer feel I can be sworn to house Jasper. They have broken the oaths; they have lost their way. Clearly, they are trying to eliminate me in some effort to increase their own influence or encroach on my lands. The gods will smile on me I am sure, but whether it be me or my line after, I wish for new oaths to be sworn to you and for my lands to exist apart from the Jaspers through you as my liege.

Humbly,
Ser Carsen Thorne

21

NOV/2022

Ser Darron’s Journal 27

Darron grunts as he pulls on his boots and laces them up

There was an old knight back home in the Reach – Ser Barrish Bole – past his prime even when I was a squire, but wisest man I ever met. He used to have this saying that he’d tell me whenever he caught me with a scowl.

“Darron! A man should thank the Seven everyday that he wakes up with a chicken in his hand and a goat in his heart!”

It always cheered me up. Not a fucking clue what he meant, of course. But as I’ve grown older I think about it more and more.

Darron stands up quickly and buckles his belt. He leaves his sword and scabbard lying on the table

Maybe what Ole’ Ser Barrish was sayin’ is that when life hands you sunny days, just be content to wear out your boots going between the soup shop and the tavern. Don’t go pointing fingers at friends and don’t go tryin’ to kill dogs.

Darron wraps a cloak around his shoulders and sighs

These fucking kids have a lot to learn.

He strides out into the night

21

NOV/2022

2 comments

Last commented on:

Nov 27, 2022

The Value of a Life

Theodore makes the wise decision to alert Lady Alys of the compiled clues concerning Ser Carsen, but upon our return, Carsen has already let himself into the Lord’s private quarters. “Teddy!” he shouts over the closing of the door behind us. The lordling yelps in surprise, and August lowers into a crouching position and growls at the intruder.

The landed knight announces that he’s heard of the accusation from Darron’s ward, Wyne. He brazenly declares this matter as settled, but regardless, offers blood money. Alarmed, I step in, asking why a man would offer money for a heinous crime he insists he had nothing to do with. He responded with a demeaning disparagement of my own lack of funds, and assures me that this is what people with “a lot of money do, they use it to make their problems go away”. When I see Lord Theodore consider such a proposition, I kneel down to August, and ask him to go retrieve Lady Alyse. Carsen assures Teddy that he has plenty of it, and reports that “after his tin mine was shut down, he began panning for gold”. My head snaps up- “I’m sorry, Ser Carsen, did you say you began panning for gold after the tin mine workers were conscripted for the Sept?” He affirms this is what he said, and I note his dishonesty. This whole disaster started because Olira shared Carsen had been in the mountains for some time upon my delivery of the news of the tin mine workers. If he is untruthful about this timeline, what else is he capable of lying about?

Surely stepping out of line, I ask him again why he willing to pay so much for a crime he did not commit, to which he responds that he lacks trust in the court of justice and worries he will be convicted unfairly. “Do you not trust that the Beacon of Light, that Lord Ronnel himself appointed, will see what obvious evidence of your innocence you’ve clearly and carefully laid out before us today?” He ignores my sarcasm and incredulity, and asks where Lord Ronnel is. I scoff-“How can a banner house be so oblivious to such important goings on of its liege lord?” When Carsen realizes that Ronnel will not be available to consider his still unexplained reasoning for his exoneration, he leaves in a huff.

I hear a bolstering growl again from outside the lordling’s solar, and step into the hallway to see my dearest companion was successful in his mission. He’s returned with Lady Alys, who’s hushed his grumblings at the knight. Flustered, Carsen expresses his dissatisfaction of having to defend himself to the Beacon of Light for “the death of a commoner”, and I’m struck by his blatant disregard of another’s life.

While he goes upstairs to the maester’s rookery, I gather with Lady Alyse and Teddy again, and she admonishes him for him upsetting Lord Jasper’s only banner house, which reminds me that Ser Darron must have disregarded Teddy’s specific order to keep this conversation discreet. Before she departs, I butt in, unable to keep my mouth shut any longer. “My lady, while I understand the value of allies, I hope you can see the value in gaining a better understanding of what happened that day. If House Thorne murdered a trusted advisor of House Jasper, what kind of allies are they? What other betrayals to the Jasper family are they capable of?” She asks if I am Edric’s daughter, and knowing that I’ve really stepped in in this time, I hang my head in shame and softly say “yes”. The lady is benevolent, and agrees that understanding is a worthwhile pursuit, but I can’t help but notice that she speaks of understanding Carsen’s motives for the crime, rather than his level of involvement. No one seems to be arguing for is innocence, not even Carsen.

That evening, as August and I watch the sun set from the stables, I consider what I’ve witnessed in the last day here at House Jasper, and shudder, not from the chill in the air, but of all its meaning. If a member of the noble House Jasper’s own council can be murdered in cold blood by the house’s own knight, who is sworn to uphold honor and protect women and children, and no one ever pays for or even acknowledges the crime, what does that mean for me? I am but a humble servant to the house, would any one care if I were killed, let alone by one of my own comrades? Have I been naive about the wisdom and commitment to protection a noble house can offer to its servants? To see the way Theodore and Carsen spoke about the value of another human’s life in terms of a few dragons, I wonder what price House Jasper would pay for my blood, if any at all. I bury my face in August’s warm fur, and pray the sage Beacon of Light returns soon to offer council.

The next morning, seeking fresh air and solitude, August and I go for a walk. As we pass by town, we cross paths with Slim. From out of nowhere, the drunk throws his hands in the air at the sight of us, shouts gibberish, and run away. More confused than ever, August and I exchange looks, and return to Castle Snownook, knowing no peace could be found here either today.

9

NOV/2022

This Again?

Where's Ronnie?

Man I should be better at starting fires. I live in the fucking woods. Oh well. Either way, chaos is being sewn. The lannisters sending raiders to our treasury, trying to burn it down and locking up random people? That will surely keep people busy while I try and get word to Ronnel to come back to Snownook. He is a just Lord that can be reasoned with, I fear the lordling is not nearly so capable and may not be the most judicious in present matters. With disctraction #1 running, it is time to get word to Ronnel. Then, more chaos to keep people busy until he returns. It is time for some things to go missing from the castle.

8

NOV/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

Nov 09, 2022

A Found Face

The scent of Carsen’s saddle bags continues to gnaw at me for several days after the tourney. The smell was so distinctive and so out of place, I’m haunted by why or how a man panning for gold could be focused on such task when he’s got human flesh in his possession. I devise a plan, and set out towards the tavern.

Hiding a unremarkable horse in the woods by Slim’s tent, I meander under the cover of dusk to the town pub that Slim frequents and watch him descends into a drunken stupor until he’s kicked out by another patron. I follow him back to his accommodations, and settle into some nearby shrubbery before pushing my warging abilities farther than I’ve ever dreamed of. My eyes awaken to a blurred and slightly swollen view, and lifting my suddenly very heavy limbs, I know the first mission of my evening was successful; I am in Slim’s body.

I throw myself over the horse’s saddle and ride into the night towards Carsen’s encampment. It takes a few slow hours, but I’m grateful for the sobering effects of the cool night air and time. A ways a way from his tent, I tie my horse up and creep towards his still saddled stot, overhearing the landed knight’s heavy snoring from his tent. Carefully, making effort to steady my hands and breath, I rifle through the bag in question until my fingers find a material unlike anything else in the pack. I recoil-the feeling of paper thin leather is so unnatural and…wrong. But thinking of House Jasper, and my duty to notify Lord Theodore of secrets being kept from him, I reach back in and pull out…a face? This makes no sense, but I do not have time to spare, so shove it in Slim’s disgusting pants and disappear back into the night before Carsen can wake.

In the morning light, I look at the face more closely. It’s old but not rotting, flesh but not bloodied, lifelike but absolutely nonsensical. How can such a thing exist in this state let alone in Ser Carsen’s possession? I request an audience with Teddy who graciously welcomes me and August into his solar and we review the face together, both confused and both alarmed.

Teddy recalls Ser Darron previously mentioning a “face thing” around the untimely death of Calaila, and calls him in. Ser Darron comes to Carsen’s defense suspiciously quickly, before even a formal accusation can be made, and even brings up the traitor Shaymus’ name, ready to label them both as innocent despite an overwhelming amount of evidence and a completed trial by combat, respectively. While Teddy and I review the strange set of circumstances (a cut out face in Carsen’s bag, Darron’s confession of having witnessed Carsen use the faces of the dead to transform completely into other people, Calaila having been found with her face sliced off, Calaila having been seen leaving with Carsen against her wishes and in an argument shortly before returning only to quickly and quietly be witnessed before her body was found), and agree that this is a matter better suited for the Beacon of Light, Gregoriy and the Council of Justice. Ser Darron returns from gathering a bite from the kitchen, and Teddy makes it clearly know that his discretion is expected in matters as sensitive as this.

2

NOV/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

Nov 09, 2022

Snownook Hosts a Tourney, Pt 1

In my raven form, I come across Ser Carsen hunched over a stream on the side of the mountain. He looked as though he were packed with a few days provisions, and had been out for some time. Perched on a nearby tree, I observe the knight shake around a large flat round object for hours on end, and it’s not until I get closer that I realize he’s panning for gold. The fellow has a family at home, and a castle under construction, and he’s focused on flakes of gold! How pitiful. He doesn’t seem to get anything during the time I’ve watched him as evidenced by his repeated cursing, so in trying to understand his unwavering commitment to such a fruitless task, I check out his saddle bags to see if he was being motivated by previous success. I don’t find gold, but I do find a most unusual smell…what is distinctly human flesh. I try my best to dig around and open his saddle bags with no luck, and not wanting to push my luck with Carsen’s distraction level, I give up and return to Castle Snownook.

I deliver the news of Olira’s response to the message about their builders, and the unusual nature of Carsen’s behavior and contents of his bags, with Teddy, who seems utterly unconcerned. But the smell from his saddle sacks was so unusual that it gnaws at me for the rest of the day.

In celebration of Ser Jamie Lannister’s stay at Castle Snownook hosts a tournament with handsome prizes. The first event is a trick riding race, that I enter with a bit of confidence. At the starting line is Rhaella, Eustice Hunter, and Ser Darron among others. Together we raced through obstacles including jumping over a fence, through the shallows of the sea, and up the gate house ramp. The whole way I trail Ser Darron by bit a bit and never quite catch him, and I watch with a hint of envy as he’s awarded 50 gold dragons for his victory.

The next even is a knife throwing competition, that I join in fueled by the festivity of the day. Wyne, Eustice Hunter, Marianne Malcome, and Ser Dolins himself also compete, and while I enter with abysmal expectations for being competitive, I’m delighted to just make it to the second round. As the events wraps, the crowd turns its attention towards the joust…

28

SEP/2022

A Bud of Curiosity

After Ser Lannister and his party depart, Lady Alys sends me with a message to House Carsen. It’s a lovely afternoon, so I’m happy to have the chance to go for a long ride with Kusa and August, and we meander down the gentle hills under the sun. After about an hour, we arrive, and I can’t help but notice the magnificent progress the builders have made at his home. They’ve still got a long way to go, but I think about how exciting it must feel to watch something be made from nothing each day.

Olira greets me warmly outside their stead, and shares that Carsen isn’t home, but agrees to take the message and share it with her husband when he returns. The message is not a particularly good one, the builders are being conscripted to work on the sept, and her disappointment is palpable. Olira asks a few questions that I do not have the answers for, but I encourage her to send Carsen to meet with the Jaspers when he gets back. On that note, I ask earnestly, “By the way, where is Carsen?”. She shares without hesitation that he’s been leaving to go to the mountains recently, and when she asks what he’s doing up there he responds that she wouldn’t understand. How mysterious!! I thank her for her time and agreement to deliver the message to Ser Carsen, and express my hope that we see them at Snownook soon.

Pulled by my curiosity, once well out of sight of the Thorne residence, I pull our little party far off the path and behind some foliage, and warg into my helpful raven friend to head to the mountains and seek out Carsen’s whereabouts.

14

SEP/2022

Unexpected Visitors

After the bardic college opening, out riding one day, I see about a mile in front of August, Kusa and I a column of soldiers headed directly east towards Castle Snownook. I squint, trying to make out the details of the party but without much luck, I warg into the raven that trails us and get a closer look. About 100 soldiers trail behind a couple supply carriages and blonde twins, carrying sigil of a golden lion on a blood red field. I race back to the Jasper party as fast as I can and notify them of the approaching group.

After a few minutes of discussion, I recognize the stature of our guests, House Lannister, and offer to get the kitchen working on an impressive meal to greet them with. When I hear the gates open, I take it upon myself to carry in a tray of goblets of the house’s finest wine, and offer it to a dusty Ser Jamie after being verbally assaulted by an over eager Darron praising his prowess.

While the nobles meet, I tend to the Lannister horses, and have the opportunity to work on Ser Jamie’s impressive steed. From behind, my work is interrupted by a quiet woman’s voice, “You have a way with him”. I turn around and upon rising from a curtsy, I see a familiar face, Olive the Septa. We make some small talk, though much to my annoyance, every sentence of hers is peppered with references to her gods. Thinking of Ser Dolins’ skepticism of the Seven, I avoid the subject, and happily hand her the bag of feed for the mules she requested.

3

AUG/2022

Oh Mirage - a poem by Darron

#poetry
Poem

Her beauty eclipses the southern sun
Her grace exceeds the Vale’s heights
When the stars emerge – as the night comes
Her eyes, they shine at least as bright

Oh Fortune! You have made us one!
Do I have the warrior or crone to thank?
It feels that any-thing now can be done.
From six feet up upon her flank

Fur and plate and hoof and lance
She’s flies just like a northern gale
Our enemies all poop their pants
Victory…. comes without fail

I’ll always share the spoils, of course
Oh Mirage, my loyal horse

Recited at the Opening of the Bardic College in April of 288 AC

26

JUL/2022

Raven to Mia Elesham

Could not find the girl in Jasport. Will look again with more information, can you describe her appearance?

26

JUL/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 30, 2022

Hands and Fingers

A poem by Teddy

A Hand

He asked for a hand
But it was only a finger
That I could offer the stranger

A hand

To quest for further land
To expand to the hand
That someday we will lend

A Finger

For now, to linger
Will have to do

26

JUL/2022

From Poetry Book of Gregoriy

for the opening of the bardic college!

A Set of House Jasper Limericks……by a Norvosi

There once was a lord from the vale
House Jasper, from which he doth hail
The sight from his eyes
Use to be exorcised
Until recently, he has no use for braille.

There lived a son of our most gracious lord
The leader of our great and powerful horde
Not the most observant
But with coin fervent
To the point of leaving no deal unexplored (Norvosi Unledanket)

There once was a Knight from the vale
From House Jasper he doth hail
Once from the Reach
He is such a peach
Especially with his Tankard of Ale (Norvosi Grak)

In House Jasper, lives a quiet and helpful Stablehand
Who has experienced much more than she had planned
Animals are her kin
Almost as if they were her twin
She is a pivotal part of our band (rafeep)

And finally, our generous host for the night
Good with song and is hard to best in a fight
Always has a song
Wielding Victorinox all day long
We all know the great bard-knight (norvosi tonamin)

And I am a priest from Norvos
Your most tall and omnipotent host
I always put up a fight
But try as I might
I can’t speak WESTEROS!

26

JUL/2022

Hooray - A Poem By Cedric

Cedric
Poem

Hooray
By Ser Cedric

It is with many thanks that I am here today
Good Jardon, Better Darron found me
In their names we should cry out Hooray!

I’ve been to the Riverlands, seen the Freys
Lord Ronnel and Lady Alys welcomed me
In their names we should cry out Hooray!

I was not in the war, distance was my delay
Sly Teddy and the kind Ser Dolins accepted me
In their names we should cry out Hooray!

I’ve rode more than some leagues, my tired horse would neigh
Dutiful Edric and lovely Summer care for he
In their names we should cry out Hooray!

I’ve lived many a hard year, my hair has gone to grey
The Jasper family protected you and protected me
In their names we should cry out Hooray!

Recited at the Opening of the Bardic College in April of 288 AC

26

JUL/2022

Ser Darron's Journal 26

Now, this is a story all about how
My life got flipped-turned upside down
And I’d like to take a minute
Just one short speech
I’ll tell you how I was unfairly separated from my family in the Reach

In South Westeros born and raised
In the tiltyard was where I spent most of my days
Chillin’ out, maxin’, relaxin’, all gallant
And all swingin’ some longsword showin’ my talent
When a couple of jewels that were pretty rare
One night just disappeared into thin air
The Lord needed a scapegoat and I was nearby
He said, “You’re losing your head if we catch you alive!”

They weren’t jokin’ around so ole Darron conceded
Rolled Stealth bonus Sneak and just barely succeeded
Not usually the kind to get scared and turn tail
But I thought “Nah, forget it, yo, horse to The Vale!”
I pulled up to Snownook at the break of daylight
And I yelled to Lord Jasper, “Yo holmes, need a Knight?”
I looked at my kingdom
It would have to do
And I swore on that day to bring my family here too

27

JUN/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 20, 2022

The Unbeatable Knight

Several more rounds of fights go by before a mystery knight no one recognizes challenges Ser Darron, who he swiftly defeats. The crowd goes wild and cheers Darron’s name, and the mystery knight quickly storms off, clearly a poor sportsman.

As the tournament continues, a fight in the crowds breaks out. The voice of an enraged man rises from the murmurs of the audience, and all look to see a man screaming at a knight with a sigil of white birds on a brown background, from House Shett. He bellows “It is you who are the bastard! How dare you!” and departs before swords start swinging, much to my relief. Eyes shift uncomfortably within the audience, and when no one approaches the knight, I quietly check in on him. He assures me he’s alright-“words can cut deeper than swords, can’t they?”. He introduces himself at Ser Hammett, and not long after, he dons armor to go challenge Ser Darron. I wish him luck on his way out to the platform.

My wishes are no use in the face of his opponent, Ser Darron. Ser Hammett is cut down like all the others

15

JUN/2022

Ser Darron's Journal 25

Any tourney is a big event you know. The crowds of highborn and smallfolk make it just as exhilarating as actual combat. In fact, it’s even better since they make the archers shoot at hay bales and true knights are allowed to duel properly; sword to sword.

This tourney is extra important since the winner will be granted an appeal to Lord Arryn. He’s the Hand of the King with all the powers of Big Rob himself! The hand can grant any wish if the winning knight is worthy. I have a great request of him so must not only win, but win with valor!

What better way to prove myself than challenging Ser Mandon of the Kingsguard. No fighter has yet taken arms against him today. To duel him would draw attention, to defeat him would.… Will… Will!… Wine! Pay attention! I’m teaching here!

Now… to defeat Ser Mandon would be tricky… However, Ole’ Ser Darron knows something the others don’t, or at least don’t realize.

Of course, it’s a gamble. I’ll probably be bleeding all over the maesters before midday, but I believe this old knight has a chance. In a knight’s life, you see, there are times for moderation and times for boldness. I reckon the moment calls for recklessness. Now, fetch me my pants.

11

JUN/2022

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jun 15, 2022

Suspicions Grow

I bring the news of the Red Priest robes to Ser Dolins and Lord Theodore. They express internal conflict about the suspicions we all share about the knight, and we agree to keep this new information to ourselves. I suggest a plan to continue spying on the knight through warging under the guise of feeling ill and weary for several weeks, the knight and Lordling agreeing to spread this story throughout the house.

Over the next few weeks, I overhear a tipsy Ser Darron expressing sympathy for the convicted traitor Shaymus at Ye Olde Plain Gosling over ales, as well as speaking with the blacksmith about purchasing a brand new full set of armor! Where would he have gotten the funds for such a purchase? I pass along this information to Teddy and Dolins, and they share they will also keep a close eye on him at the upcoming tournament.

The day of the tournament finally arrives, and it is a whirlwind of festivities! Brave Ser Dolins faces off against Ser Brynden Tully and loses, but Ser Darron, in his shiny new armor, challenges and defeats Ser Mandon Moore!

8

JUN/2022

Suspicions Continued

I return from warging to find a relaxed Darron back at Castle Snownook. He speaks for some time to Teddy, Dolins lets the rider go after some deliberation, and all seems eerily calm. I fall back on our original plan of allowing Ser Darron to say his final goodbyes to Shaymus, and he accepts, stating he would visit that night after a flagon of wine.

I warg into a mouse and hide in Shaymus’ cell and overhear their conversation form the shadows. The conversation is benign, and while Darron does pass a small package over the the prisoner, upon further inspection, it appears to be a small satchel of spiced meats for his final meal in Westeros. I notify Lady Alys and she encourages continued suspicion.

Heeding her words, that night I warg again into my mouse friend and search Ser Darron’s room. The only thing that seems truly out of place is a set of robes worn by Red Priests. I notify Ser Dolins and Lord Theodore right away.

26

MAY/2022

1 comment

Last commented on:

May 31, 2022

Suspicions Within

I’m summoned to the Council of Justice to determine the fate of Shaymus following his defeat in Trial by Combat. Darron insist on joining us, despite him not having a place on the council, though he mostly observes in silence. Brock initially suggests that the traitor should be killed from his crimes, but after mustering the courage, I encourage Gregoriy to consider another option. “Perhaps we should use his guilt to try and bring the eggs home..what if we exiled him to Essos, with the promise of a safe return home if he can bring the eggs with him?” After some consideration and debate, the council is in agreement, recognizing it may be the only hope of bringing the dragon eggs to Snownook where they belong.

Darron accompanies me to notify Shaymus of this news, but the conversation takes an unexpected turn. The guilty party looks to his old friend and asks for help, and Ser Darron recommends the man accept his fate. Before we leave, the knight attempts to offer the prisoner several iron stakes. I react in shock and quickly swipe them from his hand before they can be exchanged, looking back at him in horror. I usher him out, and run to find Gregoriy and Teddy.

When I find the Beacon of Justice and Lordling, I express my concerns about Darron’s actions, attitudes and inconsistencies throughout this investigation, as well as how they are intensified by the knowledge of his history of being accused of stealing priceless jewels from the previous house he served. They share my concerns, so we hatch a plan to spy on a conversation between Shaymus and Darron.

Unfortunately, when we go to find Ser Darron…he’s gone! Gregoriy begins to search for him at a relaxed pace but my heart drops into my stomach and I instantly warg into a raven to search from the skies. It isn’t long before I see a rider with the sigil of a green field adorned by a grey face on his cloak. The man is not Darron, but I am very suspicious of this activity and return to notify House Jasper.

Ser Dolins is the first person I come across, and he agrees to ride after the man with the sigil that he recognizes as being from House Baelish. He also voices his suspicions about Ser Darron that he’d been keeping to himself, and agrees the man must be cut off. I offer him my sandsteed to catch up to the rider as swiftly as possible, and run to Lady Alys to urge her to send other riders to follow.

After seeing Maelys, Cedric and the Order of the Darkwash depart after Dolins, I take to the skies once again, this time towards Jasport, to search for Darron.

19

MAY/2022

An Intruder in the Night, Pt 3

Teddy is naturally alarmed and concerned for the House’s treasures. I accompany him down to the vault, where the door has been broken into with a high quality, but now broken, lock pick. Sure enough, the dragon eggs are vanished. I search around the room, and find a long dark horse hair near where the eggs were. I have confidence that the horse hair is from a palfrey. The only members of the house who ride palfreys are Rhaella (whose horse is light in color) and there are a few others who aren’t ridden as often in the stables, so no owner immediately comes to mind. Lord Theodore curses the thieves, and wonders aloud who could’ve masterminded this plan with so few people knowing of the eggs’ existence. “Knowledge travels fast in the wrong hands, my lord.” I remind him.

After regrouping, Ser Dolins shares that Shaymus has been interrogated and is currently in a cell under suspicion of involvement. We head out from the castle, following hoof prints, eventually coming across a group of panting and nearly passed out palfreys, and one dead man. After some inspection, we see another, smaller set of hoofprints heading further out, so I warg into a crow to get a birds eye view on the scene.

Some time later, I spot 3 dark palfreys, left saddled and abandoned near the coast, with footprints ending at the water, as though they were picked up by a boat. Soaring above, I peer out over the open sea, and see a ship off in the distance! I fly out and observe those on board for as long as I can. The crew of sailors lacks any distinguishing features except for one strange looking man wearing an oddly shaped hat. It appears to be black and made of felt and pointy corners on each edge. Otherwise, no sigils can be seen on board, and the only mention in conversation I recognize is that they are headed back to Braavos.

7

APR/2022

An Intruder in the Night, Pt 2

Dolins sprints down the hallway towards the stairs, and I turn my attention to my sweet, brave August. He’s too heavy for me to lift alone, so I knock gently on the closest door, the quarters of Betty the handmaiden, who nervously agrees to help me move August into me room where he can remain safely.
After thanking Betty for her help, I grab my stiletto, shield and dagger, and run in a daze down the hallway and down the stairs to meet with the rest of the house.

31

MAR/2022

An Intruder in the Night

I’m awoken in the middle of the night by Ser Dolins, who looks uneasy. “I’ve been stirred by a strange noise that I think should be investigated, but I don’t think I should go alone.” I rub my eyes, and ask what he heard. “I’m not sure, just…something’s not right.” I rouse a sleepy August, and ask Ser Dolins to keep an eye on my body as I warg into the raven and take a lap around the castle.

From above, all seems quiet. But as I swoop lower, I see a group of a dozen horses tied up between the Dark Wash encampment and the Bridge of the Andals. My blood runs cold-everything is cloaked in darkness and eerily still, but I don’t see anything else out of place.
I return at Summer and explain quickly in a hushed voice what I saw to Ser Dolins. “We have to wake the castle,” I tell him. He tells me to notify Teddy and he’ll grab Victorinox and wake everyone else. With a quick nod, August and I sprint out into the hallway. The moment I turn the corner an obliterating pain explodes in my arm and I collapse in front of a cloaked and shadowed man.
“We’re under attack!” I scream in a shaky, broken voice, and look to August. “Attack.” I whisper to him. My loyal companion launches himself at the man, but is quickly swiped down by his sword. August lets a blood curdling cry, and even in the dark I can tell he is badly hurt. I throw myself over him. “Please no! Don’t hurt him. Take my life instead,” I plead to the man. The hallway is silent for a moment.

" Don’t. Move." The man holds the point of his sword firmly, but unmoving, into my back. I nod.

With my face buried in August’s wet, bloodied fur, and I try and fail to hold in a whimper. And then… with a broad swish, the stranger collapses beside me. I look up in shock, and the brave Ser Dolins stands boldly above us, holding Victorinox in victory over our opponent.

Rhaella steps into the hallway with us, having been woken by my yell. She asks “What do you need me to do?” and we both look to Ser Dolins for commands.

24

MAR/2022

Honors Bestowed

I’m approached one morning after Lord Theodore and his trusted men have departed for Gulltown by the house messenger, Rhaella, who invites me for a ride. I gladly agree and am quietly happy to show off my riding skills to someone as talented on a horse as Rhaella. Overlooking a lovely valley in House Jasper’s lands, she asks if I would be interested in assisting her with her messenger duties, as the house’s correspondence needs have grown with its responsibilities. Moved by her consideration of me, I agree enthusiastically and pepper her with questions about the role. We carry on, enjoying the day’s gift of sunshine, until we come across a gathering of young adolescents and children moving rocks around, being overseen by a pair of adult. We observe from afar for a bit until my curiosity gets the best of me, and I approach the scene with August. Under the guise of a town girl looking for her dog, I inquire about their mission, and the woman introduces herself as a septa, and informs me that they are building a sept. Upon my return to Rhaella, she narrows her eyebrows at this, and we agree she should notify Lord Ronnel.

Only a few days later, I’m approached again, this time by Gregoriy. He shares that following the miracle he performed on Lord Ronnel, that he’s been appointed the ancient position of the Beacon of Light to the house. I congratulate him on this tremendous but well deserved honor as he expands on the positions’ duties, and his intention to create a council to assist with his decision making. To my shock, he invites me to join the council! I choke on the air in my lungs, “me? Surely you do not mean me…” but he protests and thinks having a young person familiar with the customs of the area would be beneficial in considering matters of local justice. I accept on the condition that Rhaella does not think it will get in the way of the role I accepted with her, and she encourages me to move forward with it.

Unfortunately, the first matter for the council is one far above my head. Gregoriy, I, and the other council member, Brock, heads to the cells to meet with Stephanie, a toothless crude woman, who confirms Gregoriy’s inquiries about her knowingly giving pox to her “suitors”. I feel my face get hot and hands get clammy as humiliating subjects from the sheer number of her partners to “sheepskin” arise. But after some deliberation, the council civilly agrees that tattooing the woman with a warning for her future potential suitors on her upper leg may prevent the infectious disease from spreading further throughout the town.

I am relieved to have a reason to take some time away from Castle Snownook after this experience, as Lord Ronnel sends me to deliver my first message! Per his instructions, I ride Kusa to Snakewood and hand deliver a sealed message to their maester Glynn. He responds with a cryptic warning of what happens to messengers who read their delivery materials.

27

JAN/2022

The Murder of a Bear

As Gregoriy and his comrades, Niall, Vesna and Kira, and I are preparing to leave, my father calls me over to him in a gruff voice. I see his arms are crossed, and he has a stern look on his face, so I hop on my sand steed and trot over to him, standing several feet over him. “I know what you’re doing!” I allow the silence to hang in the air between us for a long while. "A bear?1 Have I taught you

After warging into a raven and finding a bear from the air, I point the Order of the Darkwash in its direction. When we find it nibbling berries by a creek, quietly, Gregoriy explains the purpose of the mission-that we must kill the bear in a calm state with the eventual goal of healing Lord Ronnel’s sight. My heart sinks, and I step away and take a few deep breaths of forest air while considering his proposal. To be a part of such a vicious act towards such a majestic creature…unfathomable. But…it is for the good of the house, and for the good of Lord Ronnel. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the betterment of the house, yes? Well here’s my chance, am I going to let it go? Because of my own girlish wishes? Seven hells, it is time to grow up, Summer!

We start approaching the bear but it gets spooked quickly and starts to run off. “Wait!” I scamper after it and coo softly, “come back, friend.” The bear looks at me with curiosity and I give it a big smile back. I entice it back towards the creek and engage it in play, chasing and exploring the banks together. Each time Gregoriy approaches, the bear gets spooked, so I gently suggest from afar that he sneak attack. After some time, I see a glimpse of Gregoiy quickly followed by a flash of his axe, and the bear collapses, dead. I too, collapse, into a fit of sobs.

Gregoriy gets to work right away collecting the blood of the bear, while Vesna and the rest of the Order surround me with comforting gestures. When he’s done, I walk over to the bear and crouch beside it, apologizing and whisper “please help Lord Ronnel…please let this all be worth it…please don’t let your life be for waste…”

We all slowly and somberly make our way back to Castle Snownook, and prior to entering the castle walls, Gregoriy expresses his sadness and condolences for what he’s put me through today. I try to muster the strength to respond, but can only manage a sniffling nod.

30

DEC/2021

A Thank You Note

For a wonderful visit

Honorable Lord Rowan,

I regret that we did not have the opportunity to meet during my visit to Golden Grove, you have a lovely staff in your service and a wonderful castle, which I am sure is a reflection of your leadership. In our unfortunate haste, my companions and I were not able to take our belongings with us, some of which are not easily replaced. I graciously request the return of our belongings to Snownook, seat of House Jasper in the Vail. Upon whole return of our belongings, you will be compensated for your troubles.

Graciously,
Theodore Jasper

9

DEC/2021

The Helpful Mouse

With a little magic, Ser Dolins created a perfect lock pick for the steel door, gaining us entry to the small room. Sure enough, there Victorinox remained, wrapped tightly in a cloth, its glory concealed. I delight and tip tap my mouse feet around while Teddy, Dolins and Gregoriy devise a strategy for our departure.

At the top of the stairwell I motion for the crew to halt. Damn! Guards at each door…no way out. I scurry around and scratch my head, until I come across a store room. Perfect! I’ll create a distraction! With all my might I shove a goblet off a shelf. One guard casually pops his head in, but shrugs and carries on. I cross the hall to find a kitchen and try again. A pan clatters to the floor. “Darryl! Seven hells! Keep it down in there will ya?” The same guard from this hallway groans, but the one at the main entrance remains. Frantic, I look around. A-ha! Fire….

I gather a pile of kindling around the room-stale bits of crusty bread, textiles, bit of paper-and set it ablaze. Sure enough, the smoke drifts into the hallway, and the nearest guard yells “FIRE!”. The man from the main entrance bursts through the door and without hesitation, I motion for House Jasper to run out the unguarded door.

We hide in a nearby bush, and try to devise a plan. Gregoriy, the klutz that he is tries hiding in another bush, but attracts the attention of a nearby outer guard passing by in the most foul manner. He quickly surrenders and he and the man pass by us on their way back inside toward the cells. Faster than a flash, Ser Dolins steps out behind the guard and cuts him down in one motion with Victorinox. We stand there, flabbergasted at the power of our reclaimed Valyrian sword, as well as the one wielding it! I return to my human form and notify Ser Darron that we need his help getting out beyond the walls. “Great! I’ll be there in a few hours!” I feel my jaw hit the floor- “A few HOURS? A FEW HOURS?! Arghh!!” and return to the castle in my mouse form.

With another game of charades I let the others know that Darron will be here in 3 hours. We find another store room to hide out in and I stand watch waiting for signs of our rescue.

Sure enough, a mystery caravan pops through the gates after some time, and a young man appears to tell a dramatic tale to anyone n the courtyard who will listen. The guard tack up and depart-and Ser Dolins peeks his face out of the caravan! We all sprint towards our rescuer and leap in, with our prize in hand.

18

NOV/2021

Ser Darron's Journal 24

Darron: I wish the others would return. Sure hope they’re alright.

Shaymus: I just wish we had some food, but this is no time to go looking for it. Not with those riders scouting the area.

Darron: Well, we could always eat her horse while she’s away (gestures at Summer)

Summer: (Stares glassy-eyed into space.)

Shaymus: Ho Ho! Darron, what a good joke! However it is WIDELY known that you LOVE HORSES and would be DISTRAUGHT if HARM were to befall that animal!

Darron: It is true. There’s only one thing in the Seven Kingdoms I care for more than horses and that’s…

Shaymus: Why a SQUIRE, of course. Your trait of being stern with BUT DEEP DOWN INCREDIBLY KIND TO your SQUIRES continues to this day.

Darron: Well, I was going to say A FRIEND, but YES I am INCREDIBLY HEARTBROKEN that my DEAR Thomas fell to the Ironborn. It was only my recently acquired DEEP-SEATED FEAR of the Ironborn following my own NEAR-DEATH WHILE SAVING DOLLINS that prevented me from pursuing his murderers. However, I did DONATE a SIGNIFICANT sum of GOLD to an ORPHANAGE in Oldtown in the hopes that it may ease the suffering of some other children.

Shaymus: Wow, Darron. You truly are a GREAT GUY. I know you’re telling the truth because you are an HONORABLE KNIGHT and would only ever lie in the most DIRE of CIRCUMSTANCES when it is NECESSARY to PROTECT your FRIENDS.

Darron: It is true. I lied about the sword because I see the Jasparians as FAMILY and wish to see NO more BLOODSHED in the name of that piece of metal. The TRUE PRICELESS ARTIFACTS are the RELATIONSHIPS WE’VE FORGED ALONG THE WAY.

Shaymus: You are without question the MOST NOBLE KNIGHT in the Seven Kingdoms and I would be honored to buy you SIX PINTS of Bandallon Ale next time we happen across a tavern.

Summer: (Still warging, but most likely agrees.)

1

OCT/2021

2 comments

Last commented on:

Oct 02, 2021

Thoughts from a Lordling in the Reach

Summer catches Ser Darron trying to hide his failure…

We’ve come all this way across Westeros for one reason, to get the Jasper family sword back! Well also a second reason – I need to collect on my investment in that silver mine – but that aside, Ser Darron’s stunt is unacceptable. He failed to acquire the sword from the Black Shield in combat then attempted to cover his failure claiming he threw the family sword down a well! How disloyal! How shameful for a knight! This deed will not go without reprimand, gods no.

Guards of Golden Grove take Teddy, Dolins, and Gregoriy into custody for the night…

How fortuitous this predicament is! The rotund guard promises me an audience with the Lord of Golden Grove in the morning. I dare say this is the perfect opportunity to make all of this right. I’ll just bide my time until the morning.

Summer (form of mouse) shows up and breaks the three of them out of jail…

Seven hells, there’s no way I can make an arrangement with the Lord now! We’re disrespecting his rule by breaking out of jail!

Oh! Summer knows where the sword is!

Oh… its heavily guarded…

Maybe we can sneak into the Lords chambers and “encourage” him to take my offer. It can’t be too hard to get there while everyone is sleeping, especially with Summer leading the way!

Gregoriy takes 2 extremely loud steps and immediately wakes the first guard we see…

Well fuck me.

30

SEP/2021

2 comments

Last commented on:

Oct 02, 2021

Quieter than a Mouse

I remained in the field with hopes of setting eyes of Lord Theodore and his escorts, but was met instead by a large knight of House Goldengrove. He questioned me, and warned me of some ruthless bandits out and about. I had to stifle a giggle when I realized, the bandits he’s speaking of are us!
After he carried on, continuing the search for the “bandits”, Ser Darron and Seamus eventually circled back and we realized that Teddy, Gregoriy and Ser Dolins weren’t coming. We made camp and I returned to the castle as the field mouse, hoping to hear even a snippet of information about where the rest of House Jasper may be.
Fortunately, I hear a lot more than a snippet! I stumble upon a conversation the large man is having about mysterious travellers from this morning’s market down in the cells and scurry back down the the basement. Sure enough, I find our companions behind heavy wooden doors. After a painstaking game of charades with Lord Theodore, I move onto the next cell, and find a more even keeled Dolins. He doesn’’t know where the keys are but promises he’ll stay quiet until we can bring help. Stay quiet!! That’s IT!! I shake my head with all my might, and then bang my little mouse hands against the wooden wall and point emphatically at Dolins. I see a spark light up in his eyes- “you want me to make a bunch of noise?” I nod and smile and scurry back to the hallway while Dolins makes a ruckus in his cell. Sure enough, a minute or so later, the fat knight comes bumbling down the basement stairs and yells at the jailer, a few doors down. They check on the prisoners, but I’m watching closely for their return movements. The jailer haphazardly throws the cell keys on a table, and I wait for him to fall asleep.

When his snoring reaches new depths, I grab a key and drag it off the table. It falls to the ground with a clatter and I hold my breath-the jailer stirs, but begins snoring again only a few moments later. Phew! I’m able to bring the key all the way to Dolins, who brilliantly reaches through the slat in the door and unlocks his cell, before quickly unlocking the others.

Together at last I gather them closely, and pantomime swinging a sword in the most dramatic fashion I can. Teddy, with his eye on the prize, knows exactly what I’m referring to. “You know where the sword is?!” I nod enthusiastically. “Is it heavily guarded?!” My eyes widen, thinking of the heavy, masterfully crafted steel door, and nod again more slowly. His eyes narrow as a smile creeps across his face. “Well, are we ready to get what we came here for?” As we creep away from the cells, me leading the way towards to other side of the basement, Gregoriy trips, sending sounds bouncing across the stone walls.

“HEY!!!!!!”-the jailers voice rings out…

30

SEP/2021

2 comments

Last commented on:

Oct 02, 2021

A Knight Without Honor

A fight quickly ensues out ahead between Ser Darron and the Flowers man, and a separate chase stirs amongst Gregoriy, Ser Dolins and Flowers’ squire. “Would you like me to send August into the mix, my Lord?” I ask Teddy. “Nah,” he rebuffs, “looks like they have everything under control.”. Carsen also remains, but draws his bow. After some awful blows, and a short disappearance of Darron, the Flowers men ride away and Ser Darron returns…empty handed.

The knight spins a tall tale of feeling some bad energy from the sword he fought Matthew Flowers for, and reports he threw it in a well in order to save the house from a curse, urging us to turn around and go home. His words drip with dishonesty, and I respond, seething, “you mean to tell me….that we traveled all this way…got Thomas killed…for you to throw away a precious, priceless House Jasper heirloom?!” I should feel shame for such an emotional outburst to a higher ranking member of the house, especially in front of the honorable lordling, but the knight’s behavior is so despicable I cannot help myself!

Fortunately, Lord Theodore supports my line of questioning, and he, Ser Carsen and I approach the well. As if by a miracle, the sword sits atop the water bucket only a few feet below the lip. Enraged, I raise it above my head and formally accuse the knight of his dishonesty towards his leader. All I can think of is sweet Thomas,_ this man’s own squire_, having died for nothing if Ser Darron had gotten his way and we had headed home empty handed. All of the blood shed, all of the suffering, for nothing?

I am not the only one who sees the crime in the knight’s behavior, and Lord Theodore insists we carry on, after wondering out loud if the knight has gotten too old for his post. For a moment, Darron mumbles about parting from the group, but quickly and visibly considers the implications for disobeying an order, especially following such a blatant lie to his lord. We trot, silently and in great tension, towards Golden Grove.

9

SEP/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Sep 15, 2021

Where House Jasper goes, trouble follows...

While crossing the river, Darron and Bert get tangled in a nasty fight about the location of the sword, but I’m still so angry at the knight and lost in my grief that I can’t muster the fight to assist him. Carsen and Gregoriy pig pile on, and Bert’s horse quickly takes a swift blow to the knee from the priest’s axe. I wail at the horror of the sight as Carsen pierces Bert with a masterfully placed arrow, and Dolins wraps the man in a net, reminding the group he needs to be kept alive for information. They gain intel that I dont really comprehend, about some town I’ve never heard of, and Ser Darron lets the man go like some used and emptied flagon.

I had dreamed of leaving home for adventure and intrigue, but now that I’m deep in the swashbuckling and ruthlessness, I quietly miss Castle Snownook, my mother, and simple days tending to the stables.

It doesn’t take long after crossing the river to stumble into more trouble. We approach two men by a creek, and Ser Darron commands the group to draw our weapons. Only a moment later the men see us…and take off. Darron drives his heels into his newly acquired sand steed, and the beast’s speed and strength are a wonder to behold. I barely notice Dolins and Gregoriy follow in hot pursuit, but when Lord Theodore remains at a consistent pace, August and I stay with him. It is his judgement and wisdom that must guide me through this journey, in order to eventually return home, gods willing.

2

SEP/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Sep 15, 2021

Farewell, Thomas

As if by a miracle, we make our way back to the Rambis, missing Thomas. Frantically, I ask where my friend is, and Ser Darron makes a joke about not going back to the island to get the easily distracted young man. Gregoriy and Areo speak in Norvosi and notify the house that Thomas was killed in the fight. I collapse in a sob, and sweet August comes to comfort me despite the poor shape he is in. My heart is broken for my sweet friend, who was so close to freedom, and rage for the dismantling of our plan and the results of my comrades’ recklessness.

The next few days are spent silently focused on healing with what limited abilities I have. I focus my attention on Lord Theodore and August, as well as Ser Dolins. With all the distraction, between the healing tasks and being absorbed in my own thoughts, the time passes quickly, and we wake up in Old Town, where I replace my lost stiletto with a small sword, and prepare my horses for the journey in land.

12

AUG/2021

Rescue Mission:Part 4

Alas, my surprise attack provides little support to my friends in battle, and the man I bite whips around and slices my hind quarter.deeply. No sooner after letting out an involuntary yelp do I see the valiant Gregoriy take the man down. I owe this brave priest my life!!

Fueled by his brilliance in battle, I whip around to see another Iron Born crawling towards his sword, and charge. My canines sink into the man’s face and I shake…hard. A quick snap, and the man is surely dead.

My courage doesn’t last much longer. I hear a thundering roar of “WHAT IS DEAD MAY NEVER DIE!!” behind me, and a crushing blow lands on my back. I’m blinded by the pain, and think perhaps I am dying when I see a flash of hot light. Gregoriy isn’t the only brave warrior tonight-our fearless leader, Lord Theodore saves us ALL by hurling his lantern at the Iron Born. He goes up in flames, and I take my opportunity to escape before I bleed out on the beach.

I am met with more disappointment. Teddy and I quickly spot that our boat has been taken by Ezzelina’s captors who are heading toward the Rambis. I return to myself aboard, and scream that the Ironborn are coming. After a moment, I see two very scared looking little girls peering back at me. Seven hells…it is up to us to protect this ship. They assure me they can shoot a bow and arrow, and I rise with a cloak of confidence, trying to hide my shaking hands.

We rush to the deck and prepare to fight.

29

JUL/2021

Rescue Mission:Part 3

Ser Darron swiftly steps in and assist me with getting up the steep cliff to where the action is. And the action is not far behind. We find Thomas and Darron manages to disguise himself with the clothes of a dead Ironborn. Hearing commotion, we travel through the forest until a ramshackle building erupts with Ironborn soldiers. Fearing for Thomas, and fueled by the rage of his kidnapping, I charge at one of the men repeatedly, and after taking a sword to the leg sink my teeth into the man’s jugular, blood spurting everywhere, and the man crumples to the ground. I turn, hearing Thomas, and sprint past him, hoping to get his attention-he follows suit, but when I head towards the cliff and leap into the water, I don’t hear a splash behind me.

Nervously I pace back and forth on the beach, the silence deafening. When Thomas never comes, I slink back towards the rocks under the bridge, and sneak through to find a few of my comrades surrounded by Ironborn. All I can do is leap towards the nearest leather clad man and hope my jowels successfully find themselves around the right artery…

15

JUL/2021

A Search for Treasure

Avoid Certain Death

So our lordling has decided we are to “Rescue” Dolins (dead) and Thomas (good as dead) from the Ironborn. Just great, a fight against insurmountable odds AND A trip on the open Seas. With us as good as dead I might as well make provisions for myself. This pirate base will have a season’s worth of booty, and I cannot imagine my companions making anything less than a ruckus. That should provide the perfect diversion for me to steal the treasure, and leave this forsaken island alive. I will miss these friends, but with as much wealth as the Ironborn should have… I am sure I can buy new ones.

16

JUN/2021

Rescue Mission:Part 2

We make a quick plan for me as August to run ahead as scout, and I hand my stiletto over to Isabella. “I hope it serves you well..I would like it back when you return” I tell her with a soft smile and a hand on her shoulder.
We land on the island but quickly see it is less a single island and more a cluster of cliffed plateaus surrounded by beach, and the fires are well above our heads. I run ahead, and hear familiar voices of the encampment when Thomas had been held, and try to indicate to the group what direction to head. Carsen scales the wall, and I try to find a way to follow him up, but only find beach, cliff and sea. Perhaps a strong climber can assist me…

27

MAY/2021

Rescue Mission:Part 1

Once we’ve set out to sea, as night falls, we approach an island with fire burning. As House Jasper debates what to do, I quickly offer to warg into the nearby raven and scope out the island before the House approaches. My offer is accepted graciously and I take wing towards the island.
Sure enough, it isn’t long before I see men in soft leather, and hear murmurings of the “iron price”. I’m confident the island has been temporarily inhabited by the Iron Born, and see a structure boarded up near the fires. After listening for some time, I hear what seems to be a delivery of food to a young boy. My heart leaps-it sounds like Thomas!! I squeeze through the board but see only darkness, and squawk into the room. “Hey, how did you get it here?” the young boy responds. Now I know it is Thomas, and I am overjoyed we’ve found my dear, brave friend. I nuzzle up to him, hoping to communicate to him that it’s me, Summer, and he is not alone.
After leaving the structure, I warg back into Summer, and tell everyone what I’ve seen. We make plans to land on the island, and rescue Thomas. I’ll be heading ashore in August, and can’t wait to see the look on Thomas’ face when he sees his furry friend.

13

MAY/2021

A House Riff

With everyone back at the Rambis, we gather for a meeting. Ser Carsen immediately launches into a plan to go find the Valyrian steel sword, and I cannot hold in my shock. “Surely we’re going to find Dolins and Thomas, right?!” A tense silence hangs over the room as everyone hesitates. The maester suggests a plan involving a ransom, but I argue, perhaps foolishly, that that could take weeks. “If any of you were captured by the Iron Borne, Ser Dolins would have been the loudest and most insistent that we go and rescue any of you! I can’t believe you’re going to let him and Thomas suffer!” Ser Carsen scoffs at my idea of a rescue, and in disgust with this knight, I shove away from the table and leave the room, hearing Gregoriy following close behind.

I learn later that wise Lord Theodore made the final decision that we are, in fact, going on a rescue mission to Pyke. Thank the gods we have such a noble, generous and intelligent leader at our helm!!

29

APR/2021

Where's Thomas?

In the morning, I wake up to an eerily quiet ship. August and I head to the top deck and after a sniff around, notice that Thomas seems to be missing. “Thomas! Thomas!!” I shout into the wind, to no response.
Heading back down I find the maester, “Maester, have you seen Thomas lately?” He shakes his head no, and I hop on Kusa to follow August’s track. He brings me straight to the castle, where I’m greeted by a sheepish guard and another who runs away at the sight of me, bringing back Ser Aaron. “I imagine this is your doing?” he asks me. He sees my confusion and explains their Iron Born prisoner escaped when one of his sentries fell asleep on duty. I put two and two together and and ask August to track again. He takes off like a rocket down the shoreline, and Kusa and I run towards him, Ser Aaron’s shouting fading into the background.
We ride half a day out to the edge of the peninsula where August circles and whimpers. I look to the sky and find a raven, and warg in to it, circle a bit until I see a row boat. I approach and see a very sad and scared Thomas and the Iron Born rowing out at sea. I dive bomb his eyes, but barely make a scratch, and hope that Thomas knows it’s me and that I’ve seen him.
I zoom back to the ship and tell the maester everything. He thinks out loud how unlike him it would be of Thomas to sneak into the castle, but I think to myself that that sounds exactly like Thomas. I bet he heard how frustrated we were with how poorly the interrogation went and wanted to save the day! Maester Thad suggests I try to find them again and see where they’re going.
After a night a day and another night, I come up empty handed. Ashamed I return to the ship with nothing to show for my efforts, except a heart full of fear for my poor friend.

8

APR/2021

2 comments

Last commented on:

Apr 29, 2021

To no avail

I ride back to the ship as fast as I can and approach shouting for the maester to mount his ride straight away and head back to Ser Aaron and the Iron Born prisoner. But returning with Thad has little impact on the task at hand. The man remains stubborn and despicable, and more importantly, unyielding. What’s worse, is that Ser Aaron insists the man will be executed in the morning. After our multiple failed attempts to get information from him, we give up and head back to the ship in hopes of finding the rest of House Jasper.

1

APR/2021

Shouldering New Responsibilties

The wise maester has given me my very first task! With August all healed up, I am directed to ride Kusa to deliver a message from the maester to a nearby house in need of his talents. Upon arrival, I am greeted by a guard who responds with surprise when I share my identity. “Are you from that ship?” I nod with pride-you bet I am from House Jasper! He explains that an iron born washed ashore a few days ago and the knight of the house, Ser Aaron, has him in captivity, and allows me to enter to small castle for both tasks.
I deliver the message to Ser Aaron, and he is quite kind to me, clearly understanding the importance of the opportunity to interrogate the man. In a barred pit below, after drizzling a little horse urine on him, I ask where Ser Dolins has been taken, but to no avail. His brusqueness rattles me, and I think to myself that a responsible representative would notify the upper echelons of the house right away of this matter. Ser Aaron urges me to ride quickly however, as the guard is fed up with their prisoner and wants to put the man’s head on a spike straight away.

25

MAR/2021

Ser Darron's Journal 23

Ho! Ho! I’ve cracked that Ezzelina.

She thinks she’s so subtle – talking about her vague “business affairs” – but she’s dropped one-too-many hints on Ol’ Darron and I’ve figured out exactly what kind of “business” she’s running.

It’s clear now why she has no shortage of coin..
Why she prowles the lawless reaches of Dorn…
Why she’s constantly sizing up the Jasper men….

She’s obviously trying to recruit a company of sellswords!

Now, judging by how she carries herself this doesn’t seem to be her first tourney – so to speak – and my hunch is she’s had men before. Perhaps thousands by the look of her coin purse.

Free companies are a rarity in Westeros, so she must’ve sailed from Essos. They probably got into trouble over there, or else in the stepstones same as us. Now she’s raising some new band to settle a score or find new riches.

But, will I accept? Imagine it.. The legendary Ser Darron, Sword of Snownook, Officer in EZ Company! Slaying any foe that dares resist. I’ll have one horse for me and two more for my gold. The smallfolk would certainly write songs about me then!

Hmm. I do owe a great debt to Ronnel. I wish he paid me better…

11

MAR/2021

2 comments

Last commented on:

Mar 18, 2021

A Most Generous Gift

While August is being healed I tend to the left behind horses. One morning I walk down to the stalls to find Thomas flanked by two girls about his age. He introduces his new friend as Arianne and Silva, and they giggle when I ask them where they’re from. “Why, here, of course!!”. Silva says she lives in the castle but expresses envy of Arianne who lives at someplace called the water gardens. I can’t stop from staring as I realize I am in the company of Dornish nobility!! I curtsy deeply, and tell them House Jasper is honored to have them on board the Rambis.

We chat a little longer, when Silva mentions her family’s sand steeds. She senses my curiosity, and agrees to take me to the stables. The four of us walk to the castle, and I’m overwhelmed when I see the magnificent creatures held in the stalls Silva spoke of. They are like no horse I’ve ever seen and I go to reach towards one when a man bolts up when he sees me. “Who are you!! What are you doing here?!” he demands. I look to Silva, who greets the man pleasantly, and I see him relax. He allows me to pet the sand steeds and tells me all about their unique nature. I can’t help but nuzzle and admire them, they are the most beautiful horses I’ve ever seen.

The stable master shares that he heard a rumor of one of our horses passing away, and I nod solemnly. At this, he mentions that he’s spoken to others at the castle about their surplus of stallions, and offers to sell me one. My heart leaps-a sand steed of my own?! But it quickly sinks when he says that he would have to sell them for 8 gold dragons. He reassures me in my disappointment, and encourages me to discuss the sale with one of Jasper representatives, but I can’t imagine why, with all House Jasper has going on, they would ever spend 8 whole gold dragons on their stable hand.

I return to the Rambis kicking rocks, but am startled to run into the maester who kindly asks me what’s wrong. I burst open, spilling my emotions and frustrations about being a peasant and missing out on such a wonderful opportunity to bring a precious sand steed back to the Fingers. My hands clasp over my mouth as I realize what I’ve said to a man of such respect and high position, and quickly apologize for burdening him with my troubles, but Maester Thad smiles. He asks me about the possibilty of using the stallion for animal husbandry and improving our stables stock, and asks if in exchange for the 8 gold dragons I would provide assistance to him in his work. I fall to his feet in gratitude and praise, and he makes me promise to give the horse a good name. When he places the 8 gold dragons in my hands, I run as fast as I can to the stables without stopping for anything other than to trip over my own too-excited feet.

Upon arrival, the master training chuckles at my enthusiasm and gives me the pick of 3 different stallions. The one I had been petting previously, the color of the midnight sky, is available, and I do a little dance when I hand over the 8 gold dragons from the generous maester for my new prize. I fly back to the Rambis on him, hands outstretched, drinking in the salty sea air as we gallop over the sand.

11

MAR/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Mar 17, 2021

Lessons in Warging

Following the departure of the Plankytown group, the maester beckons me to leave my post next to a very injured August to assist him with builing a funeral pyre. Out of respect for the maester, as well as House Jasper’s fallen friends, I agree to help, though I fear my cluttered mind full of distracted thoughts about poor August keep me from being very useful.

The next morning, I receive a knock on my door and am happy to see sweet Thomas present for a visit. I invite him in and gives August some loving head pats in exchange for hearty tail wags. He compliments us on our role in the battle with the Ironborns, and asks if I could teach him how to warg. Puzzled, I think about the process and shrug-“I’m not sure if it’s something that can be taught, but we sure can try!”. I suggest he squeeze his eye shuts and think of August really, really hard. He follows my instructions enthusiastically, and I have to admit he looks quite silly doing so, but when he opens his eyes and asks if it worked, I ask if he felt anything unusual. “Hmm, well, I do feel hungry…is August hungry?” I quickly warg in an out of the hound, and reply, “No, not particularly…” He tries to hide his disappointment, and shares that while he’s excited to become a knight, he’s never seen anyone do what I can do and wishes it were a skill he could acquire. I share that he’s welcome to spend as much time with August and I as he likes, and while I may not know how to teach warging, I can certainly help him improve upon his equestrian skills. He happily accepts, and departs to find his next meal.

4

MAR/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Mar 05, 2021

Ser Darron’s Journal 22

Ideas to get a horse off a ship:

~~Teddy’s big plank~~ (doesn’t exist)
~~Tip Rambis~~ (“bad idea”)
~~Tie rope around horse and lower down~~ (RIP Lucky)
~~Yardarms?~~ (too hard)
~~Pile sand next to the ship to use as a ramp~~ (lots of work)
~~Use the Maester?~~
~~Build a gangway using large tree~~ (no large trees)
~~Stand below to catch horses~~ (dangerous?)
~~Catch horse with blanket?~~
~~Tell Carsen that someone on shore is looking to buy horses?~~
~~Beach a second shorter ship beside the Rambis~~
~~Can Summer turn horse into a dog?~~
~~Sail Rambis back to sea. Float horses off as she sinks~~ (clever)
~~Wait for foals.~~ (too much time)
~~Teddy can command horse to leave?~~
Cut hole in the ship (worked!)

25

FEB/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Mar 04, 2021

Ser Darron’s Journal 21

A day late and a Dolins short

Leave no man behind! That’s part of the knight’s code you know!
Have I ever broken the knight’s code? Sure! A time or two! Who hasn’t?
Have I ever left a man behind though? No, Never!
Well, perhaps it’s happened once or twice. But I’ve never abandoned a fellow knight!.. Certainly not recently!

Ol’ Dolins is probably the only one of us that everyone likes so I can only assume my friends just don’t realize the danger he’s in. Personally, I know a lot about those Ironborn. Sick bunch. They’re probably going to eat him.

It was hard to watch that longship escape while Thaddeus steered towards the coast. I swear I shall not sleep until his bones have been laid to rest next to his wife, Mrs… hmmm… That’s strange. I don’t think he ever told me his last name… I thought we were friends.

Do the others know his last name?

I’m going to be upset if Gregoriy does and I don’t.

25

FEB/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Mar 04, 2021

Surrounded by Bad News and Water

Panting, another set of loud thuds hit behind me. I spin to see two more strange men land on the deck, and lunge after one of them, drawing blood on my initial attack. The man tries to grab me, and I squirm away, snapping at him again. I feel exhaustion taking over, and my attacks just aren’t having the same effect as when the battle started. My second and third bites result in the same trickles of blood, and the stranger’s annoyance with my pestering results in a swift and severe blow to my side. I wince and desperately try to bite the man for a forth time as Thomas approaches with a swing that bounces off the man’s armor when an arrow from above drives into the man’s wet and salty face. I look up to see brave Ser Darron wielding his bow and arrow expertly, and know that he surely saved my life today.

As the battle winds down I look around to see pure carnage aboard the Rambis. Member’s of the Order of the Darkwash appear to have lost limbs and lives, and Ser Carsen has a horrifying gash across his face, and poor, sweet Ser Dolins was kidnapped by House Greyjoy and carried away. I can’t bear the sight and return to my own human form, and am met with equally terrible news, as I find myself sitting in a pool of water. The ship has sprung a mighty leak, and now we must find safety.

11

FEB/2021

In for the Kill

In August’s small body, I hurl myself at the closest armed stranger I see. My teeth sink into his neck and blood fills my mouth before the ship lurches to the starboard side. The man comes back at me and I see a flash of steel before I feel a searing pain in my leg. Boiling with adrenaline, I snap at the man again and rip his throat out, spraying the deck red. I spy another man hulking towards the young squire Thomas and the lordling, who has been knocked down, on the other side of the ship, and lunge at the stranger’s turned back. It does not take long until his insides have spilled into the sea water sloshing across the deck as well. Several loud thuds ring out above my head, and I see that a host of new enemies have boarded the Rambis. Tired and panting heavily as the efforts of my kills weigh me down, I head towards the man closest to Teddy and Thomas, but my efforts barely break through the fray.

4

FEB/2021

Return to the Rambis

We return to Castle Snownook only for a brief time, with a quick turnaround before needing to head back out to sea. While in the stables, I’m visited by my father Edric, who communicates concerns of my “unladylike” adventuring on behalf of my mother. I stiffen at the implication that my exploring beyond Felliston should cease, and defend my departure by expressing my belief that House Jasper finds my services useful. In an unexpected moment of softness, Father affirms this, and compliments my animal handling. He tries to warn me of some of the less talented members of the house (namely the Lordling and Ser Carsen, who he describes as a dolt and money grubber, respectively), but says he thinks I can handle myself. Father has never been this generous of spirit with me before, and I’m taken aback by his kind words. Before leaving, he pats my back with a small sniff and turns to walk away. I run to him and wrap him in a big hug, which he returns, and relish this rare moment for a long while.

On the seas, I spend most of my time below deck tending to the horses, always with August by my side. I take great pleasure in my time on the Rambis, and when no one is around, I pretend I’m a pirate on my way to pillage a faraway city! My imagination quickly turns to reality however, when we hear the distressed call from Ser Darron from the top deck, and a ship-shaking THUD that tells me we’ve been hit. I position my body in a hidden corner in a horse stall and warg into August and sprint towards the others. When I reach the deck, the spray of the rough water and smell of blood hit my nose, and I set my sight on a strange looking man…

28

JAN/2021

Thoughts from a Lordling in a Wedding

From Teddy’s position at the front of the hall he sees a room full of people from all over the Vail. Jon Lynderly walks his sister, Jana, down the aisle.

…Thoughts going through Teddy’s head as Jana walks down the aisle…
I feel a little sick. It’s not that I am trying to impress her – I’m sure she doesn’t want to be doing this any more than I do – but there could be a Lynderly trap at any moment! Wait, I was poisoned earlier today, that must be what I’m feeling. Let’s get this over with. Jana and I are going to be stuck together the rest of our lives – I hope we can garner some type of palatable relationship – it will be exhausting if we can’t get along. Oh she’s cute! Jon is an ass. Snakewood will belong to House Jasper soon enough – Carsen will help to make sure of that… muahaha!

Jon Lynderly removes the cloak from Jana’s shoulders

That’s right Jon, your sister isn’t a Lynderly anymore, get that horrid cloak off her. No murder attempts yet, this is a good sign. Jana looks good in that dress.

Teddy removes his cloak and places it around Jana’s shoulders

Another win for House Jasper, claiming what is ours! Nice shoulders, Jana.

Teddy and Jana lean in for the ceremonial kiss when BAM!!! The door to the chamber slams open!

OH SEVEN HELLS ITS HAPPENING I KNEW IT I’M GOING TO DIE!!!! Wait… Is that… Ser Darron? He doesn’t look well. Where has he been? I forgot he never returned with us from Gulltown. What was that, four months ago? A curt nod. He breaks into the hall in the middle of the ceremony just to give me a nod. And he’s sitting down, like nothing happened.

The septon reminds Teddy and Jana they need to kiss

Oh right, I was just being forced to kiss this person. I’ll meet her half way, but no further. Wait for it…. There it is. Okay, ceremony is in the books. Just need to seal the deal.

Teddy and Jana cut the pie

They gave me a sword, Jon Lynderly trusts me with this? I could cut Jana down right here and no one could stop me! Is that a smile I see on her face? That’s an actual, warm smile. She’s really quite pretty. Okay let’s cut this pie… Crows??? I’m confused. Why are crows coming out of this pie? Is Jana in on this? No one has been murdered yet, so it could be worse. I can’t let the wrong birds bother me tonight, there’s more pressing issues to attend to!

Teddy and Jana seal the deal

21

JAN/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jan 26, 2021

A Feast for Crows

After some strategizing, we decide that I shall attend the wedding as August by Maester Thaddeus’ side. We face a bit of trouble at the entrance of the ceremony but the wise Maester convinces the guard to let us in. The ceremony appears to go smoothly (aside from an abrupt but joyous entrance from Ser Darron-huzzah!), and following the exchanging of the vows, there is a tremendous feast.
Still a bit nervous about our circumstances, I indicate to Thaddeus to let me smell his plate of food, but nothing seems out of place, and when I sit down with a huff of relief, he sneaks me a nibble under the table.
At the end of the night, the bride and groom take part in a pie cutting tradition, but when they slice in, the guests look on with horror. Instead of doves and blue birds escaping from the dessert, crows flap about, cawing forebodingly. Teddy looks around nervously, but shrugs before the bedding ceremony whisks him away.
.

21

JAN/2021

A Dolorous Friend

Having never been to a wedding before, let alone a noble wedding, I’m excited to explore the celebration. Sadly, the atmosphere of the parties at the encampment is one of tension. Feeling out of my element, but still wanting to experience the encampments, I head towards where the horses are tied up. I spy an impressive gray coursier and August happily follows me over to the beast to admire and pet him, until I overhear a young man and an older gentleman.
“Come now Eddison, we’re at a wedding! If you look so glum, our hosts may take it as an affront!” The boy mumbles in response and is reprimanded swiftly, “Speak clearly when you’re speaking to a lord! You’ll be known for melancholy if you don’t change soon.” The lord walks away exasperated, and not wanting to be accused of eavesdropping, I busy myself with the horse.
My strategy is to no avail, and the young man approaches me. “What are you doing to that horse?” I spin around quickly and explain that I’m not doing anything, just admiring and giving some pats. When it becomes obvious that there’s no way I could’ve missed his conversation with the man, I ask if he’s okay. He shrugs, seemingly unconcerned, and we make introductions. He explains that he’s the squire for his uncle, Uthor Tollett, but seems to hate it! I share my envy for his opportunity for such adventure. “Ugh, the adventure, that’s the problem! Sharpen this sword, clean this mail…I think even if I were killed the work would follow me into the after life.”
It’s such an absurd sentiment I can’t help but to giggle. Eddison continues to complain about all sorts of things I didn’t even know one could complain about-too hot fires, horses, even this very wedding-and his bizarre perspective puts me into fits of laughter. “I like talking to you, Eddison!” He smiles a bit at this, and appears to warm up a bit.
After a bit more complaining, he vaguely shows me his horse, a brown rounsey, not quite as impressive as the coursier, but a lovely, well cared for horse nonetheless. I share with him my role within the House Jasper ranks, and my enthusiasm for animals, admitting that I sometimes think I like them much more than people. Eddison chuckles and we agree to go for a ride together sometime, should his workload allow him.

14

JAN/2021

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jan 26, 2021

The Calm Before the Wedding

It is the day of the wedding and we’re on the way to Snakewood.

Sir Bennet of the Snakewood, who I have never heard of, meets us at the gate. He doesn’t seem very excited for the wedding, I was expecting a congratulations! How rude! Typical Lynderly behavior. He offers to take our gold for us. I don’t know who he is, so I insist to take it to the castle.

After we’re through the gate, I ask Ser Carsen if he would like me to join him in introducing his son to Lord Lynderly. He tells me his son has run away and “couldn’t be found”. Ugh, I don’t want any part of this. I’m holding up my end of the deal with this wedding, I am not taking a fall for this.

I lead our caravan to the castle. While the reparations payment is being unloaded, Nestrr Royce introduces himself. He indicates there are over 1,000 soldiers from multiple houses in the city to keep the peace and maintain order, which gives me some feeling of security. He also asks to see the boy who is to ward with the Lynderlys… This is Carsen’s sword to fall on, so I tell Lord Royce that Ser Carsen is here in the city and can meet with him.

Best of luck to you, Ser Carsen.

7

JAN/2021

Watch before the Wedding

Upon arrival at the perimeter of the Snakewood forest, accompanied by Ser Dolins for protection, I warg into a raven and swoop into the Lynderly walls. I settle on the arch of the gate house, and observe a wide array of sigils, including the blue and white bird of House Arryn, black and green snakes of House Lynderly, and many others. Noticeably absent is the purple sigil of the Protectors. A man who looks to be of some importance is giving orders at the gate and I listen closely to the comings and goings, and the man’s grumpy grumbles…“my cousin doesn’t want to let the Eleshams near the Coldwaters …”, “…no, Jon Arryn isn’t here, the Arryn men came down with Royce!”, “Ser Hunter has just arrived…”. Piles of rubble are still scattered within the walls from the Storming of Snakewood, though the Lynderly keep still stands. I see no signs of aggression or war, nor signs of friendship, and flit towards the Keep.
Standing watch for some time, I keep a close eye on the door for anyone entering or exiting that looks to be of important status. As the sun crosses the sky, I watch two men, one in bronze armor, the other bearing a purple and white crescent moon sigil, leave the keep and decide to follow them and listen to their conversation.“…do you think we brought enough men?” , “…of course. The Lynderly army was decimated just months ago and the Jaspers couldn’t have more than 500 men…between your soldiers, the Arryns, the Tollets and the Hunters I’m confident we’ll be able to keep the peace…”, “…you’re not worried about the Coldwaters? The wife is a Lynderly, you know…” “…Not a chance, it’s a wedding. The gods would frown on anyone who committed such an atrocity…”, “…as you say, Cousin…”
Feeling more relaxed about the commitment of the attendees to keeping the peace, I soar through Snakewood, and see disassembled catapaults before returning the Dolins in the woods, where I share my observations.
Back at Snownook, Maester Thad responds to my reports with confidence that one of the two men I followed was Nestor Royce. I swell with pride to be able to put House Jasper’s minds at ease as they depart for the wedding, and feel my cheeks grow warm when noble Ser Dolins praises my service to the house.

The entire house arrives safely at Snakewood, and disperse to prepare for the wedding…

7

JAN/2021

Jon Lynderly had a Great Fall

A very injured Lord Jon Lynderly departs from the Great Hall, and as the discussions between House Jasper and Lord Grafton continue my eyes settle on poor, kind, courageous Ser Dolins. He risked everything to defend the honor of this great house against this rotten man, and his bravery shall not be for naught. Inspired by his bold action, I slip out of the room and head towards the stables.

I successfully make my way into a horse stall without notice and busy myself tending to the horse inside. An hour later, the Lynderly men enter and prepare their mounts for departure. It isn’t long before their voices hush and mumbles of “…my lord…” can be heard from my work spot. I grab a horse pick and the horse’s back leg, facing the wall but listening closely. The men ride past, and when they approach the stable exit, I warg into Jon Lynderly’s horse, and rear back violently, slamming his head into the stone arch. The moment I hear the terrible crack, I return to my own form, and continue to busy myself with cleaning out the hoof in my lap. Moans and groans trickle out from the lord, and his men rush to him. “My lord!” “My lord!” “I’ve never seen his horse do that before!” I overhear. The smell of blood wafts through the stables, so I keep my head down, working on typical stable duties for just your typical stable hand until the men leave, and I can quietly leave.

Lord Theodore, Ser Dolins, Maester Thad and I gather at the Winter’s Reprieve as evening settles in. They express their grievances and regrets about the day, lamenting about the large sum of money that will be owed to House Lynderly. I stare into my stein of ale and say softly “Maybe House Jasper won’t have to pay it after all…I heard a rumor that Lord Jon Lynderly was thrown from his horse as he was departing the Grafton grounds and may be gravely injured.” The other look at me skeptically and question me about this “rumor” a bit before returning to their conversation about financial concerns. “Lord Teddy-may I suggest you return to House Grafton tomorrow to ‘send a letter’? Perhaps the Lord of the House will divulge some more information about the events of today and their consequences. We need not plan for our deal with House Lynderly if Jon is dead and he has no heir.” He ponders this with a small smile, mulling over the possibility of a dead Jon Lynderly, and agrees to gather more information.

Sadly, Lord Teddy shares at breakfast the next morning that Jon Lynderly survived the fall and secured a wheelhouse to return to Snakewood at once. Silently disappointed at this news, we board ‘The Jardon’ home to Castle Snakewood.

10

DEC/2020

The room where it happened

did not have me in it...

Carsen and I decide to spend the day at the Winter’s Reprieve bar. I consider trying to buy the establishment from Jamie, I think it would be a great addition to the Buffoon’s family, Buffoons IV! Carsen suggests naming it Winter’s Reprieve II.

As we’re considering the best name for our potential establishment, Gregoriy comes in an tells us the Maester is meeting with Lords Lynderly and Grafton…. Seven Hells! Carsen and I have the most at stake in this! I guess I shouldn’t be surprised based on that group. They go looking for a bird and find the most important audience of the month…

When we arrive, we find Ser Dolins preparing for a trial by combat against Jon Lynderly. What in the name of the Father has happened??? Carsen and I only had one ale!

As the combat begins, the least I can do is heckle Jon Lynderly. After all, we’re soon to be related and I know how much he loves that. They seem to be evenly matched. Just as I’m about to remind Jon how bad he is at defending castles, Lord Grafton suggest I hold my tongue, lest I be tagged as ignoble. I concede. I certainly don’t want to be remembered in the same vein as Jardon Pyke, the one eyed, legless ignoble.

For some reason Summer is looking out the window franticly. She’s an odd duck.

Before I know it, Dolins is on the ground and Maester Thad is rushing over to give aid. Jon Lynderly is obviously jacked up on the high of victory. In a very intimidating voice he asks me when the wedding will be. I didn’t know I got to choose! I assume he has to stay in this castle until the wedding so I’ll pick as late as I can. December!

Hmm. Apparently he can leave the castle now… Well I suppose December 2nd is fine.

3

DEC/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Dec 07, 2020

Soured Diplomacy

The next morning, Gregoriy and Carsen join the rest of us to break fast at the Winter’s Reprieve, and I urge the Maester to make a plan to find a raven to send a message to the Bloody Gate as quickly as possible. I fear that Ser Bryndon Tully may be in terrible danger if he is muscled into hosting the Protectors and Bronn!

Upon our arrival to the Grafton’s keep, two guards insist on escorting us to Lord Grafton and his guest, Jon Lynderly. Lord Grafton, a jolly man who seems to be missing the seriousness of the meeting, greets us heartily and welcomes House Jasper. After a quick introduction, he can’t hide his surprise at my presence, but the kind maester boosts my confidence by sharing about the value I add to the house and the potential they see in me. I’m heartened and take my place along the wall to observe diplomacy unfold.

Unfortunately, there are no lessons in politics today, as talks with Jon Lynderly quickly dissolve. The maester agrees to the terms with little debate, and Jon insists there be additional reparations for the attack, and insults house Jasper and Dolins. Dolins responds by demanding trial by combat! If only wise Lord Theodore were here…

Gregoriy runs to get Ser Carsen and Lord Teddy, and by the time they arrive Jon is already in his armor and is squaring up against Ser Dolins. The combat is excruciating, and August, sensing my fear, growls and barks wildly at our brave but perhaps foolish knight’s opponent. Desperate to find a distraction to assist Dolins, I search the skies outside for a bird to warg into, but my view is empty. A grueling few swings later, and Jon stands victorious. His smug cruelty surrounds every word that follows the fight, and my disdain for this unworthy Lord grows.

I am crushed to see Ser Dolins defeated and in so much pain, but not so much so that I forget out original mission which brought us to House Grafton. Before we leave, Maester Thad writes to Ser Bryndon Tully with grave warnings about his soon arriving guests. I leave

3

DEC/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Dec 07, 2020

Ser Darron's Journal 20

Drinking song overheard at the tavern:

Oh… I’ve been to Sunspear, been to Pyke / The wine was weak. I took a hike
In King’s Landing the taverns were dead / I asked Rob why? I lost my head
East to Braavos, South to Myr / But they couldn’t brew a hearty beer
Oh where is there a bar for me?
Down in Gulltown at Buffoon’s III!

So grab your swords and grab your forks / Tap the casks and pop the corks
Fill the flagons, drink ‘em dry / Poke a Shett man in the eye
The women fierce, the ale strong / The bards will sing a thousand songs
Ho Ho I’ve found the bar for me
Down in Gulltown it’s Buffoon’s III!

19

NOV/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Dec 02, 2020

The Protectors and the Freys

With a nod of the head from Gregoriy I skinchange into a crow I spy flying above us. It’s nearly effortless, and I loop in the air in excitement. I can’t believe I’ve never thought of this before! I follow the man to a building with no windows, and quickly land on his heel while he knocks. When the door opens I hop in behind him as quietly as I can…

Inside, I see we’re in a barren storeroom with just a table and a few chairs. Another man sits at the table holding a white and purple sigil, and forth in dark clothes and a dark cloak, who both greet the man I was following naming him Leo. “Glad you’re here, we’re just waiting for the lord now…” The lord?! That seems like a conversation I’ll want to be present for so I try so hide behind some barrels, but the big man grabs me quickly, puts his hands around my neck and snap-as fast as I can I change back into myself. I try to catch my breath, and Gregoriy eyes me with concern as I try to reign in my panic. In between gasps for air I explain what happened and say we have to find out which lord is meeting with these thugs.

Gregory and I hide in a side alley, and he spies a man walking in with a sigil of two blue towers on a grey field. I recall this sigil from my time in Snakewood, and share that this is House Frey, who had been working with the Lynderlys. “These must be bad people, yes?” Gregoriy asks. I nod and warg into August to get closer and listen into the door of the building with no windows.

I hear two voices, one is gruff and gravely and the other is quite nasal. There seems to be third talking but I can’t quite hear him. The gruff man says “…that’s a mighty interesting offer…what do you think Sam?”, and the other responds “…we don’t have a better opportunity before us….wait quite a long time…would patience be amply rewarded?…”, “…that DOES make things interesting…that tips the scales…where do you have in mind?”, “…I think we could do that…will be a couple days before we depart…I’ll have Bronn see you through the pass.” As soon as I hear the squeaks of chairs moving, I scurry back to our hiding place, and urge Gregoriy to get moving so I can explain the alarming information I picked up.

We discuss at Winter’s Reprieve that night, and Maester Thad and Ser Dolins indicate that the “pass” the men may be referring to could be the Bloody Gate, on the way to the Riverlands, in the care of Ser Bryndon Tully. “If the Tully’s are an ally of House Jasper,we should send him a raven and let him know to be prepared and on alert for an arrival from Bronn, the Protectors and House Frey!” They agree, and the Maester calms my nerves by assuring me that he will prepare a letter and find a raven on the morrow.

19

NOV/2020

Hope from above?

Lady Alys and Lord Ronnel return from King’s Landing with bad news. The Hand of the King is most unhappy with the Sack of Snakewood, and the punishment will include a marriage alliance. Lord Theodore will take Jana Lynderly’s hand, and Carsen’s son, Zane, will be sent to Snakewood to squire for Jon Lynderly, who will resume control of the castle. The room erupts in fury, and Carsen, Ser Darron and Teddy protest to these terms. I cannot hide my confusion, and ask earnestly “If the goal was peace between the Lynderlys and the Jaspers, why is everyone so upset?” The only support I get is from Ser Dolins, who I’m coming to understand as an extremely kind knight, nearly the polar opposite of the Lordling. He agrees that we should agree to the terms and move forward, but the rest of the house protests despite our puzzlement.

I am overjoyed to be invited to tend to the horses on the journey to Gulltown, where the terms of the agreement will be negotiated between the two houses. Upon our arrival, Gregoriy agrees to accompany me into to town for us both to explore this new city. He peppers me with questions about my warging abilities, and suggests I consider trying on the skins of other animals besides August. I shrug, not being able to imagine why I would want to do something like this, to which the gods quickly respond…

While meandering the streets of Gulltown, I spy the same hedge knight carrying a shield with the sigil of a white fist on a purple field that August saw in Snakewood. He barks at a city knight, who is clearly spooked by his presence and walks quickly away from the gruff man towards us. “Say,” I ask, “who is that?” He shifts around a bit and explains he’s a “protector”, part of a group that pops up from time to time. Gregoriy and I look at one another and agree we should should follow him. As he dips into a side alley, it becomes clear he picks up on our trailing him, and even when I send August off to spy, he hustles the pup away.

“Do you think he recognized August?” Gregoriy asks me. I shake my head-“I’m not sure about that but I think he’s hiding something!” Not a moments frustration goes by before I consider Gregoriy’s previous suggestion, and look to the skies…

12

NOV/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Nov 13, 2020

Mountain Run In

After gathering a fair amount of tarragon, Ser Darron spots a hidden person in the brush, and halts our group. He indicates they quickly ran away, but it’s clear they’re a mountain clansman and we may have stumbled into some trouble. :You there! Halt!" he shouts but to no avail. Gregoriy, on the other hand, yells forcefully, and as if by magic, the clansman stops and turns around. I am frozen in terror-I’m not prepared for a fight! Are we about to be ambushed?!

Fortunately a surprisingly civil conversation takes place, but mysteriously, before the man runs back into the woods, he whispers something in Gregoriys ear. He reports to the group that he was offering his services as a guide, but instincts tell me perhaps there was more to their short exchange. When we depart, Lord Theodore muses about exterminating the mountain folk from the lands.

5

NOV/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Nov 12, 2020

Our New Family, the Actinisteads! Darbragh for all!

Or Jaspers? not sure....

In Norvoshi……

Lord Teddy Actinistead was most gracious to our predicament being here without a way back, we shall celebrate with Norvoshi Dabragh! A declicacy in Norvos and a soup meant for a feast in celebration in honor of the graciousness of Norvshi God’s Name. We are most excited to serve our hosts in whatever capacity is needed, hopefully to further honor the Joyful Few.

It is with this wonderful news that we must set out for the mountains. It feels like home almost immediately. I look to Yuri, who feels it as well. Kiril is also at home, he seems to know why his compatriots stayed here for so long.

This must be another point like the caves of the Darkwash River, another point to draw upon for communication with Norvshi God’s Name. It must be, especially with the young one, Summer. There must be something in these hills feeding her ability to do this. Yuri had mentioned he had seen this before, in his cousin, but it was into crows, and birds of the like (although he was unable to find the correct words, I am still indebted to my teacher for showing me not only the miracles of the darkwash river , but for teaching me the language of the westerosi). A truly unique ability to be in control of a such a protective animal, an asset to this group to be sure. She may come in handy later for her ability to coax animals……

All that aside though, I think we will fit in well here, even with our expedition to find Tara……targorn……taragony……..ach…….Norvoshi word for Taragon, I see Yuri continuing to make friends, not just with Summer, but with Darrone as well. I see Yuri put a hand on Darrone in friendship as they pick herbs together. What a beautiful moment! All Praise Norvoshi God’s Name!!!!

29

OCT/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Nov 10, 2020

From Strangers to Friends

The next morning, I visit the Order of the Darkwash River’s encampment outside Castle Snownook, seeking to smooth over any bad feelings from the council meeting. Gregoriy and Yuri.agree to speak with me, though the latter presents as less than enthusiastic. Fortunately, I quickly have the opportunity to demonstrate my support and understanding for their search for magic by warging quickly in and out of August, and wish them a warm welcome to the Fingers. They look a bit dumbfounded for a moment, but then pepper me and each other with questions. Both seem assured that there’s no bad blood between us, and I feel happy to make friends with these strange foreigners.

With an open afternoon ahead of me, and seeking to avoid my father and chores at the stables, I warg again into August and trot down into town. All this talk of magic reminds me of the town witch, and I go to spy on Bethlazar. I’m disappointed to see she’s merely making soup, Next time, I’ll catch her concocting her hexes…

Sulking at the boring results of my trip to town, I’m pleasantly surprised to see Ser Darron approaching me. He invites me on an expedition-an adventure!-with the Narvoshi, to gather some special ingredients for a town merchant. I don’t really understand why such a task would be prioritized with all that’s going on, but not wanting to mess up the chance to travel with the group, I choose not to question him, and quickly pack my things.

28

OCT/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Oct 29, 2020

My Brother.....The Joyful Few....dead....

What Next?

In Norvoshi…..

It is with great sadness that I must lament my Brother Viktor’s passing. I am quite certain that they acted in the greatest of valor in the name of our god, This part is indiscernibly written, it is in a version of Norvoshi that a scholar could possibly derive its voice and meaning, but to even most Norvoshi they are not able to make out. One who has skill in reading Norvoshi or Old Valyrian might have some skill in knowing what the name of the Norvoshi god is, but other than that, not so much

The one they call Darone and the one they call Carsyn have assured me of this, and I believe them to be sincere, although I will have to confer with Norvoshi God Name later to see if they are true of heart.

Yuri is skeptical, but he always is, especially of the young one. Yuri is far displaced from the cynicism of the young, he does not understand a younger adolescent’s need for attention. She is rather intriguing from my point of view, there is something more to her…..

Although we have lost such great Norvoshi Warriors, and potential converts, at the hand of this Westorosi lord, or “lord actininistead” (which I suppose is the name of the leader speaking to me today), there is something intriguing about these people. Maybe not to join our group, but maybe to aide us in our endeavor. Perhaps it is why Viktor and Tito decided to stick around so long. I am not sure on how to place it, but perhaps Norvoshi God’s Name will reveal his secrets to me on why we are here. Perhaps it is these mountains that surround us that remind me of the Norvoshi Hills……

For now, we will rest, and hopefully get Vesna to speak better in their language. I am forever in debt to Vesna, but her common tongue is less than diplomatic despite her insistence to speak for me……..Norvoshi God’s Name help her.

22

OCT/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

Oct 28, 2020

Goodbye Jardon, Hello Order of the Darkwash River

After helping the infiltration brigade impregnate the walls of Snakewood, the city fell quickly. Out of ashes and chaos, House Jasper was quickly the clear victor, with Yoren and Ben dead, Thom captured, and only Jon and Jana Lynderly missing, with the assumption they may have escaped. As the aftermath and fires cooled, we all notice that House Corbray never arrived to the fight as promised, and to add insult to injury, Captain Jardon did not make it out alive. I spend the day helping the Maester gather wood for the funeral pyre, and a small funeral takes place in his honor with a somber song from the bard and spirited sharing of memories and tales of his bravery.

We arrive safely back at House Jasper without issue, and I can feel a sense of increased respect from my traveling partners, having had proven my worth among this group of talented warriors and noble battle strategists! I enthusiastically join my first council meeting as my father’s proxy, and relish in the opportunity to learn about the political wheelings and dealings of the House. However, I’m disappointed to merely witness a petty spat from Jardon’s surviving family seeking to override his last will and testament. Council meetings like this continue, boring and arbitrary for weeks, until one day…

A group of ten fearsome foreigners land on our steps and seek audience with the council. They ask for several names that I do not recognize, and Darron and Carsen nervously shared of their untimely deaths. They introduce themselves as the Order of the Darkwash River, from Norvos who worship the Norvosi God, exiled because of their belief in magic. I prod a bit further about their reason for being exiled, and get only cryptic answers about prophets and mysteries. When I whisper to Lord Theodore, one of the intimidating men looks at me scornfully. In dismay, I try to recover my gaffe and what was clearly taken as a slight, and emphasize that I, too, have seen things other would not believe. Teddy invites the Order to stay on the grounds, and the man I assume is their leader, Gregoriy, accepts his offer. August and I trade a look-who are these bizarre aliens who have landed at Castle Snownook?

That night, I warg into August and trot around their encampment. Unfortunately, they speak in a tongue I don’t understand, but I smell the delicious scent of their dinner wafting through the air, and see their clear trusting camaraderie between one another. If it’s proof of magic they’re after, I can certainly offer some Westerosi evidence for their quest.

21

OCT/2020

Last Will and Testament of Jardon Pyke

If I die here...

To House Jasper, I give the Rambis. It served us well in Valyria, may it serve you well in future missions. For the sake of your gods, as they are not my own, please don’t give it to my brothers, they will misuse a vessel of its caliber. May it serve you and the growing navy well.

To the guard, my axes, if they are recoverable from Snakewood, both are high quality weapons, a Battle Axe and a Longaxe.

Hopefully you are able to provide proper care to my Jeyne, but if you are not, eh…..no harm done, she has never liked it in the fingers and complains a bit too much to my liking.

To the worthy of all you scavengers (said in jest, but seriously you are all a bunch of fuckin scavengers), the spoils of past victories. Hidden on the “Impaler”, exists a kraken that took far much more than my legs. The key to true happiness in this dark world. Perhaps we should have gauged out the eyes of the the other squid and then I wouldn’t have lost my other leg.

Hopefully my crossbow will serve House Jasper well in another’s hand….

18

OCT/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Oct 22, 2020

Preparing for War

We gather in the tent at the encampment to strategize for the impending infiltration into Snakewood, and hopefully battle. It is agreed that I, as a human, will stay in the command tent with the maester, but spend most of my time warging as August, who will first serve as a lookout for the climbing crew (Darron, Dolins, Teddy, Denys, Maelys and Ella). While discussing the results of our initial spy mission, I share the numbers of soldiers I found in the main and auxiliary barracks, and the sigil I saw. The maester insists this is not a sigil of a recognized house, and must indicate the presence of sell swords. The crew seems quiet, pensive, and I can feel my nervous chatter spilling out of me. There has never been a more important time to provie myself to House Jasper, and our lives depend on it. We agree on some basic communication signals (1 bark for yes, two barks for no), and perhaps most critically, discuss that a howl mean there’s danger nearby.
When midnight strikes, we reach the southernmost wall and I begin patrolling the stretch of wall as they climb. The moment all arrive at the top, I warg back into my human form to notify the encampment of their success, then immediately return to August to prepare for the attack.

14

SEP/2020

Changing Fortunes

Still in August’s form, I sprint to the surrounding forest cover outside and stalk the perimeter until I see Carsen sneaking around the edge of the walls of the keep. He appears as though he’s narrowly escaped death and his face is pale as a ghost. I am relieved when we gather, August, Carsen and I, at the site of my human body, but note Jardon’s marked absence. “I saw his corpse being taken away,” Carsen responds and we take a moment to mourn before pillaging his possessions (Carsen reaps the rewards of the dead man’ saddle bags, and I quietly claim the destrier Moon Wake as my own).

Our relief at the site of our boat at the rendezvous quickly washes away into the sea when Lyanna reports there’s a devastating leak in the vessel. Thinking fast, knowing that our lives are very much at stake, I offer my waterskin to patch the hole, and we sail safely back to the rest of House Jasper.

Upon our return Carsen shares the news of Jardon’s death with solemnity, and it doesn’t take Darron long to suggest that his retrieved possesions be returned to his widow. With a quick glance, Carsen shares that the Captain mustv’e been carrying his money with his when he was captured and killed, and I nod in agreement. Carsen also reports that Jardon lost a devastating bet to me, which is how I came into possession of the magnificent war horse prior to his passing. I wonder what the other stable hands, and of course my father, will think when they see me atop this unmatched beauty. It feels a worthy gift to fall into the lap of a brave servant of House Jasper!

Keeping up my efforts, though trying not to appear too eager, I offer to organize and lead the small number of mounted knights and supply wagons to the impending battle, and am delighted when my service is accepted. I hope Lord Theodore will see my contributions as valuable, and view me as a worthy addition to the house.

23

AUG/2020

Stuck in Snakewood

August hugs the walls of the Snakewood Keep closely, and skulking around, I overhear two men, calling each other Lord Lynderly and Lord Frey, within the walls. In authoritative tones they argue, “Lord frey I mean no offense…”, “Again Lord Lynderly, I must say the men we’ve brought to your service are of the highest quality…”, “Lord Frey it truly comes down to a simple matter of gold…”. These names seem like they could carry valuable weight, but before I can hear anymore, a rock hits my hind quarters and I’m shooed away.

I race through the village until I stumble upon what appears to be auxillary barracks full of sell swords, at least a few dozen. One of the soldiers pets my ear, and treats me with kindness so I jump on the opportunity and nudge him inside so I can get a look around. There are many more soldiers inside, closer to one hundred, and the stink of the building overwhelms my canine senses. After taking in the view, an older soldier with a sigil of a white fist on a purple field painted on his shield kicks me out.

After leaving the barracks, I fortunately run into Carsen, who fills me in on his and Jardon’s misadventures while we were separated. While pretending to pat my head, he whispers that Jardon killed a Lynderly and he’s been unable to escape the gates. I respond with a low growl, and feel the frustration of not being able to yell my displeasure at their foolishness to him in Westerosi bubble up. Instead, I lead him to the market place where, with Carsen in his Entertainer’s garb, we put on an impromptu performance (creating an alibi for the archer, no doubt). After making 22 silvers, I spy a set of stairs guarded by only one soldier and give Carsen a look.

Carsen introduces us to the guard and offers an private performance in exchange for a viewing of the lands beyond from the walls. We tumble and dance a bit for the oaf, and I think to myself we might need to tighten up this performance for future plots or distractions. Atop the wall, Carsen and I eye each other_-now what_? Standing behind the guard I prepare to take a hearty chunk out of his calf when Carsen proposes he pay for a picnic before this lovely view of the Lynderly lands. I close my jaws and question this plan. A quick trip over the side of the walls would’ve been a lot faster, but I am delighted to see Carsen pull a load of rope from his knapsack as soon as the guard begins to descend down the stairs. He ties a knot around my furry middle and miraculously lowers me to the ground. I try to wriggle free once I reach the bottom, but resort to crawling forward to slip the knot off my back legs. As soon as I turn around however, I hear the guard above and know he’s returned to the scene. I flop to the side, and make a dramatic show of letting my tongue hang out the side of my mouth, playing dead. Carsen clearly picks up on the act, I hear him above fake crying over his “beloved dog’s fall to his death”. I wait for a hopefully dead guard to join me below but he never comes, and the voices above fade.

The archer did me a great kindness by raising me to the ground, but now that he is stuck inside, I am troubled by how to regather our group to escape. House Jasper may need a miracle if we ever want to get out of Snakewood.

10

AUG/2020

Ser Darron’s Journal 19

My lord, I’ve taken the liberty to plan the raid out in detail. Be careful with this document. We can’t risk the wrong eyes seeing it.

9

AUG/2020

In the Belly of the Snakebeast

From the kennels, I run to what turns out to be the barracks at Snakewood. As my paws softly pad to the entrance, I hear a knight admonishing a soldier- “I don’t care whose idea it was to put the fish underneath my mattress, SOMEBODY’S gonna pay!” I peak my muzzle around the corner of the hall, and see what I count to be approximately a couple hundred straw beds for Snakewood soldiers. I back up and see that around the corner is the armory, guarded by two soldiers with spears. I consider trying to sneak past them to see what House Lynderly has in terms of weapons, but decide to keep getting a lay of the land by entering farther into the grounds, making a mental note that the armory may house information that could be useful to return to later. There are far more weapons and dangerous foes out in the real world than there were back home…

It isn’t long before I find myself in the castle marketplace, where I overhear noble ladies chatting softly about a Royce man. They speak in hushed secretive tones, and I think it may be useful to follow them, but they quickly are ushered into the castle keep through another door heavily guarded. I can’t return from my first mission for House Jasper with no valuable information…so it’s time to get creative.

30

JUL/2020

Ser Darron’s Journal 18

Ser Dollins’s gift of such a fine lance has warmed this knight’s cold heart. I liked him from the first time I heard his skill on that stringed contrivance you know. A proper tune from the bard could make a man forget his cares for a good while and put the ladies in a state too.
I’ve since learned he’s quick with a blade and bold as a bear when put to it. A righteous man if I’ve ever seen one and I rather like slaying foes aside such a fellow.
Sure he’s a little old to have gotten the shoulder taps but hell, if I’m being honest, I’m no spring chicken myself. I suppose there’s something to be said for a little experience though. The years give more than they take, so to say.
These whippersnappers make a good show of things but when steel comes out, give me a seasoned man, I say. Two against one before it’s a fair fight, if you’re talking a veteran who’s kept up on his training.
In fact, men like Ser Dollins, Ser Cedric, Barristan the Bold, and myself have a kind of mettle they don’t make anymore. If pressed, the four of us side by side could keep a small army of young swordsmen at bay.
All the better because it’s good odds that we need to protect the little lord before we see the outside of Heart’s Home. Thaddeus has proposed to surgery upon Lyn Corbray. I’m not sure what that is exactly, but the Maester speaks with little confidence in himself. In any case, a blade is to be used so it’s my guess (not that I’d tell Thad) it’s my guess that Lyn is going to die.
I hope he doesn’t – for our sake – but at least there’ll be one less cunt in the world.

26

JUL/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 30, 2020

From Maester to Surgeon??

That was unforeseen!

Teddy, Dolins, Darron and I head to the House Corbrey! We are planning to try and convince the Corbrey faction to join us against the Linderly house. We arrive and are escorted to the main hall to wait for Lord Lionel. As we are waiting, Darron asks Teddy if he thinks this throne is more comfortable than the House Jasper throne. He then darts up and sits on it! As he is sitting, the door opens so he jumps up. It was just a servant girl dropping off drinks and food. So he sits back down as soon as she leaves.

Lord Lionel, Lucas and Maester Wilbur enter and Teddy leads off to see if they will join us. It seems serendipitous that they also are angry at the Linderlys. It is odd timing… We hear that the Linderly clan set upon his uncle and brother while they were hunting. His brother has been greatly wounded and doesn’t seem to be healing the way he should. Maester Wilbur entreats for my help and of course I agree. We head off to see the poor man.

We enter a beautiful room where I see the man sleeping. Wilbur states he sleeps for almost the whole day and is awake for just an hour. I start to examine him which takes a good while. I find that one of his kidneys appears to be split open, that is where the uncontrolled bleeding is from. I tell Wilbur about this new procedure called “Surgery”. It is where you try and remove some damaged organ in last resort to save someone’s life. Luckily for this man, he has what appears to be another functioning kidney and I have read about this being done to just one kidney in the past. Wilbur asks if the archmaester knows of this and I let him know I had discussions on this very topic when I was just in the citadel. I tell Wilbur that I think this is the only option we have.

Lord Lionel arrives in the room and tells me that his uncle disappeared a few days ago and he is afraid he has ridden off to Snakewood. Wilbur lets him know of the plan for surgery and he says that he would do anything to try and save him and to start. This will be interesting… Hopefully my reading will do me well!

23

JUL/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 30, 2020

Back to playing the game

After a quick stop at Castle Snownook, our party prepares to set off for a pair of short missions. The Maester, Ser Darron, and Ser Dolins will join me to treat with House Corbray and rally their forces in opposition to the Lynderlys. Carsen and Jardon will make a stealthy landing near Snakewood and try to learn what House Lynderly is up to.

As I am prepare to leave the castle, Summer knocks on my door and asks for a word. She reveals to me that she can turn into her dog, she calls it warging. This claim seems outlandish, I’m skeptical. She can turn into her dog, but her dog doesn’t turn into her? This doesn’t make any sense. I ask if she can show me right now. The life leaves her body and her dog, August, becomes immediately animated. I ask the dog to go into Jardon’s room and bring me of his eyes or legs. The dog leaves the room and Summer’s body is left standing there in a very creepy state. I look at her cautiously. Is she really out? I give her a light kick in the shin to test. No response… interesting. A few minutes later, the dog returns with Jardon’s spare leg! Amazing! I take the leg from the dog’s mouth and use it to stoke the fire in my room. Summer wakes up and seems pleased with herself. She asks if she can join the spy party and I agree to let her.

When my party arrives at Hearts Home, we are greeted and escorted to the Hall where we are left to wait for Lord Lyonel Corbray. After we’re alone, Darron asks me if Lord Corbray’s throne looks more comfortable than Lord Jaspers. I suggest he try it out and compare, since he admitted to sitting in my father’s throne. He quickly sits and stands, nearly being caught as a servant walks in carrying some ale and bread for us. An hour or so passes before 3 men come to the chamber; Lord Lyonel Corbray, Lucas Corbray, and Wilbur their Maester.

I propose to Lord Lyonel the Corbrays bring their forces to Snownook so together we can settle our similar feuds with the Lynderlys. Their Maester thinks we’re up to no good here, implying that this is quite timely considering their current predicament. I argue “Nay! I merely propose this based on two facts: the Lynderlys are very unlikable, and Lyn Corbray himself admitted his dislike of the Lynderlys to me months ago at our tournament at Snownook.” Nailed it.

When asked, Darron and I explain the Lynderlys aggression against House Jasper. I ask of their recent troubles with the Lynderlys and Lyonel explains his brother, Lyn, and bastard uncle, Arturo, were ambushed by Lynderlys while hunting. Lyn is gravely injured and Arturo has not been seen for days, potentially captured by the Lynderlys while attempting to retaliate.

Lyn Corbray is heap of goat shit. I hope he lingers in pain and dies a slow death. He deserves it after disrespecting me at our tournament and whipping Edric, our stable master (and Summer’s father, now that I think about it).

Ser Darron announces, “Our Maester just returned from the citadel with new knowledge of healing, perhaps he can be of assistance.”

Seven Hells!

21

JUL/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 30, 2020

The Mystery Deepens

I continue my investigation by interrogating Carsen. He claims Rusty came aboard with an offer for House Jasper. He confirmed that Jardon disclosed we have more dragon eggs than most people are aware of. This made Calaila upset, and Caliala had a special visit from Rusty where he whispered something to her. He claims Calaila had to rush away. He joined her to offer protection for her journey, but then he left her and turned around after being repeatedly insulted by Caliala. He claims to not have seen Caliala after that interaction.

Carson continues to tell me about how he, Darron, and Jardon posed as Lynderly soldiers to cause a ruckus in Corbray lands. He stops to reconsider the information he’s about to disclose. I try to pull it out of him. Carsen says he was pledged to the house of faceless men and he could borrow people’s faces. This is what he did with the Lynderlys.

Its true! He has a face thing! He also seems to have the means, motive, and opportunity to have committed this crime…

When I pressed Carsen on the other details of that night, he effortlessly deflects every accusation I throw at him. It could have been ANY faceless man who did this, of course it wasn’t me. What about the disparity between the Maester’s sighting of Calaila and Thomas not seeing her? Thomas is an unreliable child. Caliala died from wounds of an archer. Carsen, you’re a faceless man who’s an excellent archer, that’s quite a coincidence isn’t it? Everyone is good at archery, it could have been anyone…

After our conversation, I go down to Carsen’s cabin and dump all his belongings on to the floor. All he has is a bunch of weapons and a full wardrobe for every possible occasion, but no faces.

I got back to my room, my head brimming with new information. Thomas knocks on the door with news that a party is on the docks, including Lady Elesham, Sir Argyle, their Septon, and Rusty.

Politics are the last thing on my mind right now, and I have no idea what’s happening on this island with the Woodhulls and Eleshams. Carsen seems to know what’s going on. Although I’m suspicious, I need someone who knows what’s happening. If only Caliala were here…

Dolins also joins us on the docks. He’s barely left my side since Caliala’s death.

Lady Elesham tells me that the alliance between Houses Elesham and Jasper has never been stronger, and they commit to sending an army to Snownook in a weeks time.

We set sail and return to Castle Snownook and fill in the Lord and Lady about our trip. Ronnel says he’s been feeling frail, so he is entrusting me to handle the ongoing issue with the Lynderdys.

After the meeting with the group, Lady Elise pulls me aside for a private conversation. I reveal my suspicions about Carson, and she agrees with the sentiment. She advises not to trust Carsen, but also not to act unless I am absolutely sure of his guilt. Lady Elise also tells me Raella hasn’t returned yet after being gone for a week, she should have been back by now. My mother reminds me that dealing with House Lynderly and finding Calaila’s assassin are the top priorities for our house.

21

JUL/2020

What the heck is going on?

In the hall of first light with Lady Elesham, Carsen dismisses himself from the room. I acknowledge Lady Elesham’s renewed alliance and Darron and I leave to look for Dolins.

After a quick stop at the Rambis, me, Darron, Thomas, and Summer set off to look for Dolins. Originally it was going to me Me, Darron, and Summer, but the Maester tried to convince Summer to stay and help take care of Jardon. As the bickering rose, I raised my voice and ordered Jardon and Summer to come with us. Jardon, being an ass, insists on going shopping with the Maester for a new leg. Exasperated, I tell Thomas to saddle his horse and come with us. If the Maester and Jardon are going shopping, there’s no reason for him to guard the ship!

We find Dolins, and on our way back to the Rambis we encounter Ser Argyle. It’s strange that he’s out this late.

Upon our return, I get to interrogate the Maester once more about the night of Caliala’s death. He confirmed from the autopsy that Calaila was shot with an arrow or crossbow in the back, and her face was intentionally removed, but the reason is unknown.

The Maester recalls Carson and Calaila left the ship together. Caliala was angry at Carsen for bringing Rusty onto the Rambis and not stopping a conversation with Jardon that revealed House Jasper has 3 dragon eggs, instead of 1 which I’ve been telling people. Caliala left to find me to let me know immediately. Carsen insisted on escorting her, but she didn’t want his company. While on the trail they had some falling out. The Maester recalls Carson returning to the ship alone, and Caliala returning a short while later for a brief visit.

I also interrogated Thomas. He says the last time he saw Caliala was when she and Carsen left the ship together, and he swears his life on it! He recalls Carsen returning, but never saw Calaila again.

I need to talk with Darron and Dolins, something isn’t right here.

As I’m getting ready for bed, Summer knocks on my door with some interesting information. She tells me that on their nightly rounds, they smelled burning human flesh and heard Rusty’s voice discussing with a woman about a person being burned. She made it sound like Rusty is leading this nefarious effort. Very curious.

I meet with Dolins and Darron and discuss all the clues to this point. We decide that we must interrogate Carsen. I also fill them in on what Summer told me the night before.

21

JUL/2020

A Worthy Stablehand

With rumors of a spy mission to House Lynderly swirling around Castle Snownook, I decide it is high time I share my gift with Lord Theodore in hopes it will be my ticket out of the stables and away from my wretched father. I find the lordling in his office- nervously wringing my hands, I explain my ability to warg into August. His eyes grow wide, then his eyebrows narrow as he asks for a demonstration. I leave my human form and my senses awake in August, looking up at Teddy. He smiles devilishly, and asks that if I really want to prove my ability, I shall retrieve Captain Jardon’s spare wooden leg. I bound out the door, across the training yard, and up the stairs to Captain Jardon’s quarters. After some finagling, I open his door take the wooden peg leg in my jaws and trot back to the young lord. He reacts with delight, holding the leg in his hand and eyeing it with near insane glee. As he tosses it into the flames behind him, I regain my human form, and request the honor of joining the mission of House Jasper, which he graciously grants me. Leaving his office I give August a little pat on his soft blonde head, and we set out for our first great adventure.

I make every effort to contain my enthusiasm on the ride to Jasport, but it isn’t long before a gruff Captain Jardon asks my purpose for attending the trip. “What help could a stable hand bring on a mission like this among experienced warriors?” I look to Theodore momentarily for assistance, but with a puff of my chest and a new found confidence, decide to take the question into my own hands. Within the span of a second, my eyes roll white and reawaken in August, and I playfully snap at the Captain and tug at his ankle. Before he can draw his weapon at the pup, I leave August’s form, and smile and shrug at Jardon. He looks at me bewildered, stating he’s heard of warging wildlings in stories but didn’t think they were real. “I’m no wildling, but I do hope to use this gift from the gods for the good of House Jasper.” He expresses a surprised sense of satisfaction, and agrees that in fact we may be of use to the mission after all.

Carsen, Jardon and I arrive at Snakewood, and hatch a plan to get through the gate then split up to get the lay of the land within the walls. The others change into merchant’s garb and hide their belongings with my body in a thick wood, and we hatch a plan to meet back here at sunset if we don’t reconvene before the end of the day. As August, I get through the gates without difficulty. My first stop happens to be the kennels and I’m greeted by a snarling hound. I assume a nonthreatening stance and the dog opposite me relaxes before a man I can only imagine is the kennel master calls to him. Not wanting to end up on a Lynderly cage for the night I sprint away, farther into the Snakewood walls.

20

JUL/2020

Deep in a maester's thoughts

I’ve finally got the bleeding to stop. It took quite a bit of bandaging and took a good long while but now it just hurts. The throbbing will hopefully stop sometime. Once I rebandage things up, I go and take care of Jardon. Then I head up to the top deck to get a bit of sunshine. Once up there, I see Carsen being questioned by Teddy. The new Sir Dolins (so proud to call my dear friend that) is standing nearby. I’m sure he is protecting over Teddy. I walk over to join in the conversation.

It sounds like Teddy thinks Calaila was killed by Carsen. I am really quite confused by this. I have told Teddy several times about why I believe Rusty is the murderer. The timeline for Carsen just doesn’t fit! Calaila was not kind to Carsen before they left, he insisted on going with her as she was hurt, then he came back upset as she had been nasty to him. I don’t find this suspicious at all. Calaila could be very biting with her words. Then, after Carsen had been back for a while, Calaila did show up nervous about the visit with Rusty earlier and stated that Rusty had threatened her and she collected her things and told me she would see me later. Who knows what happened to her during those hours without Carsen. She could have been approached by Rusty again. The whole thing seems very suspicious. Rusty is sketchy to begin with and Calaila has always had a mysterious past. It all reminds me of a few times she has gotten in trouble in our travels. She runs away quickly with no plan for what to do next. The poor girl must have gotten caught up in something again.

But back to Carsen. What on earth would be his motive? I don’t hear Teddy mention anything. I do hear Teddy say he is a faceless man, which surprises me. I zone out a bit and start thinking through what I know of the faceless men. They try to make the deaths look like an accident, which this was an obvious killing. It is also normally best practice if the victim doesn’t notice the killer coming, which Calaila obviously noticed as it took several shots to fell her. And there is still the lack of motive. That is really catching me up. Calaila and Carsen seemed to get along normally, minus Calaila’s mean streaks. I just don’t see it.

I also don’t understand why Teddy isn’t listening to me. He keeps talking about Thomas’ recollection. Does he not see that the boy is but a child? He hardly notices anything! He is a good enough boy, and by the gods, he seems to try so hard, but he is young and distractible. And here I am, a full grown cross-dressing maester, and I’m being completely ignored. It’s starting to get really frustrating. At least Dolins seems to understand my logic. Thank goodness I have him.

After this frustrating conversation is over, I head into town to the same shop as before. I am in search for a prosthetic glove for my poor hand. I don’t want this wound to be so noticeable. Unfortunately, the shop owner doesn’t have anything like that. I head back to the ship and start reading on the deck. Then I hear the Elishams arrive! I look down and see Septon Hugo and RUSTY?? Again?? This man.

I hurry over to Teddy who is with Carsen and Dolins and warn them all that I think Rusty is responsible for Calaila and I ask them to be careful. I also hope that this will spur Teddy on to talk to the man. Maybe question him a bit. Me and my bandaged hand will stay on deck. Sparring with words has never been my strength regardless. A maester knows her place.
I head back to Jardon and point out the foolish septon who came to administer his last rights. He sure isn’t looking perfect, what with the missing eye and now the missing leg, but he is not dead! How his poor new bride will react, I am not sure…

I see them chatting on the dock and it looks like nothing is said to Rusty before they head back! What the heck Teddy! I am not sure what to do with him. We quickly head out after this, back to home, leaving Calaila’s ashes and sad last memories on the beach.

Back at Snownook, we are all called for an audience. We are welcomed home and Lady Elyse asks how we all are and questions Calaila’s death. She is upset that we had left without finding who murdered her. I need to talk to her. She instead, asks to speak to Teddy about it and when I ask to join, Teddy says no. I’ll have to find a private audience with her.

9

JUL/2020

4 comments

Last commented on:

Jul 12, 2020

Bad Trust

Mistakes Were Made

It would seem that our young lordling is even less discreet than Ser Darron. I cannot tell if he is more obtuse than our good hedge knight or if he is angered with grief and acting recklessly. Regardless, my ability to disguise and investigate for the house will continually have less utility if everyone I share my secret with cannot keep quiet. This is a troubling turn of events. I regret sharing any of my past with my companions, even if it did help our cause. I came to this backwater to leave my old life behind, but between my actions and the lack of discretion in my companions, I fear that my past may come back to haunt me…

7

JUL/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jul 14, 2020

Boredom at the Beach

Longest game of Pick up Stix

#Boring

It seemed like a good trade initially; I help the maester for 48 hours and in return He vouches for me. But 2 days of collecting driftwood later I am not so sure it was worth it.Everyone else is solving a murder and I am walking the beach picking up sticks. Thad hasn’t said a word to me since we started either, it is super boring. At least we managed to build a massive pyre, who would put that much work into a funeral service for someone they murdered? NO ONE!

The mind numbing work gave me time to think as well. We have the Paps behind us stronger than ever. Our mission here was beyond a success. Rusty scared Calaila bad enough for her to run out injured and all of the remains of the evidence are in HIS room. Perhaps I will suggest a closer look at Rusty. He is very valuable to have as a contact, but someone needs to take the fall, why not him?

5

JUL/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 14, 2020

A day late and two fingers short

It could have been so awesome.

After Teddy and Darron came back, we were all discussing what should be done. I day dream while everyone is bickering. I remember this spell I had tried back at the citadel. I’ve been reading in the dark of the night once everyone is asleep and suddenly, as if a bit of my destiny is burned, I have a breakthrough. I realize the few times I tried this specific spell at the citadel, I may have been using the wrong material! How stupid of me. I suddenly join back in the conversation and ask Summer to stay back with me. She flatly refuses and pushes back. So the only one I’m left with is Carsen. I guess he will have to do.

Before we all split up, I ask both Jardon and Darron if they have any dragon glass. Neither of them do but Darron brings out the snake carcass he has apparently continued carrying! It is extremely desiccated and I tell him to please throw it away. As neither of them have what I need, I’ll have to search for it when I take Jardon to town for a new leg.

On our shopping trip, I find a shop with no sign but a statue above the door. This looks like just the right place. We hear a woman call out to us among the very crowded shop. I yell back that I am looking for dragon glass. She rustles about for a long while then finds a dagger! Perfect. This will work just fine.

Jardon picks out a leg from the woman who surreptitiously had a one legged husband. She had a few options for him to pick from and he picks the bone leg. It is apparently made of whale bone, which seems fitting. He asks her to carve it a bit more and add in some tin, finally removing the tin from his eye to put in the leg instead. I had no idea there was even tin in there! No wonder he’s been such a grouch. He pays for both of our items and we head back, he needing to come get the leg tomorrow.

As soon as we are back, I approach Carsen and ask for his help. He reluctantly agrees if I promise to vouch for him. This seems an odd request, but as I have no reason not to trust him, I agree. He states that for some reason Teddy is upset with him. I promise to help if he aids me for the next 2 days. We then get to collecting driftwood! This takes all day.

At dusk, the rest of our companions arrive back with Calaila’s body. Summer keeps asking me something but I am more concerned with how Dolins has faired as he carried poor Calaila’s body the whole way. He seems to be upset, but doing ok. So I set about looking at her body in private with Teddy. It is obvious that she was shot at by arrows or a crossbow several times, with one clear fatal shot. Her face also seems to have been intentionally removed, but for what purpose, I am not sure. I relay this information to Teddy and also let him know that I think we should burn her body at dusk. He agrees.

He then asks what I remember about the last time I saw Calaila. My memory is a bit fussy with the events of the past day but I recall what I can. The next morning, I continue on the pyre, needing to go buy some wood in town. Carsen continues to help me set up. Finally, at dusk, after people say a few words, I instruct everyone to wait on the boat and I light the pyre. With my back to everyone, I say the prayer in the old tongue. Everything seems to be going well at this point… I continue to stoke the fire throughout the long night until the dawn.

At this point, I make sure that I am alone. I don’t see anyone on the ship. I turn my back to the boat. I take a deep breath, and I take out my dragon glass dagger. I steel myself and then start cutting my hand. I don’t know if it was the quality of the glass or the lack of sleep, but my hand slips and I cut off my last two fingers! I yell out in pain and double over. I am crying in both pain and in frustration, but at this point, mostly pain. What have I done?? I have taken on this power. I knew it came with risks, but like this? All I was trying to do was to see Calaila again and to get some answers. Her body gave me just more questions than answers. And now I have messed up my one chance. I grab some bandages from a pocket and swiftly wrap up my bloodied hand. I walk back to the ship, exhausted, in pain, defeated, and depressed. It’s not been a great week.

5

JUL/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jul 14, 2020

A bit of catch up

Maester's been a slackin

The last few days have gone by in a fog. First was the kraken. It took Carsen and Jardon into the water and strangled Georgie. Jardon was saved by Dolins although he is a leg short now. Carsen came back unharmed somehow. Then after that, was some odd events on the ship while I tended to Jardon. Rusty came to see us and talked with Carsen, Calaila and I. He had heard we had dragon eggs and the drunk Jardon informed him we had not just one, but three. This for some reason really upset Calaila who took off to find Teddy as they were all off to see the Elishams. Carsen stated she shouldn’t go alone and even through her protests and not kind behavior, he carried on and went with her.

Later in the day, Carsen came back and stated Calaila had told him to go away and she was nasty to him. I could see this happening, she isn’t always kind with her words. Later that night, Calaila came back briefly and was very skittish. She said she thought her life was in danger from Rusty as he has whispered something to her on his way out. She gathered her things and took off, saying she would see us in the future.

Then a bit of humor occurs. A stupid septon comes onto the ship claiming that he heard Jardon is dying. He instructs Thomas to gather the crew on board, so he gets Summer from the lower decks. He starts his prayers to my protestations. Jardon also talks over him confused as I had told him he was getting better. Gary is barking and Summer goes to get him from the top deck.

Later, I am still down tending Jardon when Teddy and Darron arrive back. They hurry into the room and tell us that Calaila is dead. We immediately start talking about her movements over the last day. I fill them in on my memories.

5

JUL/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jul 06, 2020

Ser Darron’s Journal 17

When the stablegirl asked why the maester was collecting so much driftwood I almost laughed. If she intends on spending time around Thaddeus she better get used to confusion.

Why indeed does the Maester do any of the things he does? Why is he always writing in his books? Why does he need dragonglass so badly? Why does he tie so much paper to birds? Why will he never let me borrow his razor? Why does he wear all those robes in the heat of the summer? Why does he argue with SER DARRON, DRAGONSLAYER about what is and isn’t a fucking dragon’s head? Why won’t he let me teach him how to use a sword? Why does he like spending so much time with Jardon lately? Why does he like dogs so much?

The wood was apparently a pyre for the girl – we know that now – but why so large? Why does it still smell like it’s burning? It’s the middle of the bloody night! Why does my head hurt? Why do I have to piss so badly? I climb out of my bunk and pass Dollin’s cabin. It’s quiet. I pass Jardon’s cabin. The door is open and the young archer is snoring on the floor. In the moonlight I see someone’s drawn on his face with charcoal. I rub my forehead. Charcoal too. Shit.

I haul myself onto deck, grunting. Why do the gods make you feel so old? I shuffle towards the rail but notice a figure on the beach. Why is Thaddeus still out on the shore this late? Why is he holding up that blade? Why is he cutting off his fingers!?

Seven hells! There truly is no understanding that Maester. The stable girl is gonna have to learn that. He’s either too wise for us, or else fully mad.

3

JUL/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

Jul 05, 2020

Goodbye Calaila

While tending to the horses below deck, I am greeted by a stern looking Lord Theodore and Ser Darron. They invite me to ride with them to the Woodhull garrison, and agree to allow me to bring August with us for additional protection. When Maester Thaddeus enters, I overhear Darron suggest they need bodies to draw fire should they come across enemies. My heart rate raises, though the thrill of adventure draws me into the mission further, and despite Thad’s request for me to stay behind , I authentically accept Teddy’s insistence I go with them.

Lord Theodore, Ser Darron, Thomas, and I depart mid day to cross the island, with August trailing close behind. After a few hours, we find Dolins on the trailing with the body of Calaila looking worse for wear on the back of his horse. It isn’t much longer on our way to the Rambis that we run into Ser Argyle and Rusty. They bar our path and suggest we bring the body to First Light, but Lordling Teddy insists we return the deceased to the Rambis for the Maester to examine. The conversation is tense, but it is that odd man Rusty who convinces Ser Argyle to allow us to continue.

The return to the Rambis is a bleak affair with the air of mourning hanging heavy over House Jasper. A pile of driftwood lay by the dock, though my questions about it go ignored by the maester. While the body is examined and Thad and Theodore discuss the cause of death and the events surrounding it, Jardon and Darron argue about the alcohol on board, and when Jardon learns for the first time that Calaila was murdered they toast to her.

Once the rest of the ship has gone to bed (or descended into a drunken stupor), I warg into August and patrol the grounds beyond the dock and near First Light. Through the dog’s eyes, I see Thomas practicing his swordsman skills on deck, Ser Argyle shouting to someone behind him as he walked away from first light dressed in his armor and then…sniff sniff…to my horror the smell of human flesh being burned. I overhear a woman and the distinguished voice of Rusty discussing the events of what was happening through the window the fire was coming from and I rush back to the Rambis. Once back in my own body, I notify Lord Theodore at once of our observations from our “evening stroll”. He contemplates this and does not seem surprised by what I share.

The next day, all the members of House Jasper move about in hushed tones until the funeral for the mistress of whispers. Each member shares kind words as the her funeral pyre goes up in flames. Though I didn’t know her well, tears spill from my eyes hearing about her adventures and trials with the House I feel so proud to be part of.

28

JUN/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jul 03, 2020

What's a "face thing"?

Apparently Carsen has one

It is dusk as Ser Darron and I reach the north cove. Darron insists that we avoid contact with all people and travel off-road through the night back to the Rambis. I agree, as the situation on this island has deteriorated into the unknown.

My stomach growls, and I enquire to Darron about his snack situation. After a moment of eager anticipation while he rustles through his saddle bags, he pulls a rotting snake head out of his bag. Blech!

When we return to the Rambis, Dolins hasn’t turned up yet. Darron and I immediately meet with the Maester to figure out what happened. He claims that two days ago Rusty was on the ship with Carson and everyone seemed flustered afterward. According to the Maester, Calaila was last seen yesterday on board.

Going upstairs to interrogate Thomas, he says he last saw Calaila two days ago, leaving with Carsen on their horses shortly after Rusty left the ship on foot. He also said he saw Carsen yesterday and he is sure he didn’t see Calaila yesterday. He did see a septon, Summer, Thad, and Jardon. He heard that Rusty showed up again yesterday, but did not see himself. He also confirmed that he saw soldiers leave First Light yesterday early morning and Summer said she saw them return late last night.

This isn’t adding up. How is it possible that the Maester saw Calaila yesterday but Thomas did not? No one seems to know why Calaila and Carsen left the ship together, or where they were going. Are they hiding something from me?

Darron and I head to First Light to find Carsen and the Eleshams. When we enter the main hall, Carsen, Lady Elesham, and Iggy are all there looking quite pleased with themselves. Carsen begins to explain how they created peace for the Paps, but that’s the last thing on my mind right now. I need to find out who killed my advisor!

Something Darron says catches my attention. He’s describing how he found Calaila’s body, specifically her face being peeled off, when he says to Carsen “you know, like that face thing you do”. Carson does a face thing? He was the last person seen with Calaila… Darron claims that Carsen has several faces in his bag, so Darron and I push Carsen to empty his bag. He reluctantly dumps the contents of his bag on the floor, revealing nothing of particular interest. Some coins, rope, small weapons. It’s clear to me there’s nothing incriminating on the floor, but Darron pushes further. He seems to genuinely believe that Carsen’s “face thing” is real. I must admit, I’m inclined to give the honorable Ser Darron’s claim some weight. Its too strange a coincidence to let go of quite yet.

15

JUN/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jun 16, 2020

Ser Darron's Journal 16

Reasons Teddy can't focus on backpacks today

Ya see, the Paps is essentially the closest point in Westeros to Braavos. And ya know what else is in Braavos? One – ships, two – sellswords, and three – probably a Targaryen or two. Now I know what they’re saying: “Robert Baratheon took his big ole hammer and squashed out the last of the dragons like a toad under a wagon wheel” and yeah, that’s sort of true, but here’s the thing about claims to thrones, now don’t tell your parents I’m saying this on account of it being kind of crude and that you’re their heir but I believe you need to see the reality of the situation. The thing about claims to thrones is that they’re like dicks – half of everyone has one, just most don’t go waving them around all over. You know? Take this for example: have you ever heard of the nine penny kings war? Did the Maester ever tell you what that was about? Well forget what you heard cause Ser Darron was there. Yeah, I was pretty green back then – didn’t know a mace from a mellon – but I had a horse and a spear and was ready to fight this Blackfyre pretender myself; more like march around getting sunburnt for two years. Never really did see much action, but I learned how to say “Your mother wrestles bears in Tarth” in two languages – three if you count Dornish. My point is that there was a whole separate family of Targaryans. Bastards sure, but that didn’t stop ‘em from trying to get that throne and there’s probably a thousand more bastards out there just the same. So what do they do? Go buy some sellswords and invade the Paps. Now you’re getting it. Sure, it’s a dinky little island, but Targaryens love that kind of thing for some reason. You’ve heard of Dragonstone, right? Lost some good men rooting those cunts out of there. It basically came down to me at the end, you know. Now I don’t want credit for it, but I’m sure you’ve heard the songs, I was there against Ser Alyn – a knight in the real old style – size of the front half of a horse and they say he hardly speaks. But he looks at me and says “Ser Darron, we meet at last” then flips his visor down. I draw my blade and it’s unforgettable single combat. Me and him trading blows. Jardon firing bolts into his back. cling! klang! I fake high but go low and it’s over. The point is there’s a reason they didn’t call it Dragonland. It’s a dinky little island too like the paps. So, my reckoning is that they invade here and hope nobody notices which is pretty reasonable because, have you seen the place? Ho Ho Ho! But really, M’lord they invade here and maybe build a castle and it’s called a foothold in warfare which is a piece of land where you start your invasion. That’s what Maelys Blackfyre was trying to do in the stepstones is establish a foothold. Or could be a toehold which is the military term for a smaller foothold. You see I’ve been educated too, OK sure I can’t write letters or name six types of soups, but a true knight knows a thing or two. And my prediction is that they’ll start dressing like Eleshams and coming over to the fingers and before you know it the Vale is going to be full of swordsmen right under the nose of Lord Arryn. Problem for them is that they don’t know that we know that there are two sure fire ways to spot a Braavosi The first is that they always use skinny swords because the ones that we got are too heavy for em and the second – and Tito taught me this, may he rest in peace – now don’t tell your parents I said this either but the second is that they absolutely can not resi….
…you’re right M’lord that is the Rambis! I nearly missed it. Let’s ride in haste! I hope Dollins made it back.

15

JUN/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

Jun 16, 2020

Bad Omens on Board

My wish for adventure is soon heard by the gods, and the nice lady Calaila suggests that I join Lord Teddy and the Jasper party aboard the Rambis to take care of the horses on their journey. Papa reluctantly agrees to this, but warns me to keep my head down and not bring shame to the family. I can hardly contain my excitement, and spend the whole night before we depart brushing August’s coat until it shines. I will be forever grateful the the mistress of whispers for giving me this opportunity to leave Feliston for the first time.

While tending to the Jasper horses aboard the Rambis at the Paps, I’m interrupted by the young squire Thomas, who asks me to follow him upstairs, that a septon from land is telling everyone to gather in Jardon’s room. When we arrive, the septon is reading Jardon his last rights over Jardon and the wise maester’s enthusiastic protests that in fact, the brave warrior is NOT dying! Barking erupts from the top deck, and I offer to check on Gary for Maester Thaddeus.

While August on my heels, I step into the setting sunlight to see Gary barking at an older, shaggy haired man on the dock. After a few calming head pats for the pup, we introduced ourselves, and the man who identifies himself as Rusty says he’s here to pay his last respects to the dying Jardon. “Nope! No dying man here!” I reply cheerfully and shrug, “Have a good night!” I smile and wave, and watch the odd man leave the dock. It isn’t too long before the septon follows. I ask who sent him, and he reports he was just acting out of duty based off a rumor, and departs the ship in solemnity. What an odd evening! I give August a look and he cocks his head at me. We remain watching as the evening’s chill sets in, and about 100 soldiers appear to return to the First Light Castle.

The next day, Thomas again erupts below deck exclaiming “They’re back! They’re back!”, and the both of us run to see Lord Theodore and Ser Darron on the dock. they order the quire to make sure no one crosses the gang plank and board the Rambis in haste, with furrowed brows. As I lead their horses down below, I hear murmurings from Jardon’s room, and the knight exclaims that Calaila is dead!!

14

JUN/2020

Ser Darron’s Journal XV

The others take this fucking pile of rocks and it’s miserable people. Less honor to be found among the whole lot than a Horn Hill whore. Don’t know why I agreed to come here again.

Now the handmaiden is dead and Lord Theodore is next unless we can get to the ship before… before something… before the Woodhulls… or the Eleshams?… thieves maybe?… Think Darron, you dolt!

I hope Jardon is in fighting shape. I don’t suppose we’ll be able to talk our way out of this one, else Calalia would’ve.

12

JUN/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jun 16, 2020

A murder that hurts

On the journey from Woodhull to the clearing, the intended location of our meeting with the Eleshams, Dolins notices some disturbance in the woods. He and Darron go off to explore while I continue to ride with the Woodhulls. The rest of the ride to the clearing is uneventful and the Woodhulls are not very talkative. I hope this meeting is quick and painless, this whole feud between the Paps houses isn’t worth my time and I can’t wait to get off this forsaken island.

As we get to the clearing, the sound of racing hooves behind us becomes audible and Ser Darron comes into view. He pulls up right next to me a catches his breath for a moment before whispering “Caliala is dead, we found her and Mud Bottom in the woods.” I ask if he’s sure, and he confirms that he and Dolins are 100% sure it’s her.

I ask the Woodhulls if they know anything about this, and they seem fully unaware of the murder that happened on their land. These men are useless fools. My heartrate is building, as is my rage. Darron tells me that Dolins is on his way back to the Rambis with Caliala’s body. He fears this is a trap for me, and the sound of troops marching from the east reaches our ears. Darron pulls on his sword and points north to the woods. He and I spur our horses into the brush, following no particular path other than away from the clearing and the sounds of marching infantry.

As we leave the clearing behind us, I have a moment to contemplate the meaning of what Darron has told me. I’ve come to like Caliala quite a lot. I admired her knack for reading a room and getting out of trouble. She could always salvage a bad situation and spin it in favor of myself and House Jasper. Speaking of which, how did Caliala end up dead in the woods? She’s not one to be easily tricked, surprised, or killed. Something very unusual must has happened. When I find out who did this, I’ll make sure they pay dearly for what they’ve done. Aside from my parents, Caliala was one of my favorite people in this world.

Our winding path leads us to the coast, overlooking the cove where we anchored the first night we arrived at the island. Somehow we have to make it to the Rambis on the east side of the island. How is Dolins going to meet us there without encountering the forces at the clearing?

8

JUN/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jun 16, 2020

A Typical Day at the Snownook Stables

Every day, the same…Papa and I got up early this morning and broke fast with Mama’s brown bread and the last of the butter before getting to the Snownook stables just as the sun was rising. Though he used to have good and bad days, the good now seems to be a thing of the past, and he grumbles the whole way there about having had to reorganize the shovels and tack after I put them I away yesterday. August trails close behind Emma, and I discreetly nod towards Papa and roll my eyes at him. I know most would think I’d lost my mind, but I swear I see an knowing twinkle in my pup’s eyes. Most days I feel he’s the only one who understands me.

Once at the stables, the other hands trickle in, and I tune into their gossip about Feliston’s witch, Bethlazar, and rumors about her cursing Slim after he trampled all over her garden. I also hear whispers of Lord Theodore’s latest adventures to the Paps, and get lost in daydreaming about exploring beyond our homestead. The morning’s chores fly by while visions of faraway lands, swashbuckling pirates, and heroic knights swim in my head, until Papa’s shouting brings me back to Castle Snownook. He tosses a bale of feed across a stall and yells about his useless staff, sending the other hands scattering. August nips at my ankle and tugs my boot towards the door, knowing if we don’t follow suit, a shovel could be coming towards us as well. We quietly sneak out towards the paddocks and find a quiet, hidden spot for lunch.

After sharing an apple and some salt cod with August under a tree, I close my eyes and warg into him for a moment of escape. I bound through the woods and into town, inhaling the sweet scent of the forest floor, being drawn towards a rich savory smell. My paws pat quietly towards Pavel’s soup shop, a sight I recognize from many trips before. A roast sits cooling in his window, and my ears perk up to make sure the cook isn’t nearby. I place my front paws on the wall and quickly snatch the meat, turning quickly on my tail to race back into the woods. It isn’t long before I hear Pavel’s angry shouts from far behind me, and I swell with satisfaction. When I arrive back at my still human body, I rejoin it and watch August happily tear into his prize.

We finally drag ourselves back to the stables, and Papa’s mood has clearly not improved.“You lazy good for nothing,” he spits at me, “where have you been?!” I clench my fists and try to ignore him, but he follows me to where I’m working and continues to ramble incoherently about how all I do is add work to his days, and how he should’ve never let me join him. I know arguing will do no good, but I can’t help myself-we scream and yell at each other until I hop back onto Emma and take the long way home, slamming the door of the cabin behind me and ignoring Mama’s concerned line of questioning.

Good for nothing?! Lazy?! I’ll show him…someday I’ll leave these rotten parts and he can go back to doing his work with those silly boys who can’t tell a rounsey from a destrier. Then he’ll see how useless I was! I just know that adventure is out there waiting for me, and that someone will appreciate what August and I can offer.

8

JUN/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jun 16, 2020

A Promise Kept

A Gift Given

Last I saw Septa Olivia she was encouraged by my efforts in giving the gift to Calaila, but clearly displeased that I was unsuccessful. Fortunately for her, I am both patient and opportunistic. With our parties merged and a journey to be had, I suspected there would be chances to carry out my promise. Never did I imagine things could go so well. Not only did a Kraken attack our ship and wound my mark, but while wounded she decided to make a solo ride to meet the rest of our party. As I am now “a knight” It was my duty to protect a member of the house on such a foray, giving me the opening needed.

Not that my feelings matter so far as the gift is concerned, but I did not relish the way things ended. While Calaila was super rude to me, it still felt a bit crummy to shoot a longtime ally in the back. Alas, it had to be done, and so it was. Who am I to question the opportunities the many-faced god gives?

Now onto the cover up. A few things should work in my favor… First, she had been rather mean to me in front of the Maester. This means I can return alone and no raise suspicion. Who would want to ride for hours with a someone being a jerk? I will say I deserved better and left her on her own.

Second, I have her face (unmarred) and can bid the Maester farewell as her. Perhaps she got scared without a knight around to protect her and needed to bail.

Third, most of our party is not present and Jardon is hammered, I only need to deliver one message as her to the Maester that she is running away and the group should buy it.

Fourth, I have a reason for her to run. Rusty paid her a semi-private visit with only me there to “protect” her. What was said was semi-threatening, but I will make it sound so much worse when I recall it to the others. She truly was terrified of him anyways!

And lastly, she will be planning to return at a later date. She isn’t saying goodbye forever, just goodbye for now. And just maybe I will have her come back from time to time to keep people from wondering too much or to cast votes in favor of my schemes…

7

JUN/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jun 07, 2020

Ser Darron’s Journal XIV

I’ve always hated these situations: men trying to bully each other with words. It’s dishonorable, and unchivalrous, and confusing.

I watch Ralph speaking and find my hand on the pommel of Victorinox. I survey the room: four of them, three armed. A plan begins to form. I’ll take them unaware. The thief first – and quickly – then engage the knights. Will the Lordling and Bard join the melee? Yes, I think.

We’ll fight our way out… Escape before the watch can be alerted! Sail neither south nor west (as they’d expect) but rather to Essos! Dock perhaps in Norvos where the name Tito Alfah holds sway and join up with a company of mercenaries.

The band from Jasper will laugh and fight under that new sun. Against any foe our blades will sing and the east will know the valour of Westerosi knights. Ho Ho!

We’ll all grow thick moustaches and sit atop a mountain of riches; made of equal parts gold, women, dragon eggs, and wi….

I realize that everyone is looking at me… expecting me to speak… I choke but eventually say some half-truth to James. He frowns and seems…. affected by it?

Have I done it? Struck him with words alone? Darron the Wise! Ho Ho! Darron the Cunning!

I can’t wait to tell the handmaiden and farmer about this! They’ll have a good laugh!

3

JUN/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jun 16, 2020

The Red Ride from the Rambis

At the maester’s recommendation, I remained resting in my quarters until the quiet morning is rudely interrupted by an unwelcome guest. I hear the voice of treacherous Rusty board the Rambis, though he passes by my room. I strain my neck to hear what could be taking place beyond the surrounding walls, but hear only soft mumblings, until he returns to my threshold. Not wanting anything to do with Rusty’s diabolical planning, I feign sleep when he calls to me across the small room. As he steps closer, I feel sure he must be able to my heart pounding over my attempts at quiet snoring. His hot breath lands on my neck, and he whispers a veiled threat into my ears. I lay impossibly still until I am sure he has departed, realizing only then I have not taken a breath in minutes.

When I am sure he has gone, I call to Maester Thaddeus, and ask what has transpired-dread and deathly plotting follow Rusty wherever he goes. My worst fears are realized when it is revealed that Jardon drunkenly disclosed to Rusty that House Jasper returned with not one, but three dragon eggs from Valyria. Lord Theodore must hear of this at once. I ask sweet Thomas to deliver a message to Teddy, but he fears getting lost on his way across the Paps. I prepare my own horse, and Carsen insists on joining me. We bicker in front of the maester, and I express my distinct displeasure that it was he who brought this dangerous man on board, who may now expose his liege lord’s secrets to our enemies. Gesturing to the maester, I remind him that as the only current capable fighter present, it is his duty to protect the Rambis and those on board. He again insists he accompany me to the Woodhulls. The hair on my back and arms prickle at his demands and pushiness, but this message for Teddy cannot wait, and can be trusted to no one else.

A half a days ride in towards the Woodhulls, Carsen asks if we can take a break. “As I’ve already made it very clear to you, Carsen,” I respond, “I do not require an escort. You may travel at whatever pace you like.” I steel my eyes on the road ahead and move my rounsey into a bouncey trot, ignoring his request as he falls behind. It is only moments later that what feels like a hot poker rips into my flesh. Before I can truly register what is happening, I spur the horse into a gallop. Time seems to slow down, and my vision tunnels when another unimaginable pain explodes into my back. I have but an instant to look behind me from where I assume the attack is coming from. It takes the realized image of Ser Carsen-my ally, my comrade, my fellow Jasparian-carefully aiming a third arrow at me to fully understand the impossible. Ser Carsen is going to murder me in cold blood. Before I have time to look back ahead, my eyes desperate to meet the road and a horizon where I know Lord Theodore, Ser Darron and Ser Dolins await, Carsen’s final blow envelopes me in blackness.

1

JUN/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

Jun 07, 2020

A Time for Healing...and Drinking

Upon arrival at the Paps, Lordling Theodore gives me leave to stay aboard the Rambis and focus on my healing. Knowing that my open wounds likely would not support their cause, and may distract from the mission on land probably didn’t hurt either. As the rest of House Jasper boards the dinghy to go to land to appeal to the Eleshams and the Woodhulls, Maester Thaddeus skillfully mends my surface injuries, but warns that the internal wounds will take longer. Guided by our knowledge that alcohol both eases pain like milk of the poppy, and can clean wounds and prevent them from festering, Jardon and I set out to do a little healing of our own, and put a formidable dent in the ship’s wine stores. With every sip, I feel more confident that Ser Dolins will welcome only allies into our fold, that Lord Teddy will make only wise choices, and that Carsen will keep a cool head, all with a magnitude equal to the precision and expertise that Ser Darron demonstrated in steering us to the island.

29

MAY/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jun 03, 2020

Narrowly Escaping Death at Sea

Barely breathing, but grateful to be alive, I discern that Jardon and Carsen have been pulled overboard by the kraken. Seeing that our two strongest men are on one rope, I race to the other side of the ship where Theodore and Thad are pulling. I put on all my weight on the ropes, but I’ve been badly injured and my efforts are lost. I scream to the others to pull our captain back on board and my words seem to be carried away in the sea wind. All appears lost…then Carsen is hauled on board! Dolins sprints across the boat and leaps into the water near Jardon, and Darron jumps onto our rope. Carsen shoots into the water from the rail, and we heave with all our might. I feel so weak, and overwhelmed with hopelessness, I fall back onto the deck and black out.

When I come to, the whole crew, including Jardon, is miraculously on the deck of the Rambis (though sadly it becomes apparent the the maester’s dog, Georgie, did not survive that attack). Relief washes over us all, and Ser Darron commends Dolins for his bravery. “I didn’t think about it, I just jumped in! My only regret is that I couldn’t save Georgie!” the bard earnestly replies. At this, Darron asks Dolins to take a knee, and knights him for his repeated acts of bravery, in addition to this final act of heroism. We cheer and relish in this joyous moment despite the death and destruction that has clouded our journey. I stumble back down below deck and pray for the healing abilities of the maester.

17

MAY/2020

Ser Darron’s Journal XIII

The Reach then, the Fingers now. Two different lives to be sure. Down there I was a tournament knight, fought in the Ninepenny Kings war, had a family too. I’d think that’s enough action for two lifetimes! But ever since getting to these damned northern fells it’s been one mess after another. The clansmen, the barghast, Rancis, Ogden, the Trident, the slavers, northern treachery, and eastern dragons. Even Barristan the Bold should have seen himself killed 4 or 5 times after it all! But here I am still kicking like a Dornish ass!

Have I fallen into the grace of the Seven? Does the Father guide my step? Or is it something more?

Old Naan used to tell tales of Garth the Green and other heroes. Legends who lived for hundreds of years and did great deeds. Used to think that was all a folly, but lately I’ve been thinking different. It could be th….

Ah-THUD!

Fuck! Here I am getting distracted again. A hero? Ho! Darron, you’re just a grey old knight who daydreams too much and can’t keep his legs under him in a swell. Got lucky a time or two, but just as killable as any man with more guts than agility.

Well, no sense getting up. Lets see if the ol’ hero of Snownook can put another arrow in this sea creature before it pulls Jardon over. He doesn’t look to be putting up much of a fight. Maybe this gal is one of his salt wives he’s always going on about! Ho Ho!

15

MAY/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

May 22, 2020

Letters to the Corbrays

Before departing for the Paps, Teddy and Calaila scribe the following letters for Raella to carry to House Corbray. The first is the true message to be delivered. The second is a decoy for Raella to hand over if she is intercepted by the Lynderlys.

Dear Lord Lyonel Corbray,

I hope this message finds you well. I understand that we share a common enemy in House Lynderly. It is my hope that we can come together as friends to bring lasting peace to our small slice of the Seven Kingdoms. History has shown that when Houses Jasper and Corbray align, victory is assured. We cordially invite you and your forces to Castle Snownook to prepare a plan for peace.

Sincerely,
Lord Ronnel Jasper and his Heir, Theodore Jasper

Dear Lyn Corbray,

House Jasper is filled with regret about the way our last meeting ended at the tournament. Please accept our most sincere apology. We look forward to the time when we can meet again in person.

Sincerely,
Theodore Jasper

11

MAY/2020

What's Kraken???

On our way to the Paps, I’m lounging in the Lord’s quarters when I hear some commotion coming from the main deck. I grab my sword and run out to the deck to see multiple large tentacles surrounding our ship! Before I know it, one of the tentacles has reached over the starboard hull and grabbed me! I heard Jardon yell from above “Lord Teddy, don’t make any sudden movements! The monster doesn’t like that!” Then he shoots his crossbow to free up Ser Darron, who is also wrapped by a huge tentacle.

What?!?! Am I not the most important person on this ship? Why is Jardon not saving me? If I survive, this will not be forgotten… AHA! Dolins struck the tentacle with a knife from across the ship! My number one bard! OOF… oh shit I’m being dragged towards the edge of the boat! I have a sword in my hand, but I must be careful not to cut myself! No luck! Maybe I can roll around and twist free…. Yes! Freedom!

I look up to see how everyone else is doing and I see Calaila charging at me with a stool and lantern! I haven’t seen those wild eyes of hers before! Praise the Seven! She smashes the lit lantern on the tentacle, forcing it back into the sea! How cool!

Something smells like its burning. There’s lamp oil everywhere! Thankfully, not on me. Fire seemed to work on that tentacle, perhaps I can light my sword on fire with burning oil… YES! FLAMING SWORD!

Another big, orange arm grabs Calaila. I have a clear shot and swing my flaming sword on the meaty appendage!

The tentacle pulls away, but comes right back and latches on to her again. I hear Jardon yell and I look to see a tentacle dragging him toward the edge of the ship. I run up the stairs, flaming sword in hand, and swing at the devilish arm! And I miss! But it was a flashy miss, as my sword is on fire.

Jardon is pulled over the edge! There’s a rope at my feet and I drop one end of it over to him. I tie the other end to the steering column to make sure we don’t lose our captain. I take another quick look around – I see Dolins pulling a rope, someone else must be overboard. I see another tentacle pulling one of the Maester’s dogs towards the edge of the boat. It seems to me our captain has the most urgent need, so I head back to the edge and start pulling. I’m definitely not strong enough to pull him up!

11

MAY/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

May 21, 2020

Attack of the Kraken

House Jasper sets sail for the Paps aboard the Rambis to call the Woodhulls to arms against the Lynderlys. I use what I assume will be long, uneventful days to practice my calligraphy below deck, though, the quiet hours at sea do not last long. From my makeshift office, I hear some jostling through the hull. From the deck above, sounds of alarm are raising, so I grab my stiletto and move quickly towards the stairs. Could it be pirates? Is there any way the Lynderlys could be meeting us at sea? I grab a stool and lantern on my way up for something to throw at what I hope is a wooden ship below, but upon my arrival to the top deck I see that these will be useless tools. Our enemy is a mysterious set of enormous tentacles, and they are surrounding the ship.

The Rambis rocks violently in the waves, and seeing Lord Teddy being dragged to the rail, I hurl myself across the deck with the lit lantern, sliding into the beast to smash the flame against its’ tentacle. The monster spasms against the fire and slides back into the water, letting go of a now oil-soaked lordling. It is not a moment later when I feel a wet rope snake around my ankles. I begin to panic, envisioning a lonely and watery grave, but my nightmare is interrupted by courageous Theodore wielding a flaming sword, stabbing the kraken attacking me. I wriggle free as rain starts to pelt the seas around us and the weathers puts out the fire my lamp had started, but as soon as I draw my weapon, it reaches back out and I am entangled again. The kraken’s tentacle squeezes and it feels like my ribs are cracking. It is all I can do to escape its grip a second time, and the effort takes everything out of me. It curls around the waist of the Maester’s dog, which goes into a state of shock, and I plunge my stiletto into the monster’s flesh. It recoils, pulling the pup closer to the rail. I frantically look around at what’s been taking place around me while fighting a single tentacle. Theodore and Dolins are pulling on separate ropes with all their might on opposite ends of the ship, Darron appears unable to stand up, and Carsen and Jardon are…no where to be seen.

10

MAY/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

May 21, 2020

From a wedding to a tentacle??

When we arrive back home, I quickly hand Teddy the invitations I had been working on during our sea voyage. Teddy hands them out, much to the boy’s surprise! Jardon seems unsure. Calaila and I wait back for Jeyne who is super duper pregnant… Whelp, my plan of hiding her little bump has disappeared. She does seem excited though! We meet her uncle who wants this wedding to happen ASAP and we get to work!

We end up sending Raella out to get a septon for the next day’s festivities. Jeyne seems disappointed by the quality of her chambers. Later that day, a white raven arrives for me… Summer has now ended and it is Autumn. In the morning, Raella knocks on my door and lets me know the septon will not come. I race to find Calaila and we agree I should disguise as the septon to get these lovebirds hitched!

At the wedding, I believe I perform my duties expertly. I ask Jardon for the customary fee for the wedding and he rejects me. Darn it. Thought I could get a little something for the risk of dressing like this religious fool! On the way out, Lord Ronnel calls me over. He has recognized my voice. He asks if Jardon knows and I say I don’t believe so. He says to keep it that way and I go back to change.

When I arrive back, Dolins sings a lovely song for the couple. I sit and chat with him after and he expresses fear that I was dressed as a septon. He lets me know that he lost his wife during childbirth that a septon attended and since then he has been really afraid of religious folks. I am glad he has shared this with me. I have noticed his fear but he has never told me before!

The next day, I decide to decipher the rhunes on my shield I’ve been carrying around! It is in the old tongue of the first men and states “By the grace of the Gods this shield will protect the Bronze Kings from the night and from the children until the end of time”. This seems to be from House Royce back when they were kings. The Children must be the Children of the Forest and the night may be either the long night or something else? I am not positive.

Darron comes to see me and has a snake head. He states that it is a flightless dragon and was curious if I could tell him about it. I inform him that it is for sure a snake and that I have no use for it but that he may be able to sell it to the alchemist guild in King’s Landing.

Teddy then comes to me and asks if I am willing to join in on the investment as I had expressed interest. I agree and I give him 50 dragons.

It is February in the year 286. A delegation from House Lynderly has arrived and we are all gathered to listen. Lord Ronnel hands the floor to Lord Lynderly who states that there is a grievance with House Thorne. He states that he is looking for 75% share in Carsen’s tin mine. The argument goes back and forth but finally Lord Ronnel states that the Lynderly need to give up their lands to Carsen’s mine. The Lynderly storm our.

Lady Elyse firmly states that we have not heard the end of this. She states that we need us to sail for Woodhall to gather up support as she believes we are to be attacked. Carson also suggests the Corbrey’s to help us and she agrees. We pack up and head out.

On the boat, we have all been relaxing and taking time for ourselves when I hear a shout from above deck… What now. I had just gotten to a great chapter in my book! I sigh and put the book down.

10

MAY/2020

All of That Work for Nothing

Letting it slip

#FalseFlag

After a week’s long expedition to frame the Linderlys in the eyes of the Corbrays we are not even going to ask them for help… This is ridiculous. We had Lyn Corbray at the edge of his life and could have stolen his Valyrian Steel sword. All under the guise of Linderlys. We left him tied up and bloodied to be found by his own, there is no way they would have passed on an opportunity to get revenge. So now we travel to the Paps. I cannot recall how things went during our last stay there, but we have left behind a wake of enemies that has me concerned. What could possibly go wrong?

10

MAY/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

May 10, 2020

Its been an exciting month

So many things happened!

#Teddy

A mere hour before the wedding is scheduled to begin, Calaila finds me in a hallway to deliver somewhat distressing news. The Septon from Snakewood is not coming to officiate the wedding. Our maester, Thad, will be impersonating a Septon and Calaila wants me to be aware of the ruse. She claims the disguise is very good so I approve. BUT! If this goes poorly, I had nothing to do with it.

The wedding begins as Jayne enters the great hall wearing a blue and green cloak in the colors of House Oakheart. Ser Wilber removes her cloak as she approaches the front of the hall. The Maester appears to make a convincing Septon. Aside from the glaring lack of references to the Seven, the service proceeds smoothly without issue! They are married!

Dolins performs a catchy tune to get the party going. The reception is quite fun, and caps off with the bedding ceremony at the end of the night.

A few days after the wedding, I catch up with the Maester to ask if he’d… I mean she’d… ugh whatever. I’m still calling him a him… If HE’D like to get in on the silver mine investment. It’s been quite hectic since our return to Snownook and I recall he was interested in the investment. Also, the more people who have a stake in this, the easier it will be to convince them to return to House Crakehall. He agrees to chip in 50 gold dragons, to be returned 150 gold dragons when we receive payment.

A month or so later, a party from House Linderly arrives at Castle Snownook. As the Heir of House Jaspner, I am called to meet with the party. After hearing from Ser Darron about the pending war, this could be a very serious conversation. Because of this, I’m surprised to see Dolins, Darron and Jardon in the room.

Yoren Lynderly is here to resolve an issue with House Thorne. Carson is claiming full ownership of a tin mine that is supposedly on Lynderly lands. Yoren wants 70% share in the profits of the mine. Jana Lynderly claims to have snuck into the mine and mapped it, proving the mine extends into Lynderly territory. This isn’t what I expected, but this could probably start a war, too.

You know what? I don’t have to convince that chump Yoren of anything. I just need to persuade my father to mediate in our favor! Using my most stately and confident expression, I persuade Lord Ronnel to grant all land above the mine to House Jasper as punishment to House Lynderly for their admitted acts of espionage and subterfuge. Ha! Take that Lynderlys!

After the Lynderly party angrily departs, my dear mother Lady Alys speaks up that she fears Yoren Lynderly will return will an army. She suggests that we sail to Woodhull to make peace between them and House Elisham. We cannot expect the Pryors to support us, since we haven’t brought Perin’s killer to justice. I’m holding out hope that Rusty will pull through and send us Terry’s head.

We formulate our plan to sail to the Paps to court the Woodhulls and the Elishams. Its not so much a courting as will be a peacemaking mission to settle their feud and bring all their martial force to defend Snownook.

At the same time we are sending Raella by land to House Corbray at Heart’s Home with a letter to asking them for support. At the tournament we hosted, the Corbrays were disrespectful guests and they didn’t leave on the best terms. I’ll have to write the letter to make it clear we aren’t desperate for their help. That certainly wouldn’t be a good look for House Jasper. Also I suspect Raella will be intercepted. It is best that I arm her with a false letter in case the Lynderlys search her.

4

MAY/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

May 04, 2020

Ser Darron's Journal XII

An ill-advised speech for Jardon’s wedding:

I’ve known Jardon well for 5 years now and have considered us friends for the past several weeks. Together, we’ve ranged through the seven kingdoms and across the narrow sea. Side by side slain hundreds of foes with great skill. I’ve watched him dispatch men who are crying on their knees and pick dragons out of the sky like seagulls.

But that is neither here nor there. What is here is the Oakheart lady. Jeyne. (Whispering to Carson: Jeyne, right?)…. Jardon has truly had a twinkle in his eyes since meeting her – especially the tin one. She, in turn, has really brought out the best in our Jardon. Or at least has the potential to. There are definitely some things in there that are ready to come out. But umm… what a great ceremony. We even found a septon! How lucky is that? I mean without a septon, it’s not a marriage.

Anyway… May the two of you have a long happy fruitful marriage. May the Mother bless you with many children. And the warrior with many victories. Please raise your tankards to celebrate this new union.

4

MAY/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

May 10, 2020

Growing Tension on the Fingers

On the first day of the new year, and the day of Jardon and Jayne Oakheart’s wedding, Maester Thaddeus exceeds my expectations for her ability to deceive the wedding attendees and bride. She transforms into a septon, and completes the ceremony seemingly without a hitch. The festivities commence-wine flows, rich foods fill the bellies of all the guests, and Dolins performs happy melodies that raise the spirits of all in attendance, despite the awkward circumstances of the occasion. Ser Wilber departs prior to the bedding ceremony, but the night is all in all a success.

In the coming weeks House Jasper receives an unhappy party of Lynderlys. They claim Carsen’s mine is on their land and demand a high percentage of his profits. In a tense conversation, it comes out that one of the members of the Lynderly party has been spying on Jasper land. Lord Theodore proposes that as punishment for their covert operation and trespassing, that whatever land they may have tried to claim as their own in relationship to the mine will be surrendered to House Jasper. Lord Ronnel agrees with his son’s suggestion, which stirs Yorren Lynderly into a fit of rage. They quickly depart, but Lady Alys warns of her prediction of a violent return. We are tasked with gathering reinforcements, and send Rhaella with a letter calling for an alliance with the Corbrays in hopes of squandering a common enemy (perhaps once and for all), and set sail for the Paps to make our case to the Woodhulls. It is not lost on me that both these houses last left Castle Snownook on less than ideal terms, and I hope our calls do not fall on selectively deaf ears.

3

MAY/2020

A War! and a wedding??!?!? MY WEDDING?!?!?

My seafaring skills can't help me navigate this one

Still awaiting to hear if the Corbrays will declare war on the Lynderlys. I believe our plan was a success but have not as of yet heard word. I write this amid practicing at the range. I have to admit, the added balance from my “eye” is really helping out with my accuracy.

Although it took quite the toll on all of us physically, it was probably a good thing we ran into Lyn of all people. Being such a hot head, he should get pretty up in arms about being attacked by some “Lynderlys”. It should add fan to the fire………. It was just unfortunate that we had to run into that marksman, Arturo. If only I had his abilities as a bowman, I would be unstoppable. Instead, because of not having my eyepatch and piece of tin in my eye I looked worse than Carsen with one……ugh….. Even weeks later this is still bothering me. The eyepatch not being there was throwing me off…..or maybe Carsen did something to make himself look better than me, he is always finding someway to make me look bad……that conniving deviled-tongued mongrel…….wait no……….couldn’t be Carsen, he’s was in it for the same reasons……he’s not the one against me…….or is he….ugh……..what’s wrong with me……

Anyways, that’s only a minnow of a problem compared to the other at hand. Calaila, Teddy, and Maester Thad arrived today from a ship with green sails. They had been off in the Reach and came with stories and news………I am to be married……MARRIED!!!!! There must have some ulterior motive to all of this, those schemers……..always……well…..scheming……….they must be somehow profiting out of all of this, other than making peace with those pansies (fitting for those flower mongers)…….they must have been paid off or have some reason to keep me occupied…….do they know? this must be a ploy to keep me on their side……

for someone reading the journal there is half a page torn out, scribbles seem to go on either side of the torn seams******

….on another page……

A child! A Bastard Child!! Calaila insists there is no other reason for me marrying this Jeyne Oakheart other than this…..nothing other than making peace with the Tyrells. I still find this hard to be hard to believe…….there must be something more. Or maybe there isn’t. who knows. Maybe I make the best of this situation, maybe I’ll play their little game…..she could be something of a salt wife….maybe more….maybe she will understand…….a least the little one inside will grow up in a good house with a decent upbringing……it is the least I could in return for what was paid forward to me by Jaquen…….maybe he did so to me knowing the “old way”…..

If I find out what the real reason is though…….. there’ll be hell to…..wait no, why am I thinking this way…..I know why I killed an evil creature like Rancis….there was no good in a man like that…….but these are my kin, my family……why am I thinking like this…..ahhhh……I wan’t like this before……

27

APR/2020

3 comments

Last commented on:

May 05, 2020

A Contentious Proposal

Setting foot onto the dry land of the Fingers, I’m overjoyed to be home safely, with an Oakheart sloop not far behind. It is not long before we solidify our alliance with the Oakhearts, and therefore the Tyrells. As Lord Theodore doles out the news of the wedding in the coming days, I slap Jardon on the back and congratulate him on his upcoming nuptials. A look of shock overcomes him, and I assure him that it is a well suited marriage, and that he should be lucky to be paired with a lovely woman of an old, proud house. For the time being, I leave out her “condition”…

Maester Thad and I meet Lady Jeyne Oakheart and her escort, Ser Wilber Osgrey, at the shore. The knight bristles at us, but I make a connection with sweet Jeyne right away and try to make her feel at home. We show Ser Wilbur to the great hall for refreshment, and hurry to show Jeyne to her quarters and discuss wedding plans. She is seven months along, and there will be no hiding her belly on her wedding day. In an effort to carve the marriage and the alliance into stone swiftly, we plan to wed the courageous Captain Jardon and goodhearted Lady Jeyne on the morrow.

Leaving the bride’s quarter’s, I have the pleasure of bumping into Jardon, who I had planned on finding to speak to about his wife to be. Unfortunately, when he greets me he is irate and babbling paranoid ramblings, accusing Teddy and I of scheming for our own good, rather than the good of house Jasper. I try to assure him that our intentions are honest, that marriage is the surest way to a lasting alliance, and that it is for the best for all of the house including Jardon. He doesn’t give me the chance to discuss the bit of information I DO need to share with him before storming off. Knowing the wedding is scheduled for the very next day, I leave a note on his door, requesting his presence to break fast together the next morning.

Fortunately, Jardon shows up, perhaps a bit more sober, in the morning, and I assure him that the arrangement is in good faith, however, his bride, like him, brings some baggage to the altar. I share that Jeyne is pregnant, but hope that Jardon, of all people, will be able to truly empathize with her circumstances and with the child she brings to the marriage. He is quiet for a moment, and looks down at his boots for a long while before letting out a stern sigh. “Okay, I’ll do it.” I thank him earnestly for his service to House Jasper, and wish him many happy years ahead with his lovely young bride. He shakes his head somberly, and gets up to walk out, but turns back to me one more time to say, “I’m not doing it for House Jasper, I’m not doing it for me…I’m doing it for the kid,” before leaving. I am dumbstruck by the man’s sentiment, and left misty eyed by his soft spot for the child he and Jeyne will raise together. Despite his flaws, I am confident Jardon will care for his family with all the warmth and thoughtfulness he has within him. Now the success of the marriage rests upon the shoulders of Lady Jeyne, and I hope she has as much wisdom as Jardon does when it comes to evaluating her betrothed.

Just as I’m finally starting to relax after my tense and emotional conversation with the Captain, Maester Thad rushes in to despair that the septon we sent for refused our call, and we have no one to perform the ceremony this evening. This wedding was complicated enough, we didn’t need any additional surprises! After some discussion, the maester assures me that they are capable to disguising themselves as a septon and performing the ceremony without Jeyne ever knowing the difference. It is a risky plan, especially with all that is depending on a successful ceremony, but I trust that the maester knows their own abilities well enough to get the wedding done without a hitch.

26

APR/2020

Face Lift

Feeling Younger

#FalseFlag

Our first step in the linderly revenge plot was a success. We attacked their raiding party and killed all but the craven Thom. With their men slain, and Linderly clothing, we can now attack the Corbrays and let the Linderlys face the consequences. To ensure that we blend in and that I do not get noticed I even borrowed a face from one of the slain archers. Things could not have gone much better! Now how I profit from this?

20

APR/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Apr 26, 2020

Revisiting the Past

Another run in with The Duke

Teddy and I argue about whether or not to follow through with our meeting with the Duke, but we’re cut short by Rusty meeting us at the gate, insisting we follow him inside, and that he was expecting our arrival. Teddy heartily accepts his invitation, and I try to hide my reluctance. I am certain this is a recipe for disaster, and fear we will not make it out of his manse alive.

As we follow him upstairs, I take a moment to take in our surroundings, and notice a long hallway of quiet closed doors, and what appears to be a trap door on the other end. We are ushered into a lavish sitting room, where we find Tess and Virgil waiting for us. Following re-introductions, we make our business known. “We come bearing a warning in hopes it will help you to stay safe. It seems Terry has exacted her revenge against Ser Perrin for delivering Danny back to you, and we have reason to believe she may be on her way to you to do the same, and to take back your son. We ask that if the opportunity arise, and if you see it fit, that if Terry should fall upon her return, that you send us her head. As you’ve seen, we believe a son belongs with his father, and Perrin’s father will not have that chance again. He has tasked us with avenging his son’s murder.” The Duke sighs heavily, thanks us for the warning, but reports that he does not think he will be able to fulfill this request, and that Terry’s return may be his demise. We wish him safety, and take our leave.

Tess escorts us to the front gate, and as we near the exit, I hear a faint “help!” coming from behind us. I put the heart chilling plea out of my mind, and shuffle outside, just grateful for my safety, and remain focused on my self preservation. As we turn to leave, Tess lets us know they may have a lucrative “errand” for us in the future, to which I nod and curtsy, and scurry away.

Upon our return to the market, we have the pleasure of bumping into a quizzical Dolins with a lavish dress in hand. We return to a comfortable inn, and after our stressful visit to Rusty, I lie down to rest. When I wake, I am certain I must still be dreaming, as Thaddeus is in a dress and proclaims he is, in fact, a woman, and is rambling about murdering a necromancer. I rub my eyes, and wiping the sleep away remind our group that we have matters to attend to at Castle Snownook.

16

APR/2020

4/9: The past coming back to haunt me

OH SHITTTTT

Maester better runnnn

I continue treating the man, Harlan. Calaila asks him why he fits the description and he states he does not know the men. He states he doesn’t think they are looking for him. She then gets angry and storms out, stating if he isn’t honest, then we can’t help him. I stay back with him and ask if he isn’t Remus, what is he doing here? He explains he is on his way to see his brother and they are both cobblers. I really trust what he is saying.

I suggest we stick around for a bit while I work on healing him. We agree and hunker down. Just then, we hear shouts from downstairs… Then a torch comes through the window near Dolins! Quick thinking Dolins grabs it. I help Harlan up and we walk to the hall. Teddy and Dolins alert people of the fire.

All of the sudden, Calaila sneak attacks Godry from behind! She stabs him right in the neck! What the heck happened to this woman?? She then tells Jasen to drop his weapons. He panics and runs downstairs. My friends chase him down and I see Dolins throw the lit torch at him and it hits him with the fire end! He takes another step or two and realizes he is on fire. He drops to the ground and then Dolins douses him with water and jumps on him.

I hear from outside that Jasen is indeed Remus as my friends lead him out. The riders come together to get him. Teddy asks where the duke is nowadays and he states he is in Lannisport in the Mance in the central market. He states he will let him know we are coming.

The next day we reach Lannisport. Harlan leads us to his brother’s shop and we are greeted with joy! Thank goodness we saved him! His brother gives me a gold dragon and he offers us all some boots.

We then head up to Casterly Rock to return the banner my friends found in Valyria. We are brought through the stunning castle and into the hall. Tyrion Lannister meets us in the hall. Teddy and Calaila are chatting up to Tyrion. They are hoping returning the banner will help our house relationships. He inspects the banner and states it is very old. Teddy explains how they got it and Tyrion believes it must have belonged to King Tommen Lannister centuries ago. He asks if they saw his family’s sword, Bright Roar, but Teddy states they did not see it. Calaila asks for more history and they chat. Dolins then sings a song praising his skills and we are then escorted out. Calaila takes a long detour to use the bathroom and we then finally head to see the Duke!

We find Virgil’s horse tied outside of the Manse. As we approach, I look up to the second story window and stop in my tracks. I see Qyburn looking down at me! I turn to Dolins and say I cannot go in. I turn around and he comes with me, heading down the road towards the crowd.

14

APR/2020

4/2: A sick man, is he guilty?

Ye of little faith

As we hear the voice yelling from outside, I hide a bit behind Dolins. A soldier at the door looks out and after a few seconds, he falls back, obviously dead! Another man barracades the door and we hear “Remus, we know you are in there, we can wait.”

At this, I decide to start looking into rooms for this Remus. What I am going to do, I have no idea. I sneak up to one window and see a man on a dark horse. I crawl back out of the room and head back down to my friends. Teddy and Dolins and I decide to investigate upstairs. We see a man named Jasen in the hall. We quickly look in his room and see another man in heavily clad armor. He seems very on edge. His name is Godfrey.

In another room is a man named Ned who yells that he wants to be left alone. Another man sounding very sick is in the next room. Next is an empty room, then a room with a woman who has barricaded the door. In another empty room, Dolins looks out the window and yells to a man on the horse. He asks what Remus looks like and the man states he does not know but Virgil, the man up front knows.

The next room is locked and Dolins picks the lock. In there, Teddy finds a partial set of armor and proceeds to snatch it. In another room, Dolins finds some Greycap and kindly gives it to me. We then head downstairs where Teddy is yelled at for having stolen a man’s armor. After some silly fighting, he gives it back.

Calaila yells to the man outside and asks who Remus is so we can help He says he owes a debt. He describes him as blonde with blue eyes. There is no one with that appearance in the room and Calaila tells the man this and asks what he would have us do? He yells that he would have us do nothing.

Teddy then orders himself and myself two ales and we go behind the bar to look for a man fitting the description. We see a man back there take the back door, and he is quickly downed as soon as he exits…

Calaila then gets the keys from the inn keep and we head back upstairs. We get into Ned’s room and find nothing. Next is the coughing man. He fits the description…. I offer him my help as he is has an obvious case of consumption. In the hall, we discuss what to do. I suggest we see what his side of the story is and I will treat him.

14

APR/2020

False Flag

Operation Stag Stalk

And so, war was ruled out as too foolish and risky. We did not have the troops or support of other houses to achieve our goals through pure military means. So, we decided to take a different approach to revenge on the Linderlys They cannot be allowed to steal my mine, nor house jaspers animals. So, we shall kill the Linderly poachers, steal their garb, and attack the Corbray’s livestock and troops to win them to our side. With the might of Coldwater burn on our side the craven Linderlys don’t stand a chance.

11

APR/2020

A Handmaid of Many Talents

As the maester begins to work on healing the blonde hair blue eyed man, I ask him about his identity, keeping a close eye on the dagger he has hidden on his nightstand. He insists his name is Harlon, not Remus, and that he has no idea who the men outside are. I roll my eyes-we’ve journeyed a long ways and I have no patience for this matter. Teddy and I leave the room and while looking for a quiet room to sleep and escape the night’s excitement, see a man poke out of a door, and nervously slam it behind him. In the moment that it took me to register the nervous man’s blue eyes and blonde eyebrows, flame erupts outside the window, and shouts rise from the first floor.

Teddy and I shoot one another a look, and I signal to Dolins that the man we’re truly looking for is in that door. Teddy has the bright idea of drawing the other residents out by screaming fire and banging on the doors. His plan works, and the man I presume to be Remus returns to his threshold. I encourage him to get out of the burning building, and he calls behind him to a man named Godfrey to follow him to the exit. The moment Godfrey turns his back to me to head down the stairs, I plunge my sword through the back of his neck, and swell with satisfaction at the sound of this man’s death. Remus looks at me in shock as his hired protection gurgles at my feet, “Drop your weapon,” I urge him. Unfortunately, he flees, and Dolins and I chase after him. As we reach the stairs, Dolins hurls a lit torch at the man, who drops to his knees as his clothes catch fire. We apprehend him and deliver him to the men surrounding the bar in return for assurance of a safe exit from the scene. Before we leave, we learn that the men we’ve assisted are associated with the Duke, and my blood chills thinking of the man we lied to to appease Dolins’ kind heart.

The next day we arrive in Lannisport, and after a brief bit of exploring the city, request an audience with House Lannister. Tyrion the Imp, the notorious dwarf son of Tywin Lannister greets us cheerily, but alone, and it is clear that this is the equivalence of a scoff to our request. Nonetheless, if I’ve learned anything in my short life, it is that power does not always come from where we expect it, and I return his introduction with a deep curtsy. “Lord Lannister, tales of your house’s prowess and wisdom ring throughout the seven kingdoms, and our home in the Fingers is no exception. We are returning this artifact, a symbol of House Lannister’s long history of bravery, to its rightful home, and hope this can be an opportunity to begin a long friendship between our two houses.” I hand him the banner we found in Valyria, and Teddy shares how it came to be in our possession. He seems genuinely surprised and touched by our commitment to restoring this piece of history to his family, and offers his hospitality to us for the afternoon. Dolins performs a delightful song, and we discuss history, music, literature and travel over goblets of Arbour gold. I think to myself how far I’ve come since Flea Bottom, and wonder if I would’ve believed I’d ever experience such a thing if a grand wizard himself had come and told me my future when I was a girl. If I can come this far, I can go much further…

After some time, and some wine, Tyrion excuses himself, and a guard begins to escort us from the castle. Not wanting this precious opportunity to pass me by, I create a diversion, and begin to explore the doors near the facilities. The gods smile upon me, and I open the door to a cursing and visibly distressed handmaiden clutching a ripped gown. I reassure the girl, and begin sewing the rip she created while asking her about herself. The girl,m who introduces herself as Tanda, admits that she’s always wanted to go to Dorne, and longs for the sunshine. She mentions she’s never had so much as gold dragon in her lifetime, and I happily pay her for her discretion for the proposition I am about to make to her. She agrees to a payment of 1 silver stag for every whisper she feels appropriate to send to me at House Jasper, whether it be about the Lannisters, or their visitors, or correspondence about other houses that she may come across. She eagerly agrees, and I bid her farewell by sharing that I’m looking forward to working with her, and eventually getting her to Dorne someday. When I eventually make it there myself, I will ask if they have a handmaiden position I can acquire for Tanda on her behalf so she can live out the rest of her days in the bright Dornish sun.

10

APR/2020

3/26: Mining for Gold! Well, silver really.

Teddy making his fortune!

After we leave Lady Arwyn’s house, we head on the sea road north. We first come across a traffic jam of sorts! There are two wagons stopped in the road talking to soldiers. Calaila asks what is going on and we find out that the Crakehall’s are taking toll. Dolins pays for the wagons as we jumped the line and we move on. We reach Crakehall itself shortly after and decide to spend the night. We meet with Lord Roland and he apologizes for the toll. He states that their silver mine has dried up and they are in great need of money. He needs to sink a new mine. Teddy asks if the Lannisters have helped them sink a new mine but he states he wants this kept a secret as he knows Lord Tywin would look down on his house if they had not enough money to sink the new mine.

Teddy then asks how much it costs to sink the mine and how much it produces. He states at the peak, the old mine was producing 400 dragons worth of silver a month. After this, we go back to our rooms to sleep.

The next morning, Lord Roland comes out to say goodbye. I jump in and offer to chip in up to 1/3. Teddy asks for 50 gold dragons a month once it is up a running. They go back and forth and agree on Teddy getting triple his investment back in one year. Seems cheap to me…

We continue on to Lannisport. On our way, we pass an inn that seems to be hosting a party. We make our way inside. A man has decided to buy rounds for the whole tavern for the evening. I settle in and listen to the crowd around. Most is idle chatter but I do hear one woman say, “Heart him say to thank The Duke for the drinks”.

Right after this, we hear a shout from the front door of the inn. They shout, “Remus, we are here for you…..”

9

APR/2020

Searching for Remus

At the eerie sound of the taunts from outside, my ears perk up, and I place my hand on my stiletto and look to the door. A man with a Crakehall banner peaks his head outside, and falls backwards, bleeding onto the wooden floor. I slowly draw my weapon, and place it on my lap under the table, and raise my drink to my lips without taking a sip, wanting to keep my wits about me, and wait for ensuring commotion. I hear the low drum of horse hooves outside the window, and assume we are surrounded. I don’t know this Remus fellow, so why should I run? I’m of no use to our captors.

My Jasparian companions scurry upstairs, but not wanting to find myself trapped should matters head to the second floor, I remain at the table near the door. They find nothing useful, and come back to join me at the table. Exasperated, I shout outside and ask if the man they’re looking for has any identifying feature, eager to get on with the evening. They say Remus has blonde hair, blue eyes and perhaps a beard, but no one matches this description. Eager Dolins offers to invite them inside, but they decline, asking that Remus join them out in the night. This perplexes me, and I wonder why they insist on waiting when they could come and do the deed themselves, letting the rest of the inn’s patrons carry on.

In frustration I being searching the rooms myself, but find only a cat downstairs. With the rest of House Jasper in tow, I start searching the rooms upstairs, and it isn’t long until we find a man that matches our captors’ description, blonde haired, blue eyed, and coughing wildly. The Maester convinces the man to let him in, and examines him, but pulls us back into the hall confirming he had the same thought as me-that this is the man they are looking for.

2

APR/2020

Making New Friends and New Enemies

At breakfast the next morning we present our ideas about who her niece may be able to marry, and despite some barbs and prickled feelings we convince her to abide by our suggestions. As we trot away from Old Oak, I feel Lady Arwyn’s eyes staring into my back, but I pay no mind, knowing we’ve bettered both of our houses, and hope our choices will lead to curried favor with House Tyrell. Lord Theodore encourages Maester Thad to notify Olenna and Mace Tyrell of our mission’s success, in addition to writing to Lady Arwyn about the scheduled ceremony.

On our way to Lannisport, we have the pleasure of stumbling across House Crakehall, who offers us hospitality for the evening. Over dinner, Lord Crakehall shares in shame that his house’s funds have run dry after their silver mines have reached their ends. I see a glimmer in Teddy’s eyes, and after retreating to our quarters post-dinner, we devise a plan to invest in the mine. I offer 25% of the upfront investment, 50 gold dragons, but report that it’s all I can afford. I encourage him to drive a hard bargain, and initially he does so, asking for 50 gold dragons a month in perpetuity, but am disappointed when he’s driven down to only tripling our original investment. Pitiful! This is what happens when you send a lording to do a mistress of whispers’ job…

Nearing Lannisport, we’re drawn into a rowdy tavern, where someone has apparently paid for everyone’s drinks for the evening. I have an uneasy feeling in my gut, but a quick check around doesn’t give me any clues as to why. I sip slowly on my cup of wine, listening closely to the revelries around me, when I hear “Reeemusss…..we’re here for you….” taunting from outside the closed tavern door…

26

MAR/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Apr 09, 2020

The Web Grows Wider

I take the opportunity to “get lost” in Highgarden, and am pleased to stumble upon two sweet handmaids chattering in the halls with some intensity. Requesting their assistance in navigating the castle. I take advantage of the time it takes to walk through the halls to get to my room to hear Ivy’s story. She shares that her father is at risk of being killed for being unable to pay debts, and he may have to escape with her family in order to keep them all alive. She is too afraid to ask the Tyrells for help for fear they might kick her out of the home for being the offspring of a ne’er do well. She is a scared, young, vulnerable girl, and meeting her is a gift from the seven.

After allowing Ivy and her friend to escort me through the halls, all the while inquiring about their lives and their roles as handmaids at Highgarden, I usher them into my room and propose two options. Out of charity, I would give Ivy 1 gold dragon and wish her well. OR, for her father’s entire debt of 5 gold dragons, she could be part of my network of whispering handmaids. She fears betraying the Tyrells, and I remove the burden by sharing that she can pass on as much or as little information as she would like, but she will receive one silver stag for each nugget of information she sends my way. I hope she realizes that a silver is worth far more than loyalty to a family that cares not about her or her family.

Ivy agrees to work for me, and for her friend’s discretion about our deal, I pay her a gold dragon as well. I leave Highgarden with lighter pockets, but a new pipeline for whispers.

Travelling up to Old Oak, we come across a familiar old trickster of a man, who I recall quickly caused us quite a headache in the past. After the four of us spread in different directions, I see the others have crossed safely, and I gallop safely across without even looking at the man. Maester Thad on the other hand chats for hours about how he feels he’s found a new friend in the man. I imagine his curiosity will get him into trouble one of these days.

Lady Arwyn of Old Oak greets us warmly outside her home upon our arrival, and invites us to dine with her and her house. I approach the evening with skepticism, as such generosity can’t exist without a request for reciprocity. Sure enough, after dinner, Lady Arwyn hangs in head in shame, and shares that her niece is carrying the bastard baby of a travelling bard, and they are now unable to find a suitor for her to marry. The house is disgraced and desperate for help to marry the young woman.

When Lady Arwyn goes to bed, House Jasper discusses the options, and we discuss suitable options for this arranged marriage, in order to forge a lasting bond with the powerful House Tyrll.

12

MAR/2020

Thad is back as a new (wo)man!

Maister's gotta Maist.

Gotta up my chase game

As we continue our walk East towards Highgarden, a rider gallops past going quickly. We see him a bit later watering his horse and he has a package lashed to his saddle. Calaila gestures to the package and says: “You must know Dell. What’s in the package?” He states he doesn’t know. I walk over to Teddy and confess I am now very curious to know what is in the package.

I walk over and introduce myself to Marq, who is a professional courier. I ask if he also had an odd feeling from Dell when he got the package and he states he did not. I offer to deliver the package for him as we are headed that way. He states if I give him a gold dragon, I could. I try and barter but then agree to one gold dragon. Then the fool tries to shake me down for another dragon! I inform him that dragons prefer to be solo and decline. He takes his leave and mounts his horse. Just as he starts to gallop off, I change my mind. I hop on my trusty steed Gonzo and take chase after him. Unfortunately, Gonzo is better suited for plowing than for chasing after a mystery box. I slow down and make it back to my companions. They shake their heads at me. I shrug and just inform them that a “Maister’s gotta Maist.” and carry on my way!

We eventually make it to Highgarden. It’s a stunningly grand castle. As we make it up to the main gate, Teddy shouts out. Calaila asks for an audience with the Tyrell’s and they clarify who we are. The guards whisper to each other and one heads to the castle. The guard who was speaking with us states that it is tradition that we must enter the city through the bramble maze before entering. So we agree to do so.

We head into the maze of very dense shrubbery. It is unclear how large this maze is and we quickly get turned around. Thankfully they gave us a red flag to wave if we get truly lost! After a few hours, it seems like we are travelling down the same few paths. We feel further into the maze, but it doesn’t seem like we have made much progress! I inform my friends that I’ve read about the maze. I know that the paths are changed at irregular intervals but unfortunately I don’t know what the current pattern looks like. Just as the last light is leaving the sky, we head out onto a terrace! Teddy did it and finally found us a way out!

We then hear a slow clap around us. We turn around and there is an old woman, rather frail, but dressed in fine clothing. She is wearing the golden rose of House Tyrell on her dress. She says that we have done well and for a while she did not think we would make it!

She states she heard that we were here and wanted to welcome us. It is the one and only Olenna Tyrell! Calaila speaks with her for a while and we are eventually led into the castle. There, wealth is obviously on display. I believe this is the richest family I have yet to come across! We are led into the Lord’s Solar, a beautiful room. There a man rises and we are introduced to Mace Tyrell. He invites us to sit. Some small introductions are done and then Calaila explains we are there to try and make connections in case the need for collaboration arises. He prickles at this and states that he must clear the air. He states some men of House Jasper killed his dear cousin Leo in the war. His mother scoffs at this and states that he barely knew him. Mace says regardless, he was intended to bring resupply to his city.

Calaila states she has not heard about this but does question it. She asks for more details. Mace says that during the war, Leo was bringing a supply caravan when he was ambushed and killed by men of House Jasper. Calaila asks how he knows it was our house and he states all of the smallfolk that were there saw our flags and the word has spread. Calaila asks who was said to do this and Mace recounts a one eyed man, and older man and another man with a different sigil. Calaila states that the war is now over and we are all glad to be living in a time of peace. I ask what was in the supply and he states food. Calaila asks what he would like in recompense and he states he would like us to think it over. We ask to speak to the smallfolk in the morning and he states he will gather them for us at breakfast. We are then escorted to our rooms but there are guards blocking the stairwell. Calaila starts questioning the guard but that goes nowhere.

The three of us discuss, as Dolins is sitting in the corner working on a new ballad. We had been on opposite sides of the war. Mace had spoken of recompense but not of money and he was on the losing side of the war. I think about if there is anyone of marrying age to link Teddy to, but alas, there is no eligible woman.

At breakfast, Garth Tyrell, Mace’s uncle, introduces himself and brings the smallfolk with him. He is a very scared looking young man. Calaila swiftly tries to reassure him and starts questioning him. He states Sir Leo was there to protect the supplies and they were attacked. Most of the Tyrell soldiers were killed and Sir Leo rode away. A few weeks later, he came back with soldiers wearing apple sigils and they fought again. That is when Leo was killed. He apologizes for not doing a very good job. He states that it was unclear if a foreigner, who was fighting with the cats, or a cat himself killed Leo.

Teddy then jumps in and asks how they were treated while Leo was gone. He states the foreigners would sometimes get annoyed they didn’t understand them. During the time Leo was away, they were travelling East towards Dragonstone. He states that there were maybe 200 each of the foreigners and the cats. We finish questioning and head in to see Mace. On the way, Garth, his uncle who is leading us, seems to have soiled himself… I’ll have to help him with this later.

We greet Mace and we sit. Calaila starts the conversation stating Leo passed away in a time of war and we are now at peace. She states that we would like to honor his life by planting a rose garden at Castle Snownook in his name. Olenna jumps in and asks us to instead help by seeing Lady Arwyn in Old Oak. She states that she has been having a problem and needs help. We are not given any further information.

Once we all agree to see Lady Arwyn, I send off Teddy and Calaila and approach Garth about his issue. He states that he is resigned that this is his lot and I continue to offer help. After some conversation, it seems he cannot handle eating things made of the milk of animals. I suggest that he avoid this and see if this helps. He states that this is his favorite kind of food and that he is not sure he would do this. I advice to help his situation he should, and we part.

8

MAR/2020

Forging Friendship after War

On our second day on the road to Hightower, we are startled by a charging horse galloping past us. It isn’t long before we pass him again, and it’s clear he’s carrying a package. Gesturing to his load, I ask “I see you met Dell!”. He gives me a quizzical look and confirms, but is surprised we were hesitant to deliver a package of unknown contents. I turn away, but Maester Thad cannot contain his curiosity, and continues to interrogate the young man, who name we learn is Marq. Teddy and I roll our eyes at his suggestion we take the package off his hands and deliver it himself, but he presses on independently. What is with this guy and this stupid package?! Having other tasks to complete on behalf of House Jasper, I nudge Teddy and suggest we keep going, that Maester Thad can catch up when he’s done with his shenanigans.

A few days later, my breath is taken away at the sight of Highgarden Castle. When Teddy hesitates at the gate, I push to the front of our group, introduce ourselves and request an audience with House Tyrell. The guards agree, but encourage us to take part in a tradition of making our way through the Bramble Maze. We agree enthusiastically, and after hours of twists and turns, we arrive triumphantly on a terrace, and are greeted by clapping. "

“I was beginning to think you wouldn’t make it,” an old but beautifully dressed woman. She introduced herself as Lady Olenna, and praises our house valuing both the leadership of women and education and culture. She introduces us to her son, Mace Tyrell, Lord of High Garden, and we share that we seek to make diplomatic introductions. Mace responds with skepticism, and accuses House Jasper of killing his “beloved” cousin Leo. Surprised at this turn of the conversation, we ask for further information after he requests recompense.

The next morning, after a hearty and fresh breakfast, we have a conversation with one of the small folk who was present at the battle where Leo fell, who confirms that in fact, Carsen and House Jasper is responsible for his death. We offer to plant a rose garden at Castle Snownook in his honor, and as a symbol for the friendship between House Tyrell and Jasper. They request that in addition to this gesture, we assist their ally and nearby banner house Lady Arwen in Old Oak on the sea road with an unnamed task. We agree, and part ways as new partners.

6

MAR/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Mar 09, 2020

Thad's back!!

I’ve been waiting for a bit for my friends to arrive. I’ve been so excited to see them all, but mostly Dolins, my dear friend. I’ve gotten the three of them some little trinkets to show how much they have been missed! I wait within the citadel, continuing my studies. Finally I get notice they have arrived! I head down to meet them in the foyer. I greet them and give them their gifts. For Teddy, a fine dagger. For sneaky Calila, a vial of Greycap, though I caution her to use it wisely. And for dear Dolins, a flute to add to his musical kit!

After a quick hello, I tell my friends to wait outside for me. I head up to see Marwyn. I thank him for his time and education and ask for a book to further my education. He thinks about it for a bit, seeing as he is very protective about his books, but he agrees based on my trustworthiness with the whole, Qyburn thing… He agrees to lend me “The Elder Children” by Arch Maester Kenneth, but he states he would like it back. I promise I will send it back as soon as I am finished with it. I thank him again and he reminds me, “Open ears, open eyes, open mind”. I promise to live by this and head back to meet my friends.

We head to the Quill and Tankard for a drink! There we do some catching up, though Calila is strolling about the tavern. Dolins and Teddy fill me in that they have had some awesome adventures in Valeria! There was one casualty but otherwise, everyone looks decent, despite missing my healing abilities. Teddy confides in me that they brought back a dragon’s egg! I almost shout in excitement. I cannot wait to see it in person! Dolins also hands me a dragon’s tooth! He has told me he wanted to have it fashioned into a weapon but he isnt sure it is going to be of much use. He asks what I know about them and I let him know that there is folklore about the properties of the dragon but from what I have read, they have all been debunked. I tell him I need to write to Marwyn when we get to Snownook and check as he would know more. Dolins gives me the tooth to hold on to.

Teddy then invites a darker complexioned man to come sit with us. He states he has lived in Oldtown for many years doing oddjobs. He states his name is Dell, but his real birthname is too difficult for most to say. He chats with Dolins about his barding and offers to let him perform, but Dolins declines.

Teddy then asks if Dell knows of a woman named Terry, a missing servant from our house. Dell states he doesn’t know and that we would have a hard time finding Terry and her daughter in such a large city. Teddy states their connection to Rusty, aka The Duke, and Dell is familiar with him, though he states he has moved north to Lannisport. He is not sure what he is doing up there but he moved north about a year and a half ago.

He asks if we would do him a favor and deliver a package to Lannisport on our way. He and Teddy talk back and forth about this package but it ends up that he states he will just take it himself on his next trip. And after this, we have another round and chat more about adventures we have all had!

27

FEB/2020

A year away was too long... And trying...

It's a long post... For a chatty maester

I arrive at the Citadel on a cold, windy night. As the weather was so poor, I quickly ducked into the entrance of the Citadel where I was met with an odd maester sitting at a desk in the large lobby. I introduce myself but he seemed very disinterested in chatting. He was very sucked into his large copy of “Runes and Such”, a rather odd sounding book if you asked me. I am soon shown to my quarters, near the private quarters and library of Maester Marwyn. I settle in, make sure that my animals are fed and comfortable, and dive right into my studies!

I find studying with Marwyn both intimidating and thrilling. Learning about the lore and magic of our past is what I think I have been searching for. The history of the children, as well as their own source of magic, is something I plan to gain expertise in. To be able to conjure spirits to aid in healing and knowledge throughout our group’s adventures would be such an asset. As I study, I think of times along the way already that this skill and magic would have been of great help. I dive deeper and deeper into Marwyn’s books as well as his own personal notes he has stored away.

Late one night, after about 18 hours of study, I head to the kitchen to grab some food. I eat alone at the tables, my head in my hand. I am much more tired than I thought I was. What time is it even? I haven’t noticed sunlight in a few days. I really should get outside more.

Once I am satiated, I grab some food for my animals and put that in a deep pocket. I yawn as I grab water and start to head out the door. As I do, I start thinking again, on a more recent reading of the children of the forest. I had been reading about how they are thought to possess indigo colored blood. Now why would this be? Could it be due to their diet? As they are so similar in many ways to man, I ponder on how this could have happened. And the fact they are missing a little finger. That is again such an odd difference. Maybe it is some common ancestor? I have heard thought that we all came from some early father, the children and man. Could it be that things just changed along the way? I am still pondering this when I reach my door. I open it and, oh no. This is not my door. What have I stepped into? I see a man, balding by the looks of it, bent over a table filled with, could it be? Is it a human on the table? And is the human looking at me? I see blood dripping from the table and the eyes are still blinking with the look of shock, but no recognition that I am looking back at the poor woman. What is going on? I quietly close the door behind me, careful not to latch it. I don’t know how the man did not hear me but I quietly hurry down the hall up to my actual room. I must have missed a set of stairs! I try to find Marwyn but cannot find him anywhere. He must be out for one of his nighttime walks about the city. I do find Archmaester Ebrose and have him risen from his sleep. I have had a few lessons from Ebrose recently on perfecting my healing. I quickly tell him what I saw, and he insists on rousing the other Archmaesters. I lead them all to the door and they quickly open it. I see Maester Qyburn spin around from the now dead woman. What on earth did he do to the poor lady? She is split open but looked to be young and otherwise healthy. This is no healing arts… I listen in as the Archmaesters yell and scream. I hear terms of necromancy and secrets of death.

I keep my space in the hall and continue to watch. The yelling must have attracted Marwyn on his way back from his walk because suddenly he is next to me. I explain what has happened and he shakes his head. I ask if he has known of this and he denies it. He does explain that he has had several conversations with Qyburn about death and the “residue of souls” but that he never expected him to do something like this. He turns away in disgust and heads to his room.

I keep my head down for the next few days. I am horrified by what I have seen, and I know Qyburn saw me within the group of Maesters. Eventually Ebrose comes to me to talk. He states that the Archmaesters had a conclave and that it has been decided Qyburn is to be stripped of his chain and his title of maester removed. I ask if this has already been done and he states it has. He has been banished from the city and sent to try and make an honest living elsewhere. I state that it does not seem likely he will stop. The way the room was set up, and his disregard for this young woman’s life, this cannot have been his first time. And unfortunately, I’m sure it will not be his last. Ebrose sits with me for a while longer discussing. Before he leaves, he does mention to me that I should watch out for Qyburn. He says he is a devious man who knows I am the reason he was found out. I state that although he seemed nice and a normal maester at first, I now know his true nature. I will have to keep a watch for this man. Maybe I’ll have to buy a better weapon…

Now that Quburn is gone, I continue my studies as I had been. I do make more time for walks outside and for the training of Georgie and Gary. Guliver is cute as always and keeps us three company. I continue my reading though my mind is often elsewhere. Qyburn is always in the back of my thoughts. Sooner than I am ready for, I receive a raven from my house. My friends are coming to pick me up! Thankfully it is Calaila, Teddy and Dolins. It has been far too long since I’ve heard one of Dolins’ good ballads. And I have longed to see the young lordling I once fancied. How silly I was back then. I also wonder what mischief Calaila has gotten herself into since I last saw her. She does have a penchant for trouble.
As the date grows nearer, I make sure to have my belongings ready for their arrival. I also wonder into the market to get some small trinkets for my friends. It’s been far too long since I’ve seen them. And although I am not finished with my studies, I know that I will be able to continue as we adventure.

27

FEB/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Apr 10, 2020

Reunited and it feels so good!

Following an arduous journey atop my rounsey, Dolins, Teddy and I are overjoyed and overwhelmed with gratitude to see, at long last, the tower of Old Town. The city seems to glow from within, and we happily make our way towards the citadel, and open a massive door to make our way into the grand foyer. A small thin man lacks for a welcome party, but after what feels like hours, Maester Thaddeus emerges, wearing a far more impressive chain. He surprises me with a gift of greycap, which I add to my stash.

Thad leads us to the Quill and Tankard, a bustling tavern, and following Teddy and my plan of half heartedly attempting to gather intel about the whereabouts of Terry, I listen in to exceedingly dull conversations of maesters. Neither of us are committed to the plans of the Pryors, but we must convince sweet Dolins of our sense of obligation. Even still, this feeble effort is far better than Theodore’s ludicrous plan of presenting a dead homeless woman as Terry to the Pryors. I feel confident that the Pryors will have a hard time holding a grudge against the efforts of the house having travelled across the seven kingdoms to find their son’s killer, even if we return empty handed.

The murmurs of the tavern don’t turn up any leads about Terry, so without any protest, we agree to head towards Lannisport.

27

FEB/2020

The humdrum of Feliston

Following Rancis’ slaying, Jardon earns himself a wide berth from all at the event, and we disperse in silent shock. Dolins, Darron and Jardon duck away and head towards what I can only assume is the tavern for a much needed drink. I walk with Teddy and discuss the matter of the Tully and Royces’ concerns about our unprotected waters, and their desire for us to build up our navy to protect the shores of the Vale and the Fingers. He seems intrigued and agrees to discuss it with his father, and I bolster his enthusiasm by presenting this as an opportunity to demonstrate his strength and leadership as the heir to House Jasper to our allies. We also discuss the debacle with Lyn Corbray and Edric, and that we left on bad terms.

I saunter down to visit with Pavel Brogan at his soup shop and in exchange for a silver stag, I receive a curried goat stew and a few bits of local intel. I chuckle when he shares that Bronn followed my advice, and visited Stephany, who bedded him. Mouth rot and rotted morals-a pair made for each other! Pavel also whispers that a young squire visiting for the tournament was under the impression that Bethlazar had put a curse on Lyn Corbray because Edric paid her too. Considering the poor outcome of the day for Lyn, I consider that perhaps there is truth to the old woman’s powers after all! I ask him if he’s heard anything about Rancis’ return to the mainland, particularly from Slim, but he reports he knows nothing. Thanking him for his offerings, I leave to bring the bucket of stew back to Castle Snownook.

20

FEB/2020

Fuck Rancis

Rancis was just going to cause trouble anyways

“He yielded, and you killed him anyways”. Yeah, of course I fucking did you ingrate, who knows if that hulk of man was going turn on you during that fight, or if he was even going to do anything. Just standing there, not having to do anything, because he’s just so big. I’ve come across men like him before, and they would rather just watch the world burn…..I did the fingers a service, who knows what this hoodlum was really going to do. I don’t care if he fucking yielded, he was basically cooked anyways. Darren took care of most of that hacking anyways…..

20

FEB/2020

A Dark Decision

Jardon joins the ignoble

Upon the bridge, the Trial of the Seven seems to be turning in House Woodhull’s favor. Jardon and Philip yield and remove themselves, and it isn’t long before Cortnay himself is thrown from the bridge, limbs splayed, not breathing. The gods have spoken! Cortnay is found guilt of his crimes. Though just as the crowd gathered begins to relax, thinking justice has been served to House Elesham, commotion erupts. The mystery knight charges onto the bridge and pushes Rancis down to the ground. Ser Darron shocks us all when he removes his helmet to reveal he is the mystery knight, and I hear him shouting obscenities and threats to the outlaw. What in seven hells….this will not end well for House Jasper.

Rancis jumps up and hurls himself at Darron with undeniably impressive athleticism. As Dolins and Jardon spring into action to help the old knight, I find myself irritated with his recklessness, and the opportunity it may bring for our house’s secrets to surface. I like the old man, but not enough to risk the house’s reputation and status I’ve helped to carefully craft should Rancis prevail in a fight against the very people who agreed to send him safely to Paps to wreak havoc there. Besides, the man is a stone wall!

While considering my options, Rancis erupts, and shouts “Yeild!” followed by something mumbled under his breath. The crowd is suspended in anticipation when Darron’s body relaxes and steps away, indicated he is yielding, on what I assumed is Rancis’ suggestion. But once again, fate twists in unexpected ways, and Jardon charges Rancis, hacking off his ugly head. The sound of the man’s enormous body crumpling into the cobblestone bridge is the only thing that can be heard, and everyone is stunned in silence.

“He yielded, “ James Woodhull says quietly, “He yielded and you killed him.” A dark disgust towards Jardon befalls the crowd gathered. It is only at this moment that I realize with horror that it was Rancis who was yielding, rather than giving the option to Darron. Despite this terrible stain on Jardon, the tournament and inevitably the house, I am secretly overjoyed that our secret plot with the outlaws will follow Rancis to his grave.

One final realization strikes me as the day is wrapping up, and we are all washing the grey gloom off of ourselves. James Woodhull, the man we thought we were sending Rancis and his comrades to terrorize, seemed to grieve Rancis’ death. And Rancis was fighting for the Woodhulls. What happened on Paps that united a band of outlaws and a noble house?

13

FEB/2020

Tournament at Castle Snownook

Back at the boat, Teddy and I reprimand the foolish Jardon for not fully thinking through the Buffoon’s plan, and scurry away from the increasingly repulsive Gulltown in time for the Jasper Tournament.

Back at Castle Snownook, House Royce, Corbray, Tully, Borrell, Woodhull, and Baelish assemble over a few days. On the morning of the tourney, I stumble across a very flustered Edric and Ser Lyn Corbray having words in the stables. In his typical gruff manner, Edric shouts about Lyn’s unreasonable expectations about the conditions for his horse, such as the size of the stall. “Edric, I’ve have the pleasure and honor of meeting Ser Corbray, and can’t imagine that a man as intelligent as he would suggest something as absurd as building a larger stall for his horse!” Lyn spits in disgust “Of course that’s not what I’m suggesting.” “You see, Edric? Clearly a misunderstanding!” I say to the stable master as I guide the knight away from the tense interaction.

“You mustn’t take Edric gruffness personally Ser Corbray. He’s like that with everyone, it’s far more a reflection of him than you. How can I assure a more comfortable stay for you and your horse for your remaining time at Castle Snownook?” I assure the still angry knight. “I’m past the issues with the stables” he responds, “but where I’m from, when the help speaks to guests in this way, they are punished.”

I am incredulous! Rarely do I empathize with the ever-sour Edric, but as Lyn seemed unable to articulate what his expectations were, I see why his feathers may have gotten a bit ruffled. And a grumpy stable hand does not seem worthy of the Seven Kingdom’s weight of justice…“Ser, I remain I bit confused, what is it exactly that you were asking of Edric?”

“Nevermind the horse! That man needs to be punished!”

“You mentioned space, but also agreed that building larger stalls was an unreasonable request. In that vein, I wonder if Edric was as confused as I am, and that may have led to him getting flustered? If I knew what you were asking for, I may be able to provide some help…” Edric cuts me off. “Forget the horse, that man needs to be taken care of,” and walks away.

Taken aback by this bizarre encounter, I return to Edric, closing the stable doors behind me. “What in seven hells happened?” Edric babbles about not having enough time to discuss this matter. “EDRIC! Listen to me! As a former handmaid myself, I’m genuinely understand the frustrations of having to tend to the absurd needs of those in higher stations, and I’m trying to have your back here, but I can’t do that if I don’t understand what happened!” Red faced, he shares Lyn’s seemingly ridiculous requests-different food, different tack storage, different grooming-and pushes me out so he can get back to work.

Roaming around the grounds in search of Lyonel Corbray, I have the fortune of bumping into Ser Tully and Ser Royce in deep conversation. What luck, running into the patriarchs of two powerful houses! “I’m terribly sorry to interrupt, but I wanted to see if there was anything I could do to make your stays more comfortable while you’re here at Castle Snownook?” I say sweetly.

“Lord Ronnel has ensured we’re most comfortable…perhaps a little TOO comfortable…” They share their concerns about our limited defenses on the shorelines of the Vale and the Fingers, and I offer to bend the ear of not only Lord Ronnel but also his son about bulking up our navy. After all, I share, Teddy has had his eyes on new warships for quite some time. I thank them for their wisdom and trust around such sensitive matters, and carry on towards the center of the action, hoping I’ve earned the warm thoughts of these two powerful nobles.

On the edge of the melee field, as Jardon, Maelys and Dolins fight valiantly, I ignore a whiny Thomas (hasn’t he been eaten up by a wyvern yet? Gods!), and circle around to Bronn and Leo, who I recognize from our most recent adventure at the Winter’s Reprieve. Bronn recognizes me as one who’s reward he snagged out from under us at Lord Whent’s court. I encourage him to pay me back for the information should he find himself a winner today, and when he expresses reluctance, I encourage him to pay Stefany a visit in lieu of a brothel. He deserves that shrill bag of mouth rot! In an ominous message, Leo encourages me to keep an open mind about the “protectors”, of which I know nothing about, and exhausted by this hedge knight and sell sword, I go in search of bigger fish to fry.

30

JAN/2020

Close to Blows

As we approach the doorway of the Winter Reprieve, the noises of a booming tavern tumble out. Teddy buys me an ale, and flips Jamie an owed gold dragon for information regarding the Coldwater dagger from the last time we were in Gulltown. We chat of safer streets, improved business, and…Terry. With the nudge of a few more gold dragons from Teddy, Jamie shares that Terry came through here not too long ago, and is likely looking for her son in Old Town and Lannisport, common destinations for the Duke. With ales in hand, I perch myself at a quiet bench in the corner, and listen in on the chattering of the locals.

When we get up to leave Teddy pats his pockets and realizes in horror that his purse has been cut. He jumps up to speak with Jamie, and I head to the door to prevent anyone from leaving. A few moments later, a distressed looking woman heads towards the stairs. I yell to Dolins across the busy bar and motion towards her, and he skips after her. I follow and poke Teddy in the side on my way towards the staircase, and as I squeeze around this woman, I reach into her pockets to grab Teddy’s coin purse. At this point, the woman draws her dagger and points it towards me.

We face off, weapons drawn at the top of the stairway, and as commotion grows in the dining room, I order the woman to return the coin purse, if only for her own good. She hesitates but eventually relents, and tosses the purse to me with a mumble. With a nod of the head, I motion to her to head upstairs, and I hide the coins and put away my stiletto before returning to the main room.

A few men standing with Teddy ask if we got it back, but not wanting them to know how much money I have on me, I offer a vague answer and walk quickly towards the door.

When Teddy finally emerges, I urge him to head towards the Rambis right away, as many armed (and potentially greedy) men could be close behind. He agrees, and on our brisk walk in the cold evening’s air, I think about how heavily the lordling has been leaning on me lately to clean up his careless messes.

23

JAN/2020

Busy First Week Back on Dry Land

As always, Calaila delivers the goods. She proposes our cover story is that Ser Perin overheard Calaila and Terry talking about Danny’s situation on the way back from Gulltown, and he thought he could return the boy to Rusty himself and receive a reward to pay off his debts. What a great plan! Totally arrowproof!

In an audience with my parents we proposed this theory. At first they seemed skeptical, but I think they believed the story we told them. They told us that we have a couple more days to find more info before we head to the seat of house Pryor to deliver Ser Parin’s body. We must also invite them to the tournament that House Jasper will be hosting in two months’ time. A delicate task that only I have the skills to execute efficiently!

Packing the Rambis back up, we sail and land at Castle Skymark flying the House Jasper colors and carrying the body of Ser Perin. We are “greeted” by 10-12 Pryor household guards. I use the term loosely. They immediately boarded our ship without asking and take Perin’s body back to the castle. There was no invitation for our party, I asked the Sargent for an audience with Lord Pryor and his response amounted to “not my problem”.

We followed the house guard to the Castle Skymark, where we are met by Lord Darryl Pryor and two older women, who we eventually learn are Gilda Pryor (sister to lord) and Lady Elaina (wife of Darryl).

We offer our condolences to their family, and Dolins and Calaila make a convincing display of charm and sympathy in the moment to increase their disposition toward us. Still, they do not plan to attend the tournament we are hosting. They proceed to ask about the killer, I suggest that we discuss the circumstances of Perin’s death in a more private setting. I dismiss Jardon and Dolins, and motion for Calaila to join. Lord Pryor dismisses his guards while the ladies remain. We disclose that Perin’s death was the result of his debts and gambling. They seem to buy it, but are upset that we did not have the assassin to turn over. I assured them that finding Perin’s assassin was House Jasper’s highest priority. Lord Pryor exclaimed “The next time I hear from House Jasper better be a raven to tell me you’ve captured the assassin, or it better be you bringing the assassin to me in person!” On that note, we promptly left the isle of Pebble.

The next stop for the Rambis was Gulltown and after much hype from Jardon, we eagerly anticipate a trip to Buffoon’s III (formerly the Falcon’s Nest) for an ale. I suggest spending the night at the Winter’s Reprieve, which unleashes a ridiculous story from our one eyed friend. Apparently he tried to burn the place down last time he was in Gulltown. He and Carson dumped oil on the outside of the building and Jardon was supposed to shoot it with a flaming arrow, but he was distracted by insulting a strangers wife. Can’t say I’m surprised. Then he reveals the source of his dislike for Ser Perin. It was a really long, dumb story, but I was able to ascertain that Perin’s “intense affection” for Samuel, the senior knight of House Jasper, was the only real reason for his dislike. I also learned that Jardon and Samuel are nasty rivals.

Oh, how the conversation flows with this oaf.

When we reach Buffoon’s, its boarded up. Jardon is far more upset than he should be about a bar being closed. Why don’t we just find another bar? He storms off with a purpose, grumbling things about Robert and the harbor master. In his haste, he catches his foot on a cobblestone and almost eats shit in the middle of the road. My heart leaps with anticipation! Alas, he catches himself and denies me the pleasure of witnessing his buffoonery.

Jardon, Darron, and Dolins knock on a random door and bicker with the person inside before entering. This doesn’t seem like something I should get involved with, so Calaila and I choose to remain in the street.

A moment later the sounds of a man screaming and shouts for the city guard flow from the building they just entered. Excellent idea to stay outside! Another moment passes and things seem to calm down, and the three of them emerge once again from the building.

Jardon starts telling a story about House Shett attacking Buffoon’s III and its bartender. He says I need to demand response from them for their injustice to House Jasper.

I’m sorry… what?

Jardon goes on to explain how he, Darron, and Carsen purchased the bar as a revenue generating asset for House Jasper. He probably should have told the Steward of the house (a.k.a. ME!) about additional revenue streams. Although, judging by the situation, perhaps I don’t want to know about this.

I tell Jardon to figure out why the bar was attacked before we make any rash moves. As he storms off, I offer to Calaila, “Can I buy you an ale at the Winter’s Reprieve?”

16

JAN/2020

2 comments

Last commented on:

Jan 23, 2020

The Lordling went to Valyria and all he got was...

The ingredients for a large omelet

In the final hours of our expedition, as the shores of Westeros come into view, it dawns on me that I did not record any details of the journey. Probably best that way, I wouldn’t want the nature of our mission to be accidentally uncovered.

Father and Mother welcomed us home to Snownook with a private dinner for the crew, where we recounted the more exciting moments of the trip and drank a pint for our fallen friend, Tito. And the night would not be complete without an eye jape at Jardin’s expense. Never gets old!

Regarding our treasure, the three dragon eggs, it was decided to keep the eggs safe in the castle and keep them a secret for the time being. I’m going to keep my ears open for a potential buyer, someone who might spend top dollar for such a rare prize!

As the meal winds down, my father breaks the news that Ser Perin was murdered on the first night of his return to Snownook from a long errand. My stomach sinks at this news.

I am nearly certain Perin is dead because of my secret assignment for him. I sent him away to parlay with Rusty; to return Rusty’s son, Danny, to him in exchange for a cash reward. I tricked the boy’s mother, Terry, to allow him to travel with Perin. When Perin returned to the castle without the boy, Terry was certainly enraged and murdered Perin on the spot.

As soon as we leave the hall, Calaila and I question the stable master for any clues about Perin’s errand. After receiving no useful information, I pull Calaila aside and give her all the details of my plot. She isn’t be impressed, but I know she’ll help me cover this up.

I have to say I’ve grown quite fond of Calaila and her uncanny ability to get me out of trouble.

The rest of our group must not know about this. Dolins is too noble to hear this information, and the rest of the fighters… well let’s just say House Jasper is better off without them knowing.

16

JAN/2020

1 comment

Last commented on:

Jan 16, 2020