Chapter 1: His Holiness' Glory Will Bless Us All
[Disclaimer: This will be an attempt at a...
[Disclaimer: This will be an attempt at a...
Lands of Sand and Magi (First Crusade Fantasy CK2 Quest)
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Introduction
- Location
- New York
Chapter 1: His Holiness' Glory Will Bless Us All
[Disclaimer: This will be an attempt at a Fantasy Quest set during the First Crusade. The goal will be to make it to Constantinople with the Crusaders (halfway point), and then to the Holy Land. Victory is not assured, as this is not entirely historical. In this world, magic exists. It has long since been forgotten in the west as an art, as Christianity is inherently anti-sorcery, but the faith does have its share of real miracles, and Saints were more or less Faith sanctioned wizards.]
Southern France, 1096
The heralds of His Holiness traveled far and wide across Christendom. All to spread His Holy Gospel. Pope Urbanus II had called for a massive Pilgrimage, but you did not quite understand the ramifications from which this journey would give. You stood in the assembly at the town square, the crowd hushed as the local Bishop ascended the stage to the pulpit where he would commence the announcement. From the Pope's own lips came these words, and the men and women of the populace held onto the proclamations of this Bishop as if they were the words of His Holiness himself.
" this land which you inhabit, shut in on all sides by the seas and surrounded by the mountain peaks, is too narrow for your large population; nor does it abound in wealth; and it furnishes scarcely food enough for its cultivators. Hence it is that you murder one another, that you wage war, and that frequently you perish by mutual wounds. Let therefore hatred depart from among you, let your quarrels end, let wars cease, and let all dissensions and controversies slumber. Enter upon the road to the Holy Sepulchre; wrest that land from the wicked race, and subject it to yourselves ... God has conferred upon you above all nations great glory in arms. Accordingly undertake this journey for the remission of your sins, with the assurance of the imperishable glory of the Kingdom of Heaven."
The silence among the crowd deepened even further. What was being asked was something completely unprecedented. An Armed Pilgrimage. To take back the Holy Land for the Lord. The Bishop continued, every man, woman, and child holding on to his every breath.
"Most beloved brethren, today is manifest in you what the Lord says in the Gospel, 'Where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them.' Unless the Lord God had been present in your spirits, all of you would not have uttered the same cry. For, although the cry issued from numerous mouths, yet the origin of the cry was one. Therefore I say to you that God, who implanted this in your breasts, has drawn it forth from you. Let this then be your war-cry in combats, because this word is given to you by God. When an armed attack is made upon the enemy, let this one cry be raised by all the soldiers of God: It is the will of God! It is the will of God!"
And so they cried, "It is the will of God! It is the will of God!" Like heralds themselves they cried for the reckoning of the heathens. You would partake in this Crusade yourself, as you are...
[cue Hotel Lobby music]
(It's character creation time! Here are your selections, with each having a unique trait and a plot-related secret to be uncovered later in the Quest.)
[X] A noble: A third son of the Vicomte d'Albi, you are Monsieur Alphonse d'Albi, a strong-willed young man, and an acquaintance of Raymond IV, Count of Toulouse. You will assuredly join him on his Holy Quest, and hope to gain piety and land for yourself in the Holy Land. You were trained well in the sword and the pen, but never took much to books. Your faith is...lacking, as far as the church would be concerned, but you are smart enough to toe the line. Your faith has not, and will not be questioned, but perhaps its strength will grow on your Pilgrimage. (Gain Trait, "Noble Blood": +5 to Diplomacy, are a member of the Nobility and will accorded the respect for such)
[X] A monk: Your name is Louis new member of the Order of St. John, you have not yet taken your vows, but are expected to soon. You are a studious young man, and a fourth son of a fourth son, given to the church because your parents could not afford to feed you. It was under the supervision of an Abbot named Gerontius that you excelled in all studies. A knack for history and theology, you were the favorite of your Abbot at your priory, but earned the chagrin of your fellow orderlies. (Gain Trait, "Well-learned Theologian": +5 to Learning, +5 to Piety)
[X] A highwayman: You are scum. Your name is Gaston and your profession is robbing travelers on the roads between towns, and you make a good living. You don't know why you find yourself here, listening to this drivel. God, the Pope, the Kingdom of Heaven. You piss on it all. But, that remission of sin is nice. You're getting on in years, maybe its time to think about repenting? Or there's the fact that there's riches to be made and women to be gained. You choose, either way its lucrative." (Gain Trait, "Seasoned Highwayman": +3 to Martial, +5 to Intrigue, was a member of a nefarious band of criminals that preyed on the innocent. This is sure to tarnish your reputation among the fellow pilgrims if they recognize you or discover your past...)
[X] A peasant: You are one of the masses, and your name is just as irrelevant as you are. Seeking glory and favor from the lord for fighting in his holy war. You have nothing, and your family has nothing. This is your chance to no longer be bound to the chains of the bottom of society. You can change your life, if you want to fight for it. You have no skills of worth, and your life has been nothing but shit, but someone up there favors you, you just don't know it yet. (Gain Trait, "Blessed by God?": ???)
-[X] Male
-[X] Female
When you all have voted, I'll complete the character sheet and progress to the next part of the first chapter.
Southern France, 1096
The heralds of His Holiness traveled far and wide across Christendom. All to spread His Holy Gospel. Pope Urbanus II had called for a massive Pilgrimage, but you did not quite understand the ramifications from which this journey would give. You stood in the assembly at the town square, the crowd hushed as the local Bishop ascended the stage to the pulpit where he would commence the announcement. From the Pope's own lips came these words, and the men and women of the populace held onto the proclamations of this Bishop as if they were the words of His Holiness himself.
" this land which you inhabit, shut in on all sides by the seas and surrounded by the mountain peaks, is too narrow for your large population; nor does it abound in wealth; and it furnishes scarcely food enough for its cultivators. Hence it is that you murder one another, that you wage war, and that frequently you perish by mutual wounds. Let therefore hatred depart from among you, let your quarrels end, let wars cease, and let all dissensions and controversies slumber. Enter upon the road to the Holy Sepulchre; wrest that land from the wicked race, and subject it to yourselves ... God has conferred upon you above all nations great glory in arms. Accordingly undertake this journey for the remission of your sins, with the assurance of the imperishable glory of the Kingdom of Heaven."
The silence among the crowd deepened even further. What was being asked was something completely unprecedented. An Armed Pilgrimage. To take back the Holy Land for the Lord. The Bishop continued, every man, woman, and child holding on to his every breath.
"Most beloved brethren, today is manifest in you what the Lord says in the Gospel, 'Where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them.' Unless the Lord God had been present in your spirits, all of you would not have uttered the same cry. For, although the cry issued from numerous mouths, yet the origin of the cry was one. Therefore I say to you that God, who implanted this in your breasts, has drawn it forth from you. Let this then be your war-cry in combats, because this word is given to you by God. When an armed attack is made upon the enemy, let this one cry be raised by all the soldiers of God: It is the will of God! It is the will of God!"
And so they cried, "It is the will of God! It is the will of God!" Like heralds themselves they cried for the reckoning of the heathens. You would partake in this Crusade yourself, as you are...
[cue Hotel Lobby music]
(It's character creation time! Here are your selections, with each having a unique trait and a plot-related secret to be uncovered later in the Quest.)
[X] A noble: A third son of the Vicomte d'Albi, you are Monsieur Alphonse d'Albi, a strong-willed young man, and an acquaintance of Raymond IV, Count of Toulouse. You will assuredly join him on his Holy Quest, and hope to gain piety and land for yourself in the Holy Land. You were trained well in the sword and the pen, but never took much to books. Your faith is...lacking, as far as the church would be concerned, but you are smart enough to toe the line. Your faith has not, and will not be questioned, but perhaps its strength will grow on your Pilgrimage. (Gain Trait, "Noble Blood": +5 to Diplomacy, are a member of the Nobility and will accorded the respect for such)
[X] A monk: Your name is Louis new member of the Order of St. John, you have not yet taken your vows, but are expected to soon. You are a studious young man, and a fourth son of a fourth son, given to the church because your parents could not afford to feed you. It was under the supervision of an Abbot named Gerontius that you excelled in all studies. A knack for history and theology, you were the favorite of your Abbot at your priory, but earned the chagrin of your fellow orderlies. (Gain Trait, "Well-learned Theologian": +5 to Learning, +5 to Piety)
[X] A highwayman: You are scum. Your name is Gaston and your profession is robbing travelers on the roads between towns, and you make a good living. You don't know why you find yourself here, listening to this drivel. God, the Pope, the Kingdom of Heaven. You piss on it all. But, that remission of sin is nice. You're getting on in years, maybe its time to think about repenting? Or there's the fact that there's riches to be made and women to be gained. You choose, either way its lucrative." (Gain Trait, "Seasoned Highwayman": +3 to Martial, +5 to Intrigue, was a member of a nefarious band of criminals that preyed on the innocent. This is sure to tarnish your reputation among the fellow pilgrims if they recognize you or discover your past...)
[X] A peasant: You are one of the masses, and your name is just as irrelevant as you are. Seeking glory and favor from the lord for fighting in his holy war. You have nothing, and your family has nothing. This is your chance to no longer be bound to the chains of the bottom of society. You can change your life, if you want to fight for it. You have no skills of worth, and your life has been nothing but shit, but someone up there favors you, you just don't know it yet. (Gain Trait, "Blessed by God?": ???)
-[X] Male
-[X] Female
When you all have voted, I'll complete the character sheet and progress to the next part of the first chapter.
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Character Sheet
- Location
- New York
Anselme de Gaillac
Age: 20
Diplomacy: 6 (You're getting better at talking your way out of problems, but you're no silver-tongued devil yet.)
Martial: 3 (You can defend yourself. No one ever said you were any good at it, though.)
Stewardship: 3 (You don't do well with money. It's why you're poor.)
Intrigue: 10 (Living the life of a pauper, you have become very crafty, and thus know how to get yourself into and out of trouble very well, much to your own benefit.)
Learning: 1 (You are Illiterate.)
Piety: 31 [You rolled a critical success here, and that will be noted] (You are one of the most pious of the Pilgrims. Surely this will be noticed by those higher up the echelon.)
Money: 170 fl
Traits:
Blessed by God: ???.
Pious: Your piety and strength of faith is noticed by others who share the same inclination, +5 Relations to Same Trait.
Blessing of the Bishop of Worms: +5 to Diplomacy on Speech Rolls if you beat your opponent on a Piety Roll
Blessing of Athanasius: +4 to Learning (You can now understand German, and may attempt to learn to read. If you find someone to teach you.)
Invested: You have official authority over the Pilgrims within your assigned Wing.
Items and Statuses:
Peter's Stone: ???
Entourage:
Age: 20
Diplomacy: 6 (You're getting better at talking your way out of problems, but you're no silver-tongued devil yet.)
Martial: 3 (You can defend yourself. No one ever said you were any good at it, though.)
Stewardship: 3 (You don't do well with money. It's why you're poor.)
Intrigue: 10 (Living the life of a pauper, you have become very crafty, and thus know how to get yourself into and out of trouble very well, much to your own benefit.)
Learning: 1 (You are Illiterate.)
Piety: 31 [You rolled a critical success here, and that will be noted] (You are one of the most pious of the Pilgrims. Surely this will be noticed by those higher up the echelon.)
Money: 170 fl
Traits:
Blessed by God: ???.
Pious: Your piety and strength of faith is noticed by others who share the same inclination, +5 Relations to Same Trait.
Blessing of the Bishop of Worms: +5 to Diplomacy on Speech Rolls if you beat your opponent on a Piety Roll
Blessing of Athanasius: +4 to Learning (You can now understand German, and may attempt to learn to read. If you find someone to teach you.)
Invested: You have official authority over the Pilgrims within your assigned Wing.
Items and Statuses:
Peter's Stone: ???
Entourage:
Gaucer de Gaillac
Age: 21
Diplomacy: 6
Martial: 4
Stewardship: 1
Intrigue: 7
Learning: 1
Piety: 8
Age: 21
Diplomacy: 6
Martial: 4
Stewardship: 1
Intrigue: 7
Learning: 1
Piety: 8
Abraham of Worms
Age: 45
Diplomacy: 7
Martial: 1
Stewardship: 10
Intrigue: 2
Learning: 7
Piety: 10
Age: 45
Diplomacy: 7
Martial: 1
Stewardship: 10
Intrigue: 2
Learning: 7
Piety: 10
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Information Sheet
- Location
- New York
Status of the all the Pilgrims in the Crusade:
40,000 Strong.
Morale is High.
Status of your Wing:
195 Pilgrims
250 "Repentant Jews"
Poor Armor for 50 men.
Poor Arms for 75.
Morale is High.
Relationship with Brother Jacob (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Brother Thomas (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Brother Friedrich (Order of St. John): 1/10
Relationship with Vindicator Gunther: 1/10
40,000 Strong.
Morale is High.
Status of your Wing:
195 Pilgrims
250 "Repentant Jews"
Poor Armor for 50 men.
Poor Arms for 75.
Morale is High.
Relationship with Brother Jacob (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Brother Thomas (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Brother Friedrich (Order of St. John): 1/10
Relationship with Vindicator Gunther: 1/10
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Chapter 1.5
- Location
- New York
[So Male Peasant won. I've written up a Character Sheet for your viewing pleasure. I hope no one has any qualms with the name. I picked something common for the time and religious, with the surname being that of the town he is from. Que Crusading Tunes.]
You are Anselme, from the small town of Gaillac. Your father died when you were young, leaving your mother to struggle as a servant of the local mayor to earn enough to keep you and your younger siblings fed. This pilgrimage is your chance to make something of yourself, and potentially help your family if you are successful. Word has spread that Peter the Hermit is gathering the numbers of all the poor and destitute at Cologne to march together to Constantinople. Everyone has heard of the miracles he performs, and know that with his blessing, anything is possible, even dodging death itself in the service of our Lord. You must also consider that you have literally nothing. No money, no food, no weapons. There is another option, however. The Princes of the France are gathering their own forces, and will make their own pilgrimage separately in a few months. You could wait and prepare, maybe make some money for yourself and delay, but your position as a peasant among such noble knights would be much much poorer than on the Peasant's Crusade.
Your first choice will radically change the direction you take, and perhaps the direction of the Crusade itself.
[X] Join the Peasant's Crusade under Peter the Hermit. You must leave now, to meet with the other Pilgrims in Cologne before April.
-[X] Say goodbye to your family. This wouldn't take much time, and there is nothing material to gain here, only the love from your mother and siblings. Or you can just leave without doing this, you'll save time, and that may or may not be a boon...
[X] Wait and Join the Prince's Crusade. The local Prince joining the Crusade is Raymond IV, Count of Toulouse. He has a somewhat mixed reputation. Incredibly pious, but a harsh ruler. He is so pious, it is claimed he has said he wishes to die in the Holy Land. There may be benefits to joining the Princes, especially under the command of one so pious, and you would have time to prepare. However, this means the Peasant's Crusade would leave without you.
[X] Write-in. I greatly encourage creative write-ins, as long as they don't break the game. I greatly respect historical knowledge used to meta game, and even encourage it to get the best result possible, especially later on during the actual fighting. However, this initial choice is quite limited, and I don't really see how much could be changed. You obviously cannot go off on your own. You will die. Be creative if you wish. Surprise me.
Map of the Crusade Options and their Routes. Green is the People's Crusade, and Yellow is Raymond IV of the Prince's Crusade.
Chapter 1.5: Paupers and Princes
Map of Southern France, where this story begins. You are in the town of Gaillac, just west of Albi, the seat of the Vicomté.
Map of Southern France, where this story begins. You are in the town of Gaillac, just west of Albi, the seat of the Vicomté.
Anselme de Gaillac
Age: 20
Diplomacy: 4 (You've been known to sweet talk your way out of trouble and into the arms of a woman a few times. You're not that good at it though.)
Martial: 3 (You can defend yourself. No one ever said you were any good at it, though.)
Stewardship: 3 (You don't do well with money. It's why you're poor.)
Intrigue: 10 (Living the life of a pauper, you have become very crafty, and thus know how to get yourself into and out of trouble very well, much to your own benefit.)
Learning: 1 (You are Illiterate.)
Piety: 25 [You rolled a critical success here, and that will be noted] (You are one of the most pious of the Pilgrims. Surely this will be noticed by those higher up the echelon.)
Money: 0 fl
Traits:
Blessed by God: ???.
Pious: Your piety and strength of faith is noticed by others who share the same inclination, +5 Relations to Same Trait.
Items and Statuses:
Entourage:
Age: 20
Diplomacy: 4 (You've been known to sweet talk your way out of trouble and into the arms of a woman a few times. You're not that good at it though.)
Martial: 3 (You can defend yourself. No one ever said you were any good at it, though.)
Stewardship: 3 (You don't do well with money. It's why you're poor.)
Intrigue: 10 (Living the life of a pauper, you have become very crafty, and thus know how to get yourself into and out of trouble very well, much to your own benefit.)
Learning: 1 (You are Illiterate.)
Piety: 25 [You rolled a critical success here, and that will be noted] (You are one of the most pious of the Pilgrims. Surely this will be noticed by those higher up the echelon.)
Money: 0 fl
Traits:
Blessed by God: ???.
Pious: Your piety and strength of faith is noticed by others who share the same inclination, +5 Relations to Same Trait.
Items and Statuses:
Entourage:
You are Anselme, from the small town of Gaillac. Your father died when you were young, leaving your mother to struggle as a servant of the local mayor to earn enough to keep you and your younger siblings fed. This pilgrimage is your chance to make something of yourself, and potentially help your family if you are successful. Word has spread that Peter the Hermit is gathering the numbers of all the poor and destitute at Cologne to march together to Constantinople. Everyone has heard of the miracles he performs, and know that with his blessing, anything is possible, even dodging death itself in the service of our Lord. You must also consider that you have literally nothing. No money, no food, no weapons. There is another option, however. The Princes of the France are gathering their own forces, and will make their own pilgrimage separately in a few months. You could wait and prepare, maybe make some money for yourself and delay, but your position as a peasant among such noble knights would be much much poorer than on the Peasant's Crusade.
Your first choice will radically change the direction you take, and perhaps the direction of the Crusade itself.
[X] Join the Peasant's Crusade under Peter the Hermit. You must leave now, to meet with the other Pilgrims in Cologne before April.
-[X] Say goodbye to your family. This wouldn't take much time, and there is nothing material to gain here, only the love from your mother and siblings. Or you can just leave without doing this, you'll save time, and that may or may not be a boon...
[X] Wait and Join the Prince's Crusade. The local Prince joining the Crusade is Raymond IV, Count of Toulouse. He has a somewhat mixed reputation. Incredibly pious, but a harsh ruler. He is so pious, it is claimed he has said he wishes to die in the Holy Land. There may be benefits to joining the Princes, especially under the command of one so pious, and you would have time to prepare. However, this means the Peasant's Crusade would leave without you.
[X] Write-in. I greatly encourage creative write-ins, as long as they don't break the game. I greatly respect historical knowledge used to meta game, and even encourage it to get the best result possible, especially later on during the actual fighting. However, this initial choice is quite limited, and I don't really see how much could be changed. You obviously cannot go off on your own. You will die. Be creative if you wish. Surprise me.
Map of the Crusade Options and their Routes. Green is the People's Crusade, and Yellow is Raymond IV of the Prince's Crusade.
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Chapter 1.5: Results
- Location
- New York
Chapter 1.5: Paupers and Princes
Results
Results
[X] Join the Peasant's Crusade under Peter the Hermit. You must leave now, to meet with the other Pilgrims in Cologne before August.
A wise choice, or a foolish one. Your plan is to set off to Cologne before August, as the Crusade will leave by November. You have nothing, so there will be no time wasted on preparations.
-[X] Say goodbye to your family. This wouldn't take much time, and there is nothing material to gain here, only the love from your mother and siblings. Or you can just leave without doing this, you'll save time, and that may or may not be a boon...
Your sentimentality here has no ill side effects.
--[X] While you wait for your mother to return home, make your intentions known to the people of Gaillac. Perhaps your strong faith can persuade a few townspeople to throw their lot in with you. A group would also be safer to travel to Cologne...
[Diplomacy: 7 + (4/2) + (25/2) = 21, Success: 20] Your people always knew you for your faith, and now that the Pilgrimage has been condoned by His Holiness, they flock with you to the local Church to proceed to the next step on the journey to their Eternal Salvation.
+1 to Diplomacy for your efforts at trying to convince those with words.
+1 Piety for bringing more people on the Pilgrimage.
---[X] You have a 'high' intrigue and piety score, maybe we can use that to gather more supplies from priests, monks (learning teacher please), merchants and smiths, finding men who knows how to fight (either through our piety or intrigue), and maybe persuade the local bandits to change their ways and to join the crusade with us.
[Intrigue: 6 + (10/2) + (25/2) = 29, Success: 20] You head to the usual hang out for miscreants and ne'er-do-wells. They didn't go to the proclamation at the town square, but they did hear about the Pilgrimage. Until you came, they thought it was just another scheme by the church to get fools to march to their deaths for their faith. But after you explained to them, very simply, that this was greater than that, they start to come around. It was more likely that you used the explanation of all their previous crimes, which you knew in detail from working with them, to have them come to their own conclusion that they needed salvation, because of how shit they were. (Piety + Intrigue is a pretty insane combo)
+1 Piety for bringing more people on the Pilgrimage.
[Edit: This was essentially the Introduction/Tutorial area. Base success for actions was 20. Until the halfway point of the game they will be bumped up to 50.]
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Chapter 2.0
- Location
- New York
Chapter 2.0: The Road to Cologne
While you waited for evening, to see your mother off before you left, you decided to talk to some people following the proclamation of the Great Pilgrimage. While you weren't able to grab a crowd intially, as you were never good at public speaking, eventually the small amount of people that were drawn by your pure devotion grew. Apparently small crowds create slightly larger ones. Your words were shit, but your intentions true, and it appears that the townspeople were still amazed by the proclamation of the Bishop, so a few of them even decide to enlist in the Pilgrimage. You direct them to the Church where logistics are handled.
(15 Peasants join you.)
You head to the Hangman's Hearth, which is the locale for unscrupulous actors and actresses in Gaillac. This is where you spent a lot of your time, scheming with your friends to join your plots to gain what little coin you could. You had a lot of dirt on these guys, and you sure as shit used it against them today. It wasn't necessarily in a malevolent manner, as your goal was to genuinely get them to fight for salvation, which is something you honestly believed in. Most, if not all of them came to the realization that if they didn't do this, they'd burn in the hellfires of the underworld for the rest of eternity. All but one join you, and he's real scum. His name is Gaston, and Gaston doesn't take shit from anyone.
(The Company of Generous Fellows join you, which is the name for you, your friends, and your associated of crime. Seven very experienced cut-purses join you (I say cut-purses because that's essentially what they did, among other sorts of grifting/stealing, they either have Medium level Diplomacy or Medium level Intrigue stats).
One member of the Company is important. He is your best friend since you were kids. The two of you complement one another very well, and even if you hadn't convinced these other idiots to join you, he would have done so anyways.
Gained new Companion. Gaucer joins the party.
You head to your mothers shack as the sun sets. You are greeted by a tired, middle-aged woman, and your younger siblings. Your father died when you were young, so it took a lot of effort to raise these young ones on her own. You'd bring money and food when you had it, but you mostly stayed away to not leech off of what little they had. Your mother is always happy to see you, but is saddened by your departure. She is proud of you for wanting to dedicate yourself to the faith, but you know that she knows you're probably going to die. She kisses you on the cheek, and you get a massive hug from your family. You're probably never going to see them again, but the love they give you is enough of a morale boost to get you through the next few days, at best.
+1 Piety from your Mum
You head to the Church where everyone has gathered. Other than those that have come from your own efforts a small group has already formed from members of the town and outlying villagers that wanted to go on the Pilgrimage of their own accord. There are 40 Pilgrims from Gaillac. Father Albert is here, talking to the pilgrims and working things out while his second, Brother Thomas of the Order of St. John, is handling logistics. There is another man here, and he is wearing full armor and carries a massive mace. His tabard is one you have never seen before. You know not his name, and have never seen him before. He does not speak to anyone, and he must have come with the Bishop for the proclamation.
When everyone is given blankets and bread, and a space to sleep for the night in to church, to spend the evening in prayer in preparation for the journey, you get a chance to talk to Father Albert. You were always his favorite. He always condoned your actions, because when you could, you gave to the church. He silently condoned your petty theft because he knew where the money went, and when you could you always gave him a minute of your time just to talk. [Piety Check: Critical success]
Father Albert tells you that Brother Thomas is to lead the Pilgrims from Gaillac to Cologne, and link with other members of the Hospitalier order along the way to try to coordinate the pilgrims as best as they can until they get to their first destination. He wants you to help Brother Thomas with this arduous task as 40 men is a large group to coordinate for one man, even for a man of the Hospitalier order. You hug, have some bread and water, and try to catch as much sleep as you can for the night.
(15 Peasants join you.)
You head to the Hangman's Hearth, which is the locale for unscrupulous actors and actresses in Gaillac. This is where you spent a lot of your time, scheming with your friends to join your plots to gain what little coin you could. You had a lot of dirt on these guys, and you sure as shit used it against them today. It wasn't necessarily in a malevolent manner, as your goal was to genuinely get them to fight for salvation, which is something you honestly believed in. Most, if not all of them came to the realization that if they didn't do this, they'd burn in the hellfires of the underworld for the rest of eternity. All but one join you, and he's real scum. His name is Gaston, and Gaston doesn't take shit from anyone.
(The Company of Generous Fellows join you, which is the name for you, your friends, and your associated of crime. Seven very experienced cut-purses join you (I say cut-purses because that's essentially what they did, among other sorts of grifting/stealing, they either have Medium level Diplomacy or Medium level Intrigue stats).
One member of the Company is important. He is your best friend since you were kids. The two of you complement one another very well, and even if you hadn't convinced these other idiots to join you, he would have done so anyways.
Gained new Companion. Gaucer joins the party.
Gaucer de Gaillac
Age: 21
Diplomacy: 6
Martial: 4
Stewardship: 1
Intrigue: 7
Learning: 1
Piety: 5
Age: 21
Diplomacy: 6
Martial: 4
Stewardship: 1
Intrigue: 7
Learning: 1
Piety: 5
You head to your mothers shack as the sun sets. You are greeted by a tired, middle-aged woman, and your younger siblings. Your father died when you were young, so it took a lot of effort to raise these young ones on her own. You'd bring money and food when you had it, but you mostly stayed away to not leech off of what little they had. Your mother is always happy to see you, but is saddened by your departure. She is proud of you for wanting to dedicate yourself to the faith, but you know that she knows you're probably going to die. She kisses you on the cheek, and you get a massive hug from your family. You're probably never going to see them again, but the love they give you is enough of a morale boost to get you through the next few days, at best.
+1 Piety from your Mum
You head to the Church where everyone has gathered. Other than those that have come from your own efforts a small group has already formed from members of the town and outlying villagers that wanted to go on the Pilgrimage of their own accord. There are 40 Pilgrims from Gaillac. Father Albert is here, talking to the pilgrims and working things out while his second, Brother Thomas of the Order of St. John, is handling logistics. There is another man here, and he is wearing full armor and carries a massive mace. His tabard is one you have never seen before. You know not his name, and have never seen him before. He does not speak to anyone, and he must have come with the Bishop for the proclamation.
When everyone is given blankets and bread, and a space to sleep for the night in to church, to spend the evening in prayer in preparation for the journey, you get a chance to talk to Father Albert. You were always his favorite. He always condoned your actions, because when you could, you gave to the church. He silently condoned your petty theft because he knew where the money went, and when you could you always gave him a minute of your time just to talk. [Piety Check: Critical success]
Father Albert tells you that Brother Thomas is to lead the Pilgrims from Gaillac to Cologne, and link with other members of the Hospitalier order along the way to try to coordinate the pilgrims as best as they can until they get to their first destination. He wants you to help Brother Thomas with this arduous task as 40 men is a large group to coordinate for one man, even for a man of the Hospitalier order. You hug, have some bread and water, and try to catch as much sleep as you can for the night.
The next morning you arise at dawn, the pilgrims are slightly rejuvenated. The simplicity of the bread and water, and the night of reflection in their home church has given them a boost of spirits towards their task at hand. [Morale set to Good]
Brother Thomas calls for everyone to begin marching. People say goodbye to their family members one last time, at least those who were awake to do so. It is a strange crowd, and its more of a swarm of people than an organized group, but it's what you have. Brother Thomas is at the front, and you are next to him. The strange, armoured man is at the rear, silent. you talk to Albert about many things along the road, and you even come across other Pilgrims.
Your first stop is Clermont, where the first council was held. Another 50 Pilgrims join you, coming from towns further west, as the original host from Clermont, which must have been massive, as already left for Cologne. These 50 join your band under two more Brothers of the Order of St. John. Brother Thomas does not know them, and after exchanging pleasantries, he prefers to keep to your company.
Relationship with Brother Thomas set to 4/10.
Pontarlier is your next stop, and it is where you make camp after the second day of traveling. Your numbers reach 120 by the time you set up your makeshift camp, which is merely a series of campfires and patchwork blankets offered by the local church, as they had already given what they could to their own Pilgrims. The local Prior comes out to talk to you and Brother Thomas, who is the unofficial leader of your band.
Prior Francis tells you of what is happening along the Rhine. Persecution of Jews, robbing, and pillaging by uncoordinated mobs. This is terrible...or is it an opportunity?
You are not the leader of your Band, and will have to convince Brother Thomas of action. Your stats will affect this. Brother Thomas likes you some what, so that adds to your chances.
[X] Go to Worms, where the greatest amount of chaos is occurring...
-[X]...to try to stop the violence.
-[X]...to join in the violence. Your fellow pilgrims will surely will enjoy blowing off some steam. You'll also most assuredly get some money and/or weapons and supplies.
[X] Do not go to Worms. Cologne is the path. "The Jews are damned for their heathenism. There is only one God." Or there's nothing you could really do anyways.
Status of the Pilgrims:
120 Pilgrims in your group.
Morale is Good.
120 Pilgrims in your group.
Morale is Good.
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Chapter 2.5
- Location
- New York
Chapter 2.5: We Are All Worms
[X] Go to Worms, where the greatest amount of chaos is occurring...
-[X]...to try to stop the violence.
--[X] "To waste your God given strength on the undeserving is a sin; to ignore the will of the Lord - heretical. Dally not with the Jew, but make haste on your journey to the holy land instead. Those who follow the Lords command in letter and in spirit will surely receive entrance to the Kingdom of Heaven."
You suggest to Brother Thomas that the band should pass through Worms, stating that the pilgrims there are wasting time and effort for needless bloodshed against the Jew of all. He agrees. You begin to think whether or not this was a choice after all, as Brother Thomas seems the type to have agreed with you anyways.
+1 to Relationship with Brother Thomas.
And then you realize that it wasn't he who needed convincing. The two other Brother's from the Order of St. John joined you shortly after Thomas had sent for them. It was they who needed convincing.
[Diplomacy: 37 + 5/2 + 4 = 44. Success]
Thomas explained to them the situation. One of the men, Brother Freidrich, suggested the Jew was getting what it deserved, and that the Pilgrim's should not waste their time dallying in Worms. The other, Brother Jacob, was convinced by your words. As reluctant as he was initially, it was you and Brother Thomas' efforts combined that would convince him. Not wanting to arrive to Cologne with such a small host as an offering to the service of the Lord, Brother Friedrich decided to join, albeit reluctantly. It was settled. The Pilgrims would rest tonight. At dawn, they would march for Worms.
As you approached the city, you could see fires in the distance. Some homesteads were trashed up ahead, and so you broke into a faster pace, almost a jog. Gaucher followed you. The two of you came to a ridge that led to the city. There was straight up fighting in the streets, as men and women, even children, were dragged out of their homes of being suspected of Jewry. You had no idea what to do. That was when the armored tank from the rear guard approached. He said absolutely nothing and simply began to walk into the town. Brothers Thomas, Jacob, and Friedrich all had dissenting views on what should be done, and a deadlock was formed. It appeared your presence in their triangle of leadership would be the deciding vote. What will you say?
[X] Support Brother Thomas. He suggests trying to separate the Pilgrims from their victims with light force, as words will not solve the issue now that it has advanced this far. Defending those from violence, the weak, is a virtue, and will be respected and rewarded by the Lord.
[X] Support Brother Jacob. Jacob suggests a non-violent approach, as the Pilgrims are Christians and we should not bring harm to our brothers. He wants to use words with our fellow Pilgrims to stop the violence.
[X] Support Brother Friedrich. Freidrich believes it is wrong to fight our brother Christians as well, and believes that we should join their ranks. Our numbers would swell, we'd have no issues with our fellow brothers, and there is sure to be money or materials that is to be confiscated from the heathens.
[X] Wild Card. Follow the armored man into the city...
Chapter 2.5 continued
- Location
- New York
Chapter 2.5: We Are All Worms (cont.)
[X] Support Brother Jacob. Jacob suggests a non-violent approach, as the Pilgrims are Christians and we should not bring harm to our brothers. He wants to use words with our fellow Pilgrims to stop the violence.
-[X] Remind the looters that it's not the Jew that bars our way to the Holy Land, and that it is the risk of accidentally killing or harming fellow Christians will damn them. Better to leave Jew hunting to the people that are supposed to do it, who the church will absolve the bloody hands of.
Brother Jacob was the only real choice here. You can't condone pitting Christians against one another, that isn't what this Pilgrimage is about. Brother Thomas agrees, albeit hesitantly as he doubts the men engaged in these atrocities will easily stop what they are doing to hear the words of a peasant.
Relationship with Brother Jacob set to 5/10
Relationship with Brother Thomas set to 5/10
Brother Thomas relays the plans to the group of Pilgrims you have assembled. Some of them grumble about helping Jews, and one rambunctious man gets loud and belts that he'll have no part of this, and takes a small handful of men off into the city, no doubt to join the atrocities. You hope they don't do anything much. The Pilgrims march in to the city behind you. The Armored Man has long since disappeared into the small maze of buildings here. The first neighborhood you enter into the city from the south is, subsequently, the Jewish Ghetto. Lots of buildings are ruined and broken into, with small fires here and there. The Ghetto is cordoned off from the rest of the city, so there's no worry of any fire spreading (the Christians wouldn't burn their own city down, they're angered, but not stupid). The cobblestone and dirt streets are marked with blood and household waste, nothing was left upturned. Yet, there aren't that many pilgrims here. Yes, there are dead or dying bodies, but most of the violence has been concentrated at the center of the city. Your group continues on, following the noise.
The Original Cathedral of Worms, where the Bishop takes residence at the center of the city.
When you arrive at the center of town, you realize that the mob of violent pilgrims have assembled outside of the the Cathedral of Worms. The Bishop is crying out from one of the upper balconies for the violence to stop. It appears that most of the Jewish community to escape have fled into the Cathedral. The mob of Pilgrims are trying to break in. From a rough eyeball, your numbers and theirs are about similar. They have 150 Pilgrims, you have 120.
As you approach, a noble emerges from the crowd. He is clearly set apart from the others, wearing chainmail and a helm. A fancy sword is attached to his waist, a hilt engraved with precious stones. You can tell that he is obviously the one leading this crowd, and was most likely the man who riled them up. He knows why you are here, because you and your fellow pilgrims have not joined into the chaos.
"Welcome to Worms, fellow Christians." The noble started as he removed his helmet to introduce himself. "I am Count Emich of Flonheim. We do the Lord's work here today, as I assume you are. This is merely the first obstacle on our great pilgrimage. I hope you aren't here to inhibit our just and pious work." His lips spread into a grin as he spoke. You already got a bad vibe off of him.
Brother Thomas stepped forward first. You obviously couldn't, as you are a peasant and he a noble. You knew your place at the moment, and Emich didn't know of your role as a lieutenant of the group, let alone whether or not he'd respect it.
"Noble lord." Thomas began. "It is not the Jew that bars our way to the Holy Land, and that it is the risk of accidentally killing or harming fellow Christians will damn them. Better to leave Jew hunting to the people that are supposed to do it, who the church will absolve the bloody hands of."
Emich scoffed. "We are the hunters! His Holiness himself has granted us, his holy warriors, his pilgrims to the Holy Land, the jurisdiction to carry out the lords justice here! We are not doing anything but the Lord's work here. What's the difference between a Jew and a Saracen? The hat they wear on their head to show they are not a Christian. That is what I say."
[Diplomacy: 2 + 5/2 = 5. Failure]
It was clear Emich would not be turned by words. You only have two real options now.
[X] Fight Emich. No one wants to do this, but it's the only way to save the Jews. The mob is almost through the door.
[X] Join Emich. While we don't agree with him or his means, he is a Christian and we shouldn't be fighting. If we ally with him here, he could help us down the line. Having the support of a Noble would be very useful for the Pilgrim's Crusade this early, even before we've gotten to Cologne.
[X] Leave. There's nothing we can do. You don't want to fight your fellow Christians, and you don't want to join in their atrocities. Your last option is to leave, defeated, and wasting time on this detour to south western Germany.
[X] Write-in (note that if you choose this, figuring out a way to talk Emich out of this will most likely not work. You've already failed the diplomacy check, and it's evident he's about to get what he wants anyways, short of violence. You're going to have to be more creative if you want to find a "third way".
Chapter 2.5 (ending)
- Location
- New York
Chapter 2.5: We Are All Worms (ending: Crisis Averted)
While Brother Thomas tries to talk to Emich, you sneak back into your group of peasants and Brother Jacob follows shortly after. Emrich doesn't notice what you're doing, because you're a peasant and he doesn't care about you. You gather your group of men and begin to shuffle towards the other group of pilgrims. Emich notices, and responds. "
"You see, dear Brother of the Order of Saint John, even the pilgrims who follow you know that our actions are ordained by God himself!"
Unbeknownst to him, you push through and reach a platform ejecting from the steps, which puts you and Brother Jacob about a heads level above the crowd, while your loyal, pious pilgrims follow. You tell Jacob now is the time, although he is reluctant.
[Piety Check: 13 + 25/2 = 26. Moderate Success]
He knows that you are right, that these men are blinded by violence from the true directives of our lord.
"In the name of the Order of Saint John I order you all to cease this senseless violence!", Jacob bellowed. You have no idea where that came from, but it certainly got their attention.
[Diplomacy Check: 47 (literally fuck you guys, lol) 5/2 = 50. Critical Success
"The bishop himself calls from the towers to end this violence! Do you serve the nobility, whose right over you is given by the church, over the church itself, over God Himself? Over I and other brothers of the faith who, even now, call for him to cease? Would you spill blood in a cathedral or upon it's very steps? The man you follow would damn you to hell! Lay down your arms and your souls may yet be spared, but if you fight here, even if you live, even if you win, there will be no heavenly gates for you in the hereafter!", you shot. A tirade of ferverous words launched towards the enemy with Piety made manifest. You could almost feel the surge of justice flow through you as the men listened to you and beckoned to you every word. They stopped, for now.
+1 to Diplomacy
"You listen to this peasant?! I am your Lord, and I command you to tear down those---"
The massive iron weapon dropped through Emich like a piece of stone from the cathedral. The Armored Man finally presented himself from the fray, felling the Count of Flonheim with one fell swoop. Now you see why he had marched into the town. He knew he needed to kill this man, and he finally did it. You had given him the opening he needed, by separating him from his assembled mob, and then by distracting them. Surely he would appreciate the assistance.
Relationship with The Armoured Man set to 1/10.
All of the Pilgrims had reluctantly moved away from the Cathedral, and shifted to the back of your group, while Brother Friedrich scolded them for diverging from the Path that His Holiness had set for them. The man didn't agree with anyone, and he clearly didn't like wasting his time, especially for Jews, but you have to give credit where credit is due: he was a follower of the will of the lord. Some men even got whaps to the back of their heads with his rosary beads. You smirked a little, but didn't laugh for fear of getting some yourself. Brothers Jacob and Thomas were very happy with the peaceful result you achieved.
Relationship with Brother Thomas set to 7/10
Relationship with Brother Jacob set to 7/10
150 Pilgrims join your group. Moral reduced to Moderate
The massive doors of the Cathedral creaked open, to reveal battered men, women, and children hiding inside, cowering in fear. Dirty and bruised, they rose a few at a time from the front to the very end of the massive building, all thanking you for what you had done. Scurrying through them was a hunched over old man with a large, wooden staff, topped with a strange looking knot of wood.
"You." The Bishop said, wagging his finger towards you as he continued to scurry forward. As he approached, you realized how much shorter he was than you, at least a head and a half, and you weren't even that tall to begin with.
"You did this. You saved these people, when the odds were against you, when everyone else succumbed to their baser, savage instincts. You, my boy, have fulfilled the will of the Lord.", he continued. You felt a small swell of pride, but it ended as soon as he knocked you on the head with his staff.
"Pride is a sin, boy." he scoffed, and then motioned for you to kneel down. "Get down here." You obliged, and knelt before the Bishop.
"Cælestia benedicet tibi paria verba patris vestri." He whispered. You had no idea what he said, and the people around you didn't either. You wouldn't remember the words either by the time he finished, Latin sounded like gibberish to you. He knocked you on your elbow with his staff again for you to rise. "Go now, and take those men with you to Cologne. They know that their penance is to continue on the path of righteousness." And just as he had appeared, the Bishop shuffled away.
Gained trait: Blessing of the Bishop of Worms: +5 to Diplomacy on Speech Rolls if you beat your opponent on a Piety Roll
The Jewish People of Worms were saved, well 800 of them. This couldn't be said for those whose bodies littered the streets, but you saved them. And you've prevented a heinous series of acts committed by a madman.
On your way out of the Cathedral, you are approached by one of the Jewish flock. "My name is Abraham. I saw what you did, and I am indebted to you for saving my family." You nod and tell him it was merely the work of God, but he insists. "I want to join you. I want to help you. Maybe we could even convince some of my people to join us."
This was unusual. You didn't know what to say. If he joined you, you'd gain at least half of the people you saved, if not all of them (why would they stay in Worms when the people there just tried to kill them?). But...no one else is going to like this, especially the pilgrims that just joined you who just tried to kill these people.
[X] Tell him no. This is a bad idea, and you can't guarantee his safety or that of his people on the pilgrimage. This will also sour relations with the others at best, and cause a split in the group at worst.
[X] Tell him yes, but only him. He seems smart, can be a useful advisor (he is the leader of the Jews in Worms), and speaks Latin, Hebrew, French, German AND can read.
[X] Tell him yes, and that he can bring his flock. The heavens only know the repercussions of this action. But perhaps they will find a better life in the Holy Land...
While you pondered your choice, Gaucher approached you. "Lookie what these sticky fingers found." He grinned, displaying the sword that Emich wielded. The ornate jewels on the hilt, it was a longsword of very good quality. And in his other hand, a coinpurse filled to the brim. "What should we do with the take, Ans?"
[X] You're a pilgrim now, donate the funds.
-[X] To the church. They need it to rebuild the damage done by the mob. It's the Christian thing to do.
-[X] To the Jews. The lost people they need the money. (If this action is taken, and you have chosen to bring them with you, they keep the money)
[X] You're a Pilgrim now, donate the funds. To the Pilgrimage. (You're essentially taking the money for yourself, and not sharing it with Gaucher.)
[X] Split the take with Gaucher. This keeps you both happy, and your pockets full.
[X] Take the sword for yourself
[X] Give the sword to Gaucher
[X] Write-in.
(You can combine any of the options as long as they obvious don't contradict. The results of these actions will be posted in the beginning of the next chapter, which will have you arrive in Cologne. I will post it tomorrow afternoon after I get back from work.)
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Chapter 3.0
- Location
- New York
Chapter 3: Cologne at last, Cologne at last (Thank God Almighty, We've Reached Cologne at Last)
[X] Tell him yes, and that he can bring his flock. The heavens only know the repercussions of this action. But perhaps they will find a better life in the Holy Land...
-[X] For those who object, point out that this is a way for the Jews to redeem themselves for their past sins. To help destroy those who hold the Holy Lands is a noble task, and it cost nothing for them to join.
[X] Give half the funds to the church, to aid in repairing it. Give the other half to Gaucher, as he was the one who found it, and yet was willing to give it up.
-[X] Ask him to use the funds for the Crusade, and not to waste it on idle amusements. Whether it is helping arm others with weapons, or feeding those in hard times.
[X] Sell the sword in its entirety in Koln to buy clothing and food for your fellow pilgrims
-[X] For those who object, point out that this is a way for the Jews to redeem themselves for their past sins. To help destroy those who hold the Holy Lands is a noble task, and it cost nothing for them to join.
[X] Give half the funds to the church, to aid in repairing it. Give the other half to Gaucher, as he was the one who found it, and yet was willing to give it up.
-[X] Ask him to use the funds for the Crusade, and not to waste it on idle amusements. Whether it is helping arm others with weapons, or feeding those in hard times.
[X] Sell the sword in its entirety in Koln to buy clothing and food for your fellow pilgrims
Abraham joins your entourage, and you tell him to set about organizing who in his flock will want to join you. No time is wasted, and he sets off to take to his duties while you handle the other issues before setting off.
Abraham of Worms joins your Entourage.
You next answer Gaucher, who presents to you a purse of coin and Emich's elegant sword. You take the sword, telling him what you wish to do with it, and he acknowledges it. He notes that the sword must have been difficult to maintain a useful grip with such fancy stones in the hilt anyways. As for the coinpurse, he is happy that you wish to split it with him, but is miffed when you suggest to him how to spend his share. He leaves, clearly upset with you, to do what you can only assume is waste the gold.
[Piety Check: Success]
On your way back to the Cathedral, to give the gold to the Bishop, you see that Gaucher is already there, talking to a small man in monks robes, whom you can only assume to be the Bishop's steward. As you approach, you join their conversation.
"The Bishop has relayed to be that any items you have gained from the one "deceased scoundrel who nayeth deserve his place among the nobility not among the martyrs in the Kingdom of Heaven", shall be put towards the funds of outfitting your Pilgrims. Your generosity is noted, but the Cathedral has enough in its coffers for the repairs and aid. Thank you." The man finished, pushing up his bifocals for the last time before turning about and closing the doors of the cathedral behind him.
"Well. I didn't expect that.", Gaucher said as he dropped his share of the coins in your hand, and moved on to the rest of the group as they prepared to leave.
+3 Piety to both you and Gaucher
Gained 100 fl and Emich's sword worth approximately 250 fl
Abraham approaches you from among the crowd. You can tell he's finished his task. "Good man, I never got your name."
"Anselme. De Gaillac." You respond.
"Anselme. It's a good name. As for my flock, with the stipulations you've offered, not many wish to confess their sins, as they don't believe that they've actually committed any. However, there are a significant number of them who are willing to forego the notions of perception and go along with this play in order to join you.
250 "Repentant Jews" join your group. Abraham is pretty crafty already. (You take a hit to the number, but maintain a thin visage of guile surrounding the legitimacy of Jews traveling with you." I did a roll for this, for shits and kicks, and you got a 79, so this is what I came up with)
[Diplomacy Check: 7 + (6+5)/2 = 12. Failure]
The Pilgrims from Worms don't buy it. It's one thing to spare the Jews, but its another to bring them along. Half of their number have no desire to travel with you. They leave for Cologne ahead of you, on their own.
75 Pilgrims from Worms leave your group.
Arriving at the Cologne was a relief. This was only the first leg of your journey, and already so much had happened. The massive Cathedral was the first thing that came into you view as you approached it, and it was so imposing and majestic that the sight of it announced the presence of the city itself. At only a kilometer out of the city limits, camps of pilgrims could be found. To an outsider or foreigner, it would look like war camps, as if the city was about to be besieged, but in fact these were the armies that belonged to Cologne, in a sense.
[Crisis at Worms Check: Success, Resolved]A small boy approached the group, running down the main road. He passed a scrap of paper to the leader of the guards, who then read it over quickly. The guard then looked up to Brother Thomas, asked him a question, and then they all turned to you.
"Anselme, you need to go with these Guards.", Thomas said with a dour look upon his face. You were worried. Why were you being separated from the group? What was going to happen to you? Brother Jacob put his hand on your shoulder and smiled gently. This alone was a relief, but what he said next turned your worry and paranoia into anxiousness."The Prince-Archbishop has called for your presence specifically at his court. They heard about what happened at Worms." Jacob confessed. You were relieved, but now you've come to the realization that one of the most powerful men in the Saint Empire has personally requested your presence. Yet another surprise on this journey and you've only just arrived.
The Cathedral of Cologne, seen from miles away
The interior of the Cathedral was essentially a marble and gold palace
Al the way to the top you went, to one of the highest towers of the massive church, and inside was a palace inside of a palace. Lush furniture, a fountain, and food as far as the eye good see. There were only but two men in the room. One was a man who appeared to be the Prince-Archbishop. Clothed in pure white robes, lined with gold. Made of the finest material you've ever seen. His stave was tall and made entirely of gold, with a small, glowing crystal at its head.Next to him stood an old man, balding at the top but hair around the side, and a long beard. He had a smile on his face, and was dressed almost as badly as you were, except it were robes that were in tatters for him. You knew who these men were. Athanasius, the Prince-Archbishop of Cologne, and Peter the Hermit. You were in the presence of power.
"Come child, let us look upon the Savior of Worms." Peter said as he extended his arms out to you. It was almost as if he wanted to hug you. As you approached slowly, unsure of what to do, you realized that Peter was at least six feet tall, maybe even more. And when you got close enough, you realized he did want to hug you, and that is exactly what he did. You could feel the warmth of his spirit as his arms gently wrapped around your shoulders. As he broke off, his hands rested on your shoulders and he examined you. The Prince-Archbishop trudged over, prodding you with the bottom end of his staff.
"He's just a peasant.", Athanasius murmured.
[Trait Check: Blessed by God]
"Ah, but he is blessed.", Peter illuminated. He placed his thumb on your forehead and closed one eye, apparently examining you even further. This was all strange, but you were in the presence of a Saint, and you were merely a sheep in the flock compared to him.
"My boy, I have heard of your coming." Peter explained, gently.
"And I've seen you." Athanasius added, tapping the orb on his staff with one eye crooked up.
"You are Blessed by God, one of the very few. Even we know not what this means, but it does mean that you will play a role in the up coming events. You are important to the crusade, but you must know that this changes nothing. You are one of the many, of the flock of the lord, and must prove your faith to him."
[Piety Check: Success]
"And has he not done so already." Athanasius added, as poked your arm with the orb of his staff, the crystal ball reacting intensely as a bright light emanated from it, and exasperating as quickly as it emerged."
"Yes, this boy has the fervor in him, that is true enough, but the tests of our Lord never end. Perhaps with the right training..." Peter pondered aloud.
"There's no time for training. We have a war to fight." Athanasius conjectured.
"Allow me to explain everything to you." Peter replied, shooing the Prince away with one hand, and guiding you to one end of the massive room with the other.
"And get it over with. These pilgrims are a logistical nightmare. I want my view back." The archbishop cankered.
"Listen clearly now, Anselme. There is little time to waste any more. You are important to this crusade, your efforts at Worms have shown that. When you return to your group, you will return as a pilgrim with authority. Think of the Crusade as a flock. Wings give the Crusade flight, and each man is a feather. You will officially help lead one of these wings. I will give you a scroll with this information, as well as my proclamation that you are invested. You will lead your wing as a part of the greater crusade, as we have need for delegation of responsibility to control this large of a host. There are almost thirty thousand men here, all ready to march, and we do so in one week. You will have that time to prepare your men in whatever fashion you may. The resources of Cologne have almost been exhausted, so I am afraid there is nothing I can offer you and your soldiers in this vein, however, I do have something special for you." He finished. It was as that point that he turned, and you followed in suit to come upon the personage of The Armored Man.
Gained Trait: Invested: You have official authority over the Pilgrims within your assigned Wing.
"This is Vindicator Gunther." Peter continued. "He was brought up from the front in Hispania to fight in the crusade, and he will be attached to your group of soldiers. He will now protect you and the Brothers of the Order of Saint John in battle. However, you must note that he may have specific orders at times, and will completely disregard your own to follow those which come from higher above."
"Higher above?" You replied, repeating it as a question for clarity.
Peter disregarded and continued anyway. "Before you go, take this." Peter said, reaching into a fold in his robe to pull out a small pebble.
"This is a special piece of earth. Its usefulness will come when it is required." He finished, placing the rock in your hands. It was smooth, but craggy. A paradoxical thing. But Peter quickly pushed you up and urged you towards Gunther. "We will speak again soon, I promise, but for now prepare your men."
"Boy." The Archbishop interjected, coming over to you from his position by the window, which he was staring out of at the gathered pilgrims like a grumpy, ornery bully.
"I wish to give you my blessing. While your actions at Worms were just, pious, and noble, I have to say we could have done without 800 more Jews in the Rhineland. Alas, it is the will of God, one that we all must adhere to. Kneel." He whimsed. You followed, and he placed his hand on your head, whispering something in Latin again. You really wish you knew what he was saying, but at this point it didn't matter.
"Det vobis os et sapientiam et voluntatem suam portent.", Athanasius murmured. He kicked your foot to get you to stand up and leave. "That should give you some sense, boy." He finished, trudging off towards Peter to more important matters.
You felt something come over your head. It was like you knew more, but it wasn't new knowledge, but it wasn't always there.
Gained trait: Blessing of Athanasius: +4 to Learning (You can now understand German, and may attempt to learn to read. If you find someone to teach you.)
You arrived back to your group, or Wing as the regiments are officially referred to. Immediately the Brothers came to you to ask what had occurred. You gave them the scroll Peter gave you, which they peered over while you told them of your experience. Thomas and Jacob were proud, and Friedrich was, as usual, unphased. You are now one of the de-facto leaders of your Wing, and hold influence within the small council of leadership between yourself and the other three Brothers of the Order of St. John. Luckily, Jacob, Thomas, and yourself all seem to think alike.
They take you to a tent, with a small table on it, with scrolls and what meager supplies they have gathered. These men, they are not merchants, traders, warriors. They're monks more or less. All of them, even Friedrich, look to you to give the group direction. No doubt you will be the only to make the plans, while they will simply voice their support or dissension and offer alternatives. This scene will be a familiar one, and will essentially be the war tent of your camp every time one is made on the Crusade.
You have one week in Cologne, and five advisors. Make every decision count.
The War Tent: One Week to departure from Cologne
(You can take five actions, because you have five advisors. Certain actions are only available to specific advisors due to their talents.)
Intrigue: (Gaucher-only Actions)
[ ] Steal from camps of the other Wings. You are in dire need of supplies and weapons, and may have to resort to desperate measures.
[ ] Steal from the rich of Cologne. The Company of Generous Fellows can get back to work while you are in Cologne, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. The Poor here being the Pilgrims.
[ ] Recruit from the criminal underworld for your Wing. Gaucher and the Fellows can go into the underworld of Cologne and see if they can bring others over to your side.
High Stewardship: (Abraham-only Actions)
[ ] Utilize Jewish connections in Cologne. Abraham has family and acquaintances in Cologne. He can try to see if they can help you.
[ ] Borrow from Jewish Moneylenders. Abraham can take out a loan for you, with his own family being utilized as the co-signers and ones responsible for repaying it. There may be consequences.
[ ] Try to recruit more "Repentant Jews" to join your Wing. Abraham can try to sell his already somewhat successful plan to members of the Jewish community of Cologne.
Holy Actions: (Hospitalier Order-only Actions)
[ ] Ask one of the Brothers to sponsor your request to join the Order of Saint John (Knights Hospitalier). Your high Piety and relationship with 2/3 of the Brothers allows this. Many benefits from joining the Order will be received.
[ ] See if help can be gained from the Knights Hospitalier. One of the Brothers can try to get some assistance from other members of the Order stationed in Cologne or attached to other Wings.
[ ] Pray. Pray.
Personal Actions: (PC-only Actions)
[ ] Try to recruit Pilgrims on your own. Diplomacy and Piety checks.
[ ] Talk to the members of your Entourage. You will learn more about them and develop your relationship with them. You may or may not gain from this.
[ ] Try to talk to Vindicator Gunther. You have no idea what this guy's deal is. Maybe it's time to find out.
[ ] Talk to the leader of another Wing. If you're going to be fighting with 40,000 other men, and you have a position of authority within this host, you may as well try to get to know some of the other commanders. There are two Wings encamped closest to you. One to the North on a hill, and one to the East along the main road.
[ ] Find someone to teach you how to read. There are already some people in your Entourage who can do this. If you pick one of your advisors, the both of you will be locked out of taking actions for two camps worth of time. Its up to you to determine how much you need this. You will gain Learning from this process.
General Actions: (Can be taken by Anyone)
[ ] Go to the Market. Buying, selling, trading in general will all count under one task for simplicity. Try to be specific with what you want to do with your money. Say you want to buy weapons, armor, or food in percentages, and I will tell you exactly how much of it you get.
[ ] Try to recruit Pilgrims. Diplomacy and Piety checks.
[ ] Beg for alms. ???
[ ] Write-in. You may write something in, and for the benefit of the doubt, they will all be considered General Actions unless they are obviously stipulated to be performed by someone with a specific skill set.
I suggest that you guys make joint Plans, to make the voting and tallying easier for everyone. And for me.
Anselme de Gaillac
Age: 20
Diplomacy: 6 (You're getting better at talking your way out of problems, but you're no silver-tongued devil yet.)
Martial: 3 (You can defend yourself. No one ever said you were any good at it, though.)
Stewardship: 3 (You don't do well with money. It's why you're poor.)
Intrigue: 10 (Living the life of a pauper, you have become very crafty, and thus know how to get yourself into and out of trouble very well, much to your own benefit.)
Learning: 1 (You are Illiterate.)
Piety: 31 [You rolled a critical success here, and that will be noted] (You are one of the most pious of the Pilgrims. Surely this will be noticed by those higher up the echelon.)
Money: 350 fl
Traits:
Blessed by God: ???.
Pious: Your piety and strength of faith is noticed by others who share the same inclination, +5 Relations to Same Trait.
Blessing of the Bishop of Worms: +5 to Diplomacy on Speech Rolls if you beat your opponent on a Piety Roll
Blessing of Athanasius: +4 to Learning (You can now understand German, and may attempt to learn to read. If you find someone to teach you.)
Invested: You have official authority over the Pilgrims within your assigned Wing.
Items and Statuses:
Peter's Stone: ???
Entourage:
Age: 20
Diplomacy: 6 (You're getting better at talking your way out of problems, but you're no silver-tongued devil yet.)
Martial: 3 (You can defend yourself. No one ever said you were any good at it, though.)
Stewardship: 3 (You don't do well with money. It's why you're poor.)
Intrigue: 10 (Living the life of a pauper, you have become very crafty, and thus know how to get yourself into and out of trouble very well, much to your own benefit.)
Learning: 1 (You are Illiterate.)
Piety: 31 [You rolled a critical success here, and that will be noted] (You are one of the most pious of the Pilgrims. Surely this will be noticed by those higher up the echelon.)
Money: 350 fl
Traits:
Blessed by God: ???.
Pious: Your piety and strength of faith is noticed by others who share the same inclination, +5 Relations to Same Trait.
Blessing of the Bishop of Worms: +5 to Diplomacy on Speech Rolls if you beat your opponent on a Piety Roll
Blessing of Athanasius: +4 to Learning (You can now understand German, and may attempt to learn to read. If you find someone to teach you.)
Invested: You have official authority over the Pilgrims within your assigned Wing.
Items and Statuses:
Peter's Stone: ???
Entourage:
Gaucer de Gaillac
Age: 21
Diplomacy: 6
Martial: 4
Stewardship: 1
Intrigue: 7
Learning: 1
Piety: 8
Age: 21
Diplomacy: 6
Martial: 4
Stewardship: 1
Intrigue: 7
Learning: 1
Piety: 8
Abraham of Worms
Age: 45
Diplomacy: 7
Martial: 1
Stewardship: 10
Intrigue: 2
Learning: 7
Piety: 10
Age: 45
Diplomacy: 7
Martial: 1
Stewardship: 10
Intrigue: 2
Learning: 7
Piety: 10
Status of the all the Pilgrims in the Crusade:
40,000 Strong.
Morale is High.
Status of your Wing:
195 Pilgrims
250 "Repentant Jews"
Morale is Moderate.
Relationship with Brother Jacob (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Brother Thomas (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Vindicator Gunther: 1/10
40,000 Strong.
Morale is High.
Status of your Wing:
195 Pilgrims
250 "Repentant Jews"
Morale is Moderate.
Relationship with Brother Jacob (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Brother Thomas (Order of St. John): 7/10
Relationship with Vindicator Gunther: 1/10
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