The Great Pendragon Campaign

==Characters==
=== PC Houses and Knights ===
*The House of Berwick St James
** Sir Tibalt (464-488)
** No heir 
* The House of Tilshead 
** Sir Florence (480-503)
** No heir
*The House of Baverstock
**Sir Gracian (480-)
*The House of Cholderton
**Sir Renart (459-492)
**Sir Renart demoted to household knight in 492 by King Uther the Pendragon
**Sir Lycus took over at Cholderton at the end of 494
**Sir Renart led an insurrection and took back control in 499
**Sir Renart slain in battle of Winterbridge in 503
**Sebastian, heir to Renart, squire to Sir Mathis from 504; Lady Indeg maintains Cholderton until Sebastian comes of age
*The House of Newton
**Sir Pellandres (464-)
*The House of Newton Tony
**Sir Jeoff (464-)
* The House of Winterbourne Gunnet
** Sir Mathis (467-)
File:Sir Tibalt, Coat of Arms.png|Sir Tibalt's Coat of Arms
File:coh-renart-2.jpg|Sir Renart's Coat of Arms (new)
File:Mason.png|Sir Pellandres' Coat of Arms
File:Tom.png|Sir Geoff's Coat of Arms
File:D2E5BF57-FFB7-4C9C-B1BE-5318BAEDF389.png|Sir Mathis's Coat of Arms
File:Ben.png|Sir Renart's Coat of Arms (old)
==== Court in Salisbury ====
* Earl Roderick (Glory >10k) (d. 495 at The Infamous Feast)
* Countess Ellen (Glory >2k, APP 14)
* Lady Jenna (APP 14, b. 475)
* Robert, Earl Roderick's Heir (b. 492)
* Sir Amig of Tilshead (Glory >7k)
*Sir Bar, a knight whose heraldry and demeanor are that of a bear
*Sir Leo, an upright knight trying to do good, not just do well
*Sir Elad of Castle Vagon, Marshal of Salisbury (Glory >6k)
*Sir Hywel, banneret of West Lavington (Glory >6k)
*Sir Jarren, famous as the best swordsman at court (Glory >3k)
*Sir Lycus, once of Cholderton, a knight of practical and ruthless mien
==== Other Major Characters ====
* King Uther (d. 495 at The Infamous Feast)
*Queen Ygraine
* Prince Madoc - beloved bastard of King Uther (d. 491 at the Battle of Terrabil)
* Duke Lucius of Caercolun (d. 486 in a Saxon ambush near Ipswich last heard from in 497, defending Colchester castle!)
*Sir Brastias, Uther's Marshall
*King Lot
*Queen Margawse of Lothian
*King Nanteleod of the Silures
*Sir Alain de Carlion
*King Nentres of Garloth
*Queen Elaine of Garloth
*Morgan, youngest daughter of Queen Ygraine - a dark and brooding girl
*King Dirac of Estregales
*Caer Caradoc, Duke of Gloucester
*Sir Caradun of the Red Banner of Glevum
*Sir Caradul of the Green Banner of Glevum
* Lady Gwiona of Winterbourne Gunnet (d. 498 in childbirth)
File:Aelle.jpg
File:Brastias.jpg
File:Ellen.jpg
File:Gorlois.jpg
File:Lot.jpg
File:Madoc.jpg
File:Nantleod.jpg
File:Nimue.jpg
File:Roderick.jpg
File:Ygraine.jpg
File:cerdic.jpg
File:mark.jpg
=== Chronicle/Session Summary ===
File:485-events.jpg
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File:Logres.jpg
File:Sarum.jpg
* Session 1: 485. Tibalt, Renart, Pellandres and Jeoff are knighed at Vagon and attend their first courts. Battle of Maercred Creek. Maldon is sacked.
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*Session 2: 486. The knights are told to spend the summer patrolling. They encounter a mysterious goatherd and fight a giant before entering Camelot forest to recover Excalibur with Merlin.
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* Session 3: 487. The Great Sword Feast is held. The knights take to the sea and burn Saxon ships. Battle of Blackwater.
File:488-eburacum.jpg
* Session 4: 488 (start). The knights travel to the continent to fight the Francs. Sir Tibalt is mortally wounded raiding a Franc temple.
* Session 5: 488 (end). The newly-knighted Sir Mathis joins. Invasion of Frankland. Battle of Bayeaux.
*Session 6: 489. Uther makes peace with Duke Gorlois of Cornwall, and is now unquestionable Pendragon. The knights travel to Malahaut and lead a raid on the Saxons of Kings Octa and Eosa, and return with Praetor Syagrius and his men.
File:Courtesy.jpg
*Session 7: 490. Uther announces the largest battle to happen on British ground since the time of Aurelius Ambrosius. Sir Tibalt and Sir Renart win great glory at the Battle of Eberacum Fields, capturing King Octa's standard. Seeing Duchess Ygraine for the first time at the victory feast, King Uther makes all the nobles present prisoners of courtesy. After 10 weeks, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall flee Sarum castle, sending King Uther into a terrible rage.
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*Session 8: 491. TODO (war against Cornwall, Syagrius and Madoc killed, Uther marries Ygraine)
*Session 9: 492 (start). TODO (Merlin kidnapped Arthur)
*Session 10: 492 (end). TODO (trial)
*Session 11: 493. TODO (prisoners at Malahaut, Octa, Eosa, King Lot and King Malahaut alliance against Logres)
*Session 12: 494 (start). TODO (travel into Estregales)
*Session 13: 495 (start). The group make a plan to meet King Octa's army before he can reach London and march to St. Albans. The town is already captured and a trap is laid, almost costing Sir Brastias his life. The Battle of St. Albans starts early the next morning, and Sir Mathis is struck with a bout of madness over the weight of his obligations, causing him to flee into the woods. At The Infamous Feast King Uther, Earl Roderick, and almost ever lord of Logres is muedered by poison.
*Session 14: 495 (end). The fallout of The Infamous Feast. The group declare loyalty to Robert and swear to protect Salisbury.
*Session 15: 496. The group travel with Prince Cynric to meet King Cerdic, son of Vortigern, who has taken a chunk of the southern coast and founded Wessex.
*Session 16: 497. Prince Cynric takes the Isle of Wight. The group hears that Duke Lucius of Caercolun is alive and has captured Colchester Castle, so rides to his aid. The group spend the summer raiding the Saxons of Caercolun and meet Merlin near, then ride to Thetford forest where Sir Mathis fights the Knight of Tusks in single combat and the group frees Cymric thralls.
*Session 17: 498 (start). The group convinces Countess Ellen to marry off her daughter, Lady Jenna, to Prince Cynric to ease the pressure on Salisbury for tribute to Saxon kings. He agrees, but Sir Mathis is maddened with his manner and swears to protect Lady Jenna's honour always.
*Session 18: 498 (end). The group travels to the Isle of Wight for Lady Jenna's wedding, and is commanded to escort Ygraine and Morgan there as well.
*Session 19: 499. The group travel to see King Cerdic and meet Countess Lorelle, who's county of Rydychan has been siezed by three brothers. They decide to help her, raising an army and marching to war.
*Session 20: 500 (start). Sir Renart raises an army to retake his home of Cholderton, who it turned out had sent away its army to fight against Cornwall so was handed over without a fight. Sir Mathis leads an excursion into Forest Sauvage to meet King Madog and have his son (who has been replaced with a changeling) returned.
*Session 21: 500 (middle). Sir Mathis races against Yves of Buckingham for passage and eventually comes to Castle Sauvage. After facing the tests of The Gallant, The Lady and The Dwarf he meets the king, who agrees to return his son. Mathis decides to raise the changeling too, who takes the name Sitham.
*Session 22: 500 (end). The long journey home and wrap-up of the year.
*Session 23: 501 (start). The group escort Morgan to her wedding to King Uriens of Gorre. On the way the group are attacked by Saxons and, rushing to protect Lady Ygraine and Morgan who are washing by the river, Sir Mathis comes upon a scene of terrible carnage enacted apparently by great magic. Morgan has summed a huge mass of birds that have torn the attacking Saxons to pieces. Lady Ygraine is left in shock at the display of power.
*Session 24: 501 (end). The group attend Morgans's wedding, Sir Renart terribly offends King Lot, and the group returns to Salisbury.
*Session 25: 502 (start). The group travel to Wessex to act as mercenaries, facing many hard decisions around Wessex's willingness to work with Saxons.
*Session 26: 502 (end). The group march with Wessex upon Jagent, facing Earl Tegfan in battle. Earl Tegfan is brutally beheaded by King Cerdic.
*Session 27: 503 (start). Essex and and Kent are marching upon London, so the PKs raise their levies and march to assist Duke Ulfius. The group plan to head south-west via Windsor with Ulfius's divided forces to face King Aesc of Kent, but Aesc's entire prepared force awaits them.
*Session 28: 503 (end). The PKs lead a heroic charge, destroying Sir Helifer's (a mercenary hired by Kent) siege equipment at the Battle of Windsor Bridge. The group pays a high price - Sir Renart dies at the battle and Sir Florence of his wounds soon after - but their actions are instrumental in saving Duke Ulfius and Silchester's hold upon London.
*Session 29: 504. The PKs raise levies and march to Bath with forces from Wessex, Sussex and Kent. The sacking of Bath is averted at the last minute by an agreement reached between King Cerdic and Prince Mark of Cornwall. The Saxons of Sussex and especially Kent prove unruly. Escavalon conquers Rydychan and Marlboro, bringing them to the borders of Salisbury and Silchester.
*Session 30: 505. Sir Mathis is named Marshall of Salisbury. Earl Robert orders the fields left fallow and all armies to be raised and readied for the whole year, especting an attack from Escavalon. Escavalon marches upon Levcomagus and Salisbury and Wessex march to meet them. Arriving to find Levcomagus sacked and badly outnumbered, Wessex and Salisbury's forces are defeated and are forced to retreat. Escavalon turns east and then north, plundering and raiding until eventually being defeated by Anglia.
=== Long Chronicle ===
=== Year 485 ===
Sir Pellandres, Sir Geoff, Sir Renart and Sir Tibalt are summoned to Sarum to be knighted by Earl Roderick. Both Renart and Tibalt failed their Pagan ‘jumps’ but demonstrated their willingness to push themselves to the limit of their abilities for their liege. The Christian pair tackled the gruelling task of staying awake; with one of them only just making it through the night without nodding off.
Officially becoming Vassal Knights of Roderick they decide to promptly travel to Spring Court being held at Leicester in Lindsey, after a brief celebratory evening. Very brief for Renart, who fell asleep shortly after his first cup.
Spring Court proved to be an interesting dipping of the toe into the politics of the land. Seeing the lords clashing and breaking courtesy rules (mainly Madoc) led the Court to agree their Summer campaign against the Saxons. 
Geoff, Pellandres, Renart and Tibalt would join the campaign and participate in the Battle at Mare Cred Creek. Initially tasked with holding back and learning the art of war, the young knights were keen to prove themselves. Convincing Amig to allow them to get close to the front line a weakness in the Saxon line was spotted, and Renart led the group to crash through the ranks and breach the Saxon wall. Outnumbered at least 2:1 Geoff, Pellandres, Renart and Tibalt all fought valiantly and cut dozens of the Saxons down. Pellandres and Renart were unseated from their steeds, and Pellandres suffered a brutal blow to the face, leaving him scarred. A permanent reminder for all (but mainly Pellandres) that battle is bloody and dangerous.
Winter of 485 brought the news that Essex was lost to the Saxon raids, and Duke Lucius had been forced to garrison away from the burning fields of his home. Whilst the Vassals of Roderick had won a victory over the Saxons at Mare Cred Creek, it was far from an overwhelming victory; especially in light of the Saxon success. A lot needed to be contemplated for the following Summer.
Winter of 485 also brought with it news of Geoff’s incredibly powerful seed, as he learned he had fathered 2 children out of wedlock in Newton Toney.
Year 486
The Spring Court of 486 was similar to last year, with an impetuous Madoc breaking Court rules and courtesy to make demands of King Uther. Before Duke Lucius could make a plea for support, Madoc made it clear where his intentions lay, and that the king should take back the Saxon soiled land. However, the remains of the Romans that existed in France had arrived, and were requesting aid to take back their own lands from the barbaric Gauls. King Uther agreed with Madoc and the Summer Campaign would be at home, to strike back against the Saxons.
The initial cheer and glee of this was cut short when Roderick (following a discrete conversation with Merlin) informed the Court and his Vassals that all but 4 knights would be joining the campaign. Geoff, Pellandres, Renart and Tibalt were tasked with patrolling Salisbury for the entire Summer. Something they initially questioned, before accepting the decision of their liege.
Whilst the army would clash against the Saxon horde, our 4 Vassal knights would tangle with bizarre beasts. Initially finding a frail old man in search of his prize goat, they agreed to help the feeble fellow before stumbling into the path of the goat’s rightful owner; a giant.
The giant came lurching towards the group wielding an entire tree trunk, and Sir Geoff took a mighty blow but remarkably stayed standing! And incredible feat of strength and endurance. After Pellandres struck the final blow, cutting the giant down, the feeble old man was revealed to be none other than Merlin himself. He informed them of their task, to aid him on a brief quest into Camelot Forest.
Entering the forest and reaching a clearing by a lake, Merlin directed them to fight off any foul beasts as he approached the lake. Within moments the group were engaging a creature resembling a man on horseback, but entirely covered in moss, mould and greenery. Whipping at the knights with vine-like arms, Sir Geoff took another strike and was knocked unconscious. Sir Tibalt placed the final strike that would fell the beast as the group recovered Sir Geoff and saw Merlin retrieve a sword from a lady in the lake.
Returning home, their task completed; they were sworn to secrecy until after Winter Court - the Great Sword Feast, which would be in early 487.
Year 487
Winter Court had several revelations. King Uther declared that he would be visiting Lyndsay and attempt to bring the province back into the fold, whilst Prince Madoc had plans to lead a daring raid against the Saxons by sailing the eastern coastline. King Uther was also proclaimed Pendragon, as Merlin presented him with the sword that Merlin retrieved from the lake with the help of Sir Geoff, Sir Pellandres, Sir Renart and Sir Tibalt. King Uther also rewarded everyone in Court for their service with a fistful of silver; which all but Pellandres accepted.
The Vassal knights were unusually given a choice of campaign to join for the Summer, and opted for the incredibly dangerous and lethal campaign with Prince Madoc.
Renart would lead what would be titled “Merlin’s Company”, although Pellandres’ jovial charm and mastery of folklore would foster considerable confidence from the troops. Their first raid was at Devensey; no deaths in Merlin’s Company, but a small number of wounded. The wounded sadly included a very gravely wounded Pellandres (who was only severely wounded until Tibalt investigated the cut himself). Renart convinced Prince Madoc to send a boat of wounded home, whilst Tibalt and Renart prayed to the river and sea gods that Pellandres would survive the journey back to Dorset (they would later learn that Pellandres would be seen to by one of the greatest chirurgeons in the land).
The next attack would be at Dover, and it is there that Tibalt and Renart would see their troops flee from mounted Saxons before channelling both their familial love of life, and hatred of Saxons, to narrowly avoid defeat. A significant number of men fell at Dover, and Tibalt himself suffered a serious wound at the hand of the Saxons. Madoc would once again send the wounded home, leaving Renart and his squire Blavier to stay with the last remnants of Merlin Company.
Suspiciously empty Saxon ships were found at Maldon and on the River Blackwater. Prince Madoc pushed on, but Sir Renart was unnerved by the bizarre actions of the Saxons. As they continued down the river Blackwater they encountered the Saxons on much larger ships, clearly equipped and intending to board the ships of Prince Madoc.
Heavily outnumbered, Renart was struck in battle but managed to slay several Saxons and the fleet left the Saxon ships in flames. A successful, but bloody, campaign.
Winter of 487 would see Sir Renart visit Lady Indeg in person after exchanging messengers previously; ending with her giving him a small token of her heraldry. Renart celebrated this by embroidering it into his fine Court clothing, and also discovered the birth of twins (Luna and Sebastian) out of wedlock.
Year 488
Winter court of 488 came with the usual traditions; Renart gave Roderick his traditional gift linked to his bloody hatred of Saxons (this year a torn part of a Saxon sail from the raids the previous Summer). Sir Geoff added to Roderick’s growing pile of crucifixes.
Tibalt announced that he would be holding a festival and tournament of sorts at Berwick St James, and Renart was able to convince his courted love, Lady Indeg, to attend. Pellandres introduced his new wife to the court, and Roderick.
As Spring Court approached, the vassal knights learned that the King had “made his decision” about the Summer campaign; but the specifics eluded them. It was only at arrival to Spring court in Sarum that they saw the King’s army mustered and encamped outside the city. It appeared the news hadn’t reach Salisbury in time for the Earl, Roderick, to muster his own force. Renart, Geoff, Pellandres and Tibalt were excited to hear from Madoc that King Uther was going to be allowing the Logres army to embark on a campaign on the continent; a bloody conquest against the Francs, in support of the remains of the Roman Empire. The Praetor, who attended Spring Court in 486, was still in need of support to free Soissons from the Francish brutes; two years of pleading had given him no support - until now.
However, as was traditional for Spring Court, there were more twists and turns to come. King Uther announced that half the mustered army would fight at home, on an internal campaign, the other half would be lead by Madoc against the Francs. Madoc, impetuous and volatile reacted poorly to this decision - believing the full army was to be travelling in support of the Praetor and the promise of half of the treasury of France, and half again. Renart, having been closely involved in the recent campaign under Madoc stood in support of the uproar, led by the Prince.
After heated exchanges, and an eventual step down by Madoc, Roderick counselled his knights and discussion began over which campaign the Salisbury group should engage with. It was agreed that the majority wanted to join the campaign on the continent, so the entire army of Salisbury would travel to France. Even this decision wouldn’t be without a further twist, as arriving at the docks of Chichester they encountered Irish mercenaries which had been recruited by Madoc to make up for the loss of half of the King’s army. This did not sit well with the Fletham’s; who hated the Irish, not with the same intensity of the Saxons, but hated them nonetheless.
Once they reached the continent, the unscrupulous Irish mercenaries did what they only knew to do; burnt and sacked the coastal towns of the land they were supposed to be liberating. Pellandres, Renart, Geoff and Tibalt opted to travel with the Praetor to rally and muster locals against the Francs. It was after seeing how beloved the Praetor was by the local people that they had the opportunity to sack and pillage a Francish temple; one considered to not be too dissimilar to a Saxon festering hole.
The temple was a short ride away from the Praetor, who told them of the temple and consented to their sacking and pillaging. It was featured in the centre of a small town, which had roughly 50 quite angry peasants. They were not aligned with the Praetor, and so reacted poorly to the knights arrival. Pellandres and Renart took up station outside the temple to guard the horses and squires whilst Tibalt and Geoff went inside. It was here that things turned darker, still.
The peasants, armed with rudimentary axes, outnumbered Geoff and Tibalt two to one. TIbalt and Geoff fought bravely, but it despite their valour, Tibalt was knocked off his feet from several lucky strikes. Geoff stepped up to stand over Tibalt as he retook his footing, and was knocked unconscious by the peasants. As Tibalt took to his feet again he dug deep into his passionate hatred of the Saxons, remembering the last time he was beaten this badly being at the hands of Saxon vermin. The fire burned bright, and he quickly dispatched a villager. Alas, a fire burning bright also burned quickly. Another lucky strike from the peasants cut Tibalt down.
Pellandres and Renart came in after hearing the kerfuffle; seeing Tibalt on the floor hurt Renart deeply, and he could sense the impending danger of his cousin. Renart and Pellandres saw to the end of the remaining peasants inside the temple; a quick sacking of valuables and the squires seeing to Tibalt and Geoff led to a hasty escape, and their cruel actions against the villagers leaving a potential scar on their collective conscience.
The squires attempted to treat the wounds of Geoff and Tibalt. Geoff made a prompt recovery. Tibalt, whilst showing signs of stability, took a turn at the hands of Bardus. Perhaps he was trying to please his master by helping him to his feet sooner, as the campaign was pressing on. Perhaps he was distracted by the sight of the blood and wounds that had been delivered with such severity. Whatever the reason, Tibalt’s wounds festered and turned as Bardus attempted to treat them further. Sir Tibalt bled out, in the arms of his cousin and companions. His dying request to be buried with his father, at Berwick St James.
The group mourned the loss of Tibalt. As they stood around the body of their brother in arms, the silence of the forest was broken only by the unrelenting screams of anguish from Renart. A man fuelled so frequently by quick passions, now lay broken by his cousin. And the campaign still lay ahead of them.
Pellandres tried to stir Renart from the grief dominating his mind; it did not go well. Pellandres, despite only using the flat of his blade, took a sizeable hit from Renart before the red mist fell from his eyes. An apology, and exchange of morbid comments and Renart and Geoff made the rash declaration of slaying one Frenchman for every day Tibalt had been a knight of Roderick.
Remart then pushed Pellandres and Geoff away from Tibalt’s body; leading the short and somber procession of Renart, followed by the body of Tibalt resting upon his own horse, and Tibalt’s squire, Bardus, directly behind.
The group return to the Praetor, and then continue back to the war camp on the coast. Sharing the grim news with Roderick, they could almost swear they could see a tear in his eye as he heard of Tibalt’s fall. Geoff was also unable to continue with the campaign, his wounds too severe to not need significant medical attention and considerable time to get him back on his feet. However, the mental scarring for those that continued was going to be arguably more damaging.
Sir Mathis of Winterbourne Gunnet joined the group; a giant of a man, he was a sizeable addition to Pellandres and Renart. They were also all informed that they would be the vanguard as the army would siege Souisson. The battle plan would involve the Irish militia scaling the walls, with Renart, Mathis, Pellandres and the remaining knights under Roderick’s banner charging through the gates of the city; once the Irish had them open. They would need to hit the Francs hard, and hold them whilst the rest of the army would surge into Souisson. Mathis offered to take Geoff’s sword and cut down Frenchmen for him, in honour of his pledge. Geoff refused, however Mathis’ sentiment inspired Renart, who took Tibalt’s sword with him - and swore to wield it in honour of his late cousin.
The waiting was anxiety inducing once they were in position outside the city. The signal went up and the Irish launched forwards, while the knights held their lines. Archers raining arrows down from both sides made any advancement a dangerous prospect. The Irish of Merlin’s unit made it to the walls without losses, miraculously, but then beat after beat would pass and the gates remained closed.
The gates to the right opened and the trio watched the flank to their side charge in. The same happened to their left, and their gate remained closed. It was then that Renart recklessly passed command to Pellandres before charging forward, alone, on horseback. He scaled the now empty ladders over the wall and was confronted by the Irish being held up by a Francish horde. Initially feeding his blood boil over his new found hatred for the French was superseded by his lamentable memory of his cousin, falling, and his determination to make this campaign a success. He lunged forward, cutting down Francs and allowing the Irish to open the gates. Pellandres and Mathis wasted no time in charging in immediately afterwards.
Once the rest of the force arrived the trio pressed on into the French army. Renart, on foot, cutting down Frenchman one by one - taking one down to their knees before slashing at the incoming force. Outnumbered two to one, Renart kept a rhythm going - powered by his passions. Pellandres and Mathis were less fortunate.
Pellandres had attempted to stir the emotions of the troops before they’d even breached the gates. However, his words had only rattled his own resilience. He was disheartened, and struggling to keep his focus. Taking a spear, glancing off his chain, dropping his sword, he took to the ground and would attempt to place his dagger into the hearts of the Frenchmen. 
Sir Mathis attempted to steel himself with the thought of his liege, Earl Roderick, and the honour that came with joining the campaign to reignite the fading fire of Rome. Alas, he too became disheartened as he considered the folly of their situation. The great Merlin’s Company being a shadow of the version known in the stories back home, the recklessness of Renart, the insanity of Pellandres voluntarily dismounting to fight the horde on foot; he struggled to justify all of this and was on the back foot against the French.
Eventually the French were beaten back. The fighting continued on, and Pellandres and Mathis were succumbing to their melancholy thoughts. Renart managed to snap Pellandres out of it; reminding him of the life of Tibalt and how they cannot wallow in such sadness just yet. Unfortunately, his words would not rally Mathis when Renart spoke of Roderick; Mathis flew into a rage, knocking Renart off of his feet. Pellandres stood between them, shield held high. It was there that Mathis and Renart slumped once more in despair. Pellandres tried to regroup the knights, again trying to tug on Mathis’ heartstrings when he spoke of Roderick again. This would, again, trigger a rage in Mathis. He would knock Pellandres several times; with Renart looking on, expecting to see a killing blow through the tears welling up. Pellandres lay on the floor, Mathis standing over him. But the final blow wasn’t delivered. Instead, the trio all fell into a deep depression.
They would have a vague memory of Madoc declining the Praetor’s request to fulfil King Uther’s promise of crushing the remaining French force at Rouen. The brief campaign on the continent was over.
Once home, the knights would only briefly stir for Tibalt’s funeral. Geoff being the only one of sound mind and attempting to keep Tibalt’s vision of the tournament at Berwick St James alive. Without Tibalt’s direction, however, the tournament would be little more than an elaborate autumn fete. Mathis attempted to catch the eye of a few eligible ladies, but lost out to a knight of Roderick who was famously good with a sword.
Geoff’s wife died in childbirth, whilst siring another daughter. A sad time for his household. Although he wasted little time in announcing himself back on the market.
Winter court arrived quickly for the group; a scorching season had seen some holdings struggle to yield a healthy crop, whilst others had a rich harvest. Renart continued his liaison with Lady Indeg, and wore elaborate robes displaying his own coat of arms and Lady Indeg’s personal coat of arms (minus her late husbands additions). Roderick also re-gifted Tibalt’s sword back to Renart, after he originally gave it to the Earl in memory of his cousin.
Year 489
Spring Court brought another dilemma to the knights of Earl Roderick. News of northern raids meant the lands of Lindsey were still under immense pressure from the Saxon hordes; however, there was also a much needed rebellious duke who needed to be brought to heel. The choice was between reinforcing the northern border and avoiding losing another territory to the Saxons, or bring Cornwall into the fold. Cornwall was not only one of the few remaining dukes who snubbed King Uther and refused to attend court - bringing an end to this rebellion would swing the council or leaders into acknowledging Uther as not just a king; but as Pendragon.
The group were somewhat torn; Renart felt Logres could not risk losing land in the north to the Saxon Pox, whilst the others wanted to support King Uther in becoming Pendragon. Eventually, a decision was made - and it was a compromise of sorts. The best knights would travel to Cornwall to end the rebellion, whilst the rest of the armies would head north in the hope that sheer numbers would be enough to stem the tide. The knights of Salisbury would, of course, be amongst the best heading to Cornwall; and the group seemed content with this resolution.
The journey was fraught with anxiety; the marshy and wet land made traversing with an army challenging. Competing against the Cornish on their own soil would be no easy task; but it would appear the lack of numbers, and instead trying on having only the best knights travel through to bring Duke Gorlois to the side of King Uther. It would be deep in amongst marshland, streams, and woodland when the two armies would come face to face.
Uther and his army at the bottom of a steep hill, the Cornish force at the top, under cover of their own forests. Duke Gorlois would leave the cover of the woodland and approach to parley; Uther would not be deterred and made his way engage the duke in conversation; could a peaceful ending be achieved? Words were exchanged, before Excalibur was drawn. The blinding white light emboldened Uther’s curve, whilst the Duke’s army were understandably shaken. Nonetheless, no blood was spilt. Uther and Gorlois came to agreeable terms, where Gorlois would support Uther as Pendragon, whilst retaining Cornwall as his rightful home and territories remaining in his family line - assured and promised by Uther himself.
Merriment and feasting would take up the rest of the evening, and late into the night. It would be early morning when the Cornish would pack and return home; and the knights of Roderick were offered Cornish hospitality for a restful summer season. Of course, it’s not summer for these knights if they’re not stabbing something and once it was clear there was no conflict in the south, their minds turned north. A few conversations with Roderick and the others and it would see Geoff, Pellandres, Renart and Mathis head north with 100 men of Silchester. They were under express orders not to risk their lives, but to garrison and protect the northern territory.
Arriving at Lincoln they were met by Brassius, the warden of the north. The plan was then shared that they would garrison on the cusp of the border at Eberaecum, and the Silchester force would remain there whilst Geoff, Pellandres, Renart and Mathis would participate in raids on the Saxons in the wilder northern land. From Eberaecum they planned to set up a camp in the forest, close enough to strike a number of Saxon villages from; they could return to Eberaecum if needed, but if the raids went well they would be in striking distance for several consecutive raids on Saxon villages.
The plan went smoothly, however rumours were abound of another force hunting both Saxons and the British forces. Bodies cut down by long blades; not the savage axes of the Saxons. The group would be on the lookout for an unknown foe. Raiding the first village from the forest went seamlessly. Geoff and Mathis cavalry charged from one side whilst Pellandres and Renart closed in with a charge of their own from the flank. Less than a dozen armed Saxons fell quickly, with barely a blow landed against the knights. A quick looting, followed by setting the homes ablaze and the group were ready to leave. It was then that the unknown foe became known; and better known than they could have expected.
As the group saw a group of heavily armed men on horseback approach, they considered their options. Their brief collective history flashed before them as they recognised the voice of the charging men; it was Praetor Syagrius and a handful of his knights that survived the betrayal abroad. A call of honour and a sheathing of swords meant no blades clashed and after a brief exchange Syagrius and his men were offered sanctuary at Winterborne Gunnet, with the one Roman Christian of the group. They would also help Syagrius and his men retrieve their loot and help raid more villages; although further raids proved fruitless once the Saxons had hidden their treasure following the smoke rising from the burning buildings.
Syagrius and his men would return to Salisbury and the knights would inform Earl Roderick. He understood their choice, but made it clear that this was now an incredibly complicated situation they found themselves in, but he would allow them to make a temporary home at Winterborne Gunnet. The complication came from Syagrius’ only request. That one request; to be able to confront Madoc the Betrayer next year.
Winter would see a winter court pass with Syagrius and his men remaining at Winterborne Gunnet, whilst the other spoke with Earl Roderick; and Roderick informing Mathis and Renart he would need to speak to them on the journey to Spring court in 490.
Renart continued his liaison with Lady Indeg; this time embarking on a stealthy quest to gain entry to her manor, and her bedchamber - without any of her guards being aware of Renart’s presence. This conjugal visit was completed quite successfully, and Renart continued with Romancing the Grey.
Year 490
The journey to Spring Court involved some deep and personal conversations between Mathis, Renart and Roderick. First, the news that Roderick’s wife was once again with child. A decade since his only child, a daughter, it seemed an heir may have been a lost dream. However, Roderick shared the happy news - and also shared with the duo that it was largely in part to Pagan practices in Dorset, where he and his wife met with wise women in a small village. Roderick said he was happy to share their whereabouts with Renart as it was known he was courting Lady Indeg. Earl Roderick also wanted to talk to Mathis, but more about the Syagrius situation than family. Together they agreed that the best course of action was to be public with the information of Syagrius and his current acceptance of hospitality with Mathis and his home. The news would be broken at the start of Spring Court, when everyone would be present, then there could be no attempt to claim it was hidden or concealed from anyone.
Arrival at spring court, this year being held at Warwick, made it clear Gorlois took his recent acknowledgment of being part of Uther’s kingdom seriously - Cornwall had made camp with a vast number, and this included a large number of maids. The town seemed full to the brim of young women. In the great hall Madoc made his usual display of a disrespectful entrance, and his fellows equally treating the hall like a local tavern. Despite this, Renart couldn’t withhold his compulsion to greet Madoc with a wave as Madoc and his rabble entered.
Merlin was one of the last to join, but he quickly left looking slightly concerned. Renart, not known for his decorum, asked Roderick for permission to pursue Merlin and find out what was so perplexing. Roderick granted the request and so he set off, catching up to Merlin whilst he was transfixed on a tent of Cornwall. Merlin initially tried to wave Renart away, but persistent and pig headed, Renart approached and stood side by side with his previous travelling companion (albeit of only one journey).
From the tent came Duke Gorlois, talking sweet nothings to a lady inside. Seemingly unaware of Merlin or Renart initially, he then brought himself together, with a handful of troops, and headed to the hall. Merlin and Renart also returned, but Renart couldn’t shake the feeling that they were being watched by the lady inside the tent. Returning the hall was slightly awkward; King Uther, recently appointed Pendragon, was waiting to enter once announced by Merlin so Renart was ushered in quickly by the pagan wizard. Renart was still walking back to his seat as the King was announced and the hall applauded.
Spring court opened with the news of Syagrius being found in the north and returning to Winterborne Gunnet; the news was broken by Mathis, and heckled by an initially shocked Madoc. The bastard son of Uther’s response was to declare the group collectors of bandits, Renart stood to aid Mathis by reminding Madoc that knights of valour and honour have come from Salisbury; several who have fought by Mathis’ side. Winterborne Gunnet isn’t hoarding bandits, but try to breath life into the few remaining embers of the Roman Christian church. This was dismissed by Madoc as a waste of breath, and a warning to not be burned by the attempt.
The summer campaign would be equally harrowing for some. News of 20,000 Saxons landing in the north was received. They appeared to be planning to siege Eberaecum, and then move onto Lincoln. With such a considerable force it would be an almost unending tide of Saxons plunging deep into the British territories. Uther’s orders were clear; all men must rally every fighting man they could, and rally in Malahut. The hope was to raise at least 7000 men to face the 20,000 Saxons, and under the banner of the Pendragon this may be possible. Madoc was once again instructed to stay away from the field of battle; he was to keep the bloodline of Pendragon safe in Lincoln. Gorlois would lead the left flank, and Olphius would lead the right. Roderick and the knights of Salisbury would be in the vanguard - riding directly behind Pendragon himself at the head of the army.
Mathis and Renart proposed the notion of bringing Syagrius with them, they would be a very well equipped and experienced fighting unit - and every man is needed for this battle. Roderick agreed to ask Uther for permission. It was agreed that, if Syagrius was willing, he could join the left flank under Gorlois; a man Syagrius had spent a year with when rallying for the campaign on the continent. Mathis and Renart headed together to Winterborne Gunnet to request Syagrius join them against the Saxon horde. After emotional pleas from both Mathis and Renart, calls back to the times of their fathers who fought alongside Syagrius’ people and died at Frizia, Syagrius agreed to join the armies of Logres. He wasn’t fighting for the British, he would fight for the Roman faith, and that in return Mathis would build an ornate and sizeable Roman Church at Winterborne Gunnet. This was agreed to.
The journey to Lincoln was long, and arduous, but unexciting. Arrival at Lincoln was a little more interesting, as Madoc saw Syagrius’ arrival, and short exchange of words that reinforced Syagrius’ determination to have his own justice. Telling Madoc, in Latin, that he would cut him down like a dog. Roderick took no chances and had Syagrius’ tent encircled with the rest of the Salisbury knights to avoid him forcing a confrontation. Madoc was barely seen after the terse words were given. From Lincoln the entire army would travel north; Mathis and Renart lead the other nine knights from Cholderton and Winterborne Gunnet, and around 80 foot soldiers from their hometowns, too. Rumours of both Octa and Eosa were present in the north, which rattled many in the army, but the armies would eventually come face to face on the plains in the north of Malahut. The size of the Saxon army was not understated, outnumbering the armies of Logres almost four to one. To the Saxon right (Logres’ left) was the unmistakable towering figure of Eosa. In the centre, the known banner of Octa, with the bloody head of a giant wolf, dripping with blood. The silvery glinting axe barely visible amongst the rabble.
The battle began as both armies moved toward one another; the plan was for the foot soldiers to collide first, and force a break in the infantry for the cavalry to lunge in and breach. Whilst the centre infantry ranks met, the Saxons briefly put up a shield wall, which was swiftly stopped by the Logres force - however the left flank led by Gorlois was surging forward. Roderick commented that the Cornish were foolishly looking for glory, not victory; the Salisbury knights held their ground and watched for an opportunity.
It was during the back and forth that Renart saw the position change; instead of the Logres force opening a gap for the knights to charge into, it was the Saxons that were making headway. If they didn’t intervene their own lines would be breached! This was not the position they had hoped for, but it called for action; Renart led Mathis and the knights into the Saxon wall, sealing the gap they had been trying to widen, plugging the hole that would otherwise have been broken by the Saxons. Mathis, a formidable and gigantic man cut through swathes of the Saxons; every blow felling an opponent - starting with a devastating lance charge that skewered a Saxon and impaled him on the end, he then rained his sword down upon the Saxons, cutting them to pieces. Renart, lunging wildly with his sword, would cut down many, but with nowhere near the brutal efficiency of Mathis. His rallying cry and hatred of the Saxons carried the knights deeper and deeper into the horde, and the centre frontline followed. At points the front line was cutting through the Saxons at a greater speed, inspired by the Salisbury attack.
The gap had been plugged, and the field of battle moved once again; this time the window they had been looking for opened - a possible breach in the Saxon line. Without hesitation Renart led Mathis and the knights through the breach and delved into the Saxon force. They would quickly become surrounded if it were not for a passionate fury from Renart and a bloody fountain of blood left by Mathis with every swing of his sword. They would not go through this epic battle unscathed, however; a Saxon stood tall to Renart on horseback, and even a well timed swing from the knight wouldn’t be enough to stop the biting blow of the axe cutting through the chainmail. It was a severe blow, that would have felled lesser men, and certainly required a smaller man to seek the aid of a chirurgeon; but Renart, senior in years, was a battle hardened veteran. If he still drew breath, he would use it spit in the mouth of a Saxon.
Mathis continued his devastating decimation of the Saxon troops. They could barely get to him quick enough before he would cut them down, Renart had to rely on his sword and shield, and his burning passion, as he battled several Saxons at a time, unable to crush them with the crushing blows of Mathis. It felt like a flash, but news broke that Eosa, the giant, had fallen to Logres’ left flank; the Saxons were rattled. The knights continued to push on, inspired by the news, and then the centre ranks of the Saxons were also routed and fleeing.
As the Saxons ran, an opportunity arose once more. A short distance away Renart and Mathis caught sight of Octa and his standard bearers. He had four sizeable and dangerous men around him, almost knightly looking Saxons. Two at Octa’s side, two clutching his banner. Working as if they had one mind, Mathis and Renart locked eyes, nodded, and drew up their lances. As they charged the standard bearers, Octa fled. Renart landed a lucky blow, killing the first standard bearer outright, and shattering his lance in the process. Mathis landed a hefty blow on the other, but he remained standing. These were big and dangerous Saxons. Mathis, determined to take the Saxon in single combat, drew his sword and engaged in a loud clashing of metal against the great spear wielding warrior. Renart jumped off his horse, and retrieved the banner of Octa; Blavier, in his final season as Renart’s squire, took Renart’s charger back to safety as Renart attempted to head back to the Logres line, banner in hand, stumbling under the weight of it. Mathis slew the Saxon and escorted Renart back to Roderick, before requesting permission to find Syagrius. 
Permission was granted and he found jubilation as Syagrius and Gorlois stood over the blind figure of Eosa. Equal celebration was had in the centre as Renart retrieved the banner of Octa. Mathis and Renart’s bravery and competence on the field had not gone unnoticed. Pendragon himself addressed the pair, and invited them to a celebratory feast at Lincoln in their honour. Mathis retained his Christian modesty, whilst Renart was happy to celebrate their great success. And indulgent feast, with started with them entering with the banner, and ended with a song from Lady Igwain, the breathtaking beauty of Cornwall. The King was so taken by the celebrations that he declared they would continue; every day until the end of the year, at Sarum. The King ordered all on the head table, which included Renart and Mathis, to reside at Sarum with him; family and spouses welcome.
On the way back to Sarum, Renart appointed his squire, Blavier, to the position of steward - having served him well for the last 5 years, and had now reached an age where he could no longer serve as his squire. Renart also invited Lady Indeg to join him. Days would turn to weeks, weeks to months, as time ticked by. Each night, a feast with the king, albeit not as lavish as before. Frustrations grew, Roderick wishes to return to his newborn son, but his wife did not wish to travel. The other earls and dukes also felt compelled to stay, but it was clear the king had only arranged this so that Lady Igwain and Duke Gorlois would be present, even placing a guard outside their door. Lady Indeg would attend conjugal visits, and even one of the feasts, with Renart. In the evening, she questioned why the men were so besotted with Lady Igwain; Renart skilfully dodged the query, and brought up Roderick’s information about the wise women of fertility in Dorset. Lady Indeg would agree to the pagan ritual under a handful of conditions; firstly that it would be Renart’s heir, regardless of age or gender compared to any other children born henceforth, that it would inherit all of Lady Indeg and Renart’s power and wealth, and that it would bear impaled heraldry of Renart and Indeg. All of these were agreed to by Renart.
After 10 weeks, where Syagrius had spent time teaching Latin to Mathis and Renart, they noticed Syagrius had become close with Jordans, body guard to Gorlois. After a short conversation Syagrius shared with Mathis and Renart, after a promise of strictest secrecy, that Gorlois and his Lady Igwain were escaping that night. It would be an unseasonably cold evening, with snow falling overnight, when Renart and Mathis would hear the horse hooves gallop away. The morning would come with news being delivered to the king, who would be apoplectic with rage. Overturning the table, food thrown everywhere, even Excalibur was drawn and cut deeply into the upturned table. The remaining celebrations were cancelled.
The rest of the winter season would pass by with Mathis hunting a majestic steed; but it would just manage to elude him. For now. He had hoped to gift it to Gwionna, who he also invited to Sarum. On his return, it would be clear that she was warming to his intentions as he had become a much more recognised knight in the region.
Renart would travel to Dorset, with Gorlois’ blessing, and visit the wise women of fertility. After the pagan ritual it would be discovered that Lady Indeg was indeed with child, and a male heir would be born.
Year 491
491 saw the unravelling of the lands unification under the Pendragon. Uther’s lust for Ygraine, whilst completely understandable as she is stingingly beautiful and stirs the loins of any truly red blooded man, would also lead to a brutal and climactic end of several key figures.
Spring court held no illusion of choice. The lords loyal to Uther, the Pendragon, would be rallying troops to March on Cornwall. Led by Uther himself, and his son, Madoc. The knights of Salisbury, under Earl Roderick, would be part of the Pendragon’s forces. Unlike the battles further north, Madoc and Uther would both be on the move to oust the ‘traitor’; Duke Gorlois of Cornwall. The journey was not an easy one, uneasiness was running like an undercurrent through Uther’s forces - a constant fear that the Cornish troops and Gorlois knew this land and any marsh, big or unfavourable field posed a danger as a place of ambush or unwanted combat.
Once into the land of Cornwall lay a choice. The great fortress of Terrabil lay in one direction, where Gorlois was rumoured to be. Whilst the key defensive position across the causeway, [I FORGET WHAT THIS WAS CALLED, IT’S NOT ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT?], held the prized treasure of Lady Ygraine. Uther would take half the force north towards Ygraine whilst Madoc would lead the other half, including the knights of Salisbury, to siege the daunting fortress at Terrabil. A siege would be laid quickly, surrounding the fields, far below the hills atop which Terrabil sat.
The siege would last for days, which turned to weeks; time would pass slowly, as is often the case during a siege of such an impenetrable target. It would be the depths of night, shortly before a dawn, when the Cornish would strike. From beyond the siege camps, Madoc’s forces were struck from behind. As the Salisbury knights rallied to address the ambush, a second ambush was spotted; led by none other than Syagrius. He was bloodthirsty and focussed on revenge - heading straight for Madoc himself. Gorlois and his knights bursting forth from the castle gates meant the sieging forces were now facing attacks on many fronts themselves.
Quelling the initial ambush, the knights of Salisbury turned their attention to Syagrius’ charge. Mathis and Pellandres arriving quickly, and witnessing Syagrius’ enraged assault against Madoc, were able to calm the ferocity to a barely contained single combat. Mathis convinced Syagrius to face Madoc honourably, in single combat, instead of overwhelming him and his men with the sheer prowess of the remnants of Rome. Syagrius agreed, calling his men back; and with that Pellandres and Mathis changed their focus once again, this time to Gorlois and his knights that were cleaving their own way through the sieging forces.
Renart, seeing Madoc in danger arrived to aid his brother in arms. Seeing Madoc outmatched by Syagrius, but knowing in his heart he needed to defend Uther’s only heir, he stepped in. He could not bring himself to swing a blade against Syagrius, a man he respected, but he could place himself between Syagrius and Madoc to hold back Syagrius’ fury and defend Madoc from his enraged swordplay. Syagrius, slashing and cutting deeply into the shield and even cutting through the armour of Renart, the knight of Salisbury continued to hold the line and allow Madoc to retaliate. Alas, it would be in vain. Syagrius was simply too powerful a warrior, a true veteran of Rome, and he cut down Madoc. Sated and victorious, Syagrius dropped to his knees. The exhaustion and closure of his vengeful quest left him with nothing else to prove. Renart, unable to leave the death of Madoc unanswered, cut Syagrius down with a single unopposed swing.
Meanswhile, Mathis and Pellandres held back the wave of Gorlois and his men. A vicious back and forth would see Pellandres wounded, but Mathis stand valiantly against a volatile Duke of Cornwall. Many vocal attempts to end the bloodshed from Mathis would fall on deaf ears, as the Duke determinedly swung his blade at the Salisbury knights. Sir Mathis, with outstanding horsemanship and wise swordsmanship would slay the ‘traitor’, and with the fall of the Duke, the battle would dissipate and Terrabil would fall to the forces of the Pendragon.
The forces reunited after the victory at Terrabil, and Uther’s own victory at [THAT PLACE OVER THE CAUSEWAY] would share the devastating news of the fall of Madoc; juxtaposed with the ‘happy’ news of Ygraine and Uther’s impending nuptials. Whilst some may wonder about the morals of Ygraine, marrying so promptly following her widowing, the year would end with the news that she would also quickly become pregnant with a new heir for Uther.
Year 492
The year would start with a positive court, sharing gifts in winter, including an expensive and intricate tapestry from Renart for Uther, outlining the late, great, Madoc’s victories of the last few years. The great battles and conflicts of the last few years had clearly taken a toll on Logres, and a hopefully peaceful year lay ahead. The knights would spend their year remaining in Cornwall, at the hospitality of King Uther. Mathis would lead the knights, and some of the troops, in a tournament style of training. Jousting and single combat competitions. This would also bring the attention of Morgan; one of Ygraine’s daughters. She would become quite intrigued by Mathis, who himself would become a ward or guardian of sorts for her - especially as Ygraine was reaching full term of her recent pregnancy. Morgan, unwilling to travel to the private and secret location designated for the birth, would end up staying at the castle, with Mathis agreeing to train her.
However, the other knights would become embroiled in a plan of Merlin’s. The wizard’s words were that if they wanted to “serve Logres rather than serving only the King” they should stay in Cornwall and await further instructions. That is what they had done. It would be at Merlin’s request that they would depart the castle in the middle of the night, unaware of where they were going or why they were leaving; only that they placed their trust in Merlin and that they were serving Logres as best they could. Following the wizard into the woods, they would eventually reach a small clearing. Merlin unstructured them to hold any for who came through. He vanished, before quickly returning at great haste, with a small bundle in his arms. Charging passed the knights he reminded them of their duty to hold the line. Three figures, unidentifiable in the darkness were clearly in pursuit of Merlin. Jeoff attempted to lead them astray, and drew one of the figures off into the woods chasing after him instead of Merlin. Pellandres and Renart drew their swords and engaged the remaining figures. It was only after Renart slew one of them, that they realised the remaining figure was Sir Brastias, who had sworn to protect Uther and specifically his new heir. Pellandres and Renart, initially continued their assault against Brastias until relenting; realising they were now committing treason themselves by attacking Pendragon’s own sworn protector.
Renart, Pellandres and Jeoff would be returned to Uther at the castle; Sir Mathis also informed of their treachery. It was then clear to all the knights that Merlin had kidnapped the newly born heir of Uther and Ygraine, and Renart, Pellandres and Jeoff were complicit in the kidnapping. They would stand trial for their treasonous acts.
The trial would be a wild and emotional journey, with even Earl Roderick coming to the trial to act as a form of character witness for the knights. Renart took the blame for the murder of Brastias’ soldier, and would pay several Libra to the family of the deceased. Roderick, amongst others, reiterated that whilst some of their actions had been short sighted, the knights had always acted in the best interest of Logres; and they had no idea of Merlin’s plan until it was too late. Renart was ordered to repent and surrender his pagan ways, and turn to Christianity. He refused. The end result of the trial being that Merlin, the pagan wizard, was banished and outlawed across Logres. Renart would no longer be the steward of Cholderton and would be demoted to a lowly household knight. He would remain in charge but retain none of the finances or glory that come from running a holding; and once a replacement was found he would have no leadership in his hometown.
The knights would leave the trial torn between their feelings of loyalty to Merlin, and to their King; the Pendragon.
Year 493
The news of an heir to the king was short lived, thanks to the actions of Merlin; and the direct involvement of several knights of Salisbury. The trial had publically chastised them, but the defense that they were unwitting participants in Merlin’s scheme appeared to hold. However, it was clear that whilst the Pendragon had been drawn closer to several knights (Renart and Mathis joining Uther following the Battle of Lyndsey/Eberaecum, Renart invited to Madoc’s memorial by Uther following the tapestry gift) this opinion had now soured. More than this, news of the king being gravely ill had been disseminated. The group would be tasked with travelling to the embassy at Malahaut to meet with King Heraut de Apres; but only as a small force led by Roderick, to lend support to the northern forces against the Saxon hordes that continued to grow.
the journey north was relatively uneventful. Again, this may have yet proven to be a quiet and peaceful season. Stories were shared, and the group were able to grow closer to their Lord, Earl Roderick, once more; despite some of the knights, specifically Renart, proving to be more of a liability and a relic of the past. It was once they arrived at Malahaut, and were invited into the main castle that the season of adventuring would take a sinister turn.
King Heraut de Apres was not alone, in the castle. One of the guests they had not expected to see was Ygraine’s oldest daughter, Margawse, married off to Lot shortly after Ygraine was married to Uther. King Lot was there as well, indicating an unfortunate alliance of the northern kings. There were two further guests that the knights had not planned, or hoped, to meet at Malahaut; Octa and Eosa, the Saxon war lords who they had faced in battle only a few years prior. Eosa himself was supposed to have been imprisoned back at Sarum, alas this was no longer the case following a jailbreak - the knights were stunned, and unsure of how to proceed. Renart and Mathis offered to Roderick that should be flee they would face the foes in the hall, and give him time to escape. Roderick did not show enthusiasm for this plan, and within a beat the opportunity for action had passed. Whilst they handed over their weapons, Renart was able to hide his dagger upon his person as they were then taken down to the prisons.
Several nights would pass whilst they attempted to concoct a plan to escape. Mathis, having already become close to Morgan (Ygraine’s youngest daughter) shortly before the kidnapping last year, was stirred awake by the presence of another of Ygraine’s daughters. This time Margawse, the eldest and currently entrapped wife of King Lot. After a few exchanges over the course of the next few nights a plan was devised; Margawse would help, in exchange for a favour to repaid at a later date. A dangerous deal to make with a witch; a witch with an even more powerful mother is an even more daring bargain to strike. The knights and Roderick would escape, with the aid of Margawse and one of the castle staff that they had managed to talk into their side during the daylight hours.
They would return to Salisbury with news of the unsavoury alliance between the northern territories and the Saxons. Clearly another great battle would soon be upon them; all they could do now is gather any possible allies to the side of the Pendragon before the vermin would flood south.
Year 494
The grave news of 494 was twofold. Firstly, the king remained, unsurprisingly, gravely ill as his heir remained lost; although Renart had suspicions of foul play - having attempted to plead his case to be reinstated at Cholderton last winter he had been unable to see the king, but had been told he had been ‘driven so mad’ by his grief and illness that he was even crying out for Merlin, the banished wizard. The second was the news of the northern alliance; King Lot, King Heraut and the Saxon’s vile duo of Octa and Eosa. This huge force would be moving south shortly, and the remaining lords loyal to the Pendragon would need to unite if they were to survive.
There was to be no Spring Court, with the king on his deathbed that seemed reasonable, but was still a jarring thought to not have the procedures and processes that made Logres the civilised place that it was continue unimpeded. Instead, the Salisbury knights were given a unique and perilous quest; to travel to Estragales and bring their king, King Dirac, into the fold to help defend Logres. King Dirac was a notably impressive leader, having unified the clans of Estragales and kept peace ever since, going on for around a decade.
Renart and Mathis set off together, but would meet Jeoff at Estragales. The journey would take them through Gloucester; although Renart’s bubbling hatred of the Irish would make some interactions challenging as they relied on the hospitality of the region to reach their goal. At Gloucester they would meet the twins, Caradun and Caradul. Two sons of Caen Caradoc, the Duke of Gloucester. The two twins would be in endless competition with one another, constantly one upping each other in stories and attempted deeds. After meeting with Caer Caradoc, he gave the twins permission to act as guides for Renart and Mathis, to escort them to [CARDIFF] where it was hoped that King Dirac would be present.
On arriving at [CARDIFF] they would rendezvous with Sir Jeoff, before meeting with King Dirac’s personal warden [I FORGET THE NAME]. King Dirac was deep in talks with the tribes, a matter that seemed petty to the Salisbury knights, but was clearly of great importance to the tribes, and to Dirac to maintain the long lasting peace. These talks were frequent but seemed to be indicative of his way of maintaining the peace. The knights agreed to only hand over the message from Uther to Dirac personally, but as a result they would need to spend days, possibly weeks, waiting until Dirac was able to meet with them.
It was during this time that Renart, Mathis and Jeoff indulged in a hunt for a bear, rumoured to be nearby. Jeoff proposed a wager, and to split into teams. Jeoff would take two of the local knights, whilst Renart and Mathis would only have the one, more experience local with them. The hunt would be a rollercoaster of emotions, but Renart and Mathis’ team would come out on top; Jeoff almost felling a large deer, but Renart and Mathis would slay the bear - at considerable risk but managing to survive.
On return, there would be a great feast, in honour of the hunt, and on top of this Dirac would be able to speak to the Salisbury knights. Dirac agreed to aid Uther the Pendragon; however the meal would take a sinister twist on the visit. Renart, deep in his cups, composed and sung a beautiful song in honour of Madoc, following a passionate exchange between Jeoff and Renart. However, his mood would sour and Renart would slip into a deep depression and leave promptly - but this would not be the only event of the evening. King Dirac would shortly collapse, poisoned in his own castle. Initially, his son was accused by the personal warden whom the knights were greeted by when they first arrived. The sharp kind of Mathis saw through this ruse, and challenged the warden himself. Weapons were quickly drawn and Mathis commanded the situation with a dazzling duel in single combat. Mathis, deftly defeating the warden, was forced to re-negotiate an alliance with Estragales now that Dirac was dead. It was agreed that Estragales would aid against the Saxon horde, but would be able to seek freedom and independence again after that.
A deal being struck, the knights would return to Salisbury, to prepare for the impending swarm of Saxons to move south. 
Year 495
With last year sort gathering as many allies as possible, Logres as as prepared as it could be going into the depths of winter of 494.
The armies of Logres were summoned to Sarum for New Years Day. All mustered troops, levies, household knights and able bodied men were to answer the call; Renart would take a step back in leading the Salisbury unit, as Mathis had recently married Lady Gwiona and had achieved a substantial status above the other knights, coupled with Renart’s tumbling in status it would be Mathis to lead the contingent.
Upon arrival at Sarum it would be a veritable “who’s who” of Salisbury as Earl Roderick and all of his knights would be present. Discussing the best course of action it was agreed to try and face the Saxon horde outside on the plains of St Albans. On top of this it was agreed they would try to bait the Saxons with a ruse of the great treasure hordes being moved there, and supporting the misinformation would be the banner of Octa, that Renart and Mathis had sieved at the last great battle.
An unexpected bitter sweet surprise would greet the armies at Winter Court when the plans would be announced, King Uther would be present. But he did not look well; pallid and grey, clearly struggling, even having moments of coughing up blood during the court. The armies of Logres tried to rally themselves, but it was a challenge, with even senior knights feeing the impending doom and foreboding omens.
The plan, however, would work - in a way. The Saxons were drawn to St Albans, they just arrived before the armies of Logres. Arriving to an uneasy silence, Sir Brastias would approach the gates before an ambush would be sprung. Mathis, leaping to the lead requested permission from Roderick to engage - and it was granted. Seizing the smallest of opportunities the knights would charge the gate and carve enough of a gap to allow Sir Brastias to escape the ambush and retreat. They would attempt to hold the gate against an onslaught of Saxons until Mathis came to his senses and drew the knights back. It was there that they would lay siege to their own city of St Albans.
The siege would not be a long one. It would be shortly before dawn one morning when the sounds of battle would awaken the knights. Roderick ordered Mathis and the others to circle around the city from the North. Fitting their armour and mounting their horses took time, but was a necessity to engage in the pitched battle ahead. Riding around the city and joining the other armies of Logres it was as if a dam inside the city had burst and an torrent of Saxons was pouring from the city gates. Amongst them was the giant, Eosa. Mathis attempted to gather his mind and command the troops into a charge.
Perhaps it was his youth the challenge of the new command, maybe it was the rumours from the Pagans about the end times arriving, whatever it was Mathis became shaken, almost maddened by his passion and pressure to be the most honourable knight. He broke ranks and rode for the forests nearby.
Renart would quickly lead the remaining troops into a foolhardy charge for Eosa. The battle would be unpredictable, and the Saxons clearly had the numbers. Jeoff and Renart would do their best to cut through the tank and file, pushing (arguably suicidally) towards the giant. Logres troops would flee, some would remain and fight in the wake of Jeoff and Renart. I’m nice they reached the giant Renart ignored the peons, leaving Jeoff to take on numerous Saxon footman. Renart focused on Eosa. Eosa’s rage would be Renart’s life line as his wild swings would only land a few grazing blows. Eventually Renart would take Eosa’s head.
As the giant fell the knights pushed on to Uther, who would also be found victorious over the body of Octa. It seems the day was won.
Finding Mathis and returning to Sarum it would be the feast where the true horror would take place. Whilst the men feasted in the main hall, Renart even breaking his pledge to ‘slake his loins’ in a busty wench, the lords celebrated elsewhere. With only Mathis still of sound mind at the meal, a cry would ring out. Mathis would run to aid the distressed woman, only to find Uther, Roderick and almost all the lords of Logres dead. Poisoned at their own celebrations.
=== YEAR 495 CONT. ===
Sir Mathis, his heart steadfast with loyalty to his liege, hastened to the side of Earl Roderick, who lay at death’s door. With solemn vow, Sir Mathis pledged his very life to safeguard young Robert. Yet, dark clouds gathered, for it was soon discovered that the sacred blade Excalibur was lost. Sir Mathis, resolute, returned to his company, decreeing the castle be sealed till the matter was unraveled.
The treachery of the Saxons knew no bounds, for they had tainted the lords' rich wine with poison. Sir Amyig and Duke Ulfius, by fate’s mercy, were spared, having abstained from the feast. Thus, they were safeguarded and found free of suspicion.
Sir Hywel, Sir Amyig, and Sir Elad bore the grievous task of delivering the sorrowful tidings to the Lady Ellen, widowed and alone in Sarum. Knights of Salisbury gathered to pay their respects, as the bodies of Uther and Roderick were kept in reverence for a time. Earl Roderick was laid to eternal rest in the cathedral, while the High King, the Pendragon, found his final repose beside his kin at Stonehenge.
Knights were summoned to Sarum to pledge fealty to the young Earl Robert, a mere child of three winters. The grieving Lady Ellen, stripped of her husband, accepted the mantle of Countess to steward the young Earl and the county through the coming stormy days. Sir Mathis and Lady Gwiona rejoiced with the birth of their first child, naming him Heringdale in honor of his forebear.
=== Year 496 ===
In the year 496, the company of knights raised their banners and marched south to join forces with Prince Cymric and King Cerdic of Wessex, who had carved out a dominion on the southern coast. Peace prevailed, as the folk of Wessex welcomed their new lords. Tidings came of the late Queen Ygraine and her daughter Morgan residing in a nunnery.
Winter's chill set in, and the fortifications of Sarum stood strong under the knights' watchful eyes. Sir Amyig showed signs of age as Sir Mathis fortified Winterbourne Gunnet. The Anarchy gripped the land, with Saxon raids wreaking havoc. Yet, the knights, aided by their stewards, managed their estates through the turmoil. Sir Mathis found solace with Lady Gwiona, delighting in the strategic game of Ludom, a cherished gift from her grandfather Leonan, which she played with great fervor.
=== Year 497 ===
Spring brought new beginnings in 497, and with it a new court held by the resilient Countess Ellen. The knights, loyal to her late husband, showed her the respect she rightfully earned. New faces and old heraldry graced the court, including Saxon and Wessex envoys, and messengers from Silchester and Caercolun, the latter thought lost to the East Saxons.
Aelthing Aescwine and Aelthing Cynric offered protection in exchange for coin. News came of Duke Ulfius paying tribute to King Aiel of Sussex, and most notably, of Duke Caercolun's survival and need for aid in reclaiming Colchester. Sir Mathis and Sir Renart saw this as a chance to restore old alliances against the Saxon threat. The Countess, though wary, granted their request. She paid Prince Cynric for protection with wealth and livestock.
Sir Renart and Sir Mathis raised their levies, joining the Duke at Colchester. They discovered Merlin, who guided them to Saxon supplies hidden in a cave. The knights engaged a Saxon force, where Sir Mathis encountered the Knight of Tusks. In a display of honor, the Knight of Tusks dismounted to duel Sir Mathis, who emerged victorious. Struck by the honour shown by the Saxon Knight of Tusks, it stuck with Sir Mathis. The supplies were reclaimed, and the enslaved freed. The bounty was sent to Sarum, honoring the Countess.
Summer saw the knights patrolling Salisbury. Sir Mathis, teaching leadership through restorative justice, maintained his estates and continued fortifying Winterbourne Gunnet. News arrived of the successful siege of the Isle of Wight and the fall of Tintagel to King Idras of Brittany.
=== Year 498 ===
As spring dawned in 498, rumors of Saxon aggression spread. Saxon envoys at court upheld Salisbury's traditions, with Merlin present among them. Kings Aiel, Aethelswith, and Cerdic demanded payment or threatened war. With Salisbury unable to pay indefinitely, a proposal emerged: to offer Lady Jenna's hand to Prince Cynric of Wessex, thus allying the counties and supporting Cerdic’s claim to high kingship.
Despite Sir Mathis's impassioned outburst, Wessex agreed to the match, and a wedding was planned on the Isle of Wight. Sir Mathis, vowing to protect Lady Jenna, sought forgiveness for his earlier wrath.
Merlin, seeking passage to Dorchester before leaving for Frankia, encountered Black Dogs, servants of Saxon witches. He counseled Sir Mathis on his curse and requested a favor concerning Sir Ector and his squire, Kay. The knights met Sir Ector and his young wards, including a boy called Wart, destined for greatness.
Upon their return, the knights escorted Lady Ygraine and Morgan to the Isle of Wight. Morgan’s jest upon Sir Mathis, a reminder of past duties, whereby he was charged with her safety. An embarrassing moment ensured and led to a public rebuke during a dance when Morgan attempted to kiss Sir Mathis, who rebuffed it. Gossip of Sir Mathis's affection for Lady Jenna spread.
Sir Mathis confided his curse to Lady Gwiona. Sir Renart and Lady Gwiona agreed to enter the faerie realm with him. There, Lady Gwiona bested Tam Tripl at Ludom, lifting the curse. Tragically, Lady Gwiona perished in childbirth, leaving Sir Mathis with their newborn son, Leonan. Swearing an oath of celibacy, Sir Mathis built a mausoleum for his beloved wife.
=== Year 499 ===
In the spring of 499, Prince Marc of Cornwall, an elegant and charming figure influenced by Frankish culture, proposed a union. His presence at court was captivating, and the ensuing discussions focused on the relations between Cornwall and Wessex. After much debate, the decision was made to support Wessex, leading the knights to ride forth to meet with Cerdic.
On their journey, they encountered a young boy named Pertone, bearing the heraldry of the late Earl Bledry. He was accompanied by several household knights and Countess Lorelle of Rydychan, whose lands had been seized by three brothers. Despite her attire being several years out of date, she sought aid to reclaim her lands.
The three brothers who had taken control were Sir Bassil in Wallingford, Sir Bejg in Sherborne, and Sir Bellus in Oxford. The company agreed to help her, raising their levies to march against the usurpers. They succeeded with minimal losses, restoring the lands to their rightful owner.
Returning home for winter, Sir Mathis spoke with Cwenwere, the nursemaid of his children. It was revealed that Leonan, though only a year old, appeared to be four years old and had bitten his brother Heringdale. This indicated that the curse of Tam Tripl still lingered, marking Leonan as a changeling.
=== Year 500 ===
With newfound confidence from their recent success, Sir Renart hired mercenaries and marched upon his homeland of Cholderton, determined to reclaim it. Sir Mathis, initially unaware of his friend's intentions, discovered the plan during a visit to Lady Indeg's estate. Despite his attempts to counsel Renart differently, he accompanied him on the journey.
As they neared Cholderton, Sir Mathis requested leave to speak with Sir Lyceus to prevent bloodshed and civil war. He found that Sir Lyceus had sent his men away to Cornwall as mercenaries, leaving Cholderton vulnerable. Thus, Sir Renart regained his homeland but had to confess his actions to Countess Ellen. Disappointed but understanding, she allowed him to keep his lands on the condition that he report all his actions for the coming years.
Determined to rid himself of the curse and rescue his son from the Forest of Sauvage, Sir Mathis, along with Sir Renart, set off for Wandborough and Cricklade. They aimed to follow the Rollright Stones into the forest. Sir Bourton, their host, warned them of the forest's dangers and spoke of a three-colored monster, possibly the Questing Beast. He also mentioned a knight who had lost his way seeking it, perhaps Sir Pellinore.
In the forest, they encountered Earl Melier of Tribuit, who had been trapped there for decades. His heraldry, a stag with horns, seemed very pagan and British. He recalled events from the years 462 and 463, the times of Vortigern and the treachery at Stonehenge. The Roman-built roads seemed to change around them, reflecting the forest's mystical nature.
The knights eventually reached a gatehouse and entered Buckingham, where they met Sir Yves. His heraldry bore two types: a silver rearing buck and a gold rearing stag. Sir Yves had a majestic faerie horse, Thistle, and insisted on a race before allowing them to proceed. Sir Mathis accepted the challenge, pacing himself wisely.
Sir Yves spoke of Oberon, King of the Forest, and his queen, Titania. The knights continued their quest and found a castle within the forest. The invisible lord of the manor, the King That Never Was, resembled Madoc. Sir Mathis faced three tests: the Gallant (knightly abilities), the Lady (courtesy), and the Dwarf (reasoning). He succeeded and was reunited with his son, Leonan, while agreeing to raise the changeling, named Sitham.
=== Year 501 ===
The company gathered in Tilshead to knight young Florence, a handsome and eager man well-versed in courtly ways. It was announced that Morgan would be married to King Uriens of Gorre, similar to her sister Morghause's marriage to King Lot.
At the winter court, Earl Robert, with his mother Countess Ellen's guidance, presided. Sir Florence became the first knight under Earl Robert. In the spring, two matters were addressed: King Nantleot of Estregales petitioned for mercenaries to rid Logres of Saxons, and Duke Ulfius, alongside King Aiel, sought support against the Kentish Saxons. The court decided to allow knights to act as mercenaries, and the company was tasked with escorting Morgan to her wedding.
During their journey near Hadrian's Wall, Lady Ygraine and Morgan were attacked by Saxons while bathing in a river. The knights fought fiercely, and Sir Mathis discovered Morgan's power when hundreds of birds attacked two Saxon bodies near her.
At the wedding, the company observed the formidable defenses and the gathering of northern lords, including King Lot, King Nentred of Malahaut, and King Uriens. King Lot offered Sir Renart the position of marshal, but Renart declined, pledging instead to show mercy to Lot's lineage.
Returning home, Sir Mathis struggled with the winter. His son Leonan fell ill and died, plunging him into deep grief. He spent the winter in mourning, commemorating his son and his late wife Gwiona with engravings in the mausoleum.
=== Year 502 ===
At the spring court, Earl Robert hosted several guests, including Prince Cynric and Earl Uffo, son of Duke Ulfius. Earl Uffo conveyed news of his father's health and King Aiel's intention to harry the Anglian Saxons. Additionally, King Port had taken Portsmouth to establish trade with Wessex, prompting a request for aid against Jagent.
Despite initial reluctance from some, including Florence, the company agreed to raise their levies in support of Wessex. They marched through Ilchester, encountering the ravaged town, and faced Earl Tegfen in battle. Their superior numbers led to a swift victory, with Earl Tegfen beheaded and shown no mercy after refusing to join Wessex.
=== Year 503 ===
The troubling and turbulent years rolled on, and the spring of 503 was no different. Court was held once more by the young Earl Robert, merely 11 years old, and whispers abounded that Cerdic and Cynric deemed him too weak to hold Salisbury.
During the court, a message arrived from Earl Uffo of Silchester: two Saxon kings were marching upon London, those of the East Saxons and the Kentish. They sought aid. Sir Mathis and Sir Renart, part of the older guard, fondly remembered the days under Earl Robert’s father, Earl Roderick, and the banner of Uther Pendragon. Silchester had always been their greatest and closest ally, with Duke Ulfius almost a second lord to the knights. They did not hesitate to support Silchester, and they spent time impressing upon Sir Florence the importance of their oldest allies.
Initially, Sir Mathis considered raising only his household knights, having raised his entire levy for the past three years, knowing the toll it took on the men. However, understanding the gravity of the coming battle, he decided to raise the full levy once again. Sir Mathis and Sir Renart petitioned Prince Cynric for assistance, arguing that aiding Silchester now would benefit his future claim to the High Kingship. Cynric agreed partially, bringing only a small elite guard of about 20 battle-hardened knights.
As the company marched towards London, it was decided that one in four would stay to defend the city walls. The rest marched to meet the East Saxons on the road, heading towards Staines and Windsor. At Windsor Bridge, they saw Kent Saxons mooring on the shore and unloading Cymric siege equipment, with the mercenary Sir Helifir aiding them. Sensing a trap, Prince Cynric counseled retreat and rode off with his elite guard.
Undeterred, Sir Mathis, Sir Florence, under the stalwart leadership of Sir Renart led a charge of about 70 knights on horseback, breaking from the main group to harry the Kentish Saxons and destroy the siege equipment. Sir Renart leads this tremendous lance charge against the burly Saxons, their shields splintering and lances breaking on impact. The knights fought fiercely, hacking at the seasoned warriors from Kent.
In the thick of the fray, Sir Mathis cleaved his way through the enemy, just as Sir Florence takes a blow, and Sir Renart bravely engaged multiple assailants, cutting his sword deep into Saxons bellies but taking a wound himself. Torn between aiding his young protégé and his closest friend, Sir Mathis chose to assist Sir Florence, recalling Countess Ellen's words to help raise the young knight. Despite his efforts, Sir Florence fell unconscious, his squire dragging him from the field.
Sir Mathis then turned to aid Sir Renart, but time seemed to slow as he witnessed a Saxon sergeant raise a heavy axe and strike Renart down. Despite Sir Mathis's desperate efforts, he arrived too late, feeling powerless. He cut through a remaining Saxon and shouted to the devils to flee. As they did so the skirmish at the bridge gave a cheers. Distinctly a Saxon celebration as the bridge fell. Silchester's men were either routed or slain, and Sir Renart lay dead.
Sir Mathis gathered the bodies of his fallen comrades and returned to London, bringing the grievous news to Earl Uffo. Sir Florence, despite the ladies’ attempts to save him, succumbed to his wounds. With no time to grieve, Sir Mathis prepared for the siege, expecting the Kentish Saxons and East Saxons to arrive soon.
Days later, as the Saxons surrounded the city walls, banners appeared on the horizon. Duke Ulfius, having survived with a small force, marched upon the entrenched Saxons, causing them to flee. It was a bittersweet victory at great cost.
Returning to Salisbury for the winter, Sir Mathis lamented the loss of his dearest friend, who had stood by him through the hardest times. Sir Renart, who had bravely helped Sir Mathis in his quests within the Faerie realm, was laid to rest at Stonehenge, befitting his pagan ways. Sir Mathis thanked his squire Stearc for his assistance during the turmoil and took on Sir Renart’s son, Sebastian, as his new squire.
=== Year 504 ===
As the spring court of 504 dawned, Sir Gracian of Baverstock reached the age of 21 and was knighted. Sir Mathis announced his intentions to build more defenses on his estates of Wylie and Dinton, expressing his concerns to the court. He suggested that Salisbury must continuously improve to keep up with others who had developed their warcraft and siegecraft.
Sir Leo approached Sir Mathis, sharing his concerns and suggesting that a time might come when they would face enemies as sophisticated as themselves. He mentioned that Sir Elad, though unwell and stubborn, needed to be addressed regarding the marshallship. Sir Mathis offered his support to Sir Leo.
Sir Lac, now a knight, secretly delivered a message on behalf of Nantleod, offering the option to side with Nantleod and let them pass through to Wessex. Countess Ellen sought Sir Mathis's advice on the matter, and he spent a sleepless night considering the options. Ultimately, he advised remaining with Wessex, raising his levy once more and marching with them to take Bath. A battle was narrowly avoided when Prince Marc pledged allegiance to King Cerdic.
The winter court brought more dire news. Rydychan and Marlborough had fallen to Escavalon and Nantleod, and war was inevitable in the coming year, casting a heavy shadow over the land.
=== Year 505: ===
Diary of Sir Gracian Year 505
Spring Court arrived swiftly this year, hastened by the impending threat of war with King Nanteleod. The tension weighed heavily upon us as we prepared for the clash we expected to descend upon Salisbury, our home. But fate had other plans. Nanteleod's forces struck Silchester, catching us off guard and leaving Levcomagus in ruins before our eyes. Wessex, our trusted allies, burned with readiness for battle, but our numbers were few, and the absence of Sussex left a bitter taste in our mouths.
Lord Robert, as inexperienced as a newborn lamb, faced his first test on the battlefield at just fifteen years old, while I, Sir Gracian, tasted the reality of battle as a knight for the first time. Sir Mathis, seasoned and stalwart, led the vanguard in Lord Robert's place, but fate struck him down with a grievous lance wound, leaving him senseless on the ground. Sebastian, his squire, showed true courage, standing between his master and death's embrace. Facing a knight that might have just saved Sir Mathis's life.
In the chaos of battle, I found myself thrust into the heart of the fray, dealing decisive blows amidst the clamor. Yet, even in the heat of conflict, principles of chivalry prevailed, as I spared a fallen foe and engaged him in honorable combat on foot. With Sir Mathis injured and our allies faltering, I took command, leading the vanguard once more in a desperate charge against the encroaching enemy.
As dusk fell upon the battlefield, we found ourselves forced to retreat, not due to lack of courage or skill, but because we were vastly outnumbered. King Cerdic's anger burned bright in the aftermath, but our spirits remained unbroken as we tended to our wounded and counted our blessings. Sir Mathis, saved from death's grip by the tender care of the womenfolk, emerged from the battle scarred but alive.
In the aftermath, Sir Leo returned, bearing bruises as marks of his trials, yet his survival brought relief to our hearts. News of Cerdic's victory over Nanteleod reached our ears, yet the spoils of triumph were beyond our reach, denied to us by the cruel whims of power and greed. As we look to the year ahead, with scarce resources and uncertain futures, we are called forth once more into the fray, bound by duty and honor to defend our land and our lord.
506 (as recorded by squire Sebastian
In the year 506, as recorded by Sebastian, the squire to Sir Mathis, Sir Mathis decided a chronicle of their battles was needed, and tasked Sebastian with the job. Mathis planned to request permission from Robert for Sebastian to attend future courts. One day, Gracian saw a young handmaiden leaving Merlin’s chambers and, upon chasing her, commanded her to stop, but she vanished. Mathis, Sebastian, and Gracian investigated Merlin’s quarters, finding the drawers empty and a false bottom discarded. They discovered a secret passageway in the storeroom, leading out to a copse of trees about 100 feet outside Sarum’s walls, where they encountered a panther.
In a close quarters battle, Mathis wounded the panther, but Gracian was badly injured. The panther fled, and the group returned to Sarum. Mathis then recruited Sir Leo and questioned him about the Arch Druid. Following the blood trail from the wounded panther, they found an underground grotto below the river, with cave paintings of giant cattle hunts and a bronze door marked with a bull symbol. Turning back from the door, they encountered the panther again and, after a fight, killed it. They found the wounded panther nuzzling a cub in its den; Mathis put the panther out of its misery and took the cub home.
Deciding to leave the passageway unsealed for future use in case of evacuation or siege, they heard news of King Lot marching south to take Lynsey from Nantleod. Somerset aligned with Nantleod, breaking from Wessex. Meanwhile, Gracian befriended a magpie, and Sebastian continued his studies in Silchester, participating in grand melees and squire tournaments. Mathis built a den for the panther cub at Winterbourne Gunnet, where the cub grew close to the boys, even sleeping on their beds. Sitham revealed his new coat of arms, a panther on a field of green. Gracian met Nineve, wearing a ring he had left for the magpie, offered her hospitality, learned a little about her, and fell in love.
507 (as recorded by squire Sebastian)
In 507, at the spring court in Sarum, heraldry of Prince Mark and Prince Alain de Carlion was present. Sebastian was allowed to attend but not speak. A messenger from Wessex announced an alliance with Port. Earl Robert offered knights the option to send the princes away, but Mathis advised against insulting them. Prince Mark, speaking first, requested Salisbury join Cornwall and Wessex to march on Somerset and then north against Nantleod, whose army was reported to be 15,000 strong. Prince Alain de Carlion brought a message from Nantleod, regretting potential conflict but warning of a possible march on Salisbury.
Earl Robert proposed garrisoning an army at Sarum and preparing to march west with Cornwall to fight Nantleod at Somerset, which the court agreed to. At Castle Vagon, the army was filled with trepidation about Robert’s inexperience, but Mathis, as Marshal, provided some calm. Mathis visited the aging Sir Elad, who asked them to keep Salisbury alive and not to trust anyone. Elad’s parting words to Mathis were to trust in the spirit and heart of Salisbury.
Mathis led the main body of the army, with Gracian in the main body, Sir Leo leading the vanguard, and Sir Barr the rear guard. Earl Robert, though anxious, was determined. Mathis suspected they would be in the vanguard with Cerdic leading the main army. The Salisbury army marched to Wells, where scouts reported that King Cerdic planned to take Bath and then Cirencester, with Cornwall yet to arrive. As they emerged from Selwood Forest, they saw a large standing army from Sussex and Saxons, with 2000 from Wessex, 2500 from Sussex, and 2000 from Salisbury.
Despite being outnumbered 2:1 against Nantleod, Cerdic planned to march north before Nantleod’s forces swelled further. Cerdic, in a rage, ordered preparation to march in the morning. Cynric explained the missing forces from Sussex and the continent, attributing it to Cerdic’s leadership. Mathis urged Robert to prepare the army. Gracian proposed a night raid, but it was deemed unwise. The army marched to Bath, re-supplied, and scouts reported a force at Blakemore Forest and Chippenham.
In a meeting, Cerdic was prescriptive with Cynric and insisted on fighting at Chippenham. Salisbury was placed in the rear guard due to Cerdic’s distrust of Robert’s combat ability. Mathis challenged Cerdic’s decision, but was rebuffed. Scouts were sent to find Cornwall. The next morning, a northern force was spotted, and Mathis was allowed to take 150 knights to engage them. Gracian, taking a more reckless approach, led the knights to face the northern force. They engaged successfully, breaking the enemy battalion and capturing the commander, Canion of Camelliard.
Mathis and Gracian met King Idres, who informed them Prince Mark would not join the war that year. Idres intended to stay in Bath. They returned to Bath, and word came from Robert that Chippenham was under siege. Mathis asked Idres to join them in marching to Chippenham. Upon arrival, they found Chippenham abandoned by the enemy, but Robert deemed it indefensible. The summer saw low-impact skirmishes, with the greatest battle being the one fought by Gracian and Mathis alongside Cornwall. King Idres eventually returned to Cornwall, extending hospitality to Gracian in Cornwall and Brittany, inviting him to partake in chess.
508 (as recorded by Sebastian, squire to Sir Mathis)
In the spring of that tumultuous year, the court of Salisbury was somber. News had arrived that King Cerdic was gravely ill, a revelation that sent ripples of unease through the kingdom. His son, Cynric, had departed to Normandy with no indication of when or if he would return, leaving the realm in a precarious state. With Nantleod’s army poised and ready, Salisbury found itself isolated, like a ripe fruit waiting to be plucked by the enemy. The mood in Salisbury was dismal, for they faced an army ten times their size with no allies in sight.
Earl Robert, turning eighteen, entered the court with his mother, Lady Ellen, by his side. Despite his youth, there was a growing respect for him among his knights. He was seen as a man forged in the fires of constant warfare, having known little else in his life. The anticipation was heavy as messengers from Wessex, shrouded in thick, black cloaks, arrived. Their appearance alone, hiding out of sight due to the tumultuous rumors from Wessex, was enough to heighten the tension in the court.
Eight messengers entered, some armed with Saxon seax and others with swords, demanding the servants leave. The leader of this grim procession revealed himself to be none other than King Cerdic, much to the court’s astonishment. Among the eight were Cynric and several knights of Wessex. Cerdic, in a decisive move, proposed a daring strategy: Salisbury should allow Nantleod to occupy their lands and then lure him further south into a trap.
Earl Robert, ever cautious, requested to hear the entire plan before agreeing. Cerdic thus transformed the spring court into a war council. He explained that they would have to endure Nantleod’s occupation, not knowing how long it would last, and then march south after him. This strategy would surround Nantleod’s 10,000-strong army with the combined forces of Wessex, Sussex, continental mercenaries, and Cornish troops, totaling around 10,000 men.
Despite Mathis’s reservations about the significant risk Salisbury was taking—essentially giving up their land and risking their small force to prevent Nantleod’s escape—Cerdic reminded them that respect was earned through actions, not just claimed. He promised that if Salisbury undertook this perilous task, they would be treated as equals, solidifying Robert’s status as an Earl under Cerdic. Aware of the slim alternatives, Earl Robert agreed to the plan.
Lady Ellen, in a private moment, reminded the knights that any betrayal of Cerdic could endanger Princess Jenna’s life. Robert then devised his strategy: Mathis would stay in Sarum, Barr and Leo would monitor the northern roads, and Salisbury would maintain minimal interaction with Nantleod, neither opposing nor surrendering to him outright. The risk was high; if Nantleod didn’t march south, Sarum might only hold out for a few months. Levies were to be raised discreetly, ready to move at a moment’s notice.
Mathis gathered his levies at Winterbourne Gunnet, while the knights assembled at Castle Vagon. In a reflective moment, Mathis apologized to Lady Ellen for the position they were in. He recalled his decisions—marrying Lady Jenna to Cynric and declining Lady Ellen’s earlier offers to side with Nantleod—which now seemed to culminate in this dire predicament.
During the preparations, Mathis encountered Cynric, who forewarned him that this year could be the last for many friends. Cynric spoke gravely about the impending battle that would determine whether Nantleod or Cerdic would prevail. Expressing his gratitude, Cynric assured Mathis that, should he fall, his heirs would be cared for by his wife, Jenna. “Some may question my honor, but none will question my valor,” Cynric declared.
Weeks passed, and scouts reported that Nantleod’s force, numbering 15,000, was camped at Upavon, poised to reach Sarum the next day. Robert remained resolute against surrendering Sarum. In a bold move, Lady Ellen, accompanied by a small guard, exited the gates to negotiate directly with Nantleod. Her feminine charm and diplomacy were evident as she engaged Nantleod in a prolonged discussion. Upon her return, she confirmed that Nantleod viewed Salisbury as no threat and was unlikely to attack.
Nantleod’s army settled into camp, preparing for a longer stay. He and his bodyguard inspected Sarum’s defenses, addressing the men on the palisades with a vision of returning to Briton’s roots, under true Pendragons, against foreign invaders. Nantleod announced he would march south in the morning and return to claim Lady Ellen as his queen, a promise she had made to ensure his departure.
The people of Salisbury, unaware of the full plan, felt a mix of relief and apprehension. Robert, steadfast in his resolve, prepared the levies and addressed his men, emphasizing the need for victory. Mathis, appointed as his marshal, supported him, while Barr would lead the vanguard. The marshlands ahead posed a challenge, favoring infantry over cavalry, which suited the Saxon forces.
As Nantleod left, Salisbury’s forces, now somewhat bolstered but with low morale, followed. A messenger soon reported that Wessex intended to close the trap at Netley Marsh. Camping just an hour or two behind Nantleod’s army, Mathis and Robert struggled to lift their army’s spirits.
Upon reaching the marsh, they observed Nantleod’s reduced force of about 9000, unaware of the approaching threat from Salisbury and Wessex. Mathis advised adhering to the plan to draw Nantleod out. In the first charge, Mathis engaged fiercely, breaking lances and clashing in brutal melee. Despite the intense combat, he managed to cut down several foes.
A critical moment came when Mathis saw Cynric making a suicidal charge towards Nantleod. Despite the overwhelming odds, Mathis decided to join him, unwilling to let Princess Jenna’s husband face death alone. In a dramatic confrontation, Cynric mortally wounded Nantleod, causing his forces to break and flee. The victory was decisive, though costly, with Salisbury’s forces shattered and morale low.
As summer ended, news arrived of Derfel taking over Lynsey after the previous Duke fell to Nantleod’s forces. Despite their triumph, Salisbury’s army was heavily diminished, and many regretted not siding with Nantleod. Over the winter, Sebastian found solace in Sarum, connecting with Renart’s old friends and receiving a letter, directing him to Frankia if he felt he had earned the right to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Meanwhile Mathis was able to unlock the knowledge of Nantleod’s superior armour; this would be a fruitful boon to the smiths of Salisbury. 
In tragic turn of event, Heringdale sadly passed away - leaving his father, Mathis, heartbroken and distraught once more. It seems that if there is a God of the Christians, he has a sickening interest in the pain of this great man. I do not wish to worship this perverse being. I will console Mathis the best I can.
Diary of Sir Gracian Year 508 - A Solo Summer Adventure
The year 508 has proven to be one of the most extraordinary and transformative of my life. Early in the year, I received a summons from Lady Nyneve, an enchanting woman with whom I had spent a winter, falling deeply in love. She seemed to possess mystic powers, and her invitation to Oxford set my heart alight with anticipation and curiosity.
Upon my arrival, I was charged with the task of escorting Nyneve and her handmaidens through the enigmatic Forest of Sauvage. My loyal squire, Evaret, accompanied us. Nyneve, in her modest black robes and with an enchanting face framed by platinum white hair, warned me of the strangeness that lurks within the forest. Her beauty was beyond compare, and though she was distant, our eyes spoke of a deeper connection.
On our first night, I introduced Nyneve to the game of chess. As we played, she shared tales of her upbringing and her ability to see and alter the future, though at a cost. She mentioned that losing her power required a sacrifice of intimacy. Nyneve also spoke of the three Ladies of the Lake: her ward Nimue, the crone Viviene, and implied herself as the mother figure.
The loser of our chess game had to run into the stream where we camped. Nyneve lost, and to my surprise, she disrobed and entered the water. Following her, I found that she vanished into the shallow stream. Placing my head in the water, I discovered a hidden world beneath, where we made love for the first time. When I awoke in the morning, I was back on the riverbank, naked with only a ring I had given her summers before, when she visited me as a bird during my illness.
Despite the intimacy we shared, the following morning was marked by a return to distance between us. It was clear she did this deliberately to prevent herself from falling in love.
On the second day, we encountered a man dressed in rags but wearing polished shoes. He claimed a knight named Goroduc had given him the shoes. I gave him my cloak and some silver to help him on his journey and protect him from the cold. Nyneve cautioned me to be careful with whom I shared my name and promised to get me a fine cloak upon our return. That night, despite my attempts to engage her in conversation, Nyneve remained distant.
The next day in the forest, we met a group of noblewomen in Cornish style clothing and makeup. They seemed out of place, yet knew all the proper etiquette. Their leader, Blanche de Blanche, asked if I was a good man. I responded by listing the Christian virtues and speaking of my actions in battle, proclaiming that the knights of Salisbury were the best of men. Though they appeared interested in me, I declared my heart belonged to only one person. Nyneve gave a half-smile at this but remained aloof. As we camped that night, the world felt different, almost drunk, with a feeling of anxiety over me. The air in the Forest of Sauvage is truly unique.
On the third day of our journey, I questioned if Nyneve truly needed an escort, as she seemed to know the forest well. However, events proved the necessity of my presence. As we approached a peculiar clearing, I hesitated, feeling the forest might be playing tricks. Nyneve sighed and trotted forward on her horse. Feeling my valor insulted, I charged ahead, only to find everyone behind me falling asleep on their horses. Panicking, I rushed back to find only Evaret still awake. Together, we managed to rescue Nyneve and her handmaidens, escaping the magical trap that had claimed their horses. Nyneve apologized for her reaction, and I offered her the back of my horse, but she chose to walk. I took one of her handmaidens, noticing jealousy in Nyneve's eyes.
That night, Nyneve revealed her true mission: to end the suffering of a dear friend afflicted by a terrible disease. Upon reaching the hut, we found her friend in a wretched state. As her handmaidens gathered the necessary herbs, Nyneve and I played chess again. She confided her hesitation, and I reassured her that she knew what had to be done. She performed the merciful act, and I held her as she wept, telling her it was alright to grieve.
That night, Nyneve came to my room, and our union was more than just physical; it was a profound connection. In the morning, I gave her a chess piece from our first game and declared my love. She smiled and said she preferred a man of action, leading to us making love again. We laughed afterward, and she asked me to marry her. We wed immediately, and she fulfilled her promise, obtaining a beautiful white cloak for me. This will be my lucky charm that will accompany me forever.
Upon our return from the forest, we discovered that ten months had passed, though it felt like only five days. I missed Spring Court and whatever unfolded in the summer, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat. Those ten months were the happiest of my life, and I have never felt more complete.
509 (as recorded by Sebastian, squire to Sir Mathis and now Sir Sebastian of Cholderton)
### Spring Court and the Dramatic Shifts
The spring of 509 saw significant changes, following the upheaval of the previous year when Nantleod died. As preparations were underway for the court session, there was a palpable excitement in the air, especially with the upcoming knighthood of Sebastian, marking his transition to Sir Sebastian. The atmosphere at Sarum was filled with anticipation, with notable discussions and interactions among the knights and nobility.
Sebastian, maintaining his tradition of honoring his father, encountered Sir Brastias en route to court. The two spoke briefly, discussing the Latin tomes shared by Syagrius and kept at Silchester. Brastias, who was at court on behalf of Duke Ulfius, mentioned he would speak with Sebastian after his official duties were completed.
Inside the great hall, Mathis engaged in light banter with Sir Barr and Sir Leo, reminiscing about his heroics from the last summer. However, the mood shifted as Mathis shared the sorrowful news of his eldest son, Heringdale's, passing. His friends tried to comfort him, suggesting that they would reunite in heaven, but Mathis’s shaken faith left him unconsoled. As a gesture of sympathy, Sir Leo offered him mead.
As the court session was about to commence, Sebastian returned just in time, whispering to Mathis that Sir Brastias was present. Shortly thereafter, Earl Robert and Countess Ellen entered. Robert, now 19, showed signs of maturity and bore a striking resemblance to his father, Earl Roderick. Robert announced a significant deviation from tradition: he would be knighted at Castle Vagon this year, rather than waiting. Sir Mathis was to officiate his knighting, and Robert would subsequently knight Sebastian and the other candidates.
### Sir Brastias’s Address and the Tournament Announcement
Sir Brastias, a veteran of many battles, was introduced with due respect as the knights stood to honor him. He expressed gratitude for the honor and presented a crucial message: Duke Ulfius had managed to persuade the Collegium to consider electing a new king. The decision would involve a tournament where each petty king would field their best knights. The tournament was intended to be non-lethal and would test the martial prowess of the participants.
Mathis expressed concerns about whether all petty kings would agree to this tournament, but Brastias remained optimistic, though he acknowledged that some might need convincing. The tournament was to take place in Londinium, culminating in a grand melee. Mathis questioned whether other attributes beyond martial skill would be considered, but Brastias noted that in the current climate, prowess in battle was paramount.
### Preparations for Knighthood and the Omen of Crows
The group traveled to Winterbourne Gunnet for Heringdale’s funeral service before heading to Castle Vagon for the knighting ceremony. The ceremony was grand, unlike any they had seen before, with elaborate attire and a sense of spectacle that highlighted the growing importance of fashion. Bowl cuts were particularly noted among the attendees.
Sebastian sought to perform a Pagan vigil rather than the customary Christian one. With Elad’s permission, he held his vigil atop the keep, overlooking the forest. Mathis, reflecting on his mentorship of Sebastian, left him a sword with a bull head pommel and armor, gifts that were deeply symbolic and sentimental. This was a moment for both to reflect on Sebastian’s journey and the respect Renart had for Mathis.
During the vigil, Sebastian was visited by a group of crows, which he initially mistook for ravens. This unsettling occurrence seemed to symbolize an omen, representing change and transformation. The appearance of the crows, a dozen in total, was a moment of introspection for Sebastian, connecting to the Pagan practice of ornithomancy, the interpretation of bird behaviors as omens.
### The Knighting and Journey
The next day, the ceremonial knighting began. Mathis knighted Robert, who then took on the role of knighting Sebastian and the others. The event included some unexpected moments, such as Robert stumbling during the traditional leap, with Sebastian assisting him up. Despite the minor mishaps, the event was marked by camaraderie and applause, underscoring the supportive atmosphere among the knights.
Brastias discussed the forthcoming tournament as they traveled, highlighting the rules and logistics: knights would fight one-on-one with blunted weapons, and honor would dictate the declaration of defeat. The grand melee, covering all of London, would be the tournament’s pinnacle. As the group journeyed, they observed the effects of Nantleiod’s wars, noting the scarcity of men of fighting age in the lands they passed through.
In Estragales, King Lac expressed reservations but agreed to send his son to the tournament. Duke Escam of Gloucester, though supportive, questioned whether the tournament could truly unify the land. The group’s discussions frequently returned to the role of Merlin and the legitimacy of the tournament, reflecting on the complex political landscape.
### The Meeting with Merlin and the Secrecy of Knowledge
During their journey back to Sarum, they encountered a young boy who revealed himself to be Merlin in disguise. Merlin asked to accompany them into Sarum, where he wished to collect belongings from his travels. He shared stories of his extensive journeys, including to places like Alexandria and Rome, and offered gifts and secrets in exchange for a promise of confidentiality. Sebastian readily agreed, while Mathis and Gracian were more cautious.
Merlin gifted each of them a set of intricately crafted glasses. He then invited Sebastian and Gracian into a small house adjacent to his wagon, where they found two black glass spheres glowing with an orange hue. The nature of the conversation that followed was documented, but at Merlin’s request, the details were kept secret and would only be disclosed after certain events had come to pass.
This encounter with Merlin added an air of mystery and intrigue, setting the stage for the upcoming tournament and the uncertain future that lay ahead for the kingdom.