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Holy ***, what a nostalgia bomb. For some reason I remembered this game two days ago and I just had to play it again. I think I got this game around 1995 and I spent the better part of the late nineties and early noughties trying to beat it -- not once. Even in the best case scenarios where I managed not to get steamrolled by the other lords, some other bastard would get proclaimed king and send me off to the chopping block. That is, in those games when I didn't get excommunicated, invaded and sabotaged into oblivion.

So yesterday, rather than pay attention to my tedious, boring work, I fired up an emulator with the intention of beating the damn thing. I played all morning -- beaten. I started again. 18 years later and with thousands of hours of strategic wargame experience under my belt, I still found the game to be as devilishly hard as it used to be. I looked up all kinds of hints and tricks - I spammed savegames to rescue me from disaster - I relied on every cheap trick in the book. Retreat, counterattack, stack all your units into an improbably small bunch on the enemy's flank. Refine gold like crazy, bribe the Pope, spy on the enemy, apply for king, get rejected, apply again...

And then, it happened. The word spread like wildfire throughout Bretagne -- "Burgundy is the new king!"

As the lame victory screen displayed, telling me my score, I sat back in awe and confusion. I had finally beaten Castles II. It was the end of an era.

Anyone seeking this game out should be aware that there are two versions of it available.

The original diskette version of the game, which is what this version is, is essentially an unwinnable nightmare. The computer Lords do not follow the same rules the player is bound by. For instance, they can send wave after wave of no-fail saboteurs against your kingdom without having it affect their own resources. They can police their realms indefinitely without it reducing their happiness. As for the diplomacy system, it is all but non-functional, making alliances out of the question. The Lords will betray and attack you randomly even if you have a rating of 9 with them. Not that you are likely to reach 9 since your ratings start out so low. Once you are at war (and you will be) it is for all practical purposes impossible to appease them through diplomacy, although that won't stop them from sending demand after demand for gold.

The CD version of the game, which was released maybe a year after the original diskette version, patched a lot of these problems. Your starting values for relations with other Lords are much higher, making it possible to form alliances. The computer is less wonky about sending the endless waves of uber ninja across your borders. The Pope will also no longer get randomly pissed off at you for attacking other Lords (unless they are Blessed, which you can find out by holding a Council), and best of all, if your ally wins, you get the "second place" victory where you hold a high position in his court. The CD version is also fully voiced, has cut scenes for all the (optional) plot sequences, and has a ton of video about historical castles!

The downside of the CD version is that those historical castles are available to be built in place of castles you the player design. And these historical castles come with little bonuses... building one increases your realms happiness. Building another improves your archers. Etc. This means in a game that is supposed to be all about designing your own awesome fortresses, you are actually being punished for doing so since player designed castles have no special advantages.

Not that it really matters, because if both versions of the game have one critical flaw, it is just how little castle design really impacts the game. It always just comes down to the siege engines knocking down the walls... there is no "siege" involved. No tactics.

Another massive downside of both versions of the game is how stupid it is to try to defend a castle rather than just retreat and retake it. When you get attacked, you only have 50% of your troops. When you attack the enemy, the enemy only has 50% of his troops. It only costs 1 Iron to attack. So why would you EVER try to hold a castle?

For a classic era DOS game, Castles 2 is pretty fun. But don't expect Crusader Kings level complexity here. Even in the CD version, the games systems are really simplistic and the computers algorithms and "strategy" gets pretty transparent.

[Vanshilar]

I've recently cracked the save game files, so now I can read through the data that's saved for the game. I'm still working on figuring out what each byte means, but at least I can look up the values. I've already figured out stuff like what task everyone is doing, how much resources and army units each faction has, etc. So let me know if you have questions on stuff.

In theory I could also edit the save game files, but it takes some doing because of how the file is encoded; eventually it should be easy to do with a program, but I'm not quite there yet.

Additionally, a number of the data files such as the terrain maps for each territory and information about the different tasks can be directly edited.

I haven't figured out the plots yet.

In messing around with the game files, it turns out that you can play as the Pope! I haven't really explored this though so don't know how it might break the game. But the first byte of OPTIONS.DAT is the faction that you want to be for the game. In the game, the factions are 0 = Valois, 1 = Anjou, 2 = Albion, 3 = Burgundy, 4 = The Pope, 5 = Aragon, 6 = UNKNOWN, 7 = Neutral. So if you set the first byte of OPTIONS.DAT to "4", it'll allow you to play as the Pope. (Trying to play as UNKNOWN or Neutral seems to give you garbage, though, even if the game doesn't crash.)

Originally Posted by Phillip of Burgandy

Anyone seeking this game out should be aware that there are two versions of it available.

The original diskette version of the game, which is what this version is, is essentially an unwinnable nightmare. The computer Lords do not follow the same rules the player is bound by. For instance, they can send wave after wave of no-fail saboteurs against your kingdom without having it affect their own resources. They can police their realms indefinitely without it reducing their happiness. As for the diplomacy system, it is all but non-functional, making alliances out of the question. The Lords will betray and attack you randomly even if you have a rating of 9 with them. Not that you are likely to reach 9 since your ratings start out so low. Once you are at war (and you will be) it is for all practical purposes impossible to appease them through diplomacy, although that won't stop them from sending demand after demand for gold.

Um as far as I know I'm playing the diskette version of the game and I don't have a problem beating it on impossible. The computer players are limited in the same way as human players (can only have 2 tasks per area at a time, etc.), although yes they can get a discount on tasks (they can get one resource for free if they're missing it when they want to do a task). You don't see all the times when they send saboteurs that die en-route, you only see the ones that succeed. Policing the realm takes up one of their military tasks. I don't think I've had a computer attack me once I get to 8 or higher relations with them (maybe they do once I claim, forgot), a relations of 8 or 9 essentially means "allied". The Pope only gets pissed at you for attacking someone if they're already blessed (relations of 8 or 9 with the Pope).

I haven't played the CD version (i.e. pre-made castles with bonuses) so can't comment on them. But if you find it to be an "unwinnable nightmare" yet say the strategy gets "pretty transparent" then I'd say there's more you still have to learn about the game.

[Eagle of Fire]

Um as far as I know I'm playing the diskette version of the game and I don't have a problem beating it on impossible. The computer players are limited in the same way as human players (can only have 2 tasks per area at a time, etc.), although yes they can get a discount on tasks (they can get one resource for free if they're missing it when they want to do a task). You don't see all the times when they send saboteurs that die en-route, you only see the ones that succeed. Policing the realm takes up one of their military tasks. I don't think I've had a computer attack me once I get to 8 or higher relations with them (maybe they do once I claim, forgot), a relations of 8 or 9 essentially means "allied". The Pope only gets pissed at you for attacking someone if they're already blessed (relations of 8 or 9 with the Pope).

I haven't played the CD version (i.e. pre-made castles with bonuses) so can't comment on them. But if you find it to be an "unwinnable nightmare" yet say the strategy gets "pretty transparent" then I'd say there's more you still have to learn about the game.

Completely have to agree here. If the guy who was quoted here by Vanshilar can't get around such a simple strategy game as this one then either strategy games are not for him or he needs to start with something way easier.

Good old days strategy games were real strategy games. Today strategy games barely scratch the surface in comparison.

[Vanshilar]

So one thing from digging into the saved files. Something I noticed from playing is that it's hard to hit Admin 8 and 9 through tasks (I almost always end up getting them from plots instead). So I looked at how the ability point (Adm/Mil/Pol) increase system works.

Basically, when a task is successfully completed, it adds points toward increasing the ability points. The exceptions are Scout, which seems to not increase points, and Merchant, which preliminarily (still testing it) seems to only add half (round down) the number of points (so if you committed 5 to Merchant, you'll gain the equivalent of if you had committed 2). The points for a task in its own area is doubled. So if you "Gather Food" with 4 points in Adm, 3 in Mil, and 1 in Pol, hereafter referred to as (4, 3, 1), you'll gain (8, 3, 1) toward increasing your ability points -- the points for Adm is doubled because "Gather Food" is an Adm task. When the accumulated points for an area is equal or greater than the threshold needed for the next value, you'll gain an ability point and that amount is deducted from the accumulated points. Thus, any overflow beyond what you needed is carried over to help with the next ability point.

To reach each level, the points needed are:

Point Adm  Mil  Pol
1       0    0    0
2      20   20   20
3      20   20   20
4      30   20   20
5      40   30   20
6      60   50   40
7      90   60   40
8     125   80   50
9     140   90   70
10   9000 9000 9000

You can't really hit 9000 so yeah you're limited to 9 points max. By the way, these values are 0x198F1 to 0x1992C in CASTLES2.EXE. I don't have any special insight into the .EXE file, I simply looked for those values in the .EXE once I had pretty much figured out most of the above table.

Anyway, the big problem seems to be that the programmers used signed rather than unsigned 8-bit integers for your accumulated points. This isn't a problem for Mil or Pol. However, for Adm, once you reach Adm 7, you need 125 or higher to hit Adm 8. But because it's a signed integer, if you reach 128, the game thinks that's actually -128, and so you won't be able to move to the next Adm point. Same for any number above 128, until you reach 256, at which point it becomes 0. So to reach Adm 8, your accumulated points needs to reach between 125 and 127. Since this is hard to control precisely, more likely than not you'll skip over this window, until the number wraps around again for another shot. Thus, it's difficult to reach except via plots. And for Adm 9, because you *can't* hit 140 using a signed 8-bit integer, you're out of luck; you'll only get it through plots.

To fix this is pretty simple; you can simply edit those values in CASTLES2.EXE to something like (say) 105 and 110. Since you can only gain a maximum of 16 to your accumulated points from one task (at Adm 8), this will prevent this problem. This is simply a matter of changing byte 0x198FF from 0x7D to 0x69, and byte 0x19901 from 0x8C to 0x6E. It's also possible that the CD version of the game fixed this bug; I'm using the diskette version.

If anyone has a different experience (i.e. had no problem getting Adm 8 and/or Adm 9 from tasks), please let me know and more importantly, have a save game if possible so that I can take a look at it. It's also helpful if you know what version of the game you have (diskette or CD). Thanks.

[Vanshilar]

I've decoded the text of the plots. Note that this is just the text, not how the plots actually work (that'll come next), since they do additional stuff like check how much gold you have and such in figuring out which plot branch you'll follow.

The plot text is stored in LIB.CLU (it probably stands for "cluster library"). It's split up into 3201 clusters; however, the first 1000 clusters are blank, and in fact, only 359 clusters have data. Within each cluster, there are up to 10 nodes. Each node is then further split into different sub-nodes for things like the different text when you choose different options. Those sub-nodes are then split into lines of text. These lines don't match up with the lines you see in the game, but there seems a max of around 85 characters to a line.

The text is below. Note that "{" and "}" characters get converted into quotation marks when the text is displayed on your screen. I haven't figured out how the branching is done yet, so this shows all the possible branches of the different plots. So you'll see multiple sub-nodes together; for example, if you see 3 sentences after being given choices A, B, C, then each of those sentences correspond to the response for each choice.

This will take about 15 posts because the forum has a limit of 50000 characters per post.

-------------
Cluster: 1000
-------------

_Player is %d
_Main plot manager: %d plots have been run
_Scott's generic manager
_Scott's random event manager
_Katie's resource manager
_Boots St. Bernard's Mother May I? manager
_Secret movie %d

-------------
Cluster: 1001
-------------

_NODE 10010.
_NODE 2.
The mob gathers to greet their hero, the demagogue Arinseault,
as he visits you.

{So, you are the one who would be king. Like so many others.
Like ***** in a barn, pecking at each other, seeing who shall rule
the roost. You amuse me, with your petty struggles for power.
You are no different than any other man who claims a throne.

{Perhaps I am being unfair. Perhaps I am being too generous. Let me
test your royal soul, monarch of the land. Answer my question: where
does a king's power chiefly come from?}

Do you say:
[a] his peasants and serfs.
[b] his knights.
[c] his heart.
[d] God.
{You tell me what you think I wish to hear. No honest king
believes that. Your answer is more politic than truth. I
shall return some other time to test thee again.}
{You have the heart of a soldier, thinking only of his
armor, his weapons. There is more to life than that. I
shall come again, when your heart is a changed thing.}
{Now that is an arrogant answer; in a kingdom of thousands
to think that any man's heart has the power to hold them
together. Yet the heart of a great king has the power to hold
a kingdom together like strings connecting a frail tapestry
in a brisk wind, and when that heart is gone, the kingdom
snaps and falls apart. History is full of such tales.
Unhappy are those who have no memory of a great king. Yet
without followers, a king is a man like any other.

{I cannot grant thee what you ask on a single question. I
shall come again.}
{Ah, God, I had forgotten Him, as I have done too often of
late. It is a danger of those who are wrapped too frequently
in mortal affairs that they forget the sublime. You have
shamed me, with cause. Nonetheless, this is too easy an
answer for so difficult a question. Is God not the answer to
all questions?}
_NODE 1.
_NODE 10011.
One of your knights brings council.

{Majesty, we are now able to send our contacts into Paris. There is
a man there whose favor we should court, the demagogue Arinseault,
a man who is worshipped by the mob. He is a strange man, something
of a philosopher, but having him support your claim to the throne
would give you major political advantages.}

Do you:
[a] summon Arinseault to you.
[b] send your finest knights to Paris to pay homage to him.
[c] send Arinseault a gift of 1000 marks (1 Gold).
{It shall be done, my liege.}
{It shall be done, my liege.}
{You do not have the funds. I shall see that he is
summoned.}
{It shall be done.}

-------------
Cluster: 1002
-------------

_NODE 10020.
_NODE 3.
The demagogue Arinseault returns:

{I have come again, to judge whether you are worth my support,
as I will come to any man who would be king. What I would ask
you of is a matter of trust. Of all mortal things, where should
a man place his greatest trust?}

Do you choose:
[a] in the stars.
[b] in his brother.
[c] in himself.
[d] in the kindness of strangers.
{The stars will betray no trusts, but they cannot help
thee. Hope is the greatest trust of all, and such a trust
shared with another can produce rewards unlooked for.

{I shall come again.}
{Have you no fear of betrayal? For one's brother can
betray a trust as easily as any other. Yet a trust unshared
is a worthless thing. Your answer is as perfect as one can
give in an imperfect world. I shall consider this answer
and return with my decision.}
{That is the least wise place of all, for no one betrays us
more than ourselves. A secret kept inside is a hidden fire,
that burns us at inopportune times.

{Nonetheless, I find these meetings of interest. I shall come
again.}
{This speaks ill of you, for from this answer, I can assume that you
have trusts that you would not share with friends, or that you have
friends that you would not trust. One should make trustworthy
friends, and share one's secrets freely with them.

{Godspeed, my liege. I shall come again.}

-------------
Cluster: 1003
-------------

_NODE 4.
_NODE 10030.
You have been brought word of the demagogue, Arinseault.

{Majesty, we no longer know Arinseault's whereabouts. He was accused
of murdering a tax collector, and eluded those who came to take him
to trial. He is now an outlaw. This has only increased the devotion
of his followers to his cause; if you were to ally yourself with
him, you would become a hero to the people of the cities.}

Do you:
[a] offer 1,000 marks (1 Gold) to anyone who will bring Arinseault
to you.
[b] send a unit of infantry to search for him.
[c] send word to Arinseault's followers that you will help him.
You cannot afford to offer this reward. You send
word to Arinseault's followers instead.
Messengers are sent to the towns and cities,
proclaiming the reward.
You do not have enough infantry. You send
word to Arinseault's followers instead.
A band of soldiers march toward the city, searching
for their quarry.
A message will be sent to them.

-------------
Cluster: 1004
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE 10040.
The rather strange demagogue Arinseault returns.

{Tell me, one who would rule Bretagne, What is the thing that most
separates a commoner from a king?}

Do you say:
[a] a king is a leader, a commoner is a follower.
[b] a king has wealth and power, a commoner has none.
[c] a king bears great burdens, a commoner bears small burdens.
[d] there is no difference.
{Thou hast placed thy finger on the matter's crux; this is
the difference between commoner and king. You have spoken
wisely. I will consider whether you are deserving of my
blessing, and return.
{The difference in wealth and power is great indeed, but if
a king were to be cast out of his kingdom, and shorn of all
his worldly goods, would there not be differences between
a king and commoner still?

{This was a noble failure, but a failure nonetheless. I shall
come again.}
{I can tell you that a peasant, who knows not whence his
next meal shall come, bears burdens great as thee. The love
of child and wife, their health, the respect of neighbors,
the company of friends, the need for love and pride, the
spectre of shame, all these things you share with peasants,
and they can create great burdens.

{I shall come again.}
{You think there is no difference? What an absurd answer.
The evidence of one's eyes makes it obvious that there are
great differences.

{I shall come at least one more time, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1005
-------------

_NODE 6.
_NODE 10050.
{Majesty, we have learned of three possible hiding places where
Arinseault may be hiding.

{First, there is the forest outside Paris. It is a haven for
hundreds of brigands, bandits, and outlaws, and we would have
to take many of our infantry from our army, purge the forest of
these scum, and hope to find Arinseault, if he is there at all.

{Second, there are the cathedrals within Paris itself. It may be
that Arinseault has requested asylum there. We would not require
to send an army into Paris to retrieve him, but interfering in
the Church's right of asylum could anger the Pope.

{Third, Arinseault has many supporters in the University. While not
a secure hiding place, it offers more comforts than a cathedral or
a forest. The students are not likely to surrender Arinseault, even
to someone who is on friendly terms with him.}

Do you:
[a] send soldiers into the forest of Paris.
[b] send your best diplomat to the Cathedral of Notre Dame.
[c] send soldiers into the university.
_NODE 6a.
_NODE 10051.
You would need to send at least one unit of infantry. You do
not have them. Your only option is to search the cathedrals.
Your soldiers will search the forest.
_NODE 6b.
_NODE 10052.
A messenger is dispatched to the bishop of Paris.
_NODE 6c.
_NODE 10053.
A messenger is sent to the University.

-------------
Cluster: 1006
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE 10060.
A messenger comes from the mayor of Paris.

{Majesty, the mayor objects to your soldiers running around the
city without his authority. He wishes you to stop this practice
at once}.

Do you:
[a] order the mayor to pardon Arinseault, or you will find another
mayor to do it for him.
[b] tell the mayor that you will raze the city if he interferes with
you.
[c] tell him that you'll listen carefully to him, then ignore him.
_node 7b.
_NODE 10061.
That may well be, but the mayor will never surrender his legal
authority, save to one who has been crowned as the rightful king
of Bretagne by the Church.
_node 7b.
_NODE 10062.
{I see. I do not forsee any problems, Majesty.}
{There are many others in Bretagne who would defend
us if we were attacked by you. You have powerful
enemies, and that means we have powerful friends.

{If you are discreet, I am certain the situation can
be resolved to our mutual satisfaction. If you are
not, things will not go as either of us wish. Keep
that in mind.}
_NODE 7c.
_NODE 10063.
{That is good.}

-------------
Cluster: 1007
-------------

_NODE 8.
_NODE 10070.
You are called to the great hall suddenly.

A hush fills the hall. Your soldiers seem nervous, intimidated
by the man, as if a prophet of the Lord had walked into the hall.

Arinseault.

{I have come again, one who would rule Bretagne, and I have another
question for thee. Who is thy greatest enemy?}

Do you say:
[a] the strongest of your rivals to the throne.
[b] yourself.
[c] truth.
[d] death.
[e] Arinseault.
{He who would destroy thy hope? A powerful enemy indeed.
Yet, not the greatest. I shall come to thee one final time.
Fare thee well, Majesty.}
{Your greatest enemy? What is so great about thee?}

Arinseault laughs without malice.

{Yet thou art a prince, and a person of quality. Easily can
your ambitions betray thee. It is a sufficient answer. I
shall give you my blessing. You are wise enough to rule this
land.}
{So many lies do we weave, so many sins do we commit, that
truth must become the greatest enemy of even the most
honest of men. You have done very well. You have my blessing.}
{But when death has come, one does not think of it as an
enemy. I would imagine even those unhappy souls confined
to the torments of Hell do not curse death; they would curse
the deeds of life which confined them to such torment.

{It would appear to me, Majesty, that fear is thy enemy, not
death, for without fear, why would you think death to be
thy enemy?

{I shall come one last time. Farewell.}
{Me? Then you must live a blessed life indeed, for I have
done thee no harm, nor have I desired to harm thee. If
I am thy greatest enemy, then I must depart, and never
see thee again. Farewell.}

-------------
Cluster: 1008
-------------

_NODE 10080.
_NODE 9.
A messenger returns from searching the cathedrals of Paris.

{Majesty, we have found Arinseault. However, his recent experiences
have changed him deeply. He no longer wishes to involve himself
in politics, or with the mob, or with anything except the Church. He
intends to become a monk!}

Do you:
[a] ask him to appear before you.
[b] offer to aid the Pope if he aids you.
{Very well, my liege.}
{Very well, my liege.}
_NODE 10081.
_NODE 9a.
A messenger returns from Arinseault.

{Arinseault has asked for a favor before he agrees to appear before
you. Sir Richard de Peorot, a pious knight, went to the Crusades and
was mistakenly thought to be dead. When he returned to Bretagne, his
lands had been sold, and he was penniless. Arinseault wishes you
to restore his lands. However, the man who bought them, Count
Alodinac, is quite powerful, and not someone who should be offended
if you wish to be King of Bretagne.}

Do you:
[a] ignore Arinseault's request.
[b] compensate Alodinac (2 Gold) and restore Sir Richard.
[c] offer Richard some poorer lands (1 Resource) as compensation.
{Very well, my liege.}

Arinseault does not come.
You cannot afford this. However, Count Alodinac is
not without pity, and agrees to restore the knight
to his lands, in return for certain indulgences from
the Church. The Church is pleased by your efforts.
Count Alodinac is satisfied, and the Pope is
especially impressed with your efforts.
_NODE 10082.
_NODE 9b.
A messenger returns from Arinseault.

{Arinseault wishes to know what you intend to do to help the Pope.

Do you:
[a] publicly denounce the Anti-Pope and imprison anyone who would
openly support him.
[b] offer to send one unit of Knights to the Crusades.
[c] offer one unit of Timber to build ships for the Crusades.
{This answer shall be taken back to Arinseault.}
You do not have one unit of Knights to spare. You
doubt that Arinseault will come now.
The Church is quite surprised by your offer. They
give you 5,000 marks in compensation. Arinseault
is also reportedly quite pleased.
You do not have one unit of Timber to spare. You
doubt that Arinseault will come now.
The Church is quite surprised by your offer. They
give you 1,000 marks in compensation. Arinseault
is also reportedly quite pleased.
_NODE 10083.
_NODE 9ac.
{What do you wish to pay? Gold and grain are the only commodities
desired by those who sell land.}

Do you:
[a] pay 1 Grain.
[b] pay 1 Timber.
[c] pay 1 Iron.
[d] pay 1 Gold.
[e] force someone from their land and give it to Sir Richard.
You do not have enough grain.
Sir Richard is pleased by your gift, as is the
Church, and Arinseault.
You do not have enough timber.
It is not a particularly good piece of land, but Sir
Richard is not an ingrate. The Church is pleased with
your act of Christian charity.
You do not have enough iron.
It is not a particularly good piece of land, but Sir
Richard is not an ingrate. The Church is pleased with
your act of Christian charity.
You do not have enough gold.
Sir Richard is pleased by your gift, as is the
Church, and Arinseault.
When Sir Richard learns how the land was obtained, he
wants nothing to do with it. No one is particularly happy
with your handling of the situation. Needless to say,
Arinseault ignores your request, and you do not receive
his blessing.

-------------
Cluster: 1009
-------------

_NODE 10090.
_NODE 10.
A messenger comes to you, bearing news from the Forest of Paris.

{Your force of men has not found Arinseault. Questioning the outlaws,
it would appear that he was never in the forest, although by
destroying the outlaws, we have inadvertently done much to aid
our cause. Even the mayor of Paris is saying kind things about us,
in public, at least.

{Where do you wish us to search next?}
[a] the cathedrals of Paris.
[b] the University of Paris.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1010
-------------

_node 11.
_NODE 10100.
A messenger comes from the University of Paris, where you have been
searching for the demagogue, Arinseault.

{Majesty, he is not in the University, but one of the students said
that he is taking refuge in one of the cathedrals. We are searching
there now.}

-------------
Cluster: 1011
-------------

_NODE 12.
_NODE 10110.
Arinseault the demagogue -- or is it prophet? -- has come.

{This is the final time I will come, Majesty. This is the final
question. What is a king's greatest responsibility?}

Do you answer:
[a] making wise decisions and laws.
[b] the happiness of his subjects.
[c] the defense of the realm and its interests.
[d] peace and order.
{That is true. For that is all that a people can expect
of a king, to do his best when the tides of a world turn
against them. You have my blessing, ruler of Bretagne.}
{That is too great a burden for a king. A king can make his
subjects unhappy, but they alone create their own happiness.
Farewell, one who would be ruler of Bretagne.}

You never see Arinseault again.
{That is important, but what does a secure realm matter if
a ruler is unwise, and his people oppressed and miserable?
Farewell, one who would be ruler of Bretagne.}

You never see Arinseault again.
{There is much to be said about peace and order, but there
can also be times when peace means slavery, and order means
corruption. There are times when war is preferable to peace,
and chaos is preferable to order. Farewell, one who would
rule Bretagne.}

You never see Arinseault again.

-------------
Cluster: 1012
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE 10120.
{Majesty, Arinseault will not come. He will not see
someone who is excommunicated.}
The monk Arinseault appears.

{Hear me, servant of the Darkness, enemy of all that is holy
and chaste! I have come not to give you the blessing of
the Lord, but his righteous damnation! Repent, sinner!
Fall to thy knees and reject the ways of evil! Only God and
his Holy Saints can save thee! Pray for God's eternal love and
the forgiveness of thy sins!}

Do you:
[a] fall to your knees immediately and pray.
[b] offer to make restitution for thy sins to the poor and
destitute.
[c] have Arinseault removed from your throne chamber.
_NODE 13a.
_NODE 10121.
{Bless you, my son. Thou art a true devout follower of Christ. I
gladly help thee, for you will be a right Christian king of
Bretagne.}
_NODE 13b.
_NODE 10122.
{My son, though God loves good deeds, they cannot save thy
soul. This is not the way to obtain the blessing of God.}

Do you:
[a] fall to your knees immediately and pray.
[b] beg him to forgive your sins.
[c] have Arinseault removed from your throne chamber.
_NODE 13c.
_NODE 10123.
{Unbeliever! No blessing shall thou receive, and thy greatest
works shall crumble in thy fingers.}
_NODE 13bb.
_NODE 10124.
{My son, though God has given me great blessings, no mortal
may forgive sins. That is the province of God and his Saints; I
have no power to forgive your transgressions.}

Do you:
[a] fall to your knees immediately and pray.
[b] have Arinseault removed from your throne chamber.
_NODE Additional.
_NODE 10125.
Arinseault has come.

{I have considered the answer to your last question, and doubts to
your worthiness remain. I have but one more question for you, my
liege. How many angels can stand on the head of a pin?}

Do you answer:
[a] None. Angels are too glorious to fit on any pin.
[b] The answer is without number, for angels are limited only by the
will of God.
[c] The answer is meaningless, for angels would have no cause to
perform this action.
{You think highly of angels. Man is also God's servant, and
has been gifted with glorious capabilities. You have my
blessing, and my hope that you will serve God, and His
people, well.}
{You think highly of angels. Man is also God's servant, and
has been gifted with glorious capabilities. You have my
blessing, and my hope that you will serve God, and His
people, well.}
{Such a practical response. May your practicality serve you
well as King of Bretagne, for you have my blessing.}
_NODE Additional.
_NODE 10126.
Arinseault has come.

{I have considered the answer to your last question, and I find
myself with more questions. Perhaps you can answer this one, my
liege. What is the most desirable quality in a friend?}

Do you answer:
[a] Honesty.
[b] Steadfastness.
[c] Honor.
[d] Valor.
{A worthy answer. The truth is that I had decided to give
you my blessing weeks ago, but I did not wish these
discussions to end so quickly. I know you will serve the
people well. You have my blessing.}
{May our friendship have that quality, even after you have
become King of Bretagne. You have my blessing.}
{You have demonstrated that quality, Majesty, as well as
patience. I hope you will honor me with an invitation to
your coronation as King of Bretagne, for you have my blessing.}
{That is a quality to be desired in friends as well as kings.
You have my blessing.}

-------------
Cluster: 1013
-------------

_NODE 14.
_NODE 10130.
{Majesty!}

{Majesty!}

You awaken to the sound of mourning bells in the crisp dawn air.

{Majesty, Arinseault is dead. How, I do not know; Arinseault is as
mysterious in death as he was in life. He is already being considered
for beatification, perhaps even canonization, by the Pope. However,
he had his share of enemies.}

Do you:
[a] declare a day of mourning and make a pilgrimage to his tomb.
[b] ignore his death.
{Very good Majesty.}

Arinseault is immediately beatified by the Pope. Your
public display of grief endears you to the public.
{Certainly, my liege.}

Arinseault is immediately beatified by the Pope. Some
wonder why you didn't show your friend more respect.
_NODE 10131 End Of Current Plot.
_Start new plot - retsub.

-------------
Cluster: 1020
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE n10200
One of your councillors bears a message from one of your subjects.

{Majesty, the lord mayor of the town of Mortain wishes to celebrate
your arrival. He wishes to know what kind of celebration you
prefer.

{A tournament would please the nobles, and would test the skills of
the local knights. It is quite expensive.

{A fair is less pleasing to the nobles, but would give the peasantry
a chance to display their wares and talents, and is less expensive.

{A festival of song and plays would allow the presentation of Mystery
plays, which will please the Church, and might even save some of
their souls. It is also less expensive.}

Do you prefer:
[a] a tournament.
[b] a fair.
[c] a festival.
_NODE 1a.
_NODE n10201
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 1b.
_NODE n10202
{I am certain it will be enjoyable, Majesty.}
_NODE 1c.
_NODE n10203
{I shall make the preparations, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1021
-------------

_NODE 2.
_NODE n10210
One of your advisors brings news.

{Majesty, there is an argument between the lord mayors of Mortain
and Rennes. Each wishes to be the host of your Majesty's fair; they
also wish to be the sole host of the fair.

{Mortain is a town where many of the nobility retire; they find the
sea air refreshing. As you know, many of your most steadfast
supporters reside there; you would never have been able to stake a
claim on the throne of Bretagne without their backing.

{Rennes, on the other hand, is a town belonging to peasants who have
never travelled further than a league from their homes. They have
little love for any king, and care not who claims the throne of
Bretagne, as long as they are left in peace. There are far more
people in Rennes than in Mortain, which is their closest rival in
goods and trade.}

Do you:
[a] hold the fair in Mortain.
[b] hold the fair in Rennes.
{Your friends will be glad to see you.}
{The peasants should rejoice to see their king.}

-------------
Cluster: 1022
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE n10220
You receive a visit from Bishop Winslow the dour, regarding the
forthcoming festival.

{Majesty, I must protest certain of the performers that have been
hired to perform at your festival. Several are involved in that
most sinful of activities, dancing.

{I realize I may be old fashioned, and there are some even among
my peers who would allow this sort of thing, but I must protest it,
protest it most vigorously, Sire. If you would allow me to take
control of this frivolity, I promise you that the festival will be
one worth attending.}

Do you:
[a] assure him that all of the performers will be moral.
[b] ignore him.
[c] allow him to take control.
_NODE 3a.
_NODE n10221
{Hmph! Moral indeed. We'll see, we'll see!}
_NODE 3b.
_NODE n10222
{Well, I never!}
_NODE 3c.
_NODE n10223
{It shall be a thing of beauty, worthy of great praise!}

-------------
Cluster: 1023
-------------

_NODE 4.
_NODE n10230
One of your advisors comes to you to discuss problems regarding
the forthcoming tournament.

{Majesty, your seneschal has been arguing about the size of the
proposed tournament. Many of your knights wish to have a huge
tournament, where every great knight in Bretagne will be invited;
they hope to impress you by defeating numerous opponents.
{Your seneschal had in mind a much smaller and less costly affair.
He estimates that his tournament will cost 1,000 marks, and that a
larger one would cost 2,000 marks.}

Do you:
[a] choose the larger tournament.
[b] choose the smaller tournament.
[c] choose a different event.
_NODE 4a.
_NODE n10231
{The treasury cannot afford a large tournament, Majesty.}
{It shall be a grand tournament, my liege.}
_NODE 4b.
_NODE n10232
{The treasury cannot afford even a small tournament, Majesty.}
{I am certain it will be a great success.}
_NODE 4c.
_NODE n10233
{Would you prefer:}
[a] a fair.
[b] a festival.
_NODE 4c.
_NODE n10234
{Would you prefer:}
[a] a small tournament (costs 1 Gold).
[b] a fair.
[c] a festival.

-------------
Cluster: 1024
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE n10240
You are on your way to attend the Mortain fair, when a rider comes
up to you, bearing news.

{Majesty, a large brawl has broken out at the fair. It would
appear that the younger and more impulsive nobles decided to offer
some comparisons between the peasants and the breeding stock that
were being sold, and for some reason, the peasants took great offense.
Several people have been killed, and some peasants were killed too.
If you ask me, you should hang the swine.}

Do you:
[a] hang peasants indiscriminately.
[b] appoint justices to investigate.
[c] ignore the incident.
_NODE 5a.
_NODE n10241
{Good choice, Majesty. There's nothing more enjoyable than the sight
of peasants dangling from a rope.}
_NODE 5b.
_NODE n10242
{But why? Those judges never do anything useful? Hang the lot of them
and be done with it.}

Fortunately, wiser heads prevail.
_NODE 5c.
_NODE n10243
{Does that mean we aren't going to have any hangings? But Majesty!}

The incident is quickly forgotten.

-------------
Cluster: 1025
-------------

_NODE 6.
_NODE n10250
As you approach the fair in Rennes...

{Majesty, a dozen rogue knights have come to the fair, and are
causing problems, maligning the people, and saying ill things
of you. Yet, if we were to attack them, many people might be
hurt or killed. What shall we do?}

Do you:
[a] offer them free wine, and get them away from the others.
[b] insult them and try to lure them away from the gathering.
[c] have your best knight challenge their champion to single
combat.
_NODE 6a.
_NODE n10251
Your plan almost works; but, once drunk, the knights return to
the fair, more obnoxious than before. Carts are overturned, and
wagons set ablaze. Your knights eventually subdue them, but not
before many people are killed or wounded.
_NODE 6b.
_NODE n10252
As expected, a fight breaks out. There is some damage, but your
knights have moved them away from the center of the fair, and
the rogue knights are easily subdued.
_NODE 6c.
_NODE n10253
These knights are not the flower of chivalry. Seeing that they have
a choice between dishonor or death, the leader of the rogues
abruptly mounts his steed and leads his people away.

-------------
Cluster: 1026
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE n10260
A man who is clearly not a noble comes before you and falls to one
knee.

{Majesty, I am a member of an acting troupe, one of many coming
to the festival. However, the local magistrate has been arresting
every player and performer who comes near the town. If this continues,
it is likely that there will be few performers for the festival.

{I do not know why this man is doing this. We have broken no law,
but are coming on your explicit instructions. Who would want to
have us arrested?}

Do you:
[a] order their immediate release.
[b] release them and replace the magistrate.
[c] release them and summon Bishop Winslow.
Your seneschal says, {This shall be done, though
I fear this will delay the festivities by a fortnight
or so.}
Your seneschal says, {This shall be done, though
I fear this will delay the festivities by a fortnight
or so.}
A messenger soon returns from the bishop. {The
bishop is quite ill, my liege, or so he says, and
cannot come to see you. Let us hope this is a
grievous illness.}

-------------
Cluster: 1027
-------------

_NODE 8.
_NODE n10270
A man who is clearly not a noble comes before you and falls to one
knee.

{Majesty, I am a member of an acting troupe, one of many coming
to the festival. However, I have been informed by the bishop that
there will be no plays, that the festival will be composed entirely
of six hours of good wholesome Gregorian chants. It appears he does
not realize that we live in the 14th Century.}

Do you:
[a] tell the bishop that his services are not required.
[b] tell the bishop that six hours of Gregorian chants are excessive.
[c] allow the bishop to run the festival.
The bishop is not happy.
The bishop replies:

{If they were good enough for Saint Augustine, they are good
enough for the people of Bretagne.}

Do you:
[a] remove the bishop from the festival.
[b] allow him to present his chants.
The bishop is not happy.
The preparations continue...
The preparations continue...

-------------
Cluster: 1028
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n10280
Several knights come to see you.

{Majesty, I believe that I should be your champion at the
tournament! This baseborn soldier who calls himself a knight says...}

{Baseborn! My family has sworn to uphold the code of chivalry for
generations!}

{And my family has distinguished itself in the Crusades, unlike
these cowards...}

Guards come into the throne room to separate the combatants...
Three knights wish to represent you as your champion at the big
tournament.

Sir Thomas is an old friend, and an able knight who has fought in
many tournaments. However, he is not a local knight, and the people
might be offended that he represents you.

Sir Miles is the favorite of the locals, and considers himself to be
the pearl of chivalry. However, you have doubts whether he can
prevail against the best of Bretagne.

Sir Robert is young, a fearsome competitor, and an excellent
soldier. However, he has little tournament experience, and initially
opposed your claim to the throne of Bretagne. You are not entirely
certain of his loyalty.

Do you choose:
[a] Sir Thomas.
[b] Sir Miles.
[c] Sir Robert.
Sir Thomas says, {I am honored, Majesty. I shall do my
best to represent thee.}

Sir Robert offers Thomas half-hearted praise. Sir Miles
says nothing, and scowling, leaves.
Sir Miles says, {I am the greatest knight in the realm, and
shall prove it! Even these two fools will acknowledge it!}

The two {fools}, Sir Robert and Sir Thomas, look at each
other, look back at you, and beg your leave to be excused.
Sir Robert says, {I am honored by your confidence in my
ability. I am a soldier, not a courtier, and am confident
that I shall best these men who pretend to be knights and
do honor to your choice.}

Sir Thomas politely wishes Sir Robert well, while Sir Miles
scowls and leaves.

-------------
Cluster: 1029
-------------

_NODE 10.
_NODE n10290

Sir Thomas, one of your oldest friends, killed Sir Gerald of
Beleux, one of the local knights, in the joust. It was clearly an
accident.

Sir Gerald's brother, Francis, demands a trial by combat with Sir
Thomas, to avenge his brother's death. Thomas says that he is not
responsible for the accident, but will fight Francis if that is
what is required to avenge his honor.

Do you:
[a] allow the trial by combat, but tell them to wait sixty days to
give them time to calm down.
[b] refuse to allow the trial by combat.
The combatants agree.
Francis does not particularly care for this command, and
does not hide his feelings.

-------------
Cluster: 1030
-------------

_NODE 11.
_NODE n10300
A rather odd incident has occurred.

{Majesty, we found several wagonloads of flour, near the Montain road.
It seems to belong to a merchant that was coming to the fair.
It appears that he was ambushed and killed by robbers.
We have placed it in a secure shelter.}

Do you:
[a] confiscate the grain.
[b] try to find the owner's heir and give it to him.
The flour is added to your grain supply.
The owner had no children or heirs. You confiscate the grain.

-------------
Cluster: 1031
-------------

_NODE 12.
_NODE n10310
Word comes to you of a disturbing incident.

{Majesty, the rogue knights that afflicted the fair in Rennes have
returned in force. We need to send some infantry against them and
get rid of them once and for all.}

Do you:
[a] assign one Infantry unit.
[b] assign two Infantry units.
[c] assign three Infantry units.
_NODE 12a.
_NODE n10311
{We do not have enough infantry. We should recruit them
quickly, before the problem gets worse.}
{They shall be sent.}
Your infantry drives away the rogue knights in a grim,
bloody battle.
_NODE 12b.
_NODE n10312
{We do not have enough infantry. We should recruit them
quickly, before the problem gets worse.}
{They shall be sent.}
Your infantry drive away the rogue knights in a grim,
bloody battle.
_NODE 12c.
_NODE n10313
{We do not have enough infantry. We should recruit them
quickly, before the problem gets worse.}
{They shall be sent.}
Your infantry drive away the rogue knights in a brutal,
bloody battle.

-------------
Cluster: 1032
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE n10320
{And as we say in our homeland, conquest is just another form of
pilgrimage; a pilgrimage for our treasury. Everyone who tries
to conquer Bretagne must make a vow of poverty, for certainly
their treasury soon vanishes.}

Your face is red as you find yourself surrounded by laughter.
Laughter that is aimed at you.

One of the companies that is performing has changed its scheduled
play. Instead of a mystery play, they are performing a satire
describing the misadventures of a vain and inadequate lord
who began a misguided campaign to conquer Bretagne. The play is
obviously about you.

Do you:
[a] stop the production and imprison the players.
[b] leave the production and have them imprisoned later.
[c] chide them for satirizing one of the other claimants to the
throne, making it clear that satire will only be tolerated
if it concerns someone other than you.
_NODE 13a.
_NODE n10321
This act casts a long shadow over the rest of the festival, but no
further incidents occur.
_NODE 13b.
_NODE n10322
No one openly satirizes you for a long time.
_NODE 13c.
_NODE n10323
The satire becomes rather popular, although the company has the
discretion to turn it into a satire about someone else.

-------------
Cluster: 1033
-------------

_NODE 14.
_NODE n10330
As the Gregorian chants go into their seventh hour, the crowd
grows restless indeed. You cannot entirely blame them.

{Majesty,} one of your advisors says, {unless something is done
to put a stop to this unpleasantness, this crowd will turn into
an angry mob.}

Do you:
[a] thank the singers and end the festival.
[b] allow some actors to come on stage and make fun of the singers.
[c] allow the festival to continue.
Too late. You are forced to flee for your life as the angered
mob goes into a frenzy. Eventually, things settle down, but
many homes and shops are burned to the ground by the mob.
The crowd breaks out into riotous laughter, and the festival
ends peacefully. Bishop Winslow, however, is mortified by
the event. He protests your conduct to the Pope, but more
understanding bishops intercede on your behalf, and it is
said that the Pope himself mentioned that he would not be able
to stand more than five hours of Gregorian chants.
A bad decision. You are forced to flee for your life as the
mob goes into a frenzy. Eventually, things settle down, but
many homes and shops are burned to the ground by the mob.

{People have no appreciation for good music,} Bishop Winslow
is heard to say.

-------------
Cluster: 1034
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE n10340
The day of the tournament arrives. All eyes are upon you as the
finest knights in Bretagne compete.

Sir Thomas, your champion, is triumphant! Yet the happiness
of the crowd is muted; he is clearly not their favorite.

At this point, Sir Miles, the local favorite who was not
chosen, steps forward and asks your permission to challenge
Sir Thomas.

Do you:
[a] refuse to allow your knights to fight each other.
[b] allow the combat.
[c] allow Sir Thomas to decide.
Sir Thomas fights valiantly, but is beaten by a knight from
Lombardy.
_NODE 14a.
_NODE n10341
Sir Miles protests longer than he should, and you are tempted to
imprison him. Eventually, he storms away, without your leave.
_NODE 14b.
_NODE n10342
Sir Miles' anger brings about a surprising result to this
contest. He bests Sir Thomas.

Sir Thomas is uninjured, save for his pride.
Miles becomes, of course, more insufferable than
before. But the locals love a triumphant hero.
Sir Thomas is badly wounded in the combat, but
Miles does not seem to care, nor do the locals
that idolize him.
Sir Miles badly wounds Sir Thomas, and, without
giving him a chance to surrender, slays your old
friend. Callously, he exalts in his victory while
the crowd cheers the death of one of your most
faithful servants.

Do you:
[a] imprison Sir Miles.
[b] allow him to go unpunished.
The people are outraged that their hero
is imprisoned.
Sir Thomas is buried with honors in a
graveyard near his home. His friends are
quite saddened, and not at all happy with
you.
As expected, Sir Thomas bests Sir Miles. The crowd is
not happy to see their hero go down to defeat.

-------------
Cluster: 1035
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE n10350
The day of the tournament arrives. All eyes are upon you as the
finest knights in Bretagne compete.
Sir Miles, your champion, is triumphant! The crowd is filled
with happiness and joy.
Sir Miles fights hard, but is beaten by a stout knight from
Lombardy.

Later, after the tournament, Miles comes to you:
{Majesty, that Lombard swine clearly fouled me. You should
go to the judges and tell them to award the tournament to
me.}

You politely inform him that it is too late. The knight,
unsatisfied, departs angrily.

-------------
Cluster: 1036
-------------

_NODE 17.
_NODE n10360
The day of the tournament arrives. All eyes are upon you as the
finest knights in Bretagne compete.
Sir Robert, your champion, is triumphant! Yet the happiness
of the crowd is muted; he is clearly not their favorite.

At this point, Sir Miles, the local favorite who was not
chosen, steps forward and asks your permission to challenge
Sir Robert.

Do you:
[a] refuse to allow your knights to fight each other.
[b] allow the combat.
[c] allow Sir Robert to decide.
Sir Robert fights valiantly, but is beaten by a knight from
Lombardy.
_NODE 17a.
_NODE n10361
Sir Miles protests longer than he should, and you are tempted to
imprison him. Eventually, he storms away, without your leave.
_NODE 17b.
_NODE n10362
You have seen warfare that was less vicious and brutal than
this fight. It is obvious that both men despise each other,
and would like nothing better than to see each other beaten
and humiliated. Both are badly wounded, but in the end, to
your surprise, Miles is the victor.
As expected, Sir Robert bests Sir Miles. The crowd is
not happy to see their hero go down to defeat. Sir Robert,
unimpressed by Miles' challenge, makes a special effort to
humiliate his rival, smiting him with his fists as well as
with shield and sword, until Miles lies beaten and
unconscious on the ground. It was not a pleasant contest,
nor was it appreciated by the crowd. But it serves as a
useful lesson in humility.

-------------
Cluster: 1037
-------------

_NODE 18.
_NODE n10370
You receive a visit from your friend, Sir Thomas, who will soon
fight for his honor in a trial by combat.

{It would please me greatly to know your wishes in this matter.
The whelp, Francis, has made many foolish boasts about what he
will do to me in our contest. He dishonors me explicitly, and by
boasting that the locals can defeat anyone, dishonors you implicitly.
Yet youth will be brash, and inclined to rash decisions.

{I know that I will triumph. He is barely more than a child, and
knows little of the way of the sword. I wish to know what you want
me to do to him.}

Do you:
[a] tell Sir Thomas to kill him.
[b] tell Sir Thomas to try to spare his life.
Sir Thomas goes beyond his orders. The fight is long and
bloody, and Thomas openly mocks Francis' boasts. In the
end, the youth begs for mercy, mercy which is not shown
to him.
Sir Thomas quickly bests Francis. He forces him to yield,
rather than killing him. There is a reconciliation between
your knights and the local nobility.

-------------
Cluster: 1038
-------------

_NODE 19.
_NODE n10380

{Majesty, there has been a problem. Francis, brother of the slain
Sir Gerald, contrary to thy wishes, challenged Sir Thomas to a
trial by combat.

{The fight was interrupted before Thomas could slay Francis, but
the whelp has disobeyed your commands, and I have brought him to
you for punishment.}

Do you:
[a] have Francis executed.
[b] have Francis imprisoned.
[c] let him go free if he will apologize to you and swear an oath
never to disobey you.
_NODE 19a.
_NODE n10381
Suddenly, Sir Thomas intervenes. {Majesty, I can hardly
blame him for wishing to avenge his brother's death, though it was
an accident. But I am convinced he is a man who will be a great
knight one day, and enough blood has been shed already. I intercede
on his behalf and ask you to spare his life and grant him liberty.}

Do you:
[a] free him if he swears an oath never to attack Sir Thomas.
[b] refuse to free him.
[c] give him a choice of freedom or a trial by combat against Sir
Thomas.
_NODE 19b.
_NODE n10382
Suddenly, Sir Thomas intervenes. {Majesty, I can hardly
blame him for wishing to avenge his brother's death, though it was
an accident. But I am convinced he is a man who will be a great
knight one day, and it is not in this kingdom's best interest for
him to be imprisoned. I intervene on his behalf and I ask you to
grant him liberty.}

Do you:
[a] free him if he swears an oath never to attack Sir Thomas.
[b] refuse to free him.
[c] give him a choice of freedom or a trial by combat against Sir
Thomas.
_NODE 19c.
_NODE n10383
Francis speaks:

{I have disobeyed your Majesty, and deserve a far more grievous
punishment. My pride has been laid low, and may God keep it so.
Never again shall I gainsay your commands, nor attack anyone who
upholds the law of the land. May I be worthy of your forgiveness.}
_NODE 19ab.
_NODE n10384
Francis speaks:

{I have disobeyed your Majesty, and deserve this punishment. I
have been a proud, disobedient fool. God bless your Majesty and
keep thy counsels wise.}
_NODE 19ac.
_NODE n10385
Francis speaks:

{I am unworthy of such mercy, either from my opponent, or from thee.
Even if I thought I could prevail in combat against Sir Thomas, I
do not wish now to do injury against a knight of such generous
spirit and puissance. I shall take my freedom, and use it as best
I can, in the honourable service of the liegelord that my brother
loved.}

-------------
Cluster: 1039
-------------

_NODE 20.
_NODE n10390
Word comes to you of a disturbing incident.

{Majesty, the rogue knights continue to afflict Rennes. They need
our immediate aid!}

Do you:
[a] send one Infantry unit.
[b] send two Infantry units.
[c] send three Infantry units.
_NODE 20a.
_NODE n10391
You do not have enough infantry.
{They shall be sent.}
_NODE 20b.
_NODE n10392
You do not have enough infantry.
{They shall be sent.}
Your infantry drive away the rogue knights in a grim,
bloody battle.
_NODE 20c.
_NODE n10393
You do not have enough infantry.
{They shall be sent.}
Your infantry drive away the rogue knights in a brutal,
bloody battle.

-------------
Cluster: 1040
-------------

_NODE 21.
_NODE 10400
More news of the rogue knights in Rennes.

{Majesty, the knights have regrouped from their losses in the
last battle and are once again attacking Rennes. Something must be
done!}

Do you:
[a] send one Infantry unit.
[b] send two Infantry units.
[c] send three Infantry units.
_NODE 21a.
_NODE 10401
You do not have enough infantry.
{They will leave at once.}
Your infantry battle a band of renegade knights near
Rennes.

{Good news, m'lord! Our infantry have easily routed those
brigands. Rennes is once again safe!}
_NODE 21b.
_NODE 10402
You do not have enough infantry.
{They will leave at once.}
Your infantry battle a band of renegade knights near
Rennes.

{Good news, m'lord! Our infantry have easily routed those
brigands. Rennes is once again safe!}
_NODE 21c.
_NODE 10403
{We do not have enough infantry.}
{They will leave at once.}
Your infantry battle a band of renegade knights near
Rennes.

{Good news, m'lord! Our infantry have easily routed those
brigands. Rennes is once again safe!}

-------------
Cluster: 1041
-------------

_NODE 22.
_NODE 10410.
A delegation comes from the city of Rennes.

{In gratitude for your decisive action in a time of crisis, we present
you with gifts of grain and gold, and our deepest appreciation.}

-------------
Cluster: 1042
-------------

_NODE 23.
_NODE 10420
One of your knights comes to you, bearing a concern.

{Majesty, that clown, Sir Miles has been openly attacking the
selection of your champion in the recent tournament. He has
been making no secret of his disdain for you, or for those in whom
you place your trust. Something should be done about this.}

[a] reprimand Sir Miles.
[b] demand an apology from Sir Miles.
[c] ignore Sir Miles.
Miles is formally rebuked, but it does not seem to humble
him. Humility is not a virtue among many of the chivalrous.
Miles offers one, but you can tell his heart is not in it.
Eventually, Miles decides to complain about something else,
and you never hear another word about the tournament.

-------------
Cluster: 1043
-------------

_NODE 24.
_NODE 10430
Following the tournament, the victorious Sir Miles comes to you.

{Majesty, as victor in your great tournament, I believe that it
is customary to choose a reward. I ask for the hand in marriage
of your cousin and ward, Lady Anne.}

[a] Grant his request.
[b] Make him a count instead.
[c] Tell him that no reward was ever offered.
{Thank you Majesty.}

You are slightly worried about having him as a relation, but he
is probably too stupid to pose any real threat.
Miles is glad to accept any advancement in rank. Throwing a
few crumbs is the best way to handle ambitious fools, as long
as they don't bite your hand.
Miles sulks for a long time.

-------------
Cluster: 1044
-------------

_NODE 25.
_NODE 10440
You receive some disturbing news.

{Majesty, without anyone's approval or counsel, Sir Miles travelled
to Lombardy, to challenge the knight who bested him in the
tournament. The Lombard slew Sir Miles.}

-------------
Cluster: 1045
-------------

_NODE 26.
_NODE 10450
News comes to you of a terrible tragedy.

{Majesty, the town of Rennes has been destroyed by the rogue knights.
All of the buildings have been razed, and the people have either
been slain or scattered.}

[Vanshilar]

-------------
Cluster: 1046
-------------

_NODE 27.
_NODE 10460
{Majesty! The relatives of Francis and Sir Gerald have gathered a
small army and are attacking us!}
You have triumphed! The rebels are captured and slain!
Your fight is a valiant one, but you are overwhelmed. Your
stocks are looted, and many of your followers flee. You
survive, but with reduced prestige and chances of success.

-------------
Cluster: 1047
-------------

_NODE 28.
_NODE 10460
Francis of Beleux, brother of the slain Sir Gerald, comes to thee
to beg a boon.

{Majesty, I was my brother's squire, and now that he is slain, my
training to become a knight has ended. I wish to resume it once
again.

{I understand that Sir Thomas was not responsible for Gerald's
death, and I have seen his generous nature. I wish to be his
squire, if I may have your permission. Sir Thomas has said that he
is willing.}

Do you:
[a] give your permission.
[b] refuse your permission.
{Thank you, my liege!}
{As you command, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1048
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE 10480.
An aging woman enters your court. Her once-beautiful features have
grown hard with age. She has danced the danse macabre of Bretagnese
politics better than most, surviving when the cream of the nobility
died.

She is Catherine de Aquitaine, Queen of Bretagne, widow of the late
King Charles.
{So, you would claim my husband's throne? I have read your
"proclamations. You aren't much, but I will give you a chance. My "
husband left me with a debt of 1000 marks. If you would rule
Bretagne, then show a generous spirit. Pay a widow's debts, as any
true Christian Prince would do.}

You:
[a] threaten to imprison her.
[b] pay the sum (1 Gold).
[c] demand her backing in your quest for the throne.
_NODE 1a.
_NODE 10481.
{How dare you!

{You threaten me? I've beaten pups like you since I was a child!
Do you think that the widow of King Charles is a trifle? I held
this kingdom together while my husband squandered his birthright
through his petty wars. Do you think I can be imprisoned so easily?
I shall look upon your corpse before all is done!}

You:
[a] imprison her.
[b] expel her from your throne room.
[c] demand her backing in your claim to the throne.
_NODE 1b.
_NODE 10482.
{I suppose this means you will be expecting special favors
from me. Don't!}
You do not have the funds to pay the Queen. She is most
understanding...

{Swindler! Cheat! Falsehood maker! You'll pay for this, one
way or another! I'll make you sorry you were ever born!}
_NODE 1c.
_NODE 10483.
{I suppose you are prepared to pay for my support, and pay well.
I have a reputation for extravagance, which, while not deserved,
I strive to maintain. If you want my support, I require 3,000
marks.}

Do you:
[a] imprison her.
[b] pay 3,000 marks (3 Gold) for her support.
[c] haggle.
_NODE 1aa.
_NODE 10484.
{You will regret this! You will burn among the damned even if I
have to take you to them myself!}
_NODE 1ab.
_NODE 10485.
{How dare you do this to me! You will regret this!}
_NODE 1cb.
_NODE 10486.
{This will be an interesting partnership. My forces are at
your disposal. My cousin, Count Vichy, has been trying
to court my favor. I should like to see his face when he
hears this news.}
{You do not have the funds to pay the Queen. She is most
understanding...}

{Swindler! Cheat! Falsehood maker! I'll make you regret this!
The event of thy birth shall become a memory of great
sorrow to thee.}
_NODE 1cc.
_NODE 10487.
Do you offer:
[a] 1000 marks (1 Gold).
[b] 2000 marks (2 Gold).
_NODE 1ca.
_NODE 10488.
{God's wounds! What is the state of the realm in these
times, when one who would be king does barter like the
basest moneylender in an Italian port. A pox upon thy
offer, thou merchant king! And a pox upon thee. There
shall be no alliance between what is mine and thine.}
{The gratitude of princes is less than it once was.
These are pallid times, when the nobility of man, like
a flower beyond its prime, has lost its bloom, and
chivalry has wilted. I will take thy offer, and give
thee my blessing, and smile a public smile, but
there shall be no love behind it for thee.}
You cannot afford this. The Queen is not impressed.
_NODE 1cb.
_NODE 10489.
{God's wounds! What is the state of the realm in these
times, when one who would be king does barter like the
basest moneylender in an Italian port. A pox upon thy
offer, thou merchant king! And a pox upon thee. There
shall be no alliance between what is mine and thine.}
{The gratitude of princes is less than it once was.
These are pallid times, when the nobility of man, like
a flower beyond its prime, has lost its bloom, and
chivalry has wilted. I will take thy offer, and give
thee my blessing, and smile a public smile, but
there shall be no love behind it for thee.}
You cannot afford this. The Queen is not impressed.

-------------
Cluster: 1049
-------------

_NODE 2.
_NODE 10490.
You receive disturbing news.

{Majesty, I have word that Queen Catherine is gathering together
an army. I fear she may be planning to attack us and stake her own
claim to the throne.}

Do you:
[a] attack Queen Catherine's castle.
[b] summon the Queen to explain herself.
[c] ignore the incident.
_NODE 2a.
_NODE 10491.
We shall muster our forces, Majesty.
One of your councillors comes to you:

Majesty, our troops now surround the Queen's castle. She demands
to know why we are threatening her.

Do you:
[a] insist on her surrender.
[b] tell her that you will not tolerate rival armies in your land.
[c] attack her.
The Queen willingly becomes your prisoner, but warns that
others will not tolerate the situation.
The Queen comes to you to discuss the dilemma.
_NODE 2b.
_NODE 10492.
{A messenger will be sent.}
_NODE 2c.
_NODE 10493.
{As you wish.}
_NODE 2avictory.
_NODE 10494.
One of your councillors brings news of your victory.

{Majesty, you have defeated the forces of Queen Catherine. The Queen
did not survive.

{Although she was despised in life, in death she has found new
popularity. Her death is fast becoming a symbol of defiance against
an unlawful ruler. Once you were thought of as one of a number of
claimants to the throne. Now, the people see you as an invader who
would ravage and destroy Bretagne. I fear this victory will not be
to our advantage.}
_NODE 2adefeat.
_NODE 10495.
{Majesty, we have been defeated. Queen Catherine, her brother Count
Merose, and several other nobles have forged an alliance with our
enemies. Some of our followers have defected to their cause.}

-------------
Cluster: 1050
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE 10500.
You are brought disturbing news.

{Majesty, I have word that Count Merose is gathering together
an army. He claims that the indignities done to his sister, Queen
Catherine, demand punishment, and he intends to attack you.}

Do you:
[a] attack Count Merose.
[b] offer an apology for your actions.
[c] hire a cutthroat to murder Count Merose.
_NODE 3a.
_NODE 10501.
{We will begin mustering our forces at once.}
Your forces engage the army of Count Merose.
_NODE 3b.
_NODE 10502.
{Your apology is accepted.}
{They will not accept your apology.}
_NODE 3c.
_NODE 10503.
{But Majesty, the cutthroats are loyal to Count Merose.}

Do you:
[a] attack Count Merose instead.
[b] offer an apology for your actions instead.
[c] offer double Count Merose's usual fee for the cutthroats'
services.
_NODE 3avictory.
_NODE 10504.
News comes at last of your victory against Count Merose.

{Majesty, you have defeated the forces of Count Merose and Queen
Catherine. The Queen did not survive the battle.

{Although she was despised in life, in death she has found new
popularity. Her death is fast becoming a symbol of defiance against
tyranny. Once you were thought of as one of a number of claimants
to the throne. Now, the people see you as an invader who would
ravage and destroy Bretagne. I fear this victory will not be
to our advantage.}
_NODE 3adefeat.
_NODE 10505.
Word comes from the battlefield.

{Majesty, we have been defeated. Queen Catherine, her brother Count
Merose, and several other nobles have forged an alliance with our
enemies. Some of our followers have defected to their cause.}
_NODE 3cc.
_NODE 10506.
{Very good, Your Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1051
-------------

_NODE 4.
_NODE 10510.
One of your councillors appears very nervous.

{Wrong? N-nothing is wrong, Majesty. Aside from Count Merose's army,
which is coming to attack us and free Queen Catherine, but that's
a very trivial matter, isn't it? Everything's fine!}

Do you:
[a] attack Count Merose.
[b] let the army attack your position.
[c] offer to ransom the Queen.
_NODE 4a.
_NODE 10511.
{Our armies will be g-gathered, my liege.}
Your forces engage the army of Count Merose.
_NODE 4b.
_NODE 10512.
Count Merose's army at last advances on your position.
You have triumphed! The rebels are captured!
Your fight is a valiant one, but you are overwhelmed. You
you are forced to retreat, and your
stocks are looted.
_NODE 4c.
_NODE 10513.
Count Merose is interested in your offer. Do you:
[a] demand 2000 marks (2 Gold).
[b] demand 3000 marks (3 Gold).
[c] demand 3000 marks and their recognition of your claim as King
of Bretagne.
_NODE 4avictory.
_NODE 10514.
Your seneschal comes to discuss the recent victory over Count
Merose.

{The victory is a great one, Majesty. Count Merose was among the many
prisoners taken in the battle. It appears he had few supporters,
save the Queen. Catherine must have known it all along; once she saw
her brother, she immediately offered to swear an oath of loyalty to
you. As proof of their good faith, they have paid a ransom of 5,000
marks.

{I have placed guards at their estates who are loyal to you, and
sent them back; they will not be able to solicit help from your
enemies, and will find it difficult to flee, let alone do anything
that might harm thee. I trust these arrangements are satisfactory.}
_NODE 4adefeat.
_NODE 10515.
Your councillors bring back news of the battle.

{Majesty, we have been defeated. If we do not bring them Queen
Catherine immediately, they threaten to destroy us.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to ransom Queen Catherine.
[b] release Queen Catherine.
_NODE 4ca.
_NODE 10516.
Count Merose agrees to pay the ransom.
_NODE 4cb.
_NODE 10517.
Count Merose agrees to pay the ransom.
_NODE 4cc.
_NODE 10518.
Count Merose refuses to recognize you as the king. Instead, he
attacks!
You have triumphed! The rebels are captured and slain!
Your fight is a valiant one, but you are overwhelmed.
You are forced to retreat, and your stocks
are ransacked.
_NODE 4ac
_NODE 10519.
You are brought more bad news.

{Majesty, upon her release, Queen Catherine, her brother Count
Merose, and several other nobles forged an alliance with our
enemies. Some of our followers have defected to their cause.}

-------------
Cluster: 1052
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE 10520.
A messenger comes from the Castle of Queen Catherine.

{Majesty, the Queen is being attacked by her cousins, the Vichy.
Apparently they did not appreciate it when she recognized you as
the rightful king of Bretagne; one of the members of that family
has gathered an army to attack her.}

Do you:
[a] attack the incoming Vichy army.
[b] allow the Queen to be destroyed.
[c] try to settle the issue diplomatically.
_NODE 5a.
_NODE 10521.
_NODE 5b
_NODE 10522.
The Queen is captured and forced to renounce your claim to the
throne. The Vichy gather the remainder of her armies and integrate
them with their own, becoming more powerful.
_NODE 5c
_NODE 10523.
{A messenger will be sent to the Vichy.}
_NODE 5avictory
_NODE 10524.
{Majesty, we have repelled the attack of the Vichy against Queen
Catherine. It was a great victory!}
_NODE 5adefeat
_NODE 10525.
Bad news is brought to you in the night.

{The battle is lost, Majesty. Their forces were too much for us.

{The Queen is captured and forced to renounce your claim to the
throne. Some of your followers defect to your enemies.}

-------------
Cluster: 1053
-------------

_NODE 6.
_NODE 10530.
Queen Catherine comes before you, to explain her recent actions.

{Of late, a large force of hedge-robbers and other villains have
been lurking around my lands. I have been forced to increase my
guards so I have protection from these jackals. Would you have me
incapable of defending myself from a common cutthroat?}

Do you:
[a] offer to provide men to defend her keep.
[b] move her by force to a {secure place} and keep her prisoner.
[c] allow her to expand her forces.
_NODE 6a.
_NODE 10531.
{Majesty, I do not need your men; my own will suffice. If I must
swear an oath stating that I will not attack you, I shall. But
I shall not surrender my freedom or my pride.}

Do you:
[a] move her by force to a {secure place} and keep her prisoner.
[b] let her swear an oath.
_NODE 6b.
_NODE 10532.
{A secure place? Like a dungeon, I suppose. Do this if you wish,
but blood will flow, I swear it!}
_NODE 6c.
_NODE 10533.
{I imagine I am now supposed to curtsy, and thank the great King
who roused me from my chambers and brought me against my will down
a hard dangerous road to his court. Forgive me if my gratitude
is not as great as you had hoped.}

-------------
Cluster: 1054
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE 10540.
You are awoken from slumber to hear shocking news.

{Majesty, it is as we feared: Queen Catherine has not been gathering
her forces only to protect herself from hedge robbers. However,
she is not attacking us. She has launched an attack against her
cousin, Baron Darcy of Vichy!}

Of the people who are not claiming the throne, Baron Darcy has one
of the largest and most formidable armies. He has been biding his
time in the conflict, and many suspect that he is waiting for the
other claimants to weaken themselves before he presses his own
claim to the throne.

Do you:
[a] offer to assist the Queen.
[b] offer to assist the Vichy.
[c] remain neutral in this conflict.
_NODE 7a.
_NODE 10541.
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 7b.
_NODE 10542.
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 7c.
_NODE 10543.
{Very good, Majesty.}

The Vichy are allied with the Valois. The Queen is
captured and locked away in the Valois' dungeon,
never to be seen again.
The Vichy are allied with Anjou. The Queen is
captured and locked away in Anjou's dungeon,
never to be seen again.
The Vichy are allied with Aragon. The Queen is
captured and locked away in Aragon's dungeon,
never to be seen again.
The Vichy are allied with Burgundy. The Queen is
captured and locked away in Burgundy's dungeon,
never to be seen again.
The Vichy are allied with Albion. The Queen is
captured and locked away in the dungeon,
never to be seen again.

-------------
Cluster: 1055
-------------

_NODE 8.
_NODE 10550.
You are awakened from slumber with a dagger poised over your chest.

Before it can fall, the guards grab the assassin and pull him away
from you. One guard is wounded in the struggle.

{For the Queen!} he shouts as he is led away. {The friends of
Queen Catherine will smite thee down!}

Do you:
[a] have him executed immediately.
[b] place him on trial.
[c] lock him in a dungeon and throw away the key.
_NODE 8a.
_NODE 10551.
{Very good, Majesty. His head will make an interesting
decoration for the town gate.}

Nonetheless, the people are upset that the man was executed without
a trial.
_NODE 8b.
_NODE 10552.
The verdict of the trial is beyond question. The assassin is found
guilty and is drawn and quartered. However, the trial does serve
as a reminder of the people's continuing mistrust of your rule.
_NODE 8c.
_NODE 10553.
The assassin is soon forgotten. The people's anger over the death
of Queen Catherine gradually diminishes.

-------------
Cluster: 1056
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE 10560.
A messenger from Count Merose demands to see you.

{Majesty, Count Merose requires your assistance. He needs gold
to improve his fortifications, and wishes you to help pay for
them. One thousand marks would do.}

Do you:
[a] give Count Merose one thousand marks (1 Gold).
[b] refuse the demand.
_NODE 9a.
_NODE 10561.
You cannot afford to give Count Merose the gold.
The messenger frowns and leaves.
{My lord thanks you for your beneficence.}
_NODE 9b.
_NODE 10562.
{This is not a matter in which Count Merose will permit your
refusal!}

-------------
Cluster: 1057
-------------

_NODE 10.
_NODE 10570.
A messenger from the cutthroats' guild arrives in secret...

{Nice throne room you have here, m'lord, even if it is a trifle
damp. Still, wi' your winters I can sees why you'd like
to conquer the country. The climate's much better.

{I am Geoffrey the Honest. If you want us to cut the throat of
one of our best customers, it won't come cheap. 4,000 marks.}

Do you:
[a] agree to pay the price.
[b] refuse to pay.
[c] barter.
_NODE 10a.
_NODE 10571.
You cannot afford to give Geoffrey the gold. He sneers
at you, and leaves.
{You are a kind ruler. (Chuckle)}

Merose soon dies under suspicious circumstances.
_NODE 10b.
_NODE 10572.
{Well, aren't you the cheapest ruler in Christendom!}
_NODE 10c.
_NODE 10573.
{Very well, Majesty, 3,000 marks, but that's my final offer.

Do you:
[a] accept.
[b] refuse.
[c] barter.
You cannot afford to give Geoffrey the gold. He sneers
at you, and leaves.
{You are a kind ruler. (Chuckle)}

Merose soon dies under suspicious circumstances.
{Well, aren't you the cheapest ruler in Christendom!}
_NODE 10cc.
_NODE 10574.
{Majesty, this is robbery! Very well, 2,000 marks, take it or leave
it.}

Do you:
[a] accept.
[b] refuse.
[c] barter.
You cannot afford to give Geoffrey the gold. He sneers
at you, and leaves.
{I must confess that negotiating with you is not
a painless process.}

Merose soon dies under suspicious circumstances.
{Well, aren't you the cheapest ruler in Christendom!}
{I'm not going below 2,000 marks. A pleasant day to you,
Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1058
-------------

_NODE 11.
_NODE 10580.
A messenger comes from the Baron of Vichy.
{It was never our intent to offend you. The former Queen
is a manipulative witch, certainly no cause for distress
between us. Allow us to proceed in our own fashion and
punish this liar. It is a matter of great honor for us
that we do so.}

Do you:
[a] agree to allow them to attack the Queen.
[b] threaten to attack them if they continue to attack an
ally.
{The Queen has betrayed her word to the Baron of Vichy.
You can either stand aside, or be destroyed with her. The
Baron bears little love to thee and will be more than
happy to crush you like an ant.}

Do you:
[a] agree to allow them to attack the Queen.
[b] threaten to attack them if they continue to attack an
ally.
_NODE 11a.
_NODE 10581.
{Very good, Majesty.}

The Queen's army is soon destroyed, and the Queen is killed in the
battle.
_NODE 11b.
_NODE 10582.
{In that case, we will meet you on the field of honor.}

-------------
Cluster: 1059
-------------

_NODE 36.
_NODE 10590.
A messenger returns from the beleaguered army of Queen Catherine.

{The Queen is more than willing to accept help against the
threat of the Vichy. She would like 2 units of Infantry and
2 units of Archers.}

Do you:
[a] offer her one unit of each.
[b] offer her two units of each.
[c] offer her three units of each.
_NODE 12a.
_NODE 10591.
Your forces march to join Queen Catherine, but they are not
sufficient to defeat the Vichy. Few of your men ever
return home.
You do not have sufficient troops to send even this
meager following to the Queen. She is utterly defeated.
_NODE 12b.
_NODE 10592.
Your forces march to join Queen Catherine, but they are not
sufficient to defeat the Vichy. Few of your men ever
return home.
You do not have sufficient troops to send these units
to the Queen. She is utterly defeated.
_NODE 12c.
_NODE 10593.
Your forces march to join Queen Catherine. The Vichy
are bested! You have gained a solid ally in the Queen and
her followers.
You do not have sufficient troops to send such an army
to the Queen. She is utterly defeated.

-------------
Cluster: 1060
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE 10600.
A messenger returns from the beleaguered army of the Vichy.
{The Vichy thank you for your generous offer of
assistance, but, for our part, we need it not. We are
of course, grateful for the offer, and hope this
is a precursor of future good will between us.}

The Queen is soon destroyed.
{Insolent cur! How dare you insult the honor of
Vichy! Do you believe we would need assistance against
the rabble of the Lady Catherine? Such an obvious insult
is not to be tolerated!}

The Queen is soon defeated, and you now understand why
everyone in Bretagne despises the Vichy so intensely.

-------------
Cluster: 1061
-------------

_NODE 14.
_NODE 10610.
A guard rushes into the throne room.

{Majesty, Count Merose approaches with his army. He demands two
thousand marks in gold, or he will attack.}

Do you:
[a] attack Count Merose.
[b] pay Count Merose (2 Gold).
[c] allow him to attack you.
_NODE 14a.
_NODE 10611.
_NODE 14b.
_NODE 10612.
Your money is accepted.
You cannot afford his price. He decides to attack.
_NODE 14c.
_NODE 10613.
You have triumphed! The rebels are captured and slain!
Your fight is a valiant one, but you are overwhelmed.
You are forced to retreat, and your
stocks are completely ransacked.
_NODE 14avictory.
_NODE 10614.
{Majesty, Count Merose is defeated. Our lands are secure, for the
moment.}
_NODE 14adefeat.
_NODE 10615.
You receive word of the battle.

{Majesty, we have been beaten. That is not the worst news, however.

{Majesty, Count Merose is allied with the Valois.
The Valois and the Queen have formed an alliance,
strengthening the Valois.}
_%d {Queen Catherine recognizes the Valois claim to
_the throne.}
{Majesty, Count Merose is allied with Anjou. The Duke
of Anjou and the Queen have formed an alliance,
strengthening Anjou claim to the throne.}
_%d {Queen Catherine recognizes the Anjou claim to
_the throne.}
{Majesty, Count Merose is allied with Aragon. King
Ramiro and the Queen have formed an alliance,
strengthening Aragon's armies.}
_%d {Queen Catherine recognizes the Aragon claim to
_the throne.}
{Majesty, Count Merose is allied with Burgundy. The
Duke and the Queen have formed an alliance,
strengthening Burgundy's armies.}
_%d {Queen Catherine recognizes the Burgundian claim to
_the throne.}
{Majesty, Count Merose is allied with Albion. King
Edward and the Queen have formed an alliance,
strengthening Albion's claim to the throne.}
_NODE 14.
_NODE 10617.
A guard rushes into the throne room.

{Majesty, once again, Count Merose approaches with his army. Once
again he demands two thousand marks in gold, or he will attack.}

Do you:
[a] attack Count Merose.
[b] pay Count Merose (2 Gold).
[c] allow him to attack you.

-------------
Cluster: 1062
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE 10620.
The battle against the Vichy has begun.
_NODE 15avictory.
_NODE 10621.
{Majesty, the Vichy are defeated. Our lands are secure, for the
moment.}
_NODE 15avictory.
_NODE 10622.
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the Vichy. They have retreated
rather than press an attack in a place where they cannot be easily
reinforced, but the Queen is lost.}

-------------
Cluster: 1063
-------------

_NODE 16.
_NODE 10630.
You receive a visit from Queen Catherine.

{Greetings. I suppose one day I will regret the debt of gratitude
that I owe you. This is the way it is, in the world of kings; we
have no friendships, only alliances, and that is the one thing in
the world that is more fragile than friendship.

{Still, that is not the purpose for which I came. If you would
be king of Bretagne, you need someone capable at your side. We are
both widowed. I have spent many years in such a position. Proposing
marriage to me would be in our mutual interest.}

{Of course, you would have to divorce your wife, Edna.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to get a divorce.
[b] spurn the proposal.
The Pope will not permit your divorce. Queen Edna's
mood becomes even darker and more vile.
{As you wish. I am too old for sentimentality; you will
not experience the wrath of a woman scorned. I shall
retire to my castle, and spend the rest of my days
growing flowers...roses, I think. They like the soil
very much.}
Do you:
[a] propose marriage to Queen Catherine.
[b] spurn the proposal.
{Very good. Three fortnights should be sufficient for
planning this matter. It should be a great spectacle,
one fit for the King and Queen of Bretagne. I shall
pay for it myself, in lieu of a dowry.}
{As you wish. I am too old for sentimentality; you will
not experience the wrath of a woman scorned. I shall
retire to my castle, and spend the rest of my days
growing flowers...roses, I think. They like the soil
very much.}

-------------
Cluster: 1064
-------------

_NODE 17.
_NODE 10640.
_music, bells.
It is not a particularly pleasant day, but the people love a
wedding. You and Queen Catherine settle down quickly to the
affairs of state.
_NODE 10641.
_NODE The End.
_newplot.

-------------
Cluster: 1065
-------------

_NODE n10650.
_Random beginning to a mostly linear plotline.
_NODE 1.1.
_NODE n10651.
A messenger comes from the Archbishop of Chamord.

{Majesty, the archbishop is deeply distressed. Apparently, just
after your arrival in Chamord, some of your soldiers attacked and
robbed a friar. The archbishop insists that you make amends.}

Do you:
[a] claim that you are not responsible for your soldiers' misdeeds.
[b] offer to provide compensation for the friar.
[c] send the accused soldiers to a Church tribunal.
{Majesty, I fear the archbishop will not accept such an answer.}
{He shall be told, Majesty.}
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 1.2.
_NODE n10652.
A messenger comes from the Archbishop of Chamord.

{Majesty, the archbishop is upset with some of your followers. The
abbot of Guenfaire caught the sons of several of your barons
falconing on Church lands and poaching game. He insists that they
be punished.}

Do you:
[a] tell him to complain to the nobles' parents.
[b] offer compensation to the abbot.
[c] send the accused poachers to a Church tribunal.
{Majesty, I fear the archbishop will not accept such an answer.}
{He shall be told, Majesty.}
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 1.3.
_NODE n10653.
A messenger comes from the Archbishop of Chamord.

{Majesty, the archbishop is upset with some of your followers.
Initiates of Delmuir Abbey were harassed in the village of Mortain
while some of your knights neglected their chivalrous duty and watched.
This is truly barbarous behavior and not to be tolerated.}

Do you:
[a] agree, but tell him you can do nothing.
[b] offer a donation to the abbey.
[c] send the knights to a Church tribunal.
{Majesty, I fear the archbishop will not accept such an answer.}
{This is welcome, Majesty.}
{It shall be done. Thank you, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1066
-------------

_NODE 2.
_NODE n10660.
You are roused from slumber to greet a messenger from the Archbishop
of Chamord.

{Majesty, the archbishop wishes he did not have to bother you, but
a new problem has arisen. Last week's storm greatly damaged the
local cathedral, and he would like your assistance in providing
money to repair it.}

Do you:
[a] provide 1,000 marks (1 Gold).
[b] provide 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[c] tell him that you cannot afford it.
You cannot afford the aid you promised. The
archbishop is civil, but not particularly warm
in his response to this.
{The archbishop will be pleased, Majesty.}
You cannot afford the aid you promised. The
archbishop is civil, but not particularly warm
in his response to this.
{The archbishop will be pleased, Majesty.}
{The archbishop will not be happy, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1067
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE 10670.
A messenger comes from the Archbishop of Chamord.

{Majesty, the archbishop of Chamord is having a special service
to thank God for the quick repairs to the cathedral. He wishes to
know if you can attend.}

You are scheduled for a meeting with several important barons that
day.

Do you:
[a] ask the barons to come a few days later and attend the service.
[b] tell the archbishop that you cannot attend the service.
The barons are annoyed, but not particularly angry.
{I see. He shall be told.}

-------------
Cluster: 1068
-------------

_NODE 4.
_NODE 10680.
You arrive at the services to thank God for the recently repaired
Cathedral. The archbishop greets you warmly.
{Majesty, the Church is currently having a dispute involving the
ownership of certain lands. One of the friars died recently; he had
been the son of a nobleman who had been given land by his father,
but had never collected it; when the friar died, he wanted the
Church to have it. However, the friar's nephew, Baron Gestard,
claims these lands for his own.}

Do you:
[a] promise to rule fairly on this case.
[b] promise to give these lands to the Church.
[c] inform the archbishop that the friar could not keep the lands
because of his vow of poverty.
{That is all that I can ask.}
{Thank you, Majesty.}
{An interesting argument, but given that the lands remained
in his name legally, I don't see its relevance.}

-------------
Cluster: 1069
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE 10690.
At the meeting of barons, Gestard of Chamord approaches you on a
private matter.

{Majesty, I am in a difficult position. I long held lands near the
shore, cared for them, grew crops on them, and then I recently
learned that they never belonged to me, but that they belonged to
a recently deceased uncle, who retired to a monastery many years
ago, and never cared for them for a single day in his life.

{The Church is now contesting my ownership of these lands, claiming
that he left them to the Church in a will. The Church does not need
these lands, and certainly does not care for them like I do. Will
you rule in my favor in this dispute?}

Do you:
[a] promise to judge this case impartially.
[b] promise to rule in his favor.
[c] tell him that the law clearly favors the Church.
{Impartially? When has a judge ever been impartial?}
{Thank you, Majesty.}
{Law, humbug!}

-------------
Cluster: 1070
-------------

_NODE 6.
_NODE 10700.
You reside over the dispute between the Church and Baron Gestard.

It is clear that the law is with the Church, but Gestard would
suffer if the Church is awarded the lands.

Do you:
[a] rule in favor of the Church.
[b] rule in favor of Gestard.
[c] grant Gestard some of the lands as a fee for their upkeep.
The Church is pleased.
Gestard is pleased.
Neither side is truly pleased. Sometimes, Solomon's
judgments seem less wise in these times.

-------------
Cluster: 1071
-------------

_Random event in a linear plotline.
_NODE 10710.
_NODE 7.1.
_NODE 10711.
One of your knights approaches you.

{Majesty, I have been approached by a merchant named Trebonius.
He has been selling saints' relics of dubious quality. I would have
arrested him, but he is willing to pay handsome fees for
permission to sell his items, and is offering you 3,000 marks. The
archbishop of Chamord, however, would prefer it if he were
imprisoned.}

This is the same rogue Trebonius who caused that uproar in
Albion in your father's time.

Do you:
[a] accept his 3,000 marks (3 Gold) to sell relics.
[b] imprison him.
[c] order him removed from your lands.
{As you wish, Majesty.}
{I am certain that all will praise your wisdom, Majesty.}
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 7.2.
_NODE n10712.
One of your knights approaches you.

{Majesty, there is a dispute between one of your barons and the
the Church. The Church claims he has not paid his tithes, as he
had promised, and wishes you, as his liegelord, to collect the
2,000 marks that he owes them. The baron, of course, claims the
Church has no authority to enforce a promise.}

Do you:
[a] insist the baron pay his debt, or you'll confiscate his
possessions.
[b] pay 2,000 marks (2 Gold) yourself.
[c] ignore the problem.
{As you wish, Majesty.}
You cannot afford to pay his debt.
The money is paid. The archbishop sends a message
of gratitude.
{Very well.}
_NODE 7.3.
_NODE n10713.
The Church brings a matter to your attention.

{While it is a tragedy when anyone does not follow the ways of Our
Lord, it has recently come to our attention that there is a large
enclave of pagans worshipping in the forest near the town of Dordogne.
These misguided folk must be purged from our realm before more
innocent people are corrupted.}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry into the forest to clear out pagans.
[b] ignore the problem.
You do not have enough infantry to send.
The infantry are dispatched to Dordogne.
You receive word that the pagan camp near Dordogne has
been destroyed. The Church is quite happy.
The Church is most displeased at your lack of piety.

-------------
Cluster: 1072
-------------

_NODE n10720.
_Random event in a linear plotline.
_NODE 8.1
_NODE n10721.
One of your knights approaches you.

{Majesty, one of the bishops has been writing a theological
paper that argues that in a time when there is no clear ruler,
the Church has the moral obligation to intervene in the political
affairs of the State. This piece of writing is clearly meant as an
attack on your claim to the throne.}

Do you:
[a] order the paper burned.
[b] discuss your concerns with the Archbishop.
[c] ignore the paper.
_NODE 8.2.
_NODE n10722.
The Church brings a matter to your attention.

{Majesty, some excommunicated Knights Templar have taken revenge
against us by attacking our abbeys and churches. We desperately
need your aid.}

Do you:
[a] send your army to attack the Templars.
[b] refuse to help.
Your army goes out to battle the Templars.
The Church then turns to one of your rivals, who
defeats the Templars.
_NODE 8.3.
_NODE n10723.
The Church brings a matter to your attention.

{Majesty, there has been a sighting of the Virgin Mary in the town
of Dordogne. Many pilgrims are flocking there, but their travels have
also attracted bandits. Could you send infantry to guard
the road and make it safe for the thousands of pilgrims?}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry.
[b] send a unit of Infantry and make a pilgrimage yourself.
[c] tell the Church you cannot spare the men.
You cannot spare the men.
The men are sent.
You cannot spare the men. Nonetheless, your
example is an inspirational one, and the Church
is only slightly annoyed.
The example you set is an inspirational one.
{It is a shame that such a magnificent event, the blessing
of God, must be tainted by the failings of man. Perhaps
showing this to us was the purpose of the vision.}
_NODE n10724.
{It shall be done, Majesty.}
_NODE n10725.
The archbishop arrives to discuss the bishop's distasteful paper
on Papal intervention during civil war.

{Majesty, the bishop's position was not that of mine, nor that of
His Holiness. Given the Pope's recent misfortunes, he does have
concerns, but he certainly does not wish to usurp the responsibilities
of temporal rulers, only to guide them spiritually.

{I will discuss your concerns with the bishop; I would not worry
about the Church. No one wishes to undermine your position or claim
to the throne.}
_NODE n10726.
The archbishop arrives to discuss the bishop's distasteful paper
on Papal intervention during civil war.

{Majesty, I have heard that you might be upset about a certain paper
that was written by one of the bishops.

{I will discuss your concerns with the bishop; I would not worry
about the Church. No one wishes to undermine your position or claim
to the throne.}
_NODE n10727.
Your army battles against the excommunicated templars.
You have triumphed. The templars have been defeated. A
great menace has been destroyed. There is much rejoicing
in the monasteries and abbeys of Bretagne.
You are no match for the fierce cavalry of the templars.
However, the losses they suffer in battling your armies
were severe enough that they are no longer a threat.

-------------
Cluster: 1073
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n10730.
You receive a messenger from the archbishop.

{I bring word that the archbishop has been judging your recent actions.

{He has found you to be a kind and goodly son of the Church.
He recommends that the Pope recognize your claim to the
throne.}
{The archbishop finds some of your decisions to be
less than wise, but on the whole, you have shown yourself
to be a dedicated and Christian ruler. May you continue
on this course.}
{The archbishop finds much that is lacking in you. You have
little dedication to the Church. He cannot support your
claim to the throne.}
{The archbishop finds your actions hostile to God and His
Holy Church. He has recommended to the Pope that you
be excommunicated.
He has asked his friends not to support you or
your ambitions.}

-------------
Cluster: 1074
-------------

_NODE n10740.
_NODE 10.
A messenger comes from his Holiness, the Pope.

{Majesty, your actions against His Holiness have been un-Christian
and despicable. You truly deserve the sanction that you have
received.

{Nonetheless, his Holiness is prepared to grant absolution for your
sins, if you will apologize for your misdeeds and offer 5,000 marks
to the Church as a token of your regret.}

Do you:
[a] apologize and give him 5,000 marks (5 Gold).
[b] refuse.
[c] promise to cede land to the Church.
_NODE 10A.
_NODE n10741.
You do not have the gold. The papal envoy frowns.
{I suppose the willingness to repent is the first step. I
shall light candles for your redemption.}
{Absolution is yours. May God keep you on the path of
righteousness.}
_NODE 10B.
_NODE n10742.
The Pope calls for good Christians to avoid you. There are many
desertions from your cause.
_NODE 10B.
_NODE n10743.
{Promises are easily made.}

Many of your followers defect from your cause.

-------------
Cluster: 1075
-------------

_NODE 10750.
_NODE 1.
A representative comes from the Empire of the Teutons.

{Louis, Prince of Bavaria, Defender of Rome, Emperor of the Teutons,
brings his personal greetings -- and a plea for help.

{The Saracens are on the move. Their navies control most of the
Adriatic, and the Mediterranean. The Emperor fears that they will
soon advance on Constantinople; if the pearl of the East falls, all
of Christendom will be in peril.}

Do you:
[a] promise to help the emperor.
[b] tell him that you cannot help at this time.
{We will let you know what he needs in due course.}
{Alas, I am greatly afraid.}

-------------
Cluster: 1076
-------------

_NODE 2.
_NODE 10760.
A representative comes from the Empire of the Teutons.

{Louis, Prince of Bavaria, Defender of Rome, Emperor of the Teutons,
brings his personal greetings. I suspect you will have already heard
these grim tidings.

{The Empire and his Venetian allies engaged the Saracen fleet near
Ragusa. The battle did not go well for us, although we prevented
the heathens from sacking the city.

{We are greatly in need of timber. We need 50,000 boards to rebuild
our navy. Can you help?}

Do you:
[a] tell him that you cannot help.
[b] offer 30,000 boards (3 units of timber).
[c] offer 50,000 boards (5 units of timber).
{That is most unfortunate. Very unfortunate indeed.}
You do not have enough wood to contribute to the
effort.
{This will be a start, at least.}
_%d{The combined fleet of the Empire and Venice
_are defeated by Saracens near Ragusa. You agree to
_help supply the Empire with badly needed lumber.}
You do not have enough wood to contribute to the
effort.
{Excellent. You will have our gratitude.}

-------------
Cluster: 1077
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE 10770.
A papal envoy comes to visit.

{Majesty, I give you a chance for absolution from your
sins. The Pope will lift his interdict on you if you
agree to aid the Empire against the menace of the
Saracens.}

Do you:
[a] tell him that you cannot help.
[b] agree to aid the Empire.
{Cannot? Or is it will not?}
{Then you are absolved of your sins. May God
guide you, and protect your soul from those
who would harm it.}
{My lord, the Empire badly needs the help of every
Christian lord who can provide assistance. The Saracen
menace is quite real, and most dangerous. His Holiness
understands your present difficulties, but he would like
you, and others, to try to assist this effort to save
Christendom.}

Do you:
[a] tell him that you cannot help.
[b] agree to aid the Empire.
{Cannot? Or is it will not?}
{Excellent.}

-------------
Cluster: 1078
-------------

_NODE 4.
_NODE 10780.
A representative comes from the Empire of the Teutons.

{Louis, Prince of Bavaria, Defender of Rome, Emperor of the Teutons,
brings his personal greetings.

{We are still greatly in need of timber. We have come to see if you
can now help us.}

Do you:
[a] tell him that you cannot help.
[b] offer 30,000 boards (3 units of timber).
[c] offer 50,000 boards (5 units of timber).
{That is most unfortunate. Very unfortunate indeed.}
You do not have enough wood to contribute to the
effort.
{This will be a start, at least.}
You do not have enough wood to contribute to the
effort.
{Excellent. You will have our gratitude.}

-------------
Cluster: 1079
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE 10790.
A messenger comes from the Italian province of Lombardy.

{The Prince of Genoa is upset by your support for his rival, the
Prince of Venice. Your support for the Empire enables the Empire's
ally, Venice, to continue its war against our lands. We wish you to
stop aiding them, or I fear we will have to consider you our enemy.}

Do you:
[a] declare that you are not afraid of them.
[b] inform them that you will consider their words (and forget about
them.)
[c] insist you are helping the cause of Christendom.
{But you will be.}
{We really do not wish to go to war against you, but
we will if we must.}
{We only see the ships of Venice sinking the ships of Genoa.
How does that help Christendom?}

-------------
Cluster: 1080
-------------

_NODE 6.
_NODE 10800.
A messenger comes to you.

{Majesty, several of the local barons are renouncing their support
for you. They say they will not endanger their souls by defying a
papal interdict; until your excommunication has been absolved, they
defy you.}

Do you:
[a] attack the barons.
[b] ask the Pope for absolution.
{It should not take very long to gather for an attack on
these upstarts.}
{I shall send a messenger, expressing your wish.}

-------------
Cluster: 1081
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE 10810.
Merchants ask for an emergency meeting with you.

{Majesty, since the Saracens defeated the Venetian fleet at the
battle of Ragusa, they have increasingly staked a claim on the
entire Mediterranean. Our merchant ships are being harried.

{In addition, pirates from the south Mediterranean are getting
bolder, taking advantage of the diminished naval presence. Our
trade is being destroyed. We need your help!}

Do you:
[a] explain that you are only the king and that you do not have the
power to help.
[b] offer to send infantry to guard land-based trade caravans.
[c] send a messenger to the Empire to negotiate a plan.
{I see. You expect us to help ourselves?!!}
{Majesty, even if a land-based route for these goods are
profitable, which they aren't, all the kings in Christendom
do not have the power to safeguard such a road, especially
with the wars between the Saracens and the Empire in the
Balkans.}
{A messenger shall be sent.}

-------------
Cluster: 1082
-------------

_NODE 8.
_NODE 10820.
Scouts from the south bring a disturbing report.

{Majesty, forces belonging to the Duke of Genoa are slowly moving
towards us, and I don't think they have peace in mind!}

Do you:
[a] threaten to ally with Venice to attack Genoa if they continue
advancing.
[b] promise to cut all ties with Venice if they turn back.
[c] welcome the attack.
A messenger returns from the advancing army of Genoa.

{Majesty, they feel that we are already Venice's ally, and
will not stop until we are destroyed.}
A messenger returns from the advancing army of Genoa.

{They say that they are willing to give us a chance to prove
ourselves.}
{It will be some time before they will arrive.}

-------------
Cluster: 1083
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE 10830.
A messenger comes from the Prince of Venice.

{Majesty, we are finding it difficult to rebuild our fleet. The
Duke of Genoa has taken advantage of our moment of weakness to press
old scores, and we find ourselves hard pressed to match him. We need
your help against Genoa, or we will never be able to defeat the
Saracens.}

Do you:
[a] tell him you have no desire to get involved in his personal war.
[b] offer to mediate the dispute.
[c] offer military assistance.
{I can understand this, but it is short-sighted.}
{I do not believe that is possible, but you may try.}
{Excellent. How about three units of knights?}

Do you offer:
[a] offer three units of Infantry.
[b] offer three units of Archers.
[c] offer three units of Knights.
You do not have that many infantry.
{Thank you, Majesty.}
You do not have that many archers.
{Thank you, Majesty.}
You do not have that many knights.
{Thank you, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1084
-------------

_NODE 10.
_NODE 10840.
Scouts from the south bring a disturbing report.

{Majesty, forces belonging to the Duke of Genoa are slowly moving
towards us, and I don't think they have peace in mind!}

Do you:
[a] threaten to ally with Venice to attack Genoa if they continue
advancing.
[b] promise to cut all ties with Venice if they turn back.
[c] welcome the attack.
A messenger returns from the advancing army of Genoa.

{Majesty, they feel that we are already Venice's ally, and
will not stop until we are destroyed.}
A messenger returns from the advancing army of Genoa.

{They say that they are willing to give us a chance to prove
ourselves.}
{It will be some time before they will arrive.}
_NODE 10845.
Battle is joined against the rebellious barons...
...and you triumph! The barons are slain in battle.
However, the Church portrays them as martyrs, who had the
courage to confront a corrupt tyrant. Their deaths embolden
your enemies.

-------------
Cluster: 1085
-------------

_NODE 11.
_NODE 10850.
The papal legate, Cardinal Vellsino, arrives.

{I am sorry I was delayed so long. It seems you have solved
your problems with His Holiness without my help. My heart
rejoices in your salvation.}
{His Holiness has asked me to help you return to the fold.
Gladly I will help you, but penance must be made. You must
cede land to the Church. May God guide you.}

-------------
Cluster: 1086
-------------

_NODE 12.
_NODE 10860.
Merchants ask for an emergency meeting with you.

{Majesty, our merchant ships are being sunk at will. Something
must be done, or else there will be no fleet.}

Do you:
[a] allow the merchants access to your forests and let them build
their own fleet.
[b] send a messenger to the Empire to negotiate a plan.
{That is better than nothing, I suppose.}
{A messenger shall be sent.}

-------------
Cluster: 1087
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE 10870.
A messenger comes from the Empire.

{Given that it is in our mutual interest to protect the
Mediterranean, we will help you. We require eight units of timber
for which we will pay 12,000 marks. Have it ready for us in 90
days, and we will build a fleet that will make the Mediterranean
safe again.}
_NODE 13a.
_NODE 10871.
A messenger comes from the Empire.

{You do not have the wood that we asked for. That is most
unfortunate.}

The messenger turns, and without your permission, leaves.
{I see you have the wood. The Emperor has given me 13,000
marks to offer you for it.}

Do you:
[a] accept 13,000 marks (13 Gold).
[b] ask for 14,000 marks (14 Gold).
[c] refuse the offer.
{Excellent!}
{The Emperor does not have a high opinion of greed!}

Do you:
[a] insist on 14,000 marks.
[b] lower your price to 13,000 marks.
{You shall have your 14,000 marks.}
{That is better.}
{As you wish. Do not ask the Emperor for favors in
the future.}

-------------
Cluster: 1088
-------------

_NODE 14.
_NODE 10880.
Battle is joined against the expeditionary force from Genoa.
You have triumphed! Genoa is forced to retreat.
Your fight is a valiant one, but you are overwhelmed.
The Empire sends a messenger to Genoa warning them not to
press their attack, but the result is a major humiliation.

[Vanshilar]

-------------
Cluster: 1089
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE 10890.
A messenger comes from the Holy Teuton Empire.

{Majesty, we are being hard pressed by the Saracens all along the
Balkans. We need help. We and Venice are planning to launch our entire
fleet against them, and force openings where we can land
reinforcements, but our ports will be defenseless.

{We need timber. We will pay 10,000 marks for 7,000 boards of timber.
We require it in ninety days, and will return at that time to take
it from you, if you have it.}

Do you:
[a] agree to try to gather seven units of Timber.
[b] refuse.
{Thank you, Majesty.}
{Then we are doomed.}
_NODE 15a.
_NODE 10891.
A messenger comes from Genoa.

{We have reason to believe that you lied to us! You are plotting with
Venice and the Empire against us! We shall destroy you!}

Do you:
[a] dismiss the messenger.
[b] tell him that it is your Christian duty to aid the fight against the
Saracens.
{This will not be tolerated!}
_NODE 15aa.
_NODE 10892.
A messenger comes from Genoa.

{Our armies are coming. We demand your entire supply of timber, gold,
grain, and iron, or we will destroy you!}

Do you:
[a] kill the messenger.
[b] agree to his demands.
You will pay for... [thunk]
{Then we shall have peace.}
_NODE 15battle.
_NODE 10893.
Your forces engage those of Genoa...
You have triumphed! Genoa is forced to retreat.
Your fight is a valiant one, but you are overwhelmed.
The Empire sends a messenger to Genoa warning them not to
press their attack, but the result is a major humiliation.
_NODE 15aab.
_NODE 10894.
A messenger comes from the Empire to receive the wood that you
promised.

{You do not have the wood that we asked for. That is most
unfortunate.}

The messenger turns, and without your permission, leaves.
{I see you have the wood. The Emperor has given me 11,000
marks to offer you for it.}

Do you:
[a] accept 11,000 marks (11 Gold).
[b] ask for 12,000 marks (12 Gold).
[c] refuse the offer.
{Excellent!}
{The Emperor does not have a high opinion of greed!}

Do you:
[a] insist on 12,000 marks.
[b] lower your price to 11,000 marks.
{We shall find timber elsewhere.}
{That is better.}
{As you wish. Do not ask the Emperor for favors in
the future.}

-------------
Cluster: 1090
-------------

_NODE 16.
_NODE 10900.
A messenger comes from the Holy Teuton Empire.

{Majesty, we are being hard pressed by the Saracens all along the
Balkans. We need help. We and Venice are planning to launch our entire
fleet against them, and force openings where we can land
reinforcements, but our ports will be defenseless.

{We need timber. We will pay 12,000 marks for 8,000 boards of timber.
We require it in ninety days, and will return at that time to take
it from you, if you have it.}

Do you:
[a] agree to try to gather 8 units of Timber.
[b] refuse.
{Thank you, Majesty.}
{Then we are doomed.}
_NODE 16a.
_NODE 10901.
A messenger comes from the Empire to receive the wood that you
promised.

{You do not have the wood that we asked for. That is most
unfortunate.}

The messenger turns, and without your permission, leaves.
{I see you have the wood. The Emperor has given me 12,000
marks to offer you for it.}

Do you:
[a] accept 12,000 marks (12 Gold).
[b] ask for 13,000 marks (13 Gold).
[c] refuse the offer.
{Excellent!}
{The Emperor does not have a high opinion of greed!}

Do you:
[a] insist on 13,000 marks.
[b] lower your price to 12,000 marks.
{We shall find timber elsewhere.}
{That is better.}
{As you wish. Do not ask the Emperor for favors in
the future.}

-------------
Cluster: 1091
-------------

_NODE 17.
_NODE 10910.
You meet with representatives of Genoa and Venice.

It is clear that both sides have rivalries that date back for
generations, intensified by fierce trading competition. You have
a feeling that no force on Earth can permanently resolve the
dispute. Neither side trusts the other.

Do you:
[a] try to get them to agree to a five year truce.
[b] insist on a truce and threaten to attack the first one that
breaks it.
[c] give up on the peace process.
By the time the two sides finish arguing, the truce is
whittled down to two years, and each noble agrees to
offer one of their family members as hostages.

Do you:
[a] agree not to interfere in the process.
[b] urge them to extend the truce to four years.
For the first few months, the truce holds.
Reluctantly, the two sides agree.
You cannot get the two sides to extend their
truce.
Neither side will agree to negotiate under threats.
Without a determined mediator, the chances for peace
fade.

-------------
Cluster: 1092
-------------

_NODE 18.
_NODE 10940.
Merchants come to meet with you.

{We have finished building our fleet, as you instructed.
We do require soldiers for our ships. We will pay 3,000 marks
for each unit of infantry you are willing to provide.}

Do you:
[a] offer one unit of Infantry.
[b] offer two units of Infantry.
[c] offer three units of Infantry.
[d] offer five units of Infantry.
[e] tell him that you cannot provide any men for his ships.
You do not have enough infantry.
{Very good, m'lord.}
You do not have enough infantry.
{Very good, m'lord.}
You do not have enough infantry.
{Very good, m'lord.}
You do not have enough infantry.
{Very good, m'lord.}
{I am very disappointed, m'lord.}

-------------
Cluster: 1093
-------------

_NODE 19.
_NODE 10930.
One of your knights brings you a disturbing report.

{Majesty, Venice has been attacked and overwhelmed by the Saracen
fleet. Its possessions on the Adriatic Coast are expected to be
lost, the city was sacked before the army that was attacking the
Genovese returned to expel the invaders.

{It will take a long time for Christendom to recover. Constantinople
has little hope of withstanding the Saracen attack; most of the
Balkan states must now pay tribute to the Saracens, and Hungary and
the Empire will be threatened.}

-------------
Cluster: 1094
-------------

_NODE 20.
_NODE 10940.
In the early morning hours, a messenger arrives.

{Great tidings, Majesty! A combined fleet from Venice and Hungary
defeated the Saracens near Zara. The Mediterranean is firmly under
Christian control!}

-------------
Cluster: 1095
-------------

_NODE 21.
An emissary arrives from the Holy Teuton Empire.

{We have had a poor harvest this last year, and are in bad need of
grain. We anticipate problems later this year; and would like your
assistance. We are prepared to pay 15,000 marks for 10 tonnes of
grain; if you can supply this amount of grain in ninety days, we
will gladly pay you this handsome sum.}

Do you:
[a] agree to try to provide the (10 Units of) Grain.
[b] tell him you do not believe you can provide it.
{We will return in ninety days.}
{I appreciate your honesty in this matter. Farewell.}
_NODE 21a.
_NODE 10951.
A messenger comes from the Empire to receive the grain that you
promised.

{You do not have the grain that we asked for. That is most
unfortunate.}

The messenger turns, and without your permission, leaves.
{I see you have the grain. The Emperor has given me 15,000
marks to offer you for it.}

Do you:
[a] accept 15,000 marks (15 Gold).
[b] ask for 16,000 marks (16 Gold).
[c] refuse the offer.
{Excellent!}
{The Emperor does not have a high opinion of greed!}

Do you:
[a] insist on 16,000 marks.
[b] lower your price to 15,000 marks.
{We shall find grain elsewhere.}
{That is better.}
{As you wish. Do not ask the Emperor for favors in
the future.}

-------------
Cluster: 1096
-------------

_NODE 21.
_NODE 10960.
An informant comes to you from Aachen, capital of the Holy
Teuton Empire.

_NODE 10961.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to recognize the
Duke of Burgundy as the rightful ruler of Bretagne,
and has sent him considerable resources.}
_NODE 10962.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to recognize the
King of Aragon as the rightful ruler of Bretagne,
and has sent him considerable resources.}
_NODE 10963.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to recognize the
Count of Valois as the rightful ruler of Bretagne,
and has sent him considerable resources.}
_NODE 10964.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to recognize the
Duke of Anjou as the rightful ruler of Bretagne,
and has sent him considerable resources.}
_NODE 10965.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to recognize the
King of Albion as the rightful ruler of Bretagne,
and has sent him considerable resources.}
_NODE 10966.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to repay your
recent kindness, and is sending you considerable
resources.}
_NODE 10967.
{Majesty, the Emperor has decided to recognize you
as the rightful ruler of Bretagne, and has sent you
considerable resources.}
_NODE 21d.
_NODE 10968.
{Majesty, the Emperor Louis has decided that he will not support
any of the claimants to the throne. He had hoped to support you,
but you did not prove cooperative.}

-------------
Cluster: 1100
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE n11004.
A messenger rides from the coast.

{Majesty, our last ship bearing goods from the Baltics has been sunk.
Several ships flying the colors of the King of Denmark were seen
in the area shortly after the attack. The ship was taking an
eastward route near Flanders, which, as you know, borders on the
routes favored by the Danes.}

Do you:
[a] send a messenger to Denmark.
[b] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.
[c] order your ships to stay clear of Danish territory.
{Our best diplomat will be sent.}
{This will take time, but I will see that this is done.}
{The order shall be given, your Majesty.}
_NODE 2.
_NODE n11005.
A messenger comes from the Danes.

{We deny any allegations of wrongdoing regarding our trading vessels
in the channel. Of course, it would be within our rights to defend
ourselves from an invasion from a foreign power. I repeat, we have
done nothing wrong.}

Do you:
[a] tell the Danes that any further sinkings will be regarded as an
act of war.
[b] tell him that any Danish ships spotted in the Channel will be sunk.
[c] dismiss him contemptuously.
_NODE 2a.
_NODE n11006.
{We regret that you have chosen such a severe response to our
legitimate actions. I am certain that, in time, you will come to
regret it too.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to continue negotiating with Denmark.
[b] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.
_NODE 2b.
_NODE n11007.
{That will likely prove most difficult.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to continue negotiating with Denmark.
[b] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.
_NODE 2c.
_NODE n11008.
{How rude!}

Do you:
[a] attempt to continue negotiating with Denmark.
[b] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.

-------------
Cluster: 1101
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE n11010.
A messenger comes from the coast.

{My liege, we are having difficulty persuading the merchants to
willingly conscript their vessels to our service. We are either
going to have to pay them a good amount of money, or we will have
to take them by force, which will make many people quite angry.}

Do you:
[a] confiscate ships without compensation.
[b] authorize 2,000 marks (2 Gold) for compensation.
[c] authorize 4,000 marks (4 Gold) for compensation.
_NODE 3a.
_NODE n11011.
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 3b.
_NODE n11012.
{You cannot afford that, Majesty. The ships will have to be
confiscated.}
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 3c.
_NODE n11013.
{You cannot afford that, Majesty. The ships will have to be
confiscated.}
You cannot afford that. Do you:
[a] confiscate ships without compensation.
[b] authorize 2,000 marks for compensation.
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 4.
_NODE n11015.
Your advisors bear disturbing news.

{Majesty, the Danes are blockading the channel. From St. Pol de
Leon in the west, to Utrecht in the East, the Channel is being
closed to our ships. The Danish fleet is not large, and
the blockade is not likely to be successful in the long term, but
we need a dependable flow of supplies if we are to
claim the throne of Bretagne.}

Do you:
_NODE n11015.
[a] make an alliance with Flanders and the Empire to keep trade
open.
[b] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.
[c] attempt to negotiate with Denmark.
_NODE 4a.
_NODE n11016.
{It shall be done.}
_NODE 4b.
_NODE n11017.
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 4c.
_NODE n11018.
{Perhaps we can avoid unnecessary bloodshed.}

-------------
Cluster: 1102
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE n11020.
As more of your ships sink, the emissary from the court of the King
Denmark arrives to discuss the crisis in the Channel.

{Majesty, there is a grave misunderstanding here. We seek only to
limit those supplies that might be used to harm the territories and
vassals of the King of Denmark. If you would give us permission to
search your ships for weapons and soldiers, this unpleasantness can
be avoided.}

Do you:
[a] make an alliance with Flanders and the Empire to keep trade
open.
[b] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.
[c] allow the Danes to search your ships.
_NODE 5a.
_NODE n11021.
{Involving foreign powers in these affairs will only make things
worse. You know as well as I that the Emperor of the Teutons would
dearly love to stake a claim on the Bretagnese throne!}
_NODE 5b.
_NODE n11022.
{So, you reject the course of reason!}
_NODE 5c.
_NODE n11023.
{Excellent. The King will be most pleased.}
_NODE 6.
_NODE n11025.
One of your spies comes to you, offering information.

{Majesty, your master of ships is too cowardly to tell you this, so
I felt that I should bear the bad tidings.

{The vast majority of ships that you confiscated are not battle
ready. They need repair. If I were you, I would send at least
20,000 boards of lumber to your shipyard, or you will have a sinking
disaster on your hands.}

Do you:
[a] send 20,000 boards (2 units of Timber) to the shipyard.
[b] ignore the warning.
Alas, you do not have enough wood in stock. You must
make do without it.
{When your victory is a glorious one, remember me,
Majesty.}
{Do not say that you were not warned!}
_NODE 6a.
_NODE n11026.
Word comes from the Channel, where a great battle between your
navy and that of Denmark has taken place.

{Majesty, we have been beaten. Denmark has razed our fleet
and won the day, though their losses were also heavy. Majesty,
what shall we now do?}

[a] conscript more ships and stage a counter-attack.
[b] surrender control of the Channel to the Danes.
_NODE 6b.
_NODE n11027.
_sound, bells.
A messenger comes from the Channel, where a great victory has
been won.

{Majesty, the Channel is ours! The Danes had their ships spread
thinly, to enforce the blockade, and we attacked in force, a ship
at a time. By the time they realized what was happening, one-fifth
of their fleet had been sunk, and by the time they could gather
their ships into a potent force, one-third of them had been sunk and
we outnumbered them by two to one. The fight began in earnest near
the Flanders town of Sluis; God graced us with few casualties, but we
estimate that at least two-thirds of the Danish fleet has been
destroyed. It will be quite some time before they can threaten
our control of the Channel.}
_NODE 6aa.
_NODE n11028.
{They have not seen the last of us!}
_NODE 6ab.
_NODE n11029.
{This is most disheartening, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1103
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE n11030.
_NODE 7a.
_NODE n11031.
Word comes from the Channel, where a great battle between your
navy and that of the Danes has taken place.

{Majesty, we have been beaten. The Danes have razed our fleet
and won the day, though their losses were also heavy. Majesty,
what shall we now do?}

[a] conscript more ships and stage a counter-attack.
[b] surrender control of the Channel to the Danes.
_NODE 7b.
_NODE n11032.
_sound, bells.
A messenger comes from the Channel, where a great victory has
been won.

{Majesty, the Channel is ours! The Danes had their ships spread
thinly, to enforce the blockade, and we attacked in force, a ship
at a time. By the time they realized what was happening, one-third
of their fleet had been sunk, and by the time they could gather
their ships into a potent force, one-half of them had been sunk and
we outnumbered them by three to one.
{The fight began in earnest near
the Flanders town of Sluis; God graced us with few casualties, but we
estimate that at least four-fifths of the Danish fleet has been
destroyed. It will be quite some time before they can threaten
our control of the channel.}
_NODE 8.
_NODE n11035.
You receive a messenger from his Imperial Majesty, Emperor Louis IV
of the Teutons, Franks, and Saxons. He bears a message, which reads
as follows:

{It is good to hear from you again. While your struggle interests
me, my affairs render me incapable of offering the assistance you
ask. As you know, my eastern provinces have fallen under attack from
infidels, and my resources are strained.

{I am deeply disturbed that the Danes have chosen to disrupt the
flow of trade between you and our western province of Flanders.
I have dispatched a messenger to the Danes, expressing my
displeasure. Should this message benefit you, I pray that you would
remember my needs should darker days befall the Empire. Cordially,
Louis, Defender of Rome, Emperor of the West.}

Apparently the Emperor's messenger was effective; Denmark soon ends
the blockade. You hope that the price will not be too high...

-------------
Cluster: 1104
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n11040.
One of your counsellors brings a complaint.

{Majesty, the Danes are nothing more than pirates. They have boarded
our ships frequently of late, and are stealing our supplies. This
practice must be stopped!}

Do you:
[a] surrender control of the Channel to the Danes.
[b] make an alliance with Flanders and the Empire to keep trade
open.
[c] conscript merchant ships and launch a counter-attack on the
Danish fleet.
_NODE 9.
_NODE n11041.
A monk brings an interesting proposition.

{Majesty, I have read references to the work of Archimedes in the
defense of Syracuse. It is said that he focused the rays of the
sun with a giant mirror and used the sun's rays to ignite enemy
ships.

{I might be able to build a copy of this device, though the costs
would be horribly expensive: at least 2,000 marks.}

Do you:
[a] provide money (2 Gold) for his experiment.
[b] continue the rebuilding of your fleet.
You do not have the money to finance the experiment.
{It should not be difficult, with the proper funds.}
{I am sorry that I cannot help you, my liege.}
_NODE 10.
_NODE n11042.
One of your commanders brings a report on the rebuilding of your
fleet.

{Majesty, we have seen the Danish fleet converging towards the
shipyards of Caen. I fear they plan to burn our ships before they
can be built.}

Do you:
[a] order as many ships as possible to be moved.
[b] send three units of archers to guard the harbor.
Some of your ships are pulled away. The local militia does
their best to protect the shipyards, and you are fortunate
that your losses are not heavy.
The archers are not available. You manage to
pull some of your ships out of the shipyard without
damaging them too badly.
Strategically stationed, the archers perform
magnificently. The Danish fleet turns aside, rather
than risk heavy losses.
_NODE 10a.
_NODE n11043.
You receive a message from your master of ships.

{Majesty, due to the great losses at the last battle, your
fleet badly needs commanders. It may weaken your army, but
we need them.}

Do you:
[a] supply your generals.
[b] refuse.
{Thank you, my liege.}
{I fear for our chances, Majesty.}
_NODE 10b.
_NODE n11044.
You receive a message from your master of ships.

{Majesty, due to the great losses at the last battle, your
fleet badly needs commanders. It may weaken your army, but
we need them.}

Do you:
[a] supply your generals.
[b] refuse.
{Thank you, my liege.}
{I fear for our chances, Majesty.}
_NODE 11a.
_NODE n11045.
Word comes from the Channel, where a great battle between your
navy and that of Denmark has taken place.

{Majesty, we have been beaten. Denmark has razed our fleet
and won the day. It seems likely that their fleet will control
the Channel for years to come.}
_NODE 11b.
_NODE n11046.
_sound, bells.
A messenger comes from the Channel, where a great victory has
been won.

{Majesty, the Channel is ours! The Danes had their ships spread
thinly, to enforce the blockade, and we attacked in force, a ship
at a time. By the time they realized what was happening, one-fifth
of their fleet had been sunk, and by the time they could gather
their ships into a potent force, one-third of them had been sunk and
we outnumbered them by two to one. God graced us with few casualties,
but we estimate that at least two-thirds of the Danish fleet has been
destroyed. It will be quite some time before they can threaten
our control of the Channel.}
_NODE 12.
_NODE n11047.
One of your spies offers information.

{Majesty, we have reason to believe Lord Giles de Valois
stirred up the Danes to attack you, in order to destroy
our relations with the Count, his cousin.}

Do you:
[a] inform the Count of his treachery.
[b] ignore the report.
{The Count does not believe you.}
Life continues as usual...
{Majesty, we have reason to believe Lord Roger of
Westhampton stirred up the Danes to attack you, in order
to destroy our relations.}

Do you:
[a] inform the King of Albion of his treachery.
[b] ignore the report.
{The King does not believe you.}
Life continues as usual...
_NODE 13.
_NODE n11048.
A messenger comes from the Empire.

{Now that these Danes have been dealt with, the Emperor wishes
you to know that we need resources. Either wood, gold, food or
iron will do. At least two of either of these commodities will be
needed.}
_NODE n11049(0)

Do you:
[a] offer two Timber.
[b] offer two Food.
[c] offer two Iron.
[d] offer two Gold.
[e] tell him that you cannot aid him at this time.
{Don't make promises you can't keep.}
{We are grateful, your lordship.}
{Don't make promises you can't keep.}
{We are grateful, your lordship.}
{Don't make promises you can't keep.}
{We are grateful, your lordship.}
{Don't make promises you can't keep.}
{We are grateful, your lordship.}
{I suppose we must accept this, but it does not bode well
for your future as King of Bretagne if you cannot display
gratitude toward your friends.}

-------------
Cluster: 1105
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE n11050.
{Majesty, these men insisted on...}

A delegation of peasants has gotten past the guards and insists on
seeing you.

{We don't mean to be rude, Majesty, but we have grievances and we
want answers.

{First, we are having terrible problems with bandits. They have been
brazen enough to attack our villages; two have been razed to the
ground in the last three years. We need some of your fine soldiers
moved into the Alencon forest to have the scoundrels hunted down
and hanged.

{Second, there is a horrible problem with corruption. Judges are
being paid by the nobles to escape punishment, not that any of them
will ever believe a peasant over a noble.

{Third, farmers from Aragon have been selling their produce
at reduced prices. We can't sell many of our goods. We need
to find a way to make Aragon trade fairly.

{Which problem are you going to solve first, Majesty?}
[a] bandits in the forest.
[b] corrupt judges.
[c] unfair Aragon trade practices.
{Third, farmers from Albion have been selling their produce at
reduced prices. We can't sell many of our goods. We need to
find a way to make Albion trade fairly.

{Which problem are you going to solve first, Majesty?}
[a] bandits in the forest.
[b] corrupt judges.
[c] unfair Albion trade practices.
_NODE 1a.
_NODE n11051.
{So you think peace and security are most important? I cannot say
it is a poor choice.}
_NODE 1b.
_NODE n11052.
{Any man with an army can fight bandits, but it takes a brave man
indeed to fight corruption.}
_NODE 1c.
_NODE n11053.
{Bless you, Majesty. Those folk have been trying to push us around
for far too long.}
_NODE 2.
_NODE n11055.
One of your commanders arrives with a group of peasants.

{Majesty, the delegation from the town of Alencon wishes to
know how many units of infantry you intend to remove from their
duties to search the forest.}

The peasant leader speaks. {I do not wish to seem demanding, but
we've had raids in Alencon in the last month, and we are in
desperate straits. The bandits are getting very bold indeed.
If we don't stop them now, I don't know what will happen.}

Do you:
[a] tell him that you cannot afford to send anything more than a
few knights to lead local militia.
[b] send one unit of Infantry.
[c] send two units of Infantry.
{Perhaps that will be enough, Majesty.}
You do not have enough infantry. You send a few
knights to lead a local militia against them.
{I pray that is enough, Majesty.}
You do not have enough infantry. You send a few
knights to lead a local militia against them.
{Thank you, your Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1106
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE n11060.
A delegation of peasants comes to you:

{Majesty, there is a lamentable trial that will be occuring soon.
Alain the potter has been accused of murdering the son of his
liegelord, Baron Gerard.

{Gerard's brother Roland will be the magistrate in this case, and has
a reputation for siding with nobles. We believe that Alain is
innocent, and will not get a fair trial. We ask you to
remove Roland from this case and appoint an impartial judge.}

Such a move, will, of course, be offensive to the nobility, whose
support you need in your conquest of Bretagne.

Do you:
[a] allow Roland to try the case.
[b] appoint a new judge.
[c] try the case yourself.
{I see.}
{Thank you, Majesty.}
No one dares object, but one of the peasants issues a
cautionary note.

{This may work in this case, but you cannot judge every
dispute in Bretagne. More is needed for justice to be restored
to this land. The system must be as incorrupt as the
individuals within it.}
_NODE 4.
_NODE n11065.
A delegation of peasants comes to you, bearing alarming news:

{Majesty, the flood of goods from Aragon is increasing. We
cannot compete against their prices. We need to place stiff
tariffs on them now.}

Do you:
[a] place severe restrictions and duties on Aragonian goods.
[b] refuse to start a trade war with Aragon.
[c] send a messenger to the King of Aragon.
{Very good, Majesty.}

Some people are not happy with this situation, however.
{I suppose one cannot argue with one's king.}

At least to his face...
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Majesty, the flood of goods from Albion is increasing. We
cannot compete against their prices. We need to place stiff
tariffs on them now.}

Do you:
[a] place severe restrictions and duties on Albionian goods.
[b] refuse to start a trade war with Albion.
[c] send a messenger to the King of Albion.
{Very good, Majesty.}

Some people are not happy with this situation, however.
{I suppose one cannot argue with one's king.}

At least to his face...
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 4a.
_NODE n11066.
One of your knights comes to you with news, and some advice.

{Majesty, I have heard reports of peasants attacking wagons
from Aragonian merchants. Even with the duties you have
placed on their goods, they are not satisfied.

{At present we have good relations with Aragon, and
this unseemly violence will not do them any good. Can
you put a stop to it?}
{I know that we are hardly friends with Aragon, but
we may wish to improve our relationship, and this
sort of behavior will not foster any friendships.}

Do you:
[a] execute any mob leaders.
[b] have your infantry escort Aragon's merchants.
[c] ignore the problem.
{Very good, Majesty.}

The violence soon stops, but the people are not
happy.
{Actually, local militia might be more useful.}
{As you wish.}
{Majesty, I have heard reports of peasants attacking wagons
from Albion merchants. Even with the duties you have
placed on their goods, they are not satisfied.

{At present we have good relations with Albion, and
this unseemly violence will not do them any good. Can
you put a stop to it?}
{I know that we are hardly friends with Albion, but
we may wish to improve our relationship, and this
sort of behavior will not foster any friendships.}

Do you:
[a] execute any mob leaders.
[b] have your infantry escort Albion's merchants.
[c] ignore the problem.
{Very good, Majesty.}

The violence soon stops, but the people are not
happy.
{Actually, local militia might be more useful.}
{As you wish.}

-------------
Cluster: 1107
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE n11070.
Despite your efforts, the attempt to destroy the bandit enclaves
in the Alencon forest has failed. Many good soldiers have been
killed.

The leader of the peasant delegation informs you, {In reprisal for
your efforts against them, the bandits are putting villages to the
torch. If this continues, the province of Alencon will soon become
a wasteland.}

Do you:
[a] abandon hope of destroying the Alencon bandits.
[b] dispatch an Infantry unit to destroy them.
[c] dispatch two Infantry units to destroy them.
{I see. This is most disheartening.}
You do not have enough infantry. You are forced to
abandon the fight.
{I pray that is enough, Majesty.}
You do not have enough infantry. You are forced to
abandon the fight.
{I pray that is enough, Majesty.}
_NODE 5a.
_NODE n11071.
Despite your efforts, you have not destroyed the bandit enclaves
in the Alencon forest. You have prevented them from causing major
damage.

The leader of the peasant delegation informs you, {Majesty, the
the bandits are again threatening to put villages to the torch.
Something needs to be done to prevent this!}

Do you:
[a] abandon hope of destroying the Alencon bandits.
[b] dispatch an Infantry unit to destroy them.
[c] dispatch two Infantry units to destroy them.
{I see. This is most disheartening.}
You do not have enough infantry. You are forced to
abandon the fight.
{I pray that is enough, Majesty.}
You do not have enough infantry. You are forced to
abandon the fight.
{I pray that is enough, Majesty.}
_NODE 6.
_NODE n11075.
You receive word from the Alencon forest.

{Majesty, we have cleared out the outlaws, but their leaders have
escaped to the depths of the forest. Do you wish us to continue to
pursue them, or would you rather have your soldiers back? A full
unit of Infantry is ready to rejoin you.}

Do you:
[a] pursue the leaders.
[b] return your infantry to the army.
{Very good, your Majesty.}
{As you wish, Majesty.}
_NODE 6b.
_NODE n11076.
A messenger comes riding into your stronghold with alarming news.

{Majesty! It's terrible! The bandit leaders of Alencon have waylaid and
captured your nephew Justin, and are demanding 3,000 marks for his
return.}

Do you:
[a] pay the ransom (3 Gold).
[b] send 2 units of Infantry into the forest to save your nephew.
You do not have enough gold to pay the ransom. The
bandits return your nephew's corpse for burial.
The ransom is paid. Surprisingly, the bandits are
true to their word. Your nephew is returned unharmed.
You do not have enough infantry to attack them. The
bandits return your nephew's corpse for burial.
Your soldiers are merciless. Your nephew is rescued, and the
bandit leaders are captured.

-------------
Cluster: 1108
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE n11080.
One of your peasants asks for an audience with you.

{Majesty, the judge in Aniber has been accepting bribes. I can
provide witnesses if you wish; I've heard you wish to reduce
corruption among judges and tax collectors, so I thought I would
speak my mind to you.}

The judge of Aniber is the cousin of your close friend and
supporter, the lord-mayor of Aniber.

Do you:
[a] ask the judge to retire from his position.
[b] have someone attempt to bribe the judge to determine his guilt.
[c] ignore the report.
The judge refuses your request. You are forced to remove him.
It causes a scandal that you would rather have avoided.
The judge falls victim to the trap. He is forced to resign. The
judge's friends are unable to defend him; his enemies rejoice in
his downfall and praise your fight against corruption.
The peasants are not happy with your decision.
_NODE 8.
_NODE n11085.
A messenger comes from the King of Aragon.

Do you:
[a] refuse to see him.
[b] allow him to enter your presence.
A messenger comes from the King of Albion.

Do you:
[a] refuse to see him.
[b] allow him to enter your presence.
_NODE 8a.
_NODE n11086.
You hear shouting from outside your throne room, but soon your
uninvited guest is returned home.
_NODE 8b.
_NODE n11087.
The messenger enters:

{Of course we were flooding your markets with cheap goods. How
else do you expect us to survive? You have cut all access to your
port cities, and the other cities that would give us access to the
Empire or Flanders have even higher duties than ours. If you give us
access to your ports and give our trade a chance to survive, we will
raise our prices.}

Do you:
[a] allow them free access to your ports.
[b] give them access to ports if they agree only to ship goods
that are not produced by Poitou.
[c] tell him to trade with Castile instead.
The messenger smiles. Soon, the peasants and local merchants
are complaining about increased competition for their goods in
Flanders and the Empire.
The messenger frowns.

{I suppose some sort of compromise might be worked out. After
all, diplomacy IS the art of compromise.}
The messenger frowns. He knows quite well that Castile is in
a state of turmoil and quite hostile to outside traders.

{This answer is not acceptable,} he says, and turns and leaves.

-------------
Cluster: 1109
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n11090.
{Majesty, we are getting increased bandit activity in Poitou. The
recent destruction of villages in that province have forced many
to turn to a life of outlawry.}
_NODE 10.
_NODE n11095.
One of the bandit leaders is brought before you.

{I suppose I'm supposed to tell you how sorry I am. Well, if it
hadn't been for the King of Aragon flooding the market and putting
me out of business, I wouldn't have become a bandit in the first
place. The only difference between you and me is that I don't have
a tax collector doing my robbery for me.
{You tax the peasants, and
send them to their deaths in useless wars, and they call you a king.
I steal from the peasants and kill them if they give me trouble, and
they call me a bandit. There's little difference: we both make the
peasants poorer, and we both kill them whenever it's convenient.}
{I suppose I'm supposed to tell you how sorry I am. Well, if it
hadn't been for the King of Albion flooding the market and putting
me out of business, I wouldn't have become a bandit in the first
place. The only difference between you and me is that I don't have
a tax collector doing my robbery for me.
{You tax the peasants, and
send them to their deaths in wars, and they call you a king.
I steal from them and kill them if they give me trouble, and I'm a
bandit. We both make them poorer and kill them when it's convenient.}

Do you:
[a] execute the bandit.
[b] pardon the bandit and make him a tax collector.
{At least I'll die an honest man!}
{Majesty! You've found my true calling!}
_NODE 11.
_NODE n11096.
An angry mob gathers outside. One of your advisors hurries over to
you:

{Majesty, we have a problem. There was a murder in a village last
week, and the townsfolk are blaming a local idiot, Morris the Fool,
for the foul deed. Morris was indeed near the murder scene, but was
too confused to answer questions in a manner that anyone could
understand.}

Do you:
[a] release Morris the Fool for lack of evidence.
[b] have the fool executed, knowing it will make the people happy.
{As you command.}

The people begin to mutter about your {injustice}.
{As you command.}

The people rejoice at the death of a fool. It sometimes
surprises you that the masses are just as capable of cruelty
as a king.
_NODE 4b.
_NODE n11097.
One of your knights comes to you with news, and some advice.

{Majesty, I have heard reports of peasants attacking foreign
merchant wagons. Homes of local merchants who trade with
Aragon are being burned down!}

_if (Relations(Aragon) > 5) then
_{At present we have good relations with Aragon, and
_this unseemly violence will not do them any good. Can
_you put a stop to it?}
_else
_{I know that we are hardly friends with Aragon, but
_we may wish to improve our relationship, and this
_sort of behavior will not foster any friendships.}
_endif

Do you:
[a] execute any mob leaders.
[b] have your infantry escort Aragon's merchants and guard
homes.
[c] ignore the problem.
{Very good, Majesty.}

The violence soon stops, but the people are not
happy.
{Actually, local militia might be more useful.}
{As you wish.}
{Majesty, I have heard reports of peasants attacking foreign
merchant wagons. Homes of local merchants who trade with
Albion are being burned down!}

{At present we have good relations with Albion, and
this unseemly violence will not do them any good. Can
you put a stop to it?}
{I know that we are hardly friends with Albion, but
we may wish to improve our relationship, and this
sort of behavior will not foster any friendships.}

Do you:
[a] execute any mob leaders.
[b] have your infantry escort Albion's merchants and guard
homes.
[c] ignore the problem.
{Very good, Majesty.}

The violence soon stops, but the people are not
happy.
{Actually, local militia might be more useful.}
{As you wish.}

-------------
Cluster: 1110
-------------

_NODE 4c.
_NODE n11100.
Your messenger returns, with news on the trade dispute.

{Majesty, the King of Aragon regrets the recent
dispute between two nations that are normally
friends. He claims that the recent revolt in
Castile, the Moorish uprisings, and the hostility
of Genoa and Venice to their goods have forced them to
try to expand their trade routes northward. If you
can be patient, he hopes that more markets will open
to him, and the tension will diminish.}
{Majesty, the King of Aragon says that, as usual, you
"show a lack of patience. Recent unrest in the south has "
forced him to expand his markets northward, and he will
gladly reduce his goods once things settle down. He
also says the workers in Poitou would rather complain
than work, and if they were more productive, the
problem would be greatly diminished.}

Do you:
[a] agree to wait for the trade pressures to ease.
[b] place duties on Aragon's goods.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{This does not bode well.}
{Majesty, the King of Albion regrets the recent
dispute between two nations that are normally
friends. He claims that the recent uprisings in the
Celtish lands, and sinkings by the Danish fleet,
have forced them to expand their trade routes
southward. If you can be patient, he hopes that more
markets will open to him, and the tension will
diminish.}
{Majesty, the King of Albion says that, as usual, you
"show a lack of patience. Recent unrest in the west has "
forced him to expand his markets southward, and he will
gladly reduce his goods once things settle down. He
also says the workers in Poitou would rather complain
than work, and if they were more productive, the
problem would be greatly diminished.}

Do you:
[a] agree to wait for the trade pressures to ease.
[b] place duties on Albion's goods.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{This does not bode well.}
_NODE 4d.
_NODE n11101.
An execution is interrupted by a messenger bearing news.

{Majesty, Aragon has placed severe duties on goods from
Poitou. We will not be able to compete in their markets.}

Do you:
[a] increase duties on Aragon's goods.
[b] agree to lift your duties if they lift their duties.
[c] wait and see how the situation develops.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{Majesty, Albion has placed severe duties on goods from
Poitou. We will not be able to compete in their markets.}

Do you:
[a] increase duties on Albion's goods.
[b] agree to lift your duties if they lift their duties.
[c] wait and see how the situation develops.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1111
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE n11110.
One of your knights brings news:

{Majesty, we have received word of a miracle. There is a pool in
Annonay, into which one of the stars of heaven fell. It is
considered an omen of great portent by the astrologers, my
liege.}

Do you:
[a] confiscate the land on which the pool is situated.
[b] consult the astrologers to determine the nature of the omen.
[c] chastise the knight for bringing you such an idle rumor.
{It shall be done, my liege.}
{They shall be sent for.}
{I am thoroughly penitent, Majesty.}
_NODE 2.
_NODE n11111.
One of your knights brings strange news:

{Majesty, a knight in grey armor has attacked your guards in
Annonay. He claims to be a knight of the Holy Pool, come to avenge
its confiscation, and that the pool has granted him powers of
invulnerability.

{Shall we send some men to show him how invulnerable he truly is,
Majesty?}

Do you:
[a] send some knights to thrash the Grey Knight.
[b] ignore the blackguard.
{I shall see that some fine knights are sent, my liege.}
{Perhaps we will have time to thrash him later.}
_NODE 3.
_NODE n11112.
Panic reigns in the streets of Annonay as the astrologers come to
discuss grave portents.

{Majesty, stars falling from heaven into the Earth can only mean that
someone close to you will attempt to kill you. It speaks of
unseen treachery and evil. It speaks of blood in the streets, and
daggers pointed at one's back.}

Do you:
[a] ignore the message.
[b] ask them to divine who will try to kill you.
{Perhaps the next liege-lord will take my advice more
seriously!}
{I shall divine the answer from the entrails and report back to you.}
_NODE 4.
_NODE n11115.
Some knights return from battling bandits in Annonay.

{Majesty, there are strange things happening in Annonay. An entire
village has vanished; every man, woman, and child has simply
disappeared. Rumors of the cursed pool of evil have spread throughout
the province, and people are greatly afraid.}

Do you:
[a] journey to the pool to demonstrate that everything is fine.
[b] send knights to locate the missing villagers.
{You are indeed brave, my liege!}
{Must we, my liege? It's not like it's important. They
were only peasants.}

-------------
Cluster: 1112
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE n11120.
Your knights return from battling the Grey Knight in Annonay.

{Majesty, we encountered the Grey Knight. He slew two of our
company and wounded a third, but was himself wounded and withdrew.
We attempted to follow him, but found only his horse; he dismounted
in a forest and we were unable to find him.

{From the skill he displayed, this man is no peasant, but a knight
of exceptional ability.}

Do you:
[a] send more knights to hunt him down.
[b] set a price of 1,000 marks (1 Gold) on his head.
{As you command.}
{I hope it will get results, my liege.}
_NODE 6.
_NODE n11125.
More news comes from Annonay.

_NODE 6a.
_NODE n11126.
{Majesty, the Grey Knight has burned a wagon carting some of your
timber. He vows that all tyrants shall be destroyed by the Grey
Knight, and he is visiting this upon you to answer your injustice.}

Do you:
[a] place a bounty of 1,000 marks (1 Gold) on his head.
[b] ignore the blackguard.
[c] try to arrange a meeting with him to see if he can be satisfied.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{If you think it's best, Majesty.}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}
_NODE 6b.
_NODE n11127.
{Majesty, the Grey Knight has robbed tax collectors and our treasury
of a sum of 1,000 marks. He vows he will not rest until all tyranny
in Annonay is ended.}

Do you:
[a] place a bounty of 1,000 marks (1 Gold) on his head.
[b] ignore the blackguard.
[c] try to arrange a meeting with him to see if he can be satisfied.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{If you think it's best, Majesty.}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}
_NODE 6c.
_NODE n11128.
{Majesty, the Grey Knight has burned a wagon carrying some of our
grain. He claims that we are tyrants who shall be driven from
Annonay.}

Do you:
[a] place a bounty of 1,000 marks (1 Gold) on his head.
[b] ignore the blackguard.
[c] try to arrange a meeting with him to see if he can be satisfied.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{If you think it's best, Majesty.}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}
_NODE 6d.
_NODE n11129.
{Majesty, the Grey Knight has slain one of your best diplomats. He says
that any man who follows you is a tyrant who deserves death.}

Do you:
[a] place a bounty of 1,000 marks (1 Gold) on his head.
[b] ignore the blackguard.
[c] try to arrange a meeting with him to see if he can be satisfied.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{If you think it's best, Majesty.}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}

-------------
Cluster: 1113
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE n11130.
You cannot believe the information that the astrologer has brought
you...

{Majesty, we have determined who is going to betray you. The entrails
clearly point towards Sir Jerome of St. Marie.}

Jerome has been one of your closest friends since childhood.

Do you:
[a] have Jerome murdered.
[b] have your spies spy on him.
[c] ignore the report.
{Very wise, Majesty.}
{I would have him killed, if I were you.}
{You'll be sorry!}
_NODE 8.
_NODE n11135.
You make a brave journey to the magic pool of Annonay (bringing an
army with you for protection). Miraculously, the village that was
deserted is no longer deserted...

{When the stars started falling from the heavens, one of the villagers
said it was the end of the world and we all fled to the caves to
take refuge until the end of the world was over. Then we realized
that staying in a cave and waiting for the end of the world was
a stupid idea, and we were hungry, so we returned to the village.}

Do you:
[a] issue a proclamation forbidding people from living in caves.
[b] have the magic pool drained.
[c] ignore the pool.
{Very wise, Majesty.}
{A good idea!}
{I hope this doesn't mean the world will end soon!}

-------------
Cluster: 1114
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n11140.
A man returns from the magic pool. Miraculously, the village that was
deserted is no longer deserted...

{When the stars started falling from the heavens, one of the villagers
said it was the end of the world and we all fled to the caves to
take refuge until the end of the world was over. Then we realized
that staying in a cave and waiting for the end of the world was
a stupid idea, and we were hungry, so we returned to the village.}

Do you:
[a] issue a proclamation forbidding people from living in caves.
[b] have the magic pool drained.
[c] ignore the pool.
{Very wise, Majesty.}
{A good idea!}
{I hope this doesn't mean the world will end soon!}
_NODE 10.
_NODE n11145.
{Majesty, once again we have fought the Grey Knight. Once again,
he has escaped. However, he said that if you had the bravery to come
to Annonay, he would face you in single combat, to the death.

{He's one of the fiercest and ablest knights I've ever seen. Don't
go, Majesty!}

Do you:
[a] travel to Annonay and face the Grey Knight.
[b] send a champion in your place.
[c] send a messenger to determine why he hates you.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{Sir Robert would be an excellent choice, Majesty.}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}

[Vanshilar]

-------------
Cluster: 1115
-------------

_NODE 11.
_NODE n11150.
A bounty hunter has arrived.

{Majesty... you are a King, are you not... The Grey Knight has slain
three of my fellow bounty hunters, and people have suddenly
lost interest in trying to track him down. Perhaps if you raised the
bounty...}

Do you:
[a] raise the bounty to 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[b] dismiss the bounty hunter.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{I don't think you'll have much success.}
_NODE n11155.
_NODE 12.
The foppish Sir Percy of Annonay returns from a meeting with the
mysterious Grey Knight.

{It was a chance meeting. I must admit the man had a certain style.
He claims that you have been unjustly confiscating land in Annonay.
Something about a pool or two. Whatever it was, he was talking about
something wet. He doesn't expect you to do anything about it, except
the usual kingly methods, knights, swords, bloodshed, that sort of
thing. Nothing the common people would like, of course.}

Do you:
[a] offer to give back the lands you confiscated.
[b] scour Annonay with your knights until he is found.
{Hmm. If he's a man of his word, he might approve. When is
lunch being served? I'm positively starving.}
{That doesn't seem to be what he has in mind, but a king will
do what a king will do. Incidently, can you introduce me to
that serving wench I saw in the kitchen? She was most comely.}

-------------
Cluster: 1116
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE n11160.
The astrologer comes to you following the murder of Sir Jerome.

{Majesty, we have the letter from your secretary to the cutthroat that
ordered the murder of your friend Sir Jerome. Unless you pay us 3,000
marks, we will send the letter to the Pope, who will never recognize
your claim to the throne!}

Do you:
[a] have the astrologer murdered.
[b] pay the ransom (3 Gold).
[c] ignore the blackmail.
{Liar! You do not have the gold! The Pope will
soon have some interesting information...}
{We shall come to you soon with the letter.}
{Dire consequences will result!}
_NODE 14.
_NODE n11165.
A spy reports on Sir Jerome.

{Majesty, we have seen Sir Jerome meeting with strange people. He
actually says kind words to his page, and to his gardener, and to
other common folk. When he goes to Mass, he actually smiles when he
talks with the parson. 'Tis most odd, my liege. I would not trust
him!}

Do you:
[a] have Sir Jerome murdered.
[b] ignore the report.
[c] have the astrologer flogged.
{Yes, Majesty.}
{Never trust a man who smiles.}
{Dire consequences will result!}

-------------
Cluster: 1117
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE n11170.
An astrologer reports on a disturbing event.

{A tailed star has appeared in the morning sky, its sinister plume
shooting opposite from the sun, a clear signet of evil. You must
do something now, Majesty. Kill Sir Jerome before he betrays you!

Do you:
[a] have Sir Jerome murdered.
[b] ignore the report.
[c] have the astrologer flogged.
{Yes, Majesty.}
{I fear dire consequences from this decision.}
{B-but Majesty!}
_NODE 16.
_NODE n11175.
An advisor brings good news on the magic pool.

{Majesty, when the pool was drained, we found a great deal of
gold. We might be able to get more gold from the pool, but we would need
men to guard it. A unit of Infantry, Archers, or Knights would do.}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry.
[b] send a unit of Archers.
[c] send a unit of Knights.
[d] forget about the pool.
_NODE n11176.
{You do not have any Infantry to spare.}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Archers instead.
[b] send a unit of Knights instead.
[c] forget about the pool.
{We should be able to get the gold before anyone
notices.}
_NODE n11177.
{You do not have any Archers to spare.}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry instead.
[b] send a unit of Knights instead.
[c] forget about the pool.
{We should be able to get the gold before anyone
notices.}
_NODE n11178.
{You do not have any Knights to spare.}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry instead.
[b] send a unit of Archers instead.
[c] forget about the pool.
{We should be able to get the gold before anyone
notices.}
_NODE n11179.
{Very good, Majesty. If you don't mind, I was planning on taking
a small vacation. Annonay sounds like a rich experience.}

-------------
Cluster: 1118
-------------

_NODE 17.
_NODE n11180.
An advisor brings disturbing news.

{Majesty, the pool of evil has brought another sign of doom. A
tailed star has appeared in the morning sky.}

Do you:
[a] have the pool drained.
[b] have the local bishop cast out demons from the pool.
[c] ignore the sign of doom.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{I understand that the archbishop of Annonay is rather good
at that sort of thing.}
{I remember the last king who ignored a sign of doom. You
remember what happened to King Francis the Old, don't you?
He was ninety, but he never lived to be ninety-one after he
ignored that warning!}
_NODE 18.
_NODE n11185.
You depart to face the dreaded Grey Knight of Annonay -- alone.

After several days' ride, you are waylaid by a knight in armor
bearing a grey shield.

{Surrender to me,} he says, {and your death will be quick and
merciful. Otherwise, I shall deliver to you the same suffering that
you have brought to Annonay.}

Do you:
[a] surrender.
[b] challenge him to battle.
[c] ask him why he is so upset.
The Grey Knight places his sword through you, and leaves
you for dead. You are not dead, though, and are rescued by
knights sent by your friend, Sir Percy of Annonay. You
recover, but your scars will not go away.
You do your best, and wound him several times, but in the
end he defeats you, leaving you for dead. You are not dead,
however, and knights sent by Sir Percy of Annonay rescue
you. You will carry the scars from this combat for the rest
of your days.
The Grey Knight says, {Recently, you confiscated the land
which contained a pool into which a star fell. That land was
owned by a dear old widow, who was forced to leave her home
and live on the street like an animal. She died soon afterwards
of a fever that burned in her lungs. Her death is on your
hands!}

Do you:
[a] offer to make just compensation to her heirs.
[b] tell him that you thought the falling star would curse
anyone who lived on the land.
[c] challenge him to combat.
_NODE n11186.
{How generous you are with the dead!}

The Grey Knight draws his sword and attacks you.
Although you defend yourself ably, his swordsmanship is perhaps the
best you have ever seen. He leaves you for dead. You are rescued
by men who were sent by your friend Sir Percy, but you will bear
the scars for the remainder of your days.
_NODE n11187.
{It is said that falling stars reflect the deeds of fallen men!}

The Grey Knight draws his sword and attacks you.
Although you defend yourself ably, his swordsmanship is among the
best you have ever seen. He leaves you for dead. You are rescued
by men who were sent by your friend Sir Percy, but you will bear
the scars for the remainder of your days.
_NODE n11188.
{You offer me the most precious of pleasures, the taking of your
life!}
You do your best, and bloody him several times. It is not enough; in
the end, he defeats you and leaves you to die from your wounds.
You are fortunate that knights sent by Sir Percy of Annonay find you
and rescue you, but you will carry the scars from this combat for the
rest of your days.

-------------
Cluster: 1119
-------------

_NODE 19.
_NODE n11190.
Sir Robert returns from Annonay.

{Majesty, I encountered the Grey Knight, but at a distance. He said
that his quarrel was with you alone, but if you were too cowardly to
come in person, he would be willing to kill me in your stead.}

Do you:
[a] travel to Annonay and face the Grey Knight.
[b] send Sir Robert in your stead.
[c] send a messenger to determine why he hates you.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{The swine will not survive, Majesty!}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}
_NODE 20.
_NODE n11195.
A messenger brings bad news.

{Majesty, no bounty hunter will touch the Grey Knight. Too many
have died trying to kill him. Something else must be done.}

Do you:
[a] travel to Annonay and face the Grey Knight yourself.
[b] send a messenger to determine why he hates you.
{A fine idea, Majesty.}
{That may be difficult, but we will try.}

-------------
Cluster: 1120
-------------

_NODE 21.
_NODE n11200.
Sir Percy comes from Annonay.

{Your Majesty, that fellow, the Grey Knight, has issued a public
challenge. He says that he will reveal his identity if you deliver 8,000
marks of gold to the people of Annonay within ninety days,
and that, if you fail to deliver it, he will take your life.}
{This violence is most distressing, Majesty. If I weren't so terribly
busy helping damsels appreciate the value of fine poetry, I might
do something about it. Incidently, have you heard my latest verse?
It's quite good.}

Do you:
[a] agree to try to deliver 8,000 marks (8 Gold).
[b] dare him to take your life.
{It will be interesting, Majesty.}
{If I can be excused for wondering, why would you do
that?}
_NODE 22.
_NODE n11205.
Sir Percy comes from Annonay.

{I'm afraid that your knights aren't doing very well against this
fellow with the grey shield, the Grey Knight. I suppose it makes
life interesting to have a worthy opponent around, but it is getting
tedious. By the way, the grey fellow is challenging you to single
combat; I assume that acceptance is out of the question. When do
people eat around here?}

Do you:
[a] accept the challenge.
[b] send a champion in his place.
{You are a stubborn one, aren't you?}
{Very good. We wouldn't want to get hurt when someone else
can get hurt in our place. Now when is dinner?}

-------------
Cluster: 1121
-------------

_NODE 23.
_NODE n11210.
Bad news comes to you, and you can barely restrain yourself from
killing the messenger.

The guard who murdered the astrologer at your behest was seen doing
the foul deed, and is going to trial. If he implicates you....

Do you:
[a] order your guards to help him escape and flee the country.
[b] pardon him.
[c] have him poisoned.
{It is done.}
{It is done.}
_NODE 24.
_NODE n11215.
The astrologer returns:

{Majesty, we have the letter from your secretary to the cutthroat that
ordered the murder of your friend Sir Jerome. Unless you pay us 3,000
marks, we will send the letter to the Pope, who will never recognize
your claim to the throne!}

Do you:
[a] have the astrologer murdered.
[b] pay the ransom (3 Gold).
[c] ignore the blackmail.
{Liar! You do not have the gold! You had best have
it the next time we appear!}
{We shall come to you soon with the letter.}
{Dire consequences will result!}
_NODE 24.
_NODE n11216.
The astrologer returns again:

{Majesty, we are in need of funds. While blackmail is a horrendous
way to make a living, it's a lot better than poverty. 3,000 marks,
please.}

Do you:
[a] have the astrologer murdered.
[b] pay the ransom (3 Gold).
[c] ignore the blackmail.
{Liar! You do not have the gold! You had best have
it the next time we appear!}
{We shall come to you soon with the letter.}
{Dire consequences will result!}

-------------
Cluster: 1122
-------------

_NODE 25.
_NODE n11220.
You receive a visit from the bishop.

{Your lordship, we have received a copy of a letter in your secretary's
handwriting, ordering the murder of Sir Jerome. This is outrageous! The
Pope is being informed even as we speak! The situation is intolerable!

{That these astrologers are now forging letters and trying to implicate
good Christians in crimes is intolerable! Something must be done about
this evil practice. We wish to try them in ecclesiastical court for
crimes against God!}

Do you:
[a] allow astrologers to be tried by the Church.
[b] try astrologers for forgery in a civil court.
[c] tell the bishop that their sins will be punished in due course.
{Thank you, Majesty.}
{An ecclesiastical court would be better, your lordship.}
{Of course they will. I worry only about the corruption of
the living.}
_NODE 26.
_NODE n11225.
A knight enters.

{Majesty, we have found 5,000 marks of gold in the drained pool, which
is now in your treasury!}

-------------
Cluster: 1123
-------------

_NODE 27.
_NODE n11230.
A messenger comes from Annonay.

{Majesty, thousands of people have descended upon Annonay. Everyone
is searching for gold. While it has been hard to control some
of the thieves, for the most part the people are happy -- and we
have added about three thousand marks to the treasury in increased
taxes.}
_NODE 28.
_NODE n11235.
An advisor brings disturbing news.

{Majesty, the bishop failed to cast out demons from the pool of
evil. It has devoured a young man, who entered for a swim, and
never was seen again!}

Do you:
[a] have the pool drained.
[b] ignore this superstitious nonsense.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Perhaps there is more important business to take care of.}

-------------
Cluster: 1124
-------------

_NODE 29.
_NODE n11240.
You are awqkened from slumber by one of your advisors.

{Majesty, word of your battle against the Grey Knight has spread
to the townships. People like a rebel, Majesty, and the Grey Knight
has been taken to their hearts. Minstrels have written songs about
your battle, and they don't flatter you, my lord.}

Do you:
[a] issue another challenge.
[b] issue another challenge, and have the Grey Knight ambushed.
[c] send your champion, Sir Robert, to meet the Grey Knight in single
combat.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{A cunning strategem, my lord.}
{A cunning strategem, my lord.}
_NODE 30.
_NODE n11245.
Grave news from Annonay...

{Majesty, Sir Robert was gravely wounded in a battle against the
Grey Knight, but was victorious. The Grey Knight is dead. When his
helm was removed, he turned out to be your old friend, Sir Percy.}

-------------
Cluster: 1125
-------------

_NODE 31.
_NODE n11250.
An advisor comes to remind you of important matters.

{Majesty, ninety days have expired. Will you deliver the 8,000
marks (8 units) of gold to the people of Annonay as you promised?}

Do you:
[a] attempt to deliver the gold.
[b] renege on your promise.
_NODE 31a.
_NODE n11251.
Alas, you do not have the money to deliver to Annonay. A
few nights later, someone enters your treasury and steals
half your entire supply of gold!

A note is left behind, which reads:
{Your recompense is welcome. Should you lapse again into
the ways of tyranny, the Grey Knight shall return.}
When the money is delivered to Annonay, the Grey Knight
appears. {Keep your gold!} he says. {It is better that the
people know you have a generous heart.}

The Grey Knight then unmasks, revealing himself to be your
old friend Sir Percy!

{I place myself at your mercy. Do with me as you will.}

Do you:
[a] conscript Sir Percy into your council.
[b] hang him for high treason.
Sir Percy's skills prove to be invaluable.
Sir Percy's death angers the people of Annonay, and
elsewhere.
_NODE 31b.
_NODE n11252.
A few nights later, someone enters your treasury and steals
half your supply of gold!

A note is left behind, which reads:
{Your recompense is welcome. Should you lapse again into
the ways of tyranny, the Grey Knight shall return.}
_NODE 32.
_NODE n11255.
All is not well. All of your guards are asleep. Someone has drugged
them.

The Grey Knight appears. {Were you looking for assistance, your
lordship? Allow me to assist you to Hell, tyrant!}

Do you:
[a] attempt to bribe him.
[b] accept his challenge and die like a man.
_NODE 32a.
_NODE n11256.
The Grey Knight laughs.

{I suppose I should be insulted, but desperate men are honest.
If, when you become King, you agree to make me Duke of Annonay,
I will spare your life.}

Do you:
[a] accept his proposition.
[b] refuse, and meet him in single combat.
{A document will be sent to your seneschal, suitable for
signing. Given that I have succeeded in eliminating all of
your defenses, I would not consider betrayal, unless you
look forward to a painful death.}
_NODE 32b
_NODE n11257.
{Have at thee. And may God, maker of iron, bless the sword of the
righteous!}

You are no match for him. But he is bent on humiliating you, and
drops his guard for a moment. You take advantage of that lapse and
slay him, the Grey Knight -- your friend Sir Percy!

-------------
Cluster: 1126
-------------

_NODE 33.
_NODE n11260.
An aura of evil suddenly surrounds your castle... no, it's just the
astrologer.

{A small mountain has grown in a farmer's field, belching smoke and
fire from the depths of Hell! It's an omen of evil, I tell you....}

Do you:
[a] strangle the astrologer.
[b] send him to an expert executioner.
_NODE 33.
_NODE n11265.
You journey to Annonay, alone, to meet the Grey Knight in combat.

{Thou art persistent, if not wise. I will gladly kill you, but
I do not understand why you are so eager to face me when you know
in your heart that I am better with the blade than thou.}

Your reply:
[a] {time for epitaphs later, have at thee!}
[b] {I have tried to reason with thee, and failed. I cannot stand a
man who will not listen!}
[c] {I wish to hear the songs they'll sing of thee when thou art dead.}
{And so shall tyrants die!}
{Then you shall speak with the maggots, forevermore!}
{I did not know there was music in Hell!}
_NODE n11266.
You are no match for him. But he is bent on humiliating you, and
drops his guard for a moment. You take advantage of that lapse and
slay him, the Grey Knight -- your friend Sir Percy!

-------------
Cluster: 1127
-------------

_NODE n11270.
You receive word from Annonay.

{Majesty, the Grey Knight is dead. When his helm was removed, he
turned out to be...your friend Sir Percy!}

-------------
Cluster: 1128
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE n11280.
One of your knights brings news:

{Majesty, our barracks in Laval have been destroyed. I do not
know how; those who saw it, described the building as shattered
into pieces with the sound of thunder.

{Majesty, an entire unit of infantry has been destroyed.
Many men are dead.}
{Fortunately, no one was in the barracks, but many people
might have been killed.}

Do you:
[a] offer 2,000 marks (2 Gold) for anyone who brings you information
on this disaster.
[b] send your administrators to investigate.
[c] call on the Church to determine if the accident was supernatural.
{It shall be done, my liege.}
{They shall be sent for.}
{I am thoroughly penitent, Majesty.}
_NODE 2.
_NODE n11285.
At long last, you receive word on the exploding barracks in Laval.
A peasant comes to report:

{Majesty, my son reported hearing men in a tavern boasting about
the foul deed. It was the Poisson Rouge tavern on the Laval road. He
was rather vague on the details, except that the killer used some
sort of magick powder that they had gotten from sorcerers in the
far east; when exposed to fire, this devil magick causes great
destruction.}

Do you:
[a] give him 2,000 (2 Gold) marks.
[b] give him 2,000 (2 Gold) marks when the villains are captured.
[c] refuse to reward him for a boy's tale.
You cannot afford this. The peasant seems puzzled.

{How can you not afford to pay this with all the tax
we're paying?}
{You are very generous, m'lord.}
{That is fair, m'lord.}
{I was afraid you'd say something like that.}

-------------
Cluster: 1129
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE n11290.
The administrators return from the devastated barracks in Laval.

{Majesty, we have never seen anything like this. Total devastation.
Total destruction. Godless and immoral carnage. If only we had a
weapon like this...

{I know not what caused this. But think of it, a force exists that
can kill our enemies, destroy their fortresses, more surely than
anything else that exists. That would be a weapon to be cherished. A
lowly clerk who controlled such a weapon could make himself a king!}

Do you:
[a] chastise them for not uncovering more information.
[b] order them to return to Laval and find out who's responsible.
[c] tell them their services are no longer required.
{But Majesty, this weapon is clearly more important than
a destroyed building or lost lives!}
{We shall leave at once, your lordship.}
{But this is so fascinating...}
_NODE 4.
_NODE n11295.
_should not occur if player is excommunicated. In that case, trigger
_the following.
_{The church refuses to speak with you until you are no longer
_excommunicated.}
_trigger n11305(0).
You receive a visit from Hubert Belanger, a monk from St. Jude's
monastery.

{Majesty, I believe what we are seeing is the use of a substance
from the east known as gunpowder. Roger Bacon, an English monk,
included references to this in his writings; although I have obviously
never read them, as they were banned by the Franciscans for heresy. I
know of a German monk named Berthold Schwarz who is doing fascinating
things with this substance...}

Do you:
[a] order Hubert to produce gunpowder for you.
[b] order Hubert to discover the murderer's identity.
[c] ignore this long-winded fool.
{But Majesty, as the only source for the chemical formula
is in a banned book, I cannot in good conscience give you
the formula.}

Do you:
[a] ask him to look for the formula in books that meet with
the approval of the Franciscans.
[b] order him to discover the murderer's identity.
[c] send a messenger to the Pope asking that the ban on Bacon
be rescinded.
{That may take years, Majesty, but I shall try.}
{I shall try to uncover it, your lordship.}
{Even as you send your messenger, you know that the
Pope will not set himself against the wishes of the
Franciscans.}
{I shall try to uncover it, your lordship.}
{I never stay where I am not welcome.}

-------------
Cluster: 1130
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE n11300.
Bad news is whispered into your ear...

{Majesty, the man who reported the people in the tavern talking
about the disaster in Laval has been found dead. He was murdered.
His son, who reported the alleged conversation, is missing.}

Do you:
[a] send a spy to the tavern in Laval.
[b] try to find the whereabouts of the son.
[c] ignore this foul deed.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{I shall try to find him, my liege.}
{As you wish.}
_NODE 6.
_NODE n11305.
There is panic in Laval.

{Majesty, there have been several explosions in important buildings
in Laval villages. The Lord High Sheriff is dead, and dozens of
cutthroats and robbers have escaped from gaol. There is a great
deal of panic. They say the world is ending.}

Do you:
[a] summon local administrators for a meeting.
[b] send investigators to the scene of the crime.
[c] send a proclamation claiming the murderer has been found.
Do you:
[a] summon local administrators for a meeting.
[b] send investigators to the scene of the crime.
[c] send a proclamation claiming the murderer has been found.
[d] summon Hubert Belanger to investigate.
_NODE 6a.
_NODE n11306.
{They shall be sent for at once.}
_NODE 6b.
_NODE n11307.
{They shall be dispatched... I mean sent... at once.}
_NODE 6c.
_NODE n11308.
{The proclamation shall be dispatched... I mean sent... at once.}
_NODE 6d.
_NODE n11309.
{He shall be summoned, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1131
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE n11310.
Another disaster has occured.

{Majesty, the fires of Hell have consumed the inn where your
adminstrators were staying. Their investigation of the Laval
disasters have come to an abrupt end.}

Do you:
[a] ask for information on their deaths.
[b] ignore the incident.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Ignore it, my liege? Ignore?!}
_NODE 8.
_NODE n11315.
Hubert Belanger returns.

{Majesty, I have found the ingredients for gunpowder, although
I do not know the proper mix, nor under what constellation, nor at
what hour they must be blended for the proper potency.

{The ingredients are brimstone, saltpeter, and woodsoot.}

Do you:
[a] order him to discover the proper mix.
[b] order him to find a way to neutralize this powder.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Majesty, as far as I can tell, this powder explodes because
of demonic forces. Perhaps these demons might be cast out by
a bishop, or the saints might intervene to protect a Prince of
pure Christian spirit, but aside from that, I know of no way
your request can be answered.}

-------------
Cluster: 1132
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n11320.
Hubert Belanger returns from his investigation, bringing with him
a young boy.

{Majesty, I believe you should listen to what young Phillip has to
say.}

{Hello Sire. Uh... um...}

{Perhaps I should speak for him. He overheard some men talking about
the destruction of the barracks, brigands who were clearly responsible
for the foul deed. When his father tried to inform you, he was
murdered.}

Do you:
[a] order Hubert to uncover the murderer.
[b] send a spy to the tavern where the boy overheard the men.
[c] send a spy to watch the boy.
{I shall do my best, Majesty.}
Your spy is sent.
Your spy is sent.
_NODE 10.
_NODE n11325.
Your spy passes on information...

{Majesty, I have heard many rumors. If I am correct, there is a group
of men, either very wealthy or very powerful, who wish to drive you from
Laval.}

{They have been secretly purchasing devil's powder from
the Saracens, and are using it to destroy your troops and
kill your allies.

{I fear that I have made myself too prominent, and may be in danger.
Perhaps it would be best if you replaced me with another person.}

Do you:
[a] replace him.
[b] ask him to continue spying.
Your spy is sent.
{I shall do my best, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1133
-------------

_NODE 11.
_NODE n11330.
A search of Laval has found the missing boy.

{Majesty, the boy has told a wild tale about being held prisoner
in a mysterious castle in the middle of the forest. I doubt its
veracity, but do you wish us to investigate his claim?}

You answer:
[a] Yes.
[b] No.
{Very well, Majesty.}
{Of course, my liege.}
_NODE 12.
_NODE n11335.
A bell summons the administrators from Laval to a royal audience.

{Majesty, gracious Majesty. It is not our fault. These blackguards
want to overthrow us all!}

WHAT BLACKGUARDS!

Seeing a look of barely contained rage in your royal eye, the Lord
Mayor and the others reveal that they have been receiving letters
from {The Brotherhood of Vulcan}, claiming responsibility for the
destruction, and vowing not to rest until Laval is free of foreign
influence (i.e. anyone who is not from Laval). The administrators
didn't want to bother you about this, believing they could handle
the matter personally.

Do you:
[a] send a spy to Laval to infiltrate this Brotherhood.
[b] send scouts to Laval to look for a hidden stronghold.
[c] order the administrators to end this menace in sixty days, or
face execution.
{Very well, Majesty.}
{Of course, my liege.}
{We will not fail, my liege!}

-------------
Cluster: 1134
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE n11340.
A messenger comes from a nearby province.

{Majesty, Holy Rose Abbey has been destroyed. Its destruction was
identical to the ones we have seen recently. A group calling itself
'the Brotherhood of Vulcan' has claimed credit for the deed. We
have no idea who these people are.}

Do you:
[a] send a spy to infiltrate the Brotherhood.
[b] summon local administrators to explain what is happening.
{Very well, Majesty.}
{Of course, my liege.}
_NODE 14.
_NODE n11345.
A messenger comes from Laval.

{Majesty, we have information on the recent disasters. A group calling
itself 'the Brotherhood of Vulcan' has claimed credit for the deeds. We
have no idea who these people are.}

Your answer:
[a] send a spy to infiltrate the Brotherhood.
[b] summon local administrators to explain what is happening.
{Very well, Majesty.}
{Of course, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1135
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE n11350.
There is panic in Laval.

{Majesty, there have been several explosions in important buildings
in Laval villages. The Lord High Sheriff is dead, and dozens of
cutthroats and robbers have escaped from gaol. There is a great
deal of panic. They say the world is ending.}

Do you:
[a] offer a large reward for information.
[b] send your army through Laval to quiet the place down.
[c] ignore the report.
{The people are too frightened to offer any information,
my liege.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
It does have a calming effect on the people. Armies have that
sort of effect on people.
{As you wish.}
_NODE 16.
_NODE n11355.
Hubert Belanger returns from Laval.

{Majesty, we have information on the recent disasters. A group calling
itself 'the Brotherhood of Vulcan' has claimed credit for the deeds. I
have no idea who these people are. Furthermore, the local council,
fearing your wrath, has willfully withheld this information from
you.}

Your answer:
[a] send a spy to infiltrate the Brotherhood.
[b] order the arrest of the local administrators.
{Very well, Majesty.}
{Of course, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1136
-------------

_NODE 17.
_NODE n11360.
A message comes from your spy in Laval.

{Majesty, as we expected, a man tried to kill the boy. Unfortunately,
he escaped capture. He fled into a forest near Laval, then we lost
the trail.}

Do you:
[a] continue guarding the boy.
[b] send a unit of Infantry to scour the forest.
{As you command. Next time, he shall not escape,
my liege.}
{We do not have the men. I suppose we'll have to
keep watching the boy.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 18.
_NODE n11365.
A message comes from your spy in Laval.

{Majesty, I don't know what that other person was talking about.
Clearly there is nothing wrong in Laval. I've talked with everyone,
and there's nothing suspicious. Only a couple of destroyed buildings,
that's all, nothing to worry about.}

Do you:
[a] ask the old spy to resume his job.
[b] have this spy flogged.
{But why?}
{But why?}

-------------
Cluster: 1137
-------------

_NODE 19.
_NODE n11370.
A message comes from your spy in Laval.

{Majesty, before he died, your spy said that there was a hidden
fortress in the forest near Laval. He gave us a rough location
of where it might be.}

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their operations.}
_NODE 20.
_NODE n11375.
A message comes from Laval.

{Majesty, the boy has found the fortress of our enemies in the
forest near Laval. He gave us a rough location of where it might
be, and we found it.}

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength.
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their operations.}

-------------
Cluster: 1138
-------------

_NODE 21.
_NODE n11380.
A message comes from Laval.

{Majesty, the wells for several villages in the province were
destroyed three nights ago by explosions identical to the ones we
have seen all too often there. There is a great deal of unrest, and
people are blaming you for not having done anything about this.}

Do you:
[a] spend 2,000 marks to cart water and wine to Laval while they
dig new wells.
[b] march your army through Laval to calm them down.
[c] sit back and sulk about nobody liking you.
You do not have the funds. You'll have to march
through Laval instead.
{You're too kind, Majesty.}
{I'm sure they'll be impressed.}
{Oh, stop sulking and do something about this!}
_NODE 22.
_NODE n11385.
The people smell the administrators' fear as they skulk toward
their audience with you.

{We tried to find the Brotherhood of Vulcan. Honest we did! Please
don't kill us! Please! We have families to feed, and children who
need their parents alive.}

Do you:
[a] execute them.
[b] agree not to kill them, and merely imprison them for the rest of
their ill-begotten lives.
[c] give them one more chance...
{No!!!}
{Thank you... I think...}
{May we kiss your feet, my liege?}

-------------
Cluster: 1139
-------------

_NODE 23.
_NODE n11390.
A bell summons the administrators from Laval to a royal audience.

{Majesty, gracious Majesty. It is not our fault. These blackguards
want to overthrow us all!}

After a good deal of harsh questioning and many threats, the Lord
Mayor and the others reveal that they have been receiving letters
from {The Brotherhood of Vulcan,} claiming responsibility for the
destruction, and vowing not to rest until Laval is free of foreign
influence (i.e. anyone who is not from Laval). The administrators
didn't want to bother you about this, believing they could handle
the matter personally.

Do you:
[a] send a spy to Laval to infiltrate this Brotherhood.
[b] send scouts to Laval to look for a hidden stronghold.
[c] order the administrators to end this menace in sixty days, or
face execution.
{Very well, Majesty.}
{Of course, my liege.}
{We will not fail, my liege!}
_NODE 24.
_NODE n11395.
Word comes of a disaster.

{Majesty, there has been an accident in the monastery of Hubert
Belanger. The experiments with gunpowder have resulted in a massive
explosion. Hubert has been badly injured, and many of his order were
killed. He vows that he will never conduct another experiment again.}

Do you:
[a] beg Hubert to continue his research.
[b] search for someone else knowledgeable in the ways of gunpowder.
Several days later, you receive word from Hubert. He has
retired to a monastery in Austria, to give penance for the
remainder of his days.
{Of course, my liege.}

A thorough search turns up no one.

-------------
Cluster: 1140
-------------

_NODE 25.
_NODE n11400.
Word is sent from your spy in Laval, who has been guarding the boy
who overheard the Brotherhood of Vulcan.

{Majesty, no one has bothered the boy for quite some time. I believe
he is safe.

{I have heard rumors of a fortress in the woods, and I believe I know
its location. I am certain that this is the headquarters of the
Brotherhood of Vulcan.}

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their operations.}
_NODE 25.
_NODE n11405.
A messenger is sent by your infantry in Laval, who have been
searching for the Brotherhood of Vulcan.

{We have found the fortress in the woods. We are certain that this is
the headquarters of the Brotherhood of Vulcan.}

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their operations.}

-------------
Cluster: 1141
-------------

_NODE 26.
_NODE n11410.
A messenger is sent by your army in Laval, which has attacked
the stronghold of the Brotherhood of Vulcan.

{Majesty, we have destroyed the fortress of the Brotherhood of
Vulcan, however at a heavy price. Rather than face capture, the
Brotherhood exploded their supply of gunpowder. Many men were
slain.}
_NODE 27.
_NODE n11415.
A messenger is sent by your army in Laval.

{Majesty, we have destroyed the fortress of the Brotherhood of
Vulcan. Our scout infiltrated the stronghold and must have ignited
their supply of devil powder. The explosion killed them utterly, but
alas, our scout was also slain.}

-------------
Cluster: 1142
-------------

_NODE 28.
_NODE n11420.
A rather shady individual approaches you:

{Majesty, I am associated with certain disreputable fellows, you may
have heard of them, the Brotherhood of Vulcan. I am prepared, for a
small price, say, 1,000 marks, to reveal their location to you.}

Do you:
[a] agree to pay his price.
[b] have him questioned until he tells you the location.
You do not have the funds. You submit him for
questioning until he tells you the location.

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their
operations.}
He tells you the location.

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their
operations.}
He tells you the location.

Do you:
[a] attack it immediately.
[b] scout the fortress to learn its strength
{I pray we are not being too rash.}
{Let us hope they do not choose to move their
operations.}
_NODE 28.
_NODE n11425.
You receive word from Laval.

{Majesty, good news! We discovered a shipment of devil's powder
being secretly delivered to a small fortress in the woods near
Laval. We waylaid this shipment, and then, disguised as merchants,
infiltrated the stronghold and destroyed it. The people who inhabited
the fortress are either dead or slain. The gunpowder threat is at
an end.}

-------------
Cluster: 1143
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE n11430.
A messenger comes from the Duke of Compagne.

{From His Grace, Francis Duke of Compagne, to
Edward, King of Albion,
Henri, Duke of Anjou,
Ramiro, King of Aragon,
Charles, Count of Valois,
Phillip, Duke of Burgundy,
welcome:

{We are aware of your struggle to obtain the crown of Bretagne. In
doing so, you have moved your armies onto the soil of Compagne. Perhaps
you believe this means you are in control of this territory. His
Grace wishes you to understand that this is not the case. You merely
occupy this land; you do not rule it. Understand this, and we will
have no problems.}

Do you:
[a] threaten to attack him if he sends another arrogant message.
[b] cut off supplies into his castle.
[c] ignore him.
{We shall see. The Duke shall not be pleased.}
{I do not believe you have thought out this action.}
{Well!}
_NODE 2.
_NODE n11435.
A messenger comes from the Duke of Compagne.

{From His Grace, Francis Duke of Compagne, to
Edward, King of Albion,
Henri, Duke of Anjou,
Ramiro, King of Aragon,
Charles, Count of Valois,
Phillip, Duke of Burgundy,
welcome:

{The recent actions of your armies have been intolerable. Either
restrain their misdeeds, or the army of the Duke will restrain them
for you.}

Do you:
[a] attack him.
[b] cut off supplies into his castle.
[c] ask him to specify the misdeeds.
{I do not believe you have thought out this action.}
{I do not believe you have thought out this action.}
{You shall hear a full accounting.}

-------------
Cluster: 1144
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE n11440.
A messenger comes from the besieged castle of the Duke of Compagne.

{Majesty, the Duke easily broke the siege. He has several large
forces hidden in the countryside; combined, they make one
of the most formidable armies in Bretagne. Our siege has no hope
of success.}

Do you:
[a] try to maintain the siege.
[b] abandon the siege.
[c] apologize to the Duke.
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
_NODE 4.
_NODE n11445.
A delegation of peasants comes to you.

{Majesty, the taxes being levied by the Duke of Compagne are beyond
belief. We can no longer afford to feed our children. He says that
as long as foreign invaders remain in Compagne, he must have those
taxes to prepare our defense.}

Do you:
[a] attack the Duke.
[b] imprison the Duke's tax-collectors.
[c] try to negotiate a suitable settlement.
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege. We will try to arrange a meeting.}

-------------
Cluster: 1145
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE n11450.
One of your commanders returns with good news -- and a
warning.

{Majesty, we have defeated the Duke of Compagne near the
town of Aienfort, but he has retreated and combined his
forces with fresh troops. We may not be able to win the
next battle.}

Do you:
[a] press the attack.
[b] try to negotiate a truce with Compagne.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne near Aienfort. I have nothing else to say.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] try to negotiate a truce with Compagne.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
_NODE 6.
_NODE n11455.
Your messenger departs from your castle to get a full account of
grievances from the Duke of Compagne.

He never returns.

Do you:
[a] attack the Duke.
[b] send a second messenger to determine what happened.
[c] ignore the Duke and his grievances.
{As you command, my liege.}
{We will be cautious. I smell a rat.}
{As you command, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1146
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE n11460.
A messenger returns from the siege of the Duke of Compagne's castle.

{Majesty, the siege has been broken. As we feared, the Duke's forces
are too large and too well maintained. Our losses were substantial.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to resume the siege.
[b] ask for a truce.
{As you command, my liege.}
{It shall be done, Majesty.}
_NODE 8.
_NODE n11465.
You receive a messenger from the Duke of Compagne.

{The Duke hopes that your little military exercise has shown you
the meaning of folly. He hopes that you will now be prepared to
treat him with the respect he deserves. Your adventure has caused
the Duke time and trouble, and he demands 2,000 marks in
reparations.}

Do you:
[a] refuse to give him a single mark.
[b] offer 1,000 marks (1 Gold).
[c] give him the 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
{This insult shall not be borne!}
You do not have the gold in stock. The messenger is
not pleased.
{I suppose this is not too grievous an insult. The
Duke may be prepared to overlook it.}
You do not have the gold in stock. The messenger is
not pleased.
{I suppose this is not too grievous an insult. The
Duke may be prepared to overlook it.}

-------------
Cluster: 1147
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE n11470.
You receive a messenger from the Duke of Compagne.

{How dare you interfere in the Duke's handling of his own affairs!
If you do not apologize immediately and release the Duke's servants,
a state of war will exist between us!}

Do you:
[a] release them if the Duke agrees to stop trying to turn the
people against him.
[b] ask for a negotiated settlement of differences.
[c] release them and apologize.
{I shall deliver your terms to the Duke. I would not expect
a favorable settlement.}
{Your request shall be given to the Duke. Your reluctance
to see reason is not encouraging.}
{That is better.}
_NODE 10.
_NODE n11475.
You receive a messenger from the Duke of Compagne.

{I take it that you wish your relations with the Duke of Compagne
to be improved. What do you offer us in return for better relations?}

Do you:
[a] promise autonomy for Compagne.
[b] promise increased lands for the Duke.
[c] offer him increased prestige when you become king.
{I thought we had autonomy already.}
{Interesting. He will reply soon, I'm sure.}
{A kingly promise. I'll see if he's interested.}

-------------
Cluster: 1148
-------------

_NODE 11.
_NODE n11480.
You receive a delegation of peasants.

{Majesty, something must be done to protect us from the Duke of
Compagne. He is hanging dozens of peasants who are unable to pay
their taxes.}

Do you:
[a] attack the Duke.
[b] imprison the Duke's tax-collectors.
[c] try to negotiate a suitable settlement.
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege. We will try to arrange a meeting.}
_NODE 12.
_NODE n11485.
One of your commanders returns with good news -- and a
warning.

{Majesty, we have defeated the Duke of Compagne near the
town of Verdun, but he has again retreated and combined his
troops with an army even greater than his last. This will be
a formidable battle indeed.}

Do you:
[a] continue to press the attack.
[b] try to negotiate a truce with Compagne.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne near Verdun. I have nothing else to say.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] try to negotiate a truce with Compagne.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1149
-------------

_NODE 13.
_NODE n11490.
One of your commanders returns with good news, and a
warning.

{Majesty, we have defeated the Duke of Compagne near the
town of Verdun, but he has again retreated and combined his
troops with an army even greater than his last. This will be
a formidable battle indeed.}

Do you:
[a] continue to press the attack.
[b] try to negotiate a truce with Compagne.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne near Verdun. His forces are clearly better than
ours. We should sue for peace immediately.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] try to negotiate a truce with Compagne.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
_NODE 14.
_NODE n11495.
A messenger returns from the Duke of Compagne.

{Majesty, our last messenger appears to have been slain by bandits.
His body was found in the woods of Compagne. The Duke expresses
his regrets over the death of one of your servants in his territory.}

Do you:
[a] continue the negotiations with the Duke of Compagne.
[b] ignore him.
{As you command, my liege.}
{As you command, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1150
-------------

_NODE 15.
_NODE n11500.
_NODE 15a.
_NODE n11501.
A messenger returns from the siege of the Duke of Compagne's castle.

{Majesty, our attempts to lay siege to the Duke of Compagne are
futile. He makes sorties at will; his archers seem to have limitless
supplies of arrows. We are sending men to a mass grave with no hope
of success!}

Do you:
[a] attempt to resume the siege.
[b] ask for a truce.
{As you command, my liege.}
{Very good, my lord.}
_NODE 15b.
_NODE n11502.
A messenger returns from the siege of the Duke of Compagne's castle.

{Majesty, this siege is madness! Good men -- our men -- are dying,
while the strength of the Duke's fortress mocks our efforts to
destroy him.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to resume the siege.
[b] ask for a truce.
{As you command, my liege.}
{Very good, my lord.}
_NODE 15c.
_NODE n11503.
A messenger returns from the siege of the Duke of Compagne's castle.

{Majesty, we will not break this siege. We should end it at once.
Compagne breaks through our battlelines at will.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to resume the siege.
[b] ask for a truce.
{As you command, my liege.}
{Very good, my lord.}
_NODE 15d.
_NODE n11504.
A messenger returns from the siege of the Duke of Compagne's castle.

{Majesty, this siege is costing us the lives of many good men. I fear
the place will never fall, but we will fight to the death to see
those walls crumble.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to resume the siege.
[b] ask for a truce.
{As you command, my liege.}
{Very good, my lord.}
_NODE 16.
_NODE n11505.
A messenger reports on a disturbing incident.

{Majesty, soldiers wearing the emblem of the Duke of Compagne have
waylaid and captured our ally, Baron Cerconse. They are asking a
ransom of three thousand marks for his release.}

Do you:
[a] offer 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[b] give him 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[c] demand his immediate and unconditional release.
You do not have the gold in stock. The messenger is
not pleased.
{I suppose the Duke is prepared to be merciful.}
You do not have the gold in stock. The messenger is
not pleased.
{Let us hope these little power games of yours will
soon come to an end.}
{You are in no position to make demands, fool!}
_NODE 16.
_NODE n11506.
A messenger from the Duke of Compagne again demands 3,000 marks
ransom for the release of your ally, Baron Cerconse.

Do you:
[a] offer 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[b] give him 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[c] demand his immediate and unconditional release.
You do not have the gold in stock. The messenger is
not pleased.
{I suppose the Duke is prepared to be merciful.}
You do not have the gold in stock. The messenger is
not pleased.
{Let us hope these little power games of yours will
soon come to an end.}
{You are in no position to make demands, fool!}

[Vanshilar]

-------------
Cluster: 1151
-------------

_NODE 17.
_NODE n11510.
A messenger reports on a disturbing incident.

{Majesty, soldiers wearing the emblem of the Duke of Compagne have
been marching through the townships of this province at all hours
of the night. They have attacked no one, except for trouble in one
town that refused to provide them with provisions, but this action is
clearly a challenge to your authority.}

Do you:
[a] declare a curfew and arrest any violators.
[b] send a message to the Duke protesting this incident.
[c] ignore this silly incident.
{An excellent idea, Majesty.}
{Perhaps this time he'll listen to reason.}
{Very good.}
_NODE 18.
_NODE n11515.
A messenger reports.

{Majesty, the army of the Duke of Compagne is on the move. It has
been moving from place to place, trying to draw our forces. It is
odd that the Duke has not attacked any of our strongpoints. Perhaps
he is a coward.}

Do you:
[a] attempt to draw the army into a trap.
[b] continue to watch and wait.
{An excellent idea, Majesty.}
{Perhaps this time he'll listen to reason.}

-------------
Cluster: 1152
-------------

_NODE 19.
_NODE n11520.
A messenger arrives from the Duke of Compagne.

{Majesty, the Duke wishes proof of your good intentions. He wishes
you to promise to remove all of your armies from Compagne after you
have been crowned King, and to annex Nevers into the Duke's desmesne.

Do you:
[a] agree.
[b] refuse.
{Wonderful. I shall inform him at once.}
{Perhaps this time he shall listen to reason,}
you mutter to yourself.
_NODE 20.
_NODE n11525.
One of your commanders returns with good news!

{Majesty, we have defeated the Duke of Compagne near the
town of Chapeaux. He has surrendered unconditionally,
paid a ransom of 5,000 marks, and signed an oath of
loyalty to you.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne near Chapeaux. He says he is willing to settle
your differences if you promise to give him autonomy and
allow him to annex Nevers when you are King.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] agree to his terms.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1153
-------------

_NODE 21.
_NODE n11530.
One of your commanders returns with good news!

{Majesty, we have defeated the Duke of Compagne near the
town of Chapeaux. He has surrendered unconditionally,
paid a ransom of 5,000 marks, and signed an oath of
loyalty to you.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne near Chapeaux. He says he is willing to settle
your differences if you promise to give him autonomy and
allow him to annex Nevers when you are King.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] agree to his terms.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
_NODE 22.
_NODE n11535.
A messenger reports.

{Majesty, the Duke of Compagne has discovered that one of his advisors
has been spreading lies about you. He has made claims of your savagery
and brutality. Apparently, this advisor was spying for one of the
other claimants to the throne, he does not know which one.

{The Duke feels he has been led into some unnecessary conflicts with
you. To make amends, he is offering you 3,000 marks.}

-------------
Cluster: 1154
-------------

_NODE 23.
_NODE n11540.
A messenger reports.

{Majesty, the Duke of Compagne's messengers are being killed by
bandits. He is not certain whether these bandits are in your
service; he would like you to send some of your infantry to destroy
them and prove your good faith.}

Do you:
[a] point out that you have also lost messengers to these bandits.
[b] offer a unit of infantry.
[c] offer two units of infantry.
{You have a point. But sacrificing your men to help the
Duke is the neighbourly thing to do.}
{You do not have the men to send.}
{Thank you, Majesty.}
A messenger returns from the battle against the
bandits.

{Good news, Majesty! We have won! The bandits are
no more. Furthermore, I believe our actions may
have convinced the Duke of Compagne of our good will.}
{You do not have the men to send.}
{Thank you, Majesty.}
A messenger returns from the battle against the
bandits.

{Good news, Majesty! We have won! The bandits are
no more. Furthermore, I believe our actions may
have convinced the Duke of Compagne of our good will.}
_NODE 24.
_NODE n11545.
Whispers in the dark...

{Majesty, Baron Longchamps, who has long been an enemy of the
Duke of Compagne, has reacted to the Duke's last act by taking one
of the Duke's retainers hostage, and holding him for ransom.}

Do you:
[a] order Longchamps to release his hostage.
[b] ask for 3,000 marks (3 Gold) in ransom.
{He shall be informed.}
The ransom is paid, but not happily.

-------------
Cluster: 1155
-------------

_NODE 25.
_NODE n11550.
{Majesty, the army of the Duke of Compagne continues to violate your
curfew order. No one is powerful enough to arrest them. They do
very little damage, but they continue to defy you.}

Do you:
[a] order your army to arrest them.
[b] send a message to the Duke protesting this incident.
[c] ignore this silly incident.
{This will be a challenge, my liege.}
{Perhaps this time he'll listen to reason.}
{Very good.}
_NODE 26.
_NODE n11555.
A messenger comes from the Duke of Compagne.

{The Duke felt that his troops needed exercise, and that the townships
of this region needed to be guarded at night. They didn't threaten
you, or cause problems for you. Why should you object?}

Do you:
[a] request that they stop marching.
[b] request that they stop marching through towns at night.
[c] inform him that the next time they march, they will have to deal
with your army.
{I suppose they've had enough training for now.}
{I suppose they've had enough training for now.}
{Thank you for the offer of assisting in their training.}

-------------
Cluster: 1156
-------------

_NODE 27.
_NODE n11560.
{Majesty, the army of the Duke of Compagne continues to march through
your townships at night. They do very little damage, but they
continue to defy you.}

Do you:
[a] order your army to arrest them.
[b] send a message to the Duke protesting this incident.
[c] ignore this silly incident.
{This will be a challenge, my liege.}
{Perhaps this time he'll listen to reason.}
{Very good.}
_NODE 28.
_NODE n11565.
One of your commanders returns with good news!

{Majesty, we have defeated the Duke of Compagne near the
town of Chapeaux. His army was excellent at fighting from a
defensive position, but lacked the courage to initiate an assault.
The Duke was captured, paid a ransom of 5,000 marks, and has signed
an oath of loyalty to you.}

-------------
Cluster: 1157
-------------

_NODE 29.
_NODE n11570.
A messenger reports.

{Majesty, the army of the Duke of Compagne continues to move without
attacking us. I do not understand his strategem. What are your orders?}

[a] attempt to draw the army into a trap.
[b] continue to watch and wait.
[c] attack the Duke's army at the first opportunity.
{An excellent idea, Majesty.}
{Perhaps this time he'll listen to reason.}
{As you command, Majesty.}
_NODE 30.
_NODE n11575.
A messenger comes riding from Nevers.

{Your lordship, we have heard that you intend to annex Nevers to
Compagne. This will not be tolerated!}

Do you:
[a] deny the rumor.
[b] inform the messenger that he will enjoy being part of Compagne.
{It had better not be true!}
{You shall not enjoy the effort!}

-------------
Cluster: 1158
-------------

_NODE 31.
_NODE n11580.
One of your commanders returns with good news!

{Majesty, we have finally defeated the forces of the Duke
of Compagne. He has surrendered unconditionally,
paid a ransom of 5,000 marks, and signed an oath of
loyalty to you.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne. He says he is still willing to settle
your differences if you allow him to annex Nevers when you
are King.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] agree to his terms.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}
_NODE 32.
_NODE n11585.
A messenger comes riding from Compagne.

{Your lordship, the Duke is weary of these games. He is willing
to trade his brother, Stephen, to you for one of your nephews. An
exchange of hostages would be a measure of good faith.}

Do you:
[a] agree to exchange hostages.
[b] marry your niece to his brother instead.
[c] try to coexist without hostages or marriages.
{That is good.}

Although the Duke is frequently irritating, you manage to
keep out of each other's way.
{An even better idea!}

Although the Duke is frequently irritating, you manage to
keep out of each other's way. The dowry of 3,000 marks is
particularly satisfying.
Although the Duke is frequently irritating, you manage to
keep out of each other's way.

-------------
Cluster: 1159
-------------

_NODE 33.
_NODE n11590.
Battle breaks out between your forces and the soldiers of the Duke
of Compagne.

One of your commanders returns with good news!

{Majesty, we have finally defeated the forces of the Duke
of Compagne. He has surrendered unconditionally,
paid a ransom of 5,000 marks, and signed an oath of
loyalty to you.}
{Majesty, we have been defeated by the army of the Duke
of Compagne. He says he is willing to settle your differences
if you allow him to annex Nevers when you become King.}

Do you:
[a] regroup and stage a counterattack.
[b] agree to his terms.
{As you command.}
{Very good, your Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1160
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE 11600.
One of your councillors offers advice.

{Majesty, there is a civil war in Castile. We may take advantage of
this by trading with one of three factions.

{First, there is the del Rivera. They are the richest of the factions,
but are easily offended. They have good horsemen, but are short of
foot soldiers.

{Then, there is the de Vegas. They live in a mountainous region, and
use the tactics of brigands against their enemies.

{The third faction is the Medinas. They are the most numerous, but
their troops are not well-trained.}

Do you:
[a] deal with the del Rivera.
[b] deal with the de Vegas.
[c] deal with the Medinas.
{Very good, my liege.}
{Very good, my liege.}
{Very good, my liege.}
_NODE 2.
_NODE 11602.
A messenger comes from the nearby province of Castile.

{Majesty, I am Roberto del Rivera, a member of one of the most
respected families in Castile, and its rightful king. We need
help in reclaiming our throne.

{We need troops badly. We are willing to pay 3,000 marks for one of
your infantry units.}

Do you:
[a] accept his offer (3 Gold).
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{Liar! You do not have any infantry! How dare you
insult the honor of a del Rivera! I challenge you
to a duel, sirrah!}

Do you:
[a] accept the challenge.
[b] reject the challenge.
{I am the greatest swordsman in Castile! You
shall die on my blade.}
{Coward!}
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{Liar! You do not have any infantry! How dare you
insult the honor of a del Rivera! I challenge you
to a duel, sirrah!}

Do you:
[a] accept the challenge.
[b] reject the challenge.
{I am the greatest swordsman in Castile! You
shall die on my blade.}
{Coward!}
You ask for:
[a] 4,000 marks (4 Gold).
[b] 5,000 marks (5 Gold).
[c] 3,000 marks and 2 units of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! Good day!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! Good day!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! Good day!}
{Well! I guess the stories they say about you are true!}
_NODE 3.
_NODE 11605.
Your faithful aide, Sir Graham De La Montagne, comes to you.

{Majesty, I understand it is not long before your duel with Roberto
Del Rivera takes place. That swine has no right to challenge a king.
Honor me, Majesty, by naming me as your champion and allowing me to
defend your honor.}

Graham is a stout knight, but there are better ones in your service...

Do you
[a] fight the duel yourself.
[b] name Sir Graham as your champion.
[c] find a better knight than Sir Graham, and name him your champion.
{I understand, Majesty.}
{Thank you, Majesty!}
{Of course. I understand perfectly.}

-------------
Cluster: 1161
-------------

_NODE 4.
_NODE 11610.
A messenger comes from the nearby province of Castile.

{Majesty, I am Simon de Vegas, a member of one of the most
respected members of the oldest family in Castile, and its rightful
king. We need help in reclaiming the throne that is rightfully ours.

{Our archers have taken heavy losses of late. We are willing to pay
2,000 marks for one of your archer units.}

Do you:
[a] accept his offer (2 Gold).
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{How interesting. Your seneschal has just told me
that you have no archers. I do not appreciate
thieves. I demand an apology!}

Do you:
[a] apologize.
[b] refuse to apologize.
{It is accepted. May our future dealings be
more honorable.}
{Then you are a swine, and I shall not dirty
myself by staying in your presence.}
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{How interesting. Your seneschal has just told me
that you have no archers. I do not appreciate
thieves. I demand an apology!}

Do you:
[a] apologize.
[b] refuse to apologize.
{It is accepted. May our future dealings be
more honorable.}
{Then you are a swine, and I shall not dirty
myself by staying in your presence.}
You ask for:
[a] 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[b] 4,000 marks (4 Gold).
[c] 2,000 marks and 2 units of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! This is an
insult!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! This is an
insult!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! Good day!}
{Well! I don't know how anyone can stand you.}
_NODE 5.
_NODE 11615.
Roberto del Rivera returns.

{Majesty, things are desperate. As you may have heard, the Moors
have turned against us, and are attacking us. We need more infantry to
defend against their cavalry. We are willing to pay 2,000 marks for
one of your infantry units.}

Do you:
[a] accept his offer (2 Gold).
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{Liar! You do not have any infantry! How dare you
insult the honor of a del Rivera! I challenge you
to a duel, sirrah!}

Do you:
[a] accept the challenge.
[b] reject the challenge.
{I am the greatest swordsman in Castile! You
shall die on my blade.}
{Coward!}
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{Liar! You do not have any infantry! How dare you
insult the honor of a del Rivera! I challenge you
to a duel, sirrah!}

Do you:
[a] accept the challenge.
[b] reject the challenge.
{I am the greatest swordsman in Castile! You
shall die on my blade.}
{Coward!}
You ask for:
[a] 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[b] 4,000 marks (4 Gold).
[c] 5,000 marks and 2 units of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{Haggling is out of the question. Farewell.}
{Haggling is out of the question. Farewell.}
{Haggling is out of the question. Farewell.}
{Well! I guess the stories they say about you are true!}

-------------
Cluster: 1162
-------------

_NODE 6.
_NODE 11620.
The day of your duel against Roberto del Rivera has come.
You are beaten. He demands satisfaction, or death.

Do you:
[a] offer him 2,000 marks.
[b] offer an apology.
[c] tell him to finish the duel.
{You do not have the money! Liar!}

He raises his sword...

Do you:
[a] beg for your life.
[b] offer an apology.
[c] tell him to finish the duel.
{Pitiful wretch! You think you would be a
king? Get out of my sight!}
{People have better manners when a sword is
at their throat. Your apology is accepted.}
{Your pride is greater than your intelligence.
Begone, and be glad to be alive!}
{Bah! If we did not need the money, I'd slice you in
two.}
{People have better manners when a sword is
at their throat. Your apology is accepted.}
{Your pride is greater than your intelligence.
Begone, and be glad to be alive!}
_NODE 7.
_NODE 11625.
The day of your duel against Roberto del Rivera has come. Your
champion steps forward.
He defeats del Rivera. Your champion looks at you to see if you
wish to finish him.

Do you order him to:
[a] kill Roberto del Rivera.
[b] spare his life.
Roberto is slain. The knights of Castile are aghast, and
then turn away from you.
You have shamed del Rivera. He picks himself off the ground,
says nothing, and walks away.

-------------
Cluster: 1163
-------------

_NODE 8.
_NODE 11630.
A messenger comes from the nearby province of Castile.

{Majesty, I am Ramon Medina, a member of one of the most
respected members of the oldest family in Castile, and its rightful
king. We need help in reclaiming the throne that is rightfully ours.

{We need troops badly. We are willing to pay 3,000 marks for one of
your cavalry units.}

Do you:
[a] accept his offer (3 Gold).
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{Your seneschal has just told me that you do not
have cavalry. What kind of a king has no cavalry?}

Do you:
[a] tell him you don't need cavalry.
[b] tell him that you aren't the only person in the
room who needs cavalry.
He frowns, and leaves.
He laughs, and leaves.
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{Your seneschal has just told me that you do not
have cavalry. What kind of a king has no cavalry?}

Do you:
[a] tell him you don't need cavalry.
[b] tell him that you aren't the only person in the
room who needs cavalry.
He frowns, and leaves.
He laughs, and leaves.
You ask for:
[a] 4,000 marks (4 Gold).
[b] 5,000 marks (5 Gold).
[c] 3,000 marks and 2 units of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! This is an
insult!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! This is an
insult!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! Good day!}
{Well! I don't know how anyone can stand you.}
_NODE 9.
_NODE 11635.
Simon de Vegas returns from Castile.

{Majesty, we have been traitorously attacked by the Medinas,
after we thought we had a truce with them. Our archers have been
decimated. We will pay 1,000 marks for a unit of archers.}

Do you:
[a] accept his offer (1 Gold).
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{How interesting. Your seneschal has just told me
that you have no archers. I do not appreciate
thieves. I demand an apology!}

Do you:
[a] apologize.
[b] refuse to apologize.
{It is accepted. May our future dealings be
more honorable.}
{Then you are a swine, and I shall not dirty
myself by staying in your presence.}
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{How interesting. Your seneschal has just told me
that you have no archers. I do not appreciate
thieves. I demand an apology!}

Do you:
[a] apologize.
[b] refuse to apologize.
{It is accepted. May our future dealings be
more honorable.}
{Then you are a swine, and I shall not dirty
myself by staying in your presence.}
You ask for:
[a] 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[b] 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[c] 1,000 marks and 2 units of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{We cannot afford to haggle at the moment.}
{We cannot afford to haggle at the moment.}
{We cannot afford to haggle at the moment.}
{Well! I don't know how anyone can stand you.}

-------------
Cluster: 1164
-------------

_NODE 10.
_NODE 11640.
A messenger brings bad news.

{Majesty, exiles from the Castile civil war have crossed into
Bayonne. Many have lost their homes. Many are orphans whose parents
have been slaughtered because they might not belong to the proper
faction. It is a most pitiful sight.

{The people of Bayonne are fearful that they will lose their
jobs and homes to these displaced Castilians, and some agitators
are urging the destruction of the Castilians' settlements, which
are the most pitiful hovels in Christendom.}

Do you:
[a] send your army into Castile to create a peaceful area for the
exiles to live.
[b] send a unit of infantry to improve their shelters and guard them.
[c] make a statement urging the people not to harm the exiles.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Majesty, we have no infantry, remember?}

The only thing you can do is to urge people not to
harm the exiles.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 11.
_NODE 11645.
A messenger brings news from Castile.

{Majesty, the Medina faction has defeated the Del Riveras. They have
crossed into Bayonne to pursue the remaining Del Riveras, and their
possible allies.}

Bayonne, of course, is rightfully your province...

Do you:
[a] send an ultimatum to the Medinas to retreat immediately.
[b] order your army to attack them immediately.
[c] wait to see if they retreat.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}

-------------
Cluster: 1165
-------------

_NODE 12.
_NODE 11650.
A messenger brings news.

{Majesty, we are having problems with people agitating for our
involvement in the Castilian Civil War. I fear people may soon take
rash action that may get us involved in a war we do not need.}

Do you:
[a] send an infantry unit to your border to prevent people from
crossing.
[b] order your people not to become involved.
[c] allow them to do as they want.
{We do not have the infantry, Majesty. I will send
local militia.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 13.
_NODE 11655.
Ramon Medina returns from Castile.

{Our fortunes are improving, and we hope to slaughter all of our
enemies like pigs in the next campaign. We are short of cavalry, and
are willing to pay 1,000 marks for one of your cavalry units.}

Do you:
[a] accept his offer (1 Gold).
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{Your seneschal has just told me that you do not
have cavalry. What kind of a king has no cavalry?}

Do you:
[a] tell him you don't need cavalry.
[b] tell him that you aren't the only person in the
room who needs cavalry.
He frowns, and leaves.
He laughs, and leaves.
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{Your seneschal has just told me that you do not
have cavalry. What kind of a king has no cavalry?}

Do you:
[a] tell him you don't need cavalry.
[b] tell him that you aren't the only person in the
room who needs cavalry.
He frowns, and leaves.
He laughs, and leaves.
You ask for:
[a] 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[b] 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[c] 1,000 marks and 1 unit of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! This is an
insult!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! This is an
insult!}
{We accept your offer.}
{Your greed is appalling! Good day!}
{Well! I don't know how anyone can stand you.}

-------------
Cluster: 1166
-------------

_NODE 14.
_NODE 11660.
Simon de Vegas returns from Castile.

{Majesty, we continue to suffer from the treachery of the Medinas.
We need more archers; unfortunately, we cannot pay for them at this
time. If you would be so kind as to help an old friend in his hour of
need, we would be grateful.}

Do you:
[a] give him a unit of archers.
[b] haggle.
[c] reject his offer.
{But you have no archers! We are doomed!}
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{But you have no archers! We are doomed!}
You ask for:
[a] 1,000 marks (1 Gold).
[b] 2,000 marks (2 Gold).
[c] 1 unit of Food, Timber, and Iron.
{We cannot afford to haggle at the moment.}
{We cannot afford to haggle at the moment.}
{We have a surplus of iron. Would you accept
2,000 tonnes (2 Units) of iron as payment?}

[a] yes.
[b] no.
{Thank you!}
{I see.}
{Well! I don't know how anyone can stand you.}
_NODE 15.
_NODE 11665.
You receive a message from Castile.

{Majesty, our attempt to stabilize Castile for the exiles has not
been successful. The army has suffered many casualties from ambushes.
As noble as our goals may have been, it does not appear that we can
pacify Castile.}

Do you:
[a] abandon Castile.
[b] continue to try to pacify Castile.
{This is a sad day, Majesty.}
{As you command, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1167
-------------

_NODE 16.
_NODE 11670.
You receive a message from the hovels of the exiled Castilians.

{Majesty, we have grave problems. More exiles are coming to our
makeshift village. All are hungry, even the children. Disease is
commonplace, and the locals treat them as if they have the plague.
We simply do not have the capacity to help all of them.}

Do you:
[a] send grain and timber to the camps to help them.
[b] abandon them.
_NODE 16a.
_NODE 11671.
You send...

[a] one unit of Timber and one unit of Grain.
[b] two units of Timber and two units of Grain.
[c] three units of Timber and three units of Grain.
{You are unable to help them.}
{They will be grateful.}
{You are unable to help them.}
{They will be grateful.}
{You are unable to help them.}
{They will be grateful.}
_NODE 16b.
_NODE 11672.
{This is a grave tragedy, Majesty.}
_NODE 17.
_NODE 11675.
A message comes from the hovels of the exiles from Castile.

{Majesty, I am happy to report that the people seem to be
respecting your wishes. However, more exiles from Castile
are flocking to our encampment, and it is very difficult
to feed and shelter them.}
{Majesty, the people are ignoring your wishes and are
attacking the Castilian exiles. They need protection.}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of infantry to protect them.
[b] let them take care of themselves.
{We do not have the infantry. I'll send
local militia instead.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Of course. Compassion is for the weak.}

-------------
Cluster: 1168
-------------

_NODE 18.
_NODE 11680.
A representative from the Medina family responds to your ultimatum.

{It was never our intention to violate your sovereignty, and we have
no intention of staying in your lands. However, we will not withdraw
while under the threat of an ultimatum. If you wish us to leave,
withdraw your ultimatum!}

Do you:
[a] withdraw your ultimatum.
[b] refuse to withdraw your ultimatum.
[c] withdraw it if they issue an apology.
{Then there shall be peace between us!}

The Medina soon withdraw.
{Then there shall be war between us!}
{Apologize? For a minor intrusion into your territory? Well,
very well. I regret this extremely minor and inconsequential
action.}

The Medina soon withdraw.
_NODE 19.
_NODE 11685.
You receive word of the situation in the regions bordering Castile.

{Majesty, our attack caught the army of Count Medina by complete
surprise. He has withdrawn from our lands.}
_NODE 19a.
_NODE 11686.
Your scouts report on the movement of the armies of Medina.

{Majesty, the army of Count Medina is regrouping. I believe he
intends to attack us.}

Do you:
[a] try to negotiate.
[b] prepare for his attack.
The head of your messenger is returned. His body has been misplaced.
{They shall learn the difference between rabble and real
soldiers, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1169
-------------

_NODE 20.
_NODE 11690.
You receive word of the situation in the regions bordering Castile.

{Majesty, the army of Count Medina has withdrawn from our lands. They
sent no message, but seem to be staying on their side of our border.}
_NODE 21.
_NODE 11695.
You receive word of the situation in the regions bordering Castile.

{Majesty, there are clashes between Castilian sympathizers and
our infantry along the border. Our soldiers have been able to contain
them, but it might be prudent to send another unit of infantry to the
border.}

Do you:
[a] send another unit of infantry.
[b] send a message proclaiming that any further violence will not go
unpunished.
[c] wait to see if anything new develops.
{Majesty, we do not have any infantry to send.}
{Excellent, my liege.}
{A message will be sent. I'm certain they'll respond.}
{A prudent choice, my liege.}

-------------
Cluster: 1170
-------------

_NODE 22.
_NODE 11700.
You receive word of the situation in the regions bordering Castile.

{Majesty, some of our people have attacked the army of Castile, and
now the forces of Castile are attacking them back. Our southwestern
villages may be massacred. Something must be done!}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry to help them out.
[b] send a message to the Castilians ordering them to desist.
[c] wait to see if anything new develops.
{Majesty, we do not have any infantry to send.}
{Excellent, my liege.}
{A message will be sent. I'm certain they'll respond.}
{A prudent choice, my liege.}
_NODE 23.
_NODE 11705.
Ramon Medina returns from Castile.

{Majesty, we have met a temporary setback. Might we borrow two
units of cavalry (Knights) and pay for them later? We would be most
grateful.

Do you:
[a] agree to give him the two units.
[b] agree to give him a single unit.
[c] reject his offer.
{Your seneschal has just told me that you do not
have cavalry. What kind of a king has no cavalry?}
{Excellent! It was a pleasure doing business with
you.}
{Your seneschal has just told me that you do not
have cavalry. What kind of a king has no cavalry?}
{I suppose that we can make do with this.}
{Well! I don't know how anyone can stand you.}

-------------
Cluster: 1171
-------------

_NODE 24.
_NODE 11710.
A messenger brings news from Castile.

{Majesty, the Medina faction has defeated the De Vegas. They have
crossed into Bayonne to pursue the remaining De Vegas, and their
possible allies.}

Bayonne, of course, is rightfully your province...

Do you:
[a] send an ultimatum to the Medinas to retreat immediately.
[b] order your army to attack them immediately.
[c] wait to see if they retreat.
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
{Very good, Majesty.}
_NODE 25.
_NODE 11715.
Simon de Vegas returns from Castile.

{Majesty, we have... unfortunately... been... well... uh...}

A messenger informs you that the Medinas annihilated the de Vegas. De
Vegas' face turns a bright red.

{We have been friends for many months. How about giving me sanctuary
and a small pension in your court?}

Do you:
[a] imprison him for fraud.
[b] send him to a monastery.
[c] ransom him to the Medinas.
You never see him again, and do your best not to deal with
the problems of Castile for a long time, for soon a new
problem will come to your attention...
You never see him again, and do your best not to deal with
the problems of Castile for a long time, for soon a new
problem will come to your attention...
{No!}

The Medinas give you a mere 1,000 marks for him, and hang
him in a public ceremony. You decide to stay out of this
civil war, and concentrate on your own.

-------------
Cluster: 1172
-------------

_NODE 26.
_NODE 11720.
A messenger returns from Castile.

{Majesty, there has been a massacre. Despite our best efforts, the
exiles from Castile who returned to their homeland were attacked
and murdered by soldiers -- or bandits -- at this point in the war there is
little difference. I don't understand the point of it, my
liege. They threatened no one. They harmed no one. Their only wish was
to live in peace, and they were slaughtered for no reason. Why?}

Disgusted, you turn away from the affairs of Castile, and hope
to find a way to get a good night's sleep.
_NODE 27.
_NODE 11725.
A messenger returns from Castile.

{Majesty, our soldiers have engaged some of the rabble that have
been terrorizing Castile. I believe that we have persuaded them
"to attack elsewhere, but I doubt that we can pacify it for long. "
Our troops are needed elsewhere.}

You turn away from the affairs of Castile, saying a prayer for those
unfortunate enough to be left behind.

-------------
Cluster: 1173
-------------

_NODE 28.
_NODE 11730.
A messenger returns from the homes of the Castilian exiles.

{Majesty, I regret to say that the settlement of the exiles has
been destroyed. Our own people, out of fear and suspicion, rose
up and destroyed them. The Church is greatly upset, and the Pope
will soon hold a Mass for the victims of this tragedy.}

You say a silent prayer for the dead, and then turn to other
affairs.
_NODE 29.
_NODE 11735.
A messenger returns from the homes of the Castilian exiles.

{There is hope in Castile, Majesty. The latest truce has lasted
several weeks longer than anyone expected, and the combatants are
meeting to try to put an end to the civil war. Many of the exiles
are bravely returning to their own land.}

You say a silent prayer for peace, and then move on to other
matters.

-------------
Cluster: 1174
-------------

_NODE 30.
_NODE 11740.
A messenger returns from Castile, speaking of battle.

{Majesty, we easily bested the army of Medina. They have agreed to
stay away from our lands, if we keep away from Castile.}

You turn away from the affairs of Castile, hoping that your
fate does not entangle you with them again.
_NODE 31.
_NODE 11745.
A messenger from Castile brings terrible news.

{Majesty, an army from Castile has massacred our villiages. Our
people -- some of our people -- were aiding their enemies, but this...}

Do you:
[a] send your army to attack them.
[b] send a messenger to the Pope complaining of this mistreatment.
[c] stay as far away from Castile as you can get.
{As you wish.}
{A wise decision, my liege.}
You receive word of a recent Papal decision.

{Majesty, the Pope has excommunicated the heads of all of
the warring Castilian factions. It would seem that this
war has troubled his Holiness for some time, and the
massacre of our people was the last straw.}

You realize there is little you can do about Castile now,
and decide to wait until the Bretagnese civil war is over
before turning your attention back to that nest of vipers.
A sigh of relief is present on everyone's face. Castile
is a quagmire of endless suffering and death. You have done
well to stay away from it.

-------------
Cluster: 1175
-------------

_NODE 32.
_NODE 11750.
A messenger returns from Castile, speaking of battle.

{Majesty, we easily bested the Castilians. They have agreed to
stay away from our lands, if we keep away from Castile. We have
agreed to hang anyone who involves himself in the civil war without
our approval. I trust your Majesty has no objections to this promise?}

You turn away from the affairs of Castile, hoping that your
fate does not entangle you with them again.
_NODE 33.
_NODE 11755.
A messenger returns from Castile, after brutal negotiations.

{Majesty, we have reached an agreement. They have agreed to
stay away from our lands, if we keep away from Castile. We have
agreed to hang anyone who involves himself in the civil war without
our approval. I trust your Majesty has no objections to this promise?}

You turn away from the affairs of Castile, hoping that your
fate does not entangle you with them again.

-------------
Cluster: 1176
-------------

_NODE 33.
_NODE 11760.
News reaches your ear...

{Majesty, Phillipe and Ramon Medina were murdered last week. The
alliance of the various branches of the Medina family has collapsed,
and any hope of peace has faded. If anything, the civil war will now
be more brutal and bloody.}

You turn away from the affairs of Castile, hoping that your
fate does not entangle you with them again.

-------------
Cluster: 1177
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE 11770.
Word is brought to you from Besancon.

{Majesty, one of the monks at the Abbey of St. Lawrence has found
records of the tomb of the great hero of the Franks, the perfect
paladin, Roland. It said that magical treasures beyond the ken of
mortal men are buried there. Perhaps we should pursue this.}

Do you:
[a] ask the monk to investigate.
[b] keep watching the area.
[c] ignore it.
{It shall be done.}
{A spy shall be sent.}
{Of course.}
_NODE 2.
_NODE 11775.
The bishop allows the monk to visit you.

{Majesty, the legend of the tomb is only a curiosity. I have a rough
idea where he was buried, but no specifics. It might take years to
actually find it.}

Do you:
[a] ask the monk to keep investigating.
[b] ignore the legend.
{I shall gladly do it. It gives me an excuse to not waste
my time pressing grapes.}
{As you wish.}

-------------
Cluster: 1178
-------------

_NODE 3.
_NODE 11780.
Your spy returns from Besancon.

{Majesty, there are no popular legends about the tomb. There is no
information on where it might be found, except from the records
uncovered by that monk.}

Do you:
[a] ask the monk to investigate.
[b] ignore Roland's tomb.
{Very good, my liege.}
{As you wish.}
_NODE 4.
_NODE 11785.
{Majesty, one of your barons raised food prices last month, and
there have been food riots. What do you intend to do?}

Do you:
[a] send a unit of Infantry to suppress the riots.
[b] send several shipments of grain (2 Food units).
[c] chastise the baron for his incompetence.
{We do not have the infantry, Majesty.}

The baron's hand-picked men soon stop the riots,
and they are not gentle about it...
{Very good, Majesty.}

Your infantry marches off to deal with the riots.
The situation is soon brought under control, though
the people would have preferred a more benign solution.
{We do not have the grain, Majesty.}

The baron's hand-picked men soon stop the riots,
and they are not gentle about it...
{Very good, Majesty.}

The situation is soon brought under control, and
though it is not a permanent solution, the people
are glad to see that you care about their well-being.
The baron ignores your reprimand. The food riots are harshly
suppressed.

-------------
Cluster: 1179
-------------

_NODE 5.
_NODE 11790.
The monk who was investigating Roland's tomb returns.

{Majesty, I have found a reference to the tomb in the eastern
section of Besancon, but it is in a fief that owes its fealty to the
Holy Teutonic Empire. Do you wish to continue looking into this
matter?}

Do you:
[a] ask the monk to keep investigating.
[b] decide not to get into a potential conflict with the Empire.
{This is getting quite exciting!}
{This is most disappointing.}
_NODE 6.
_NODE 11795.
{Majesty, one of your best commanders died of a fever while
preparing his army for battle. His son is an excellent general,
and wishes to be confirmed in his father's command, but there are
several nobles who, while less capable, insist that the honor of the
command be given to one of them.}

Do you:
[a] appoint the commander's son.
[b] appoint one of the nobles.
{Very good.}

Although your decision is to the benefit of your army, there
is a good deal of unhappiness about your choice.
Although your decision is popular, the ability of your army
is reduced.

-------------
Cluster: 1180
-------------

_NODE 7.
_NODE 11800.
{Majesty, one of your diplomats has died. There are several worthy
successors, however, one of the retired barons wishes to be given
his post, and will pay us 3,000 marks.}

The baron is Baron Francois du Pardue, who is notorious for his
bad manners and hot temper.

Do you:
[a] give the command to Baron Francois (and receive 3 Gold).
[b] give the command to someone who deserves it.
{As you wish.}

While your decision makes you more wealthy, it does not help you
diplomatically.
{Very good.}

Although you are not richer, your diplomacy is certainly
wiser.
_NODE 8.
_NODE 11805.
{Majesty, one of your best and most popular clerks was hit
on the head by a tree branch and has become an idiot. He wishes to
continue in his position, and he is well beloved, but is clearly
incapable of fulfilling his function.}

Do you:
[a] keep the clerk in his post.
[b] retire him with honor.
{As you wish.}

Your compassion is noteworthy, but your administrative
ability suffers.
{Very good.}

There is slight resentment about your decision, but you
are certain it was the correct one.

-------------
Cluster: 1181
-------------

_NODE 9.
_NODE 11810.
The monk returns.

{I have determined the precise location of the tomb of the Frankish
hero Roland. It is located far from cities and roads, and it would
be difficult to spot. In addition, it would certainly take several weeks
to unearth, and, if you were discovered, the Empire's wrath is
considerable.

{And I would hesitate to disturb the rest of Bretagne's greatest
hero, one who was blessed by God Himself. It is said that
when Roland died, he offered his gauntlet as a gift to God, and that
God honored Roland by sending angels to take the gauntlet and his
soul directly into Heaven. Roland was then buried with his sword.
It may be that Roland's sword is a weapon
great enough to end this civil war, but there are moral risks in
taking from the dead. May God grant you wisdom in this matter.}

Do you:
[a] leave Roland's remains in peace.
[b] send men to unearth the tomb.
{As you wish.}

The tomb of Roland remains a secret for six centuries,
but that's another story...
{As you wish.}
_NODE 9a.
_NODE 11811.
The monk returns.

{Majesty, the Empire has found our expedition to the tomb of Roland,
and imprisoned them. I only barely escaped. They are asking for 3,000
marks as a ransom.}

Do you:
[a] haggle.
[b] pay 3,000 marks (3 Gold).
[c] deny any involvement in the matter.
You do not have the funds. The Empire looks upon
this with great suspicion.
{They are certainly getting the better end of this
bargain.}
{Very good, my liege. A little dishonest denial is the
best political trick ever devised.}
_NODE 11812.
Do you wish to pay:
[a] twenty percent of your timber.
[b] twenty percent of your iron.
[c] twenty percent of your grain.
The bargain is sealed and delivered.
_NODE 10.
_NODE 11815.
A messenger arrives.

{Majesty, there has been a rebellion in the western provinces of the
Empire. We might offer to support the Empire and, while our army
just happens to be in the area, we could search for Roland's tomb.}

Do you:
[a] offer to assist the Empire.
[b] ignore this opportunity.
{As you wish.}
{As you wish.}

The mystery of Roland's treasures remain for a future
generation to uncover.

-------------
Cluster: 1182
-------------

_NODE 10.
_NODE 11820.
A messenger departs Besancon and comes to your court.

{Majesty, rumors are spreading that one of the local nobles in
Besancon has uncovered the sword and armor of Roland, and that he
is the rightful king of the Franks. Superstitious locals are flocking
to his banner; I've never seen anything like it.}

Do you:
[a] attack this charlatan.
[b] ignore him.
{Very good.}
{Majesty, I strongly advise you against this course of
action.}

Do you:
[a] attack the charlatan.
[b] ignore him.
_NODE 11.
_NODE 11825.
A messenger comes riding into your court.

{Majesty, we have unearthed the tomb of the great hero Roland. Grave
robbers had looted it before we came; probably centuries ago. There
were no signs of the sword and armor of Hector, or of Roland's other
treasures that are the stuff of legend. But we found a secret chamber,
undisturbed by grave robbers. We estimate that 5,000
marks have been added to your treasury.}

So ends the tale of Roland, greatest hero of the Franks, whose
wealth you hold, ill-gotten, in your fingers. Perhaps you can put
it to good use.

-------------
Cluster: 1183
-------------

_NODE 12.
_NODE 11830.
A messenger comes riding into your court.

{Majesty, the charlatan who claimed to have the sword of Roland is
dead. Instead of engaging his army in battle, our commander challenged
him to personal combat. Since the weapons and armor of Roland were said
to be invincible, when the coward refused to fight, his army realized that he
was an impostor, turned on him, and killed him.}

So ends the second song of Roland, a more comic than tragic tale.
_NODE 13.
_NODE 11835.
A messenger comes riding into your court.

{Majesty, the charlatan who claimed to have the sword of Roland is
dead. One of his followers murdered him in his sleep, and claimed
to be the rightful guardian of Roland's treasures. When the
charlatan's body was found, his army proclaimed that a murderer was
unfit to wield Roland's weapons, and slew the murderer.

{Alas, in the commotion, Roland's weapons were lost. We may never
find them now.}

-------------
Cluster: 1220
-------------

_NODE 1.
_NODE 12200.
A councillor enters your court and whispers into your ear.
{My liege, one of your spies, Etienne the Swift, has not
reported back from his last assignment.

{We fear that he has been killed or, worse, captured. Should more
word come of his fate, we shall apprise you of the news
immediately.}
A councillor hurries into your court.

{My liege, after many days, Etienne the Swift has returned. However,
he suffers from many grievous wounds, and the surgeons say that
he has not long to live.

{He was found a full sixty miles from his last assignment, and
he claims to have words that only you, Majesty, may hear. He has
just now been brought to the castle.}

Do you:
[a] have Etienne brought to you.
[b] have your councillor go to him and hear his news.
_NODE 1a.
_NODE 12201.
{Very good, my liege.}

Within moments, the bloody and broken body of Etienne is carried
into the court. A glimmer of hope brightens his one good eye as
his gaze falls upon you. Carefully, so as not to get blood on your
robes, you lean over Etienne and put you ear to his mouth.

{Powerful people, m'lord, ... why not ... why not,} he says,
and then his life rattles out of him and his one good eye glazes
over.

Unfortunately, these words mean nothing to you.

Do you:
[a] consult in private with your councillors to determine what
these words mean.
[b] dispatch spies to investigate the area where Etienne was found.
[c] concern yourself with other matters.
_NODE 1aa.
_NODE 12202.
In your private chambers, your councillors consider the possible
meanings of the late spy's words.

At last, shaking his head, one councillor speaks up, saying, {My
liege, we cannot tell whether these words are the mad
ramblings of a mortally wounded man, or whether they portend
something that we cannot understand. No man in Christendom could
solve this mystery with what little we now know.}

Do you:
[a] dispatch spies to investigate the area where Etienne was found.
[b] concern yourself with other matters until you learn more.
_NODE 1ab.
_NODE 12203.
{Very good, my liege. They shall leave at once.}
A councillor enters the court.

{My liege,} he says, {an agent of yours has returned
with news of Etienne's fate. He says that he and his fellows
have not found out who killed Etienne, but they have learned
that other unidentified agents have been working there.
Perhaps Etienne learned of these agents and followed
them away from his original assignment, which is why
he was found so far from where we thought he would be.

{My liege, your men believe that an unknown
force is working behind the scenes,
and they suggest great caution should you ever deal
with those who may be responsible for Etienne's death.}
A councillor enters the court.

{My liege,} he begins, {an agent of yours has returned
from investigating the attack on Etienne the Swift.
He says that whoever killed Etienne was very cautious
and left neither evidence nor witnesses.

It is the considered opinion of your agents that your
enemy in this case is very cunning, whoever he may be.}
A councillor enters the court.

{My liege,} he begins, {an agent of yours has returned
from investigating the attack on Etienne the Swift.
He and his compatriots have discovered nothing.
If I may be frank, I am not surprised by this news,
as your intelligence service is not the envy of other
rulers.}
_NODE 1b.
_NODE 12204.
The councillor returns in a few minutes, with a few spots
of blood staining his robe.

{My liege, Etienne was nearly beyond this mortal realm
when I came to him. He refused to speak to me, insisting that
he speak only to you. We attempted to bring him to your court, but
he passed away before we could reach you. I fear we may never
know what Etienne wanted to tell us.}

Do you:
[a] dispatch spies to investigate the area where Etienne
was found.
[b] ignore the incident.