Crusader1307

Stuff happens, Nigel...No Hurry :)

"A bandit, yes".......Brother Goodman had goo cause to think of this plan of disguise. The Order had used a very similar trick in Syria. Pretending to be desert Merchants, they were able to get an advance force into the Muslim Citadel. Once inside, they struck - killing the Gate Guards and opening the Gates for the main Templar army. Much blood was spilled onto the sand that day. No doubt it would again. Goodman was adorned as a Arab Merchant....again!

"Good", Goodman says to Dewi. "You can serve some part in our quest for his Lordship". After a pause...."My Friends," Goodman announces as he points to the collection of clothing and props The Duke has provided. "Let us start with our deception, we are sellers of wares". Picking up a loose robe and rope belt, Goodman begins to don his disguise. "Be wary of fleas".

Considering Loring's words, Goodman speaks low to him. "Let us watch and see. Trust is earned, still..... let's watch him well." Goodman gazes to Loring "Agree?"

"I am James Goodman, late Brother of The Templar Order and Syria. I served under good King Richard for a time as well. I will let my companions introduce themselves. What finds you in these woods, Sir?"

Upon hearing voice with a "strange accent", Brother Goodman turns around. Again (in his typical suspicious manner), his hand lowers and rests on his blade. The other in the group turn, too - to see who this person is that so expertly creeped up on their position. "Your help would be welcome, if you be friend, or your undoing if your a foe"......Goodman studied the man. Tall (and not too young), he carried a bow. He could be useful (if friendly). "And who might you be, Sir. Judging by your speech, you be Welsh?"

(OOC) Yep, I unfortunately jumped the story a little and had to re-write. "We" are awaiting the Dukes arrival with our disguises before we head to The Inn to infiltrate.

Excellent research and story, Matthew! :)

"Then The Inn it will be, Sir Loring." Says Brother Goodman. The group of warriors wait for The Duke to arrive. The Moon is at it's highest point in the starry sky. They is still plenty of time.

"Ah, good friend...you forgot the merchants across the stream. If the Duke can "convince them suitably" for some wardrobe to be used in our scheme, as well as some carts, good and animals....our plan may work".

Looking at the map, (and for any weakness) in it's defense to exploit, Brother Goodman announces "What say you, Fellows....do you notice anything of interest with The Dukes Castle?" Brother Goodman noted the villages at the opposite side of the Castle (noting no bandits). "Perhaps Sir Loring might be our infiltrator from there, while the rest of us go through the front....as Sellers of Wares. I could offer the Brigand Leader free grog and wine. That would get us inside, to his Keep no doubt.....Opinions?"

I think your right Nigel, but it involves over writing the file name after the save - right? :)

Thanks Isaiah, I appreciate the sentiments! : :)

WOW (massive EGO boost!). I lift my tankard of mead to all of you! The greatest accolade to a storyteller is always those who listen or read his tales! (Even my alter-ego Brother Goodman had dropped to one knee again!). Thanking ALL of you for your continued reading and enjoyment! :D :D :D :D :D

Welcome, sh4d0wknight! My opinion (and it's just mine) - I am not a big fan of SH3. To me it's just a rehash of SH2. It does have a "Night Time" feature, which does look cool for torches (and of course night assaults). Also, when your walls are attacked (siege equipment and related), they "crumble" more like a falling wall should - that was not REALLY enough for me. But, like I did - I gave it a shot. I don't recall any demos of SH3 out there. Try it and see what you think........ :D :D

Okay, MY turn to chime in! :D Whereas I was a tad "put off" by the comment :angry: I did not take it to heart. Everybody has an opinion and everybody is entitled to it. I was simply noting that Isaiah's knowledge of the game features was somewhat impressive. I didn't see the need to join his and Eagle Prince's conversation with such detail (as was already being done). Whatever needs to be done to bring in Membership and loyal followers was a feature I really liked about the defunct Stronghold Knights (not being able to have been a Member long before they vanished). :rolleyes: Oh well.....moving on back to my HISTORY realm............

Really good breakdown on how you use your troops Isaiah. Good tactical know how! :D

Look (says Brother Goodman)...I just want to kill bandits.......moving on! :D :D

Let's see if we can revitalize this thread......... TODAY, after much prodding from the "Lady of The Castle", I am attempting to work on my old draft for a history book on The Battle of Gettysburg (American Civil War)....a HUGE passion of mine!

I like the color too. Stands out way better! :D :D

"Indeed we shall" Goodman states. "Let us confirm the Duke's knights are positioned as needed." Goodman announces to his companions. "In the meanwhile let's get our disguises together. Upon confirmation of the Duke being ready, we may move as soon so as to still take advantage of the night."

"Good, Sir Loring...I am glad". Brother Goodman motioned for Loring to come closer. "I see by your bow, that you must have some skill. It may become even more important to out plan" Brother Goodman called over to the Duke. "Sire, a word"..... The Duke approach intent on hearing more of Brother Goodman's plan. "My Lord, once we infiltrate your Castle and make merry with the bandits, have you and your remaining knight draw as close to your Castle as possible without being seen. Perhaps within a stand of trees. Be armed and ready to enter under arms. When I have gotten the "attention" of the brigand leader, I shall have Sir Loring fire an arrow of fire as a signal. Cross over and provide support." Goodman knew that he and his companions (while most tested in some form of combat) were only few. "The surprise of your thundering knights" Goodman continued "Will create confusion". Now let us prepare our disguises and props needed for this ruse!

Brother Goodman turned to The Duke. "My Liege, your presence was never needed. I have no doubt that your visage would be immediately known." Goodman stated further, "Take us a far a you dare. With a map, disguises and cunning, God willing - we will prevail". Brother Goodman thought on the Duke's reward. Land. Something of value.....land meant wealth and means. But, he wondered....would his companions feel the same? Would the Duke's offer of material wealth spur them?

Brother Goodman calmly looks at the young Lad. Over-cautious and unskilled in the sword (by the looks of his rusty blade). Still, something reminded him of....HIM. Years before the Crusades, when Goodman was still a teen. Aching to join The Order, serve God and Church. "Very well, Young One - we will temper caution....For now."

Brother Goodman motions for The Duke and his fellow comrades to come closer. "Of course, there will be risks. Life is a risk, at best". Goodman continues "First and foremost, are the disguises. We are Merchants selling our wares. At best, we bring and ply them with strong wine and ale, earning their friendship. At worst, they drink our stores and bade us leave. I think if we are cunning enough to get them to loosen their tongues they will reveal more of their intentions with regards to the Duke's Castle." Studying his comrades still closer, Brother Goodman goes on. "Bandits are NOT warriors. They have no Code. They are men of opportunity. We may even be able to spend the night." As if to bring home his plan, Goodman continues. "We will learn their numbers, weapons they have and more." At this Goodman studies the faces of his companions. After a moment to let his plan set in he adds..."God Willing to The Right, we may have to kill." Are we all prepared for this act?