The Coronation

 

 

 

 

 

Coronation Revolt Accounts 14th Sixth Moon 707ATN

To Grand Duchess Maudette of Bara 14th Sixth Moon

 

Your Royal Highness,

I regret to have to report that both Lady Hildegarde and I were terrified by some Chaotic Magic inflicted by a great Demon within the Great Hall at Regalis. The delegations, that is, those of Azelad, Fara, Stetia, Thentis, Narchad, Thalia, Amelia, the County of Cogwile and our own marched up to Regalis unopposed. We arrived on the 12th which gave us the 13th to tidy ourselves up. It gave me a chance to meet my old friends the Faraese knights Sir Dino Rinocero, Sir Louis Cocodillo and Sir Carlo Cornacchio who was accompanied by his wife Lady Renata.

The Vizier Gro Abh, who intends to retire after the coronation, warned us that many of the citizens are restive. He told us that they believe that forces supporting the rebel Queen Indrana are lurking in a forest to the north of the city. We kept up our guard supported by militia belonging to Grazzing the Royal Constable of Regalien. Since in fact our numbers were greater than expected, we left a sizeable body behind to guard the camp. On the morning of Coronation day we went in a procession to their Great Hall with many of the locals apparently supporting us. Our unicorns were very much cheered! These we left under guard with two smaller one’s that he Thalian Amazons had brought. To the west of the Hall was a large square where the commoners were to have their feast. The Great Hall is very large. And there must have been around six score of us inside it. There were four great tables athwart the Hall and we could only sit on the side nearest the Great Doors. Persons overlapping the tables would be permitted to sit on the other sides for the feast. Trier a Bishop of Krosus was to crown Queen Gimawl as apparently she is a devotee of his. She was supported by the Dowager Queen Phaedra and sundry Courtiers. Other Queen’s present were Rathapore of Durgan, Ancalime of Thalia and Ephemera of Amelia. There was a band of minstrels playing on their gallery behind the dais. Queen Gimawl arrived in good time and was crowned just as the Doom Bell tolled midday. Then before the Counts and Countesses could present their heriots and swear their oaths, three great demons materialised upon the minstrel’s gallery! Whilst two began slaying the helpless minstrels, the other raised a ruby orb and spake words of power. I know not what they were but they filled me with a wave of fear that I have never felt before! Mayhap mine Lawic Scelta added to its power, as the dragon slaying hero Carlo Cornacchio was likewise smitten.

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I was told later that Grand Mistress Messalinda persuaded Queen Gimawl to stay in the Great Hall where there were so many eager to protect her. Chamberlin Opulan ordered that the two north doors be barred and tables placed to reinforce them!

In the centre of the hall Duke Franz suggested that they arrange the remaining tables as a square barricade. Marshal Swazine and Sektarar Bronwyn formed their Narchadian delegation up inside the great South doors to defend them if insurgents broke through.

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When I came to my senses I discovered that we had been corralled into a rectangular barricade within the Hall with Queen Gimawl in the middle. Yet Sektarar Bronwyn and her Narchadians were fighting at the Great Hall door! The Vizier Gro Abh was beside her and called out to us ‘”Please aid us for else all is undone? ”What folly is this!’” I cried ‘”Duke Franz, Comandare Eusebio,, we are like to be starved out sitting in here! I am not minded to be paying a ransom! We must aid the Narchadians! Dame Eloise,, Lady Hildegarde,, take the ladies to the roof where they can at cast stones at these rebels! Dame Aura, Sir Fulque, Sir Carlo, let go cut a swathe through these rebels! At need I can call on my cherub to assist us!’

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But alas it was all too late! As we emerged from the Hall we found that Marshal Swazine lay dead and Sektarar Bronwyn and those left with her had surrendered. From behind us Queen Gimawl shouted “I will abdicate! Prithee call a truce!” and the enemies massing either side of the Hall heard and called out “A truce , a truce! Queen Gimawl will abdicate!” I looked to where our unicorns had been left but they were gone and Lady Clarisse and her spearmen with them! On the wall parapet opposite us perched the demon wizard who had cast the fear inflicting spell upon us earlier. His two mighty minions stood before us their red tridents at the ready.

I would have fought on in the hope of winning the gate but Queen Gimawl wished to save further bloodshed. Both sides then collected their wounded and piled the dead out of the way. Three of Queen Ancalime’s Amazons lay wounded but like mine her unicorns were gone. We discussed what terms the Queen should demand in return for her abdication, with our freedom uppermost in our minds! The result was that she would only speak regarding her Belmanians, whilst we were to speak for ourselves. When it came to my turn to speak to Queen Indrana I said I represent Her Royal Highness Grand Duchess Maudette of Bara, also come to witness the coronation as a diplomatic delegation. If there is any talk of holding us for ransom I would rather die trying to fight my way out rather than have my people pay for me! I understand that your people have taken away our unicorns. I would be grateful for their immediate return as part of your deal with Queen Gimawl? I hand over to my Uncle Peron Quixano of Stetia.”

The upshot was that we,, the prisoners already taken and those Regalis citizens loyal to Gimawl were to go as soon as maybe, over the bridge to where our camp guards were already assembled. Our unicorns were returned and the Priest Kojaz was freed to join Indrana and the dissident commons. Dowager Queens Gimawl and Phaedra were to go to their place of banishment at Palandork in the County of Aschponte. This perked up the Querida Pomadora as it was where the Elf College studying Palantyte uses was based. We leaders of the delegations sent our people over the bridge but remained ourselves to witness Queen Indrana’s acception by the Great Orb in the Hall. When that spell was intoned by her Priestess Devilla, it glowed and changed from silver and grey to yellow and black, similar to Phaedra’s orb of authority. She told me that those were the colours it was in King Grocus’ time. Gimawl’s own orb remained silver and grey. Then the Counts of Cogwile and Fidril and the Countesses of Osiwile,, Aschponte, Haidril and Wisentor and Queen Phaedra swore not to bear arms against Queen Indrana. Then we all trooped out across the bridge to join what was now a substantial force.

I later heard the sad news that mine Uncle Sir Achard Hartsel had drowned with five others trying to ford the River Lisa.

I remain your obedient Servant, Marshal Morgana Lefey

Lady Clarisse’s Account

Once we had led the procession to the Great Hall I was left with three spearmen to guard the unicorns. I was soon joined by five Thalian Amazons, guarding their two small unicorns. One was white with a golden mane and the other black with a silver mane. Unfortunately the amazons’ spoke only their own language, which was a disappointment to Sir Gilbert Lebrun who tried to flirt with them! I had a few words with Royal Constable Grazzing, whose troops had lined the streets and were now gathered beside us. He seemed very interested in Madam Marshal’s adventures! We could hear the music being played within the Hall and the cheer that went up when Gimawl was crowned. But then there were screams and cries of dismay. Presently the Doom Bell of Regalis tolled warning peals and soon we saw a mob arrive at the other end of the Hall. Then a mass of goblins, both big and small came from the Temple of Asteroth. They fired showers of arrows at the Royal Constables men. I sent Gath to open the gate whilst I mounted my unicorn Hirondelle. I told Grazzing that I was going to collect the delegation forces for help. Then Gath and the other two were to assist Grazzing. I went through the gate over the bridge and galloped eastwards. As I reached the city’s SE Tower I saw that the delegations were already fording the three het wide stream. I had noticed a gate in the wall leading to an islet jutting out. It ‘is probably used for fishing. I called to the Tower Commanders (Sir Delta) and said “Sir if you can open that gate I can ride in and take some of the goblins in the rear! Some of the delegations might do the same?” He waved back but whether he understood me or not I do not know. However I could use my breaching bolt spell at need. Hirondelle easily jumped me over the stream and I listened at the gate to hear if any were coming to open it? I did hear some running footsteps and soon a city watch unbolted it. Some Thentian forces were now crossing behind me so I rode back into the city to the east end of the flat roofed dwarf cottages. I expected to assist a charge by them but then came a call of ‘Truce’ from the enemies outside the Hall. I waited with Sir Roux Potiron to see how things would develop. It soon seemed that Queen Gimawl was agreeing to abdicate under terms. So we thought it best to re-cross the stream and join the other forces massed before the bridge. Eventually, the rest of the delegation followers plus many Belmanian Gimawl loyalists joined us. Finally came the five Queens with the heads of the delegations and to my great joy all the unicorns!

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Palace Roof Watch Journal kept by Dame Bunting

On the morning of 14th Sixth Moon 707ATM a suspicious cloud of mist was seen approaching from the north. There was virtually no wind at the time. Eventually spearmen could be seen under it and I ordered that the doom bell alarm be rung. My sentries reported that the east and west gates had been closed. From my position I could see that the north gate portcullis remained up. Sergeant Piumo suggested that the force might be one the Counts of Palim or Yrshidim arriving late for the coronation? In which case, it would have been right for the Gate Commander Sir Phistus to keep it open. We had already seen mobs congregating beside the Mid Tower and the Temple of Hagoth whose aspect was ominous. Then some spearmen came marching through the north gate. “Those are not Belmainians! They look like Norsemen!” I said.

Norsemen have been our allies, bringing many troops for the Narchadian front.” countered Sergeant Piuma. “But we have already here Queen Ancalime of Thalia, who is the deadly enemy of Nor! We are being attacked! Pass the word to the Great Hall! The enemy is within the North Gate!

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Sergeant Piumo and one of my bow-women began firing down at the Norsemen streaming along the street below. I joined by hurling a couple of handstones down. But then a whole unit of bowmen arrived and returned the fire. Alissa the bow-woman was killed and Piuma was wounded. I stepped back to safety and bandaged him up. A large Orange clad unit approached the Palace’s north side. Archers Ann and Annette exchanged fire with them and Annette was killed. Then there was a shout from below that a Truce was declared and the fighting ceased. Just as well as we had only the kitchen staff, the varlets and my handful on the roof to defend the palace! Word came that we must decide whether to stay to serve Queen Indrana or to leave with the now dowager Queen Gimawl. She with Queen Phaedra was retiring to Palandork. Alice with all the kitchen staff and the six varlets all decided to stay but I with the wounded Piumo, Alice and Ann determined to go to Palandork

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Queen Gimawl of Belmain

We proceeded to the Great Hall where my most loyal Counts were gathered to swear fealty to us. Behind them were the foreign delegations, come maybe out of curiosity but perhaps hoping to open friendly relations with us. The Great Orb glowed silver as it has since our accession. The Doom bell tolled noon and we held the Elf sceptre aloft. Our subjects cheered and Bishop Trier then crowned us. We looked to the Counts and Countesses who next should come to make their oaths but then there were screams. Three great demons had appeared on the minstrels Gallery above us and cast a spell of terror that afflicted many! We were hustled to the NE door until Grand Mistress Messalinda called a halt. Bishop Trier cast a spell on the demons and sore afflicted, they disappeared. Chamberlin Opulan ordered that the two north doors be barred and tables placed to reinforce them!

In the centre of the hall Duke Franz suggested that they arrange the remaining tables as a square barricade. This was done and we were hustled into the middle. The Doom bell tolled the alarm and word came from the Palace that enemies were within the North Gate. “It must be Indrana’s army!” declared Dowager Queen Phaedra. “They will get help from the ever restless commoners and likely those Groz Aughed! Those that supported Priest Kojaz! He has much to answer for!”

Think you Indrana hath the strength to take the city?” we enquired.

It may be so?” quoth Queen Ephemera of Amelia. “Our people reported many small units sneaking to the North Regalien forests. We have yet an army in Emilia, expecting to escort the delegations back to Bilia.”

We replied “We thank you for your offer but we feel it would be best if we rely much on the Belmanians loyal to me. We can count on Regalien, Cogwile, Haidril, Fidril, Osiwile, Wesentor and Ashponte. It seemeth that the Chaotic High Command hath taken against us. Those demons are evidence of that. At the least they have made enemies of all in the Hall this day. In time support may come from Narchad, Stetia, Thentis and the rest but we must fight clear. What if Indrana takes the city? Whilst I live and hold the Elf Sceptre the Beacon will burn and the Great Orb stay silver! Then all shall realise that Indrana is an usurper. We will retreat out of the South Gate and call for support from the Counties!”

We must take our orbs of authority with us!” quoth Queen Phaedra. So we began re-organising ourselves, moving towards the main doors. We heard the Vizier pleading for our help and some of those closest to the door moved that way although the tables impeded them. Then we heard the Sektarar Bronwyn calling for quarter so we knew we were cut off from the bridge. We had been most shaken that it seemed so many of our citizens hated our rule. I suddenly felt that it was not in the interests of Belmain for many to die in this dispute. We shouted “”” I will abdicate! Prithee call a truce!” So those starting to sortie out halted and the foes outside who were re-organising their ranks stood still and called out that there was a truce. At the door I saw a pile of dead and wounded people who had sacrificed themselves for us and hoped that there would not be any more. The wounded were brought in and the dead tidied away. With those who had supported us we then negotiated the terms of our abdication with Queen Indrana with her backers. The ladies of the delegations lined the battlements above where there were plentiful hand stones at need! We informed them of the currents strength of our position before offering my abdication and the surrender of the moneys in the Regal chests. We spoke only for our Belmanian followers I left the foreign delegations to speak for themselve’s. A deal was agreed. We returned the Priest Kojaz, the keys to the chests and the Elf sceptre. We, Queen Phaedra and the six Counts and Countesses were to swear not to bear arms against Queen Indrana. Then Phaedra and we were to retire to Palandork. All the courtiers, Royal servants and watch members had the choice of staying to serve Indrana or leaving the city. Perhaps twos score preferred their freedom. The delegations were also permitted to leave, crossing the bridge to join the sizeable body of their followers who had been left in their camp.

We with Indrana’s menie, the Counts and Countesses and the heads of the delegations witnessed the acceptance by the Regal Orb of her accession. The orb reverted to its previous black and yellow hues. Then we and the Counts swore our oaths of not bearing arms against Indrana and we could all leave over the bridge. Queen Rathapore of Durgan said her goodbyes and headed off up the Grithin road on her way home. The rest of us marched around five myles before camping for the night. We called a great council meeting to decide what our various intentions were.

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Secretary Yesmine’s Journal concerning the recent unpleasantness

My Lord Gro Abh had all matters relating to the feeding of the commoners in the Great Square in hand. All were seated and some victuals supplied by the time the Doom Bell sounded noon. We heard the cheer denoting that Gimawl was crowned Queen regnant only for it to change to screams and cries of alarm! “Something has gone awry in there!” exclaimed the Vizier. “Come I must call the County militias to their assistance.” As the guards and I followed him, he muttered “I do not trust those Groz Aughed by the Temple of Bikon. The Maghi keep them from attacking the militia before I can rouse them!” So we want to the tables furthest away from us and set the militia’s from Fidril, Wisentor, Cogwile and Aschponte in motion, towards the Great Hall.

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Dame Perronel was in the lead but she paused on seeing how things were developing ahead of us. A force of Groz Aughed backed by smaller goblin archers were overwhelming the Regalien Militia. The remnants of these ran out of the South Gate. Then the goblins beset some Amazons supported by Sir Wyngs and a Thentian knight. Soon all these were gone. We formed a front with some Narchadians from the Hall. Milord Gro Abh called out to the others in there, “Please aid us for else, all is undone?” He went to the hall door to plead with those within whilst I stayed with the militia fighting the goblins. We were hard pressed and then two giant demons materialized in and attacked our rear! Marshal Swazine of Narchad and it was too much. The Sektarar Bronwyn of Narchad cried for quarter on our behalf and so I was taken prisoner. Some reinforcements arrived too late at the door of the Hall. Then Queen Gimawl called out that she would abdicate and wanted a truce to stop the bloodshed. We were herded against the mansion owned by the Priests of Asteroth, over two dozen of us! There were protracted negotiations at the door of the Great Hall. I feared the worse for us but in mid-afternoon we were all set free to join the delegations people south of the city. My Lord Gro Abh told me that Gimawl had abdicated and Indrana had been accepted as Queen with the Regal Orb returning to its old colours! We all had the choice of remaining under Indrana or going free. Queen’s Gimawl and Phaedra were banished to Palandork on the mountains in Aschponte so I decided to go with them. My Lord Gro Abh said “I have had too many years playing politics. If I hang on any longer The Horrub will have me killed. I planned to retire to where I will not be found and so farewell. As a reward for your good service I give you my magic amulet. It will increase your powers a level and give you the Forget and Strike dumb spells with their reversals. Leaving us he headed off in the direction of Grithin.

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Royal Constable Grazzing of Regalien

A loyal servant of King Grocus, I naturally swore fealty to his successor decided by the ancient magicks as Queen Gimawl. She requested that my militia come to Regalis to help keep order for her coronation. The Vizier Gro Abh warned me that some of the city commons were muttering against the Queen and a priest of Zabajkha had been arrested for sedition. I knew that for years Belmain had to endure having to feed and accommodate the troublemakers sent from the west. These being supposed to fight in Narchad for the Chaotic High Command. I was rather worried to find that some Gashad Goblins had been entrusted with guarding the temples within the city.

My men and I were entrusted with guarding the tents of the foreign delegations who camped to the SE of the city. On the morning of the coronation, they left a strong guard of their own, whilst their leaders came in a procession to the Great Hall. My men lined the route and when the procession was done, we formed up beside the South Gate. This was guarded by Sir Pretan of the City Watch. Guarding the main door to the Hall was Sir Wyngs of the Royal Guard with two men. There were five Thalian Amazons guarding two small unicorns and a Thentian knight trying to chat them up with very little success. He told me Duke Franz had ordered him to watch the door, him not trusting we Chaotic Belmainians. Whilst superficially attractive the Amazons spoke only their own language. However there was also a damsel with three Baratrean spearmen, guarding four fine big blue unicorns. She told me she was Lady Clarisse, lady in waiting to the infamous two unicorns Morgana! So I asked a few questions about her story. Then the Doom Bell warning was tolled. However soon we saw a mob arrive at the far end of the Great Hall, whilst another closer one materialised from behind the Temple of Asteroth. This seemed to be composed of goblins and flew the Volcano banner of the Chaotic High Command! They loosed a shower of arrows at us and Sir Pretan’s two crossbowmen replied. Two of my men were wounded and nurse Kruish set to bandage them. Lady Clarisse ordered her spearmen to open the south gate as she was going to call the camp defenders to our assistance! Then they should join my force. Then discarding her white hennin, she mounted one of the unicorns. Seeing we were now beset, Sir Wyngs also moved to help us.

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Royal Constable Grazzing of Regalien’s account continued by Nurse Kruish

The enemy goblins had a lot of poor quality bowmen! If we just stood, they would keep firing we thought! Milord debated on whether to order a charge or not? In the end he let us stand. The showers of arrows hit us sore and I had plenty of bandaging to do. The Lady Clarisse rode out of the gate to fetch the delegation people but it was too late for us! The goblins charged and we were sore beset. First Mark Santor of Rhentor fell and then Milord Grazzing himself! At that we all fled through the south gate for the safety of the fields beyond. Only the Royal Guard knight Sir Wyngs stood, trying to stem our pursuers.

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Temple of Hagoth Chronicle by Priest Prior

Archpriest Kapp ordered me to start a new tome, so that the deeds carried out at the order of The Horrub be known for all time. It came to pass that Kojaz a priest of Zabajkha gave a goodly sermon, saying that the choice of Gimawl for queen was not done in a proper traditional fashion. It should have been a series of combats rather than just relying on ancient elvish Magh Pozum. For these words of wisdom he was arrested and carried off to the Watch House. The peoples were rightly affronted by this and murmured against Queen Gimawl and her courtiers. Archpriest Kapp told them that The Horrub had decided that the Amazon Queen Indrana should have been the chosen one. At the appointed time she would bring an army and he Kapp would lead them to assist her efforts. It later transpired that this would happen on the day of Gimawl’s usurping coronation. ‘Lord’ Tonson the gang leader of the lawless elements, said that he would assemble some of his associates in mighty Hagoth’s cause, near the Mid Tower. A large force of Bolgburz Aughed reached us via the secret way and was concealed in our temple and that of Zabajkha. On the 14th Sixth Moon ATN707 a detachment of Groz Aughed was sent to guard the two temples and their Hetgob Braggz said that he would support us in any way he could. Our people and others assembled to watch the procession of Tarkgh delegations come through the east gate and proceed to the Great Hall. On its completion the others went to the tables on the great Square for the feast but those true to mighty Hagoth’s precepts stayed with us. Just after the doom bell had tolled noon a cheer from the Great Hall informed us that the usurper had been crowned but it was followed by some screaming. From that we knew that the strike within the Great Hall, promised by The Horrub had started. Archpriest Kapp ordered our people to attack the east gate. He said that we must hold it closed against those of the Tarkgh delegations that remained in their camp. Those of the watch manning the Gate had been watching us right suspiciously but all from its roof. Our people rushed into the ground chamber and barred the gate shut. Others ascended the ladder to the wall walk and entered the chamber, wherein the winch for the portcullis was situated. The door had been left unbolted! The watch under Sir Tenne, fired bolts and threw stones but with mighty Hagoth’s aid these did no harm! Then the doom bell tolled the alarm so we knew that Queen Indrana’s army had been spotted. The alarm tolling ordered that the hates be shut and of course for the east gate we had already anticipated this. It also ordered the assembling of the city militia. Once this would have comprised every able man but Regalis has not been threatened for centuries! It had degenerated into those thought trustworthy enough to augment the Watch. These were now either on the towers or amongst our own followers.

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Within the chamber our axemen set to smashing the ladder to the Gatetower roof. Others lowered the portcullis and then set to smash its winch. Whereupon those on the roof, took to jumping down through the hatch, to engage our men. Howmsoever they only met their doom. With Debutante Azina and three billmen slain, Sir Tenne the Captain of the Watch surrendered with his five remaining men. We left them under the charge of Reeve Silky and four other. The rest of us heeded off towards the Palace. Braggz and with most of the goblin forces, headed south towards the Temple of Asteroth. As we city people reached the new palisade, built between the Great Hall and the Palace, I saw at the south end of the street a strong force of Regalien militia. We heard the doors to the palace slam as some of those the other side retreated. Arch Priest Kapp took four men to guard the nearest ground floor window and Priest Siror led other towards the enemy. I was left in charge of those climbing over the palisade. The space between the two buildings was empty and we were faced with four doors which would undoubtedly be bolted against us?

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My people split into three groups trying the four doors in the yard between the Great Hall and the Palace but they were all bolted. Naturally they were fairly strong and we had nothing better than bills to attack them with. However Arch Priest Kapp told us that Queen Indrana’s army was close and led by the men from Nor. Doubtless they would have axemen to assist us? There were the odd stone or arrow cast at us from the two building roofs but their aim was poor.

= = =

However the Norsemen moved on past. Soon however, over the palisade came Count Sharda with his Sigis Militia. His sergeants had axes so we were getting ready to breach the doors when there was a cry of truce! It seemed that Queen Gimawl was intending to abdicate under suitable terms. So we held our hands and waited. Eventually Gimawl with the Tarkgh delegations and her followers were allowed to march out of the South Gate. Priest Kojaz was returned and the war was over!

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Braggz action report of 14th Sixth Moon 707ATN

I was ordered to take a contingent to guard the Temples of mighty Hagoth and Zabajkha and put myself under the command of Archpriest Kapp. He had with him a mob of citizens loyal to the rule of mighty Hagoth. He told us his first mission was to take control of the east gate and bar it shut. So we all proceeded that way. The citizens successfully barred the gate, captured the 1st floor chamber, let fall the portcullis and smashed the winch and ladder to the roof. The defenders tried to fight back by dropping down through the hatch but were forced to surrender. One of my warriors was left with some citizens to guard the prisoners. Meanwhile Kapp led us towards the Palace. He ordered me to take my troops with those of Migrab to the Temple of Astaroth. There I collected the four Groz Aughed set to guard it. There I saw the Regalien militia guarding some Tarkghs with their weird beasts. We deployed and Migrab’s puny archers commenced firing. Crossbowmen on the south gate returned the fire.

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After a while I saw that whilst Migrab’s arrow showers were not without effect, the Militia received some reinforcements negating the losses. Methought that, an the many within the Hall joined them, our task would be beyond us. So I ordered a charge and after a brisk fight we prevailed. The half of the militia that yet lived, fled through the South Gate. Behind the militia were two knights and five amazons whom we also bested. Migrab’s Aughed bolted the gate so the last two amazons perforce had to flee west along the wall. Migrab’s archers had slain many of those on top of the gate and we saw but two survivors flee along the wall walk. The amazons had been guarding some large blue beasts, whom we herded away from the Tarkghs. To my right I could see the lead unit of Queen Indrana’s army now passing the Palace. Ahead of us more militia were forming a shield wall, with the first of some of the congregation emerged from the Great Hall.

= = =

We charged them again and struck down many. I could see beyond them Commander Gin Hedz with more of us advancing. From on high two great demons flew down to aid us. The leader of the Tarkghs fighting us was killed and a woman officer called for quarter for those left with her. We took them prisoner and let the Belmanian citizens carry off the strange beasts. Some Thentian knights were then coming out of the Great Hall but the Dowager Queen Gimawl cried out that she would abdicate and called for a truce. Gin Hedz and I decided that it would be wise to agree to this for the moment. So the two queens had a parley and Indrana ordered that we let our prisoners free. We Groz Aughed were then allowed to feast at the tables the militia had left. The enemy had to leave dinnerless!

Coronation Action as recorded by Don Quaker for Lord Tonson

As arranged by Lord Tonson with Archpriest Kapp, we loyal men gathered near unto the Mid Tower. In it Squire Sangue and those with him were friendly to us. When the doom bell tolled noon, Lord Tonson declared “now is the time for rich pickings! We go unto the Tarkgh Temple of Aphrodisia!” So we went on its way.

Clombo said as we went “This is the Lords Hostel on our right. Will there not be possessions of those siding with the usurper in there?” But there was no door or windows at ground level so we carried on our way.

Clombo then said “I know the Temple of Aphrodisia, it lacks even a door! There is not likely to be much in there worth taking!”

There will be a priestess or two!” jeered Runt.

There is a solid silver statue!” declared Lord Tonson.

Not easy to share amongst us!” muttered Rog.

Tonson that is the Ombardi Bank in the Palace annex we have passed! Why do we not withdraw some moneys from Maestro Gonzo?” sayeth the axeman Hugh.

Indeed that is a goodly notion!” exclaimed Lord Tonson. So we turned and clambered over the high annex wall. Our axemen set to hacking at the two stout doors. Some of those in the NW Tower loosed missiles at us. A springald bolt narrowly missed Lord Tonson. However much of the Tower was obstructed by the Lord’s Hostel, so he drew back to safety! But our axemen hewed on and the upper door was smashed in. There Hugh faced the Bank Clerk Signor Robini.

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Signor Robini had taken fencing lessons and managed to kill Hugh but Fellagh avenged him and then clove in twain Maestro Gonzo. Their pouches were empty, doubtless their coins would be in the great ironbound chest behind. Felagh with the help of Kuttah hacked at it until holes enow there were, to grasp the wealth within. In coin and jewels I reckoned that about a worth of a thousand Gilden Pezzi! Meanwhile Tonson had taken others to assault the strong door the blue Palace Annex. I called off Thurd who was still hacking at the bank’s lower door. It led only to the kitchen and food store, which we could now access from above.

= = =

We moved to attack the doors of the two Palace annexes but before they gave way there was a cry of ‘Truce’. Hoping for favour from Queen Indrana Lord Tonson ordered us to desist. In time a message came saying that we were to let those with in out to decide if they would leave or serve the Queen but then we could take whatever we could find within. There were many chests in both buildings totalling 43 altogether. In them were 1248Gilden Pezzi in coin and with jewels worth around 194 Gilden Pezzi. With the thousand from the Ombardi Bank, Lord Tonson had plenty to share out to those loyal to our cause.

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Queen Indrana’s Diary

The Horrub provided our army with a cloud of mist to conceal it, until we were very close to the city. We heard the Bell strike noon followed by a cheer from the Great Hall. This indicated that Gimawl had been crowned and that all the Tarkgh delegations would be within the Hall. Shortly afterwards the bell tolled the alarm warning and we knew that we had been spotted! “My task here is done Queen Indrana. May mighty Hagoth aid you!” quoth The Horrub and he disappeared. Our forces poured through the open North Gate, apparently unopposed. When we neared it Sir Phistus and his men on the Gate Tower cheered us. I shall make him Captain of the Watch when things are settled. Our lead units had been marching straight on towards the South Gate but Prince Ah Mong led his two Khmer Orange units to the right towards the Palace annexes. It seemed that we would have little difficulty in taking the city. Advancing I pondered the sundry problems we would be facing. The Horrub with the backing of the Chaotic High Command had played his part but I was not intending to be his stooge. He wanted me to slay all those in the Tarkgh delegations but was this wholly wise. Amongst them was one from Chaotic Narchad. That had been the ally enduring most of the fighting for years and could one blame them for agreeing a truce. If their delegation was slaughtered, might they not side with the Tarkghs who could easily call a crusade against Belmain! Word was that Dowager Queen Parsifa had set up her standard in Millien County adjoining Narchad. With Gimawl dead the Tarkghs might assist her claim to the throne against us. It seemed to me that The Horrub’s aims were more to support the forces massing at Sihon, with a view to regaining Hamora. It well suited him to draw the Tarkghs in Belmain’s direction. With all due respect to mighty Hagoth we were brought up to worship blood drinking Khali. Then there is the problem of Queen Rathapore of my native Durgan. Word is that she is present with her male guard of honorary amazons from Dameth. Rathapore is a brainless figurehead of the Indelhi faction of the Durgan Council. It was they who forced me to marry King Grocus. If we killed Rathapore and you were supported by the Karach faction you might claim to succeed her as Queen of Durgan? However really, you have learnt that Belmain is much richer and worth ruling! Then there are the Dameth guards. Dameth adjoins both Durgan and Belmain. It might be unwise to antagonise it. Dameth has avoided sending troops to either of the main fronts claiming they are at perpetual war with the Lawic Elves of Imlinead. Little has ever been heard of any actual conflicts there?

Then there are the Counts and Countesses supporting Gimawl. It would be wise to give them a chance to change to supporting you?

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We had just come level with the Palace when word came that Gimawl would abdicate under terms! Those ahead of us were calling “A truce, a truce!” and everyone halted. We had won? Surely not, it seemed too easy! However nowhere had been set on fire as yet and it would good to take the city intact! As we and our menie proceeded forward my people cheered us. Some of our loyal subjects had taken five strange beasts that the foreign delegations had brought. Sorceress Devilla told me that they were eclept unicorns and no man could ride them! Then the Groz Aughed Office Braggz saluted me and indicated some prisoners his goblins had taken. One was Sektarar Bronwyn of Narchad. “Your Royal Highness, I came with Marshal Swazine to witness a coronation of a long term ally. When we were attacked, we sought to defend ourselves!”

She should fetch a goodly ransom Your Royal Highness.” quoth Marshal Gildelm.

Under the Foixian Code, I would rate four thousand Gilden Pezzi, Marshal Gildelm whom your people have slain would have rated six thousand.” Commented the Sektarar. “However the Narch does not pay ransoms. By being involved in this defeat I will have forfeited my position. The Narch will elect a new Marshal and a new Sektarar. I am also Markess of Migh which is a poor forest holding. You may have to keep me for years before it can raise the money? Meanwhile you will not have endeared yourself to the Narch!”

There was much to ponder over this. I did not wish to antagonise a traditional ally. “Madam we will consider your fate Later! Meanwhile Captain keep her safe.”

We went in front of the door of the Great Hall where Gimawl and her supporters stood behind a table barricade. Behind me were Makruby and his two great demons. On the battlements above us a row of faces looked down, doubtless with hand stones at the ready! “I heard that you are prepared to abdicate as Queen Regnant, is this correct?” I asked.

Under suitable terms it is.” She replied “We wish to stop any further bloodshed between our peoples. At this moment we hold this hall with perhaps three day’s supply of victuals. Beyond the river we have a goodly force belonging to the foreign delegations. We still hold the West Gate and all the corner Towers. We hold the dissident priest Kojaz secure. We hold the Elf sceptre without which you cannot legally succeed me. We ask that all those in here be allowed to march out over the river, in honour to go their divers ways. The Counts and Countesses who have sworn fealty to us should not be forsworn, but they have agreed to swear not to bear arms against you, should you agree these terms? The foreign delegations we leave to speak for themselves. Under the Foixian code they should properly hold diplomatic immunity. Now your own Queen Rathapore of Durgan wishes to speak to you.”

Rathapore came to the table, “Dearest Cousin, I add my entreaties to Queen Gimawl’s an you agree the terms she has offered you I shall entreat our Durgan ruling Council to recognise you as the rightful Queen of Belmain? I now give way to Queen Ancalime of Thalia.”

Queen Ancalime came to the table. “As ruler of a Lawic State we have often been on the opposite side to Belmain in the past. Yet our hanoes have often called at Tegalon taking our silks to you and to the countries to the east. We came here hoping to encourage that trade but it is up to you whether you wish to halt it? As a member of a diplomatic mission we expect to be allowed to leave this city unhindered?”

Then came the Elf Queen Ephemera of Amelia. “Your Royal Highness, in King Grocus’ time we have sold you timbers for your ships built in Tegalon. It would please us if this could continue. If we and my people can return unhindered, well and good! However we do have an army over the border in Emilia. In the event of any harm befalling us they have orders to attack!”

Then came Dowager Queen Phaedra, “I swore allegiance to our sister Gimawl so I must go wherever she goes. However I entreat you to care for my temple of Aphrodisia and its priestesses.”

Then came Duke Franz of the Thentian Delegation. He looked upwards first, knowing that Dame Eloise du Rheine Librarian Royal was at the battlements above us. Anything he said would be reported back to King Eudes by her. “I represent King Eudes of Thentis, sent here to witness the crowning of Queen Gimawl. This has now taken place so I would appreciate not having our departure impeded. There was a suggestion that we in the foreign delegations should be held for ransom. When the late King Como of Azelad took many of our people, he demanded such. King Eudes did not pay the ransoms and King Como is no more!”

Then came the Querida of Azelad, “I represent King Anghered of Azelad and I can confirm Duke Franz’ tale. I too came to witness a coronation and am very sure that my King would seek to avenge any slight against us. I now give way to Marshal Morgana of Bara who knows to tale of the doings in Azelad for she was there!”

I represent Her Royal Highness Grand Duchess Maudette of Bara, also come to witness the coronation as a diplomatic delegation. If there is any talk of holding us for ransom I would rather die trying to fight my way out rather than have my people pay for me! I understand that your people have taken away our unicorns. I would be grateful for their immediate return as part of your deal with Queen Gimawl? I hand over to my Uncle Peron Quixano of Stetia.”

Your Royal Highness prithee give the Lady back her unicorns? How can she be called Two Unicorns Morgana if she has them no more? I too hope you will allow all in the Hall to depart un-molested. It seems that many have fallen in what is really only Belmain herself’s problem.”

Then Comandare Eusebio of Fara came to the table “I represent His Royal Highness Grand Duke Cosimo Morosini of Fara. His policy has always been to avoid close involvement with the many wars that have scarred Morval Earth. It would be a shame if by ignoring our diplomatic status your actions might change that policy? Now Queen Gimawl herself wishes to add a few words!”

Queen Gimawl said “If you agree to all these terms I can order the release of the Priest Kjaz who is in the SW Tower. We can give you the keys to the two great chests in the Palace. Between them they hold 20,459 Gilden Pezzi belonging to the Realm of Belmain. My followers are all prepared to leave for your use the contents of all the chests in the Palace annexes and the Lord’s Hostel. This on condition that they and any others of the Royal Guard and City watch may leave the city to seek their fortunes elsewhere. If these conditions are accepted we shall give you the Elf Sceptre so that you may perform the accession spell immediately. Then I shall go into retirement to wherever you are prepared to send me?”

The Foreign Delegations may leave immediately but you and the Counts and Countesses must swear not to take up arms against me on pain of death! With the demon Makruby in mine employ this is not an idle threat! For where you retire to we demand that you go unto the castle of Palandork!”

So Gimawl sent guardsmen to collect the Priest Kojaz and all the City Watch. Then they had to choose between staying under my rule with Sir Phistus as Captain or leave it with either Gimawl or the delegations. We returned the unicorns belonging to the Baratrean and Thalian delegations. We sent Gildelm with the keys to check the contents of the two great chests. The servants in the Palace were given the same choice as the watch members. We took Sektarar Bronwyn aside out of earshot of any.

We do not wish to offend Narchad in any way. We will set you and all the other prisoners free. I tell you in confidence that I believe The Horrub has really only the interests of his forces in Hamora at heart. For too long you in Narchad have had to bear the brunt of the war against Thentis and Stetia where even with the forces from the west you are overmatched. As one born in Amazon Durgan our real enemy has seemed to be the chauvinistic dwarves of Varadh. Claiming neutrality, their ships have sold their metal goods to all. Keep the peace with the eastern Tarkghs! Let them fight The Horrub away in Hamora! Once we have dealt with dowager Queen Parsifa and weeded out the Counts ill disposed towards me let us attack Varadh. Belmain from the west and Narchad from the east! Let us take on these repugnant dwarves down in their underground fortresses!”

That is an idea the Narch may well consider Your Royal Highness. Meanwhile I thank you for your generosity in releasing us.”

On the weeding out of the Counts, we would not trust their oaths. At the new year by custom they could face challengers whom no doubt The Horrub could make more amenable to our intentions.

The leaders of the delegations opted to stay to see our obtaining the Royal Orb’s Acceptance whilst their followers waited outside with those of the Counts. When Devilla had cast the spell the Great Orb changed back to its old black and Yellow and the Regal Flame just burnt the same as before. Then we allowed them all to march out over the bridge. Then we celebrated by eating the coronation feast food that had hardly been touched!

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History of Belmain

Origins of the Civil War                          

1. River battle at Bilia

2. Regalis Coroation

3. Battle of Antilo

4. Assault on Sigis Hold

5. Siege of the Dwarven town of Shone

6. Assault on the rebel Counts at Shid

7. Battle of Onin Bridge

8. Battle of Folga

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