The Order of the Fleur de Lys

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

[OOC: This is an in character thread for deliberations of members and patrons of the Order of the Fleur de Lys. Please do not post in it unless you wish to swear the Oath to Chivalry, to join the Order or are a member of the Order. OOC and IC inquires about the Order can be sent by PM to econ21]

The Order of the Fleur de Lys

https://img190.imageshack.us/img190/2011/fleur2.png

La Patrie En Danger!

Soldiers of France! Our enemies are mobilising - even now they are massing on our borders! Every man capable of bearing arms must rally to the King!

Nobles of France! The people look to you for leadership! Swear an oath to chivalry! Let all know the code by which you will live.

Knights of France! Join the Order of the Fleur de Lys! We are a band of brothers, who will fight together to defend France! We are a company who offer our services to the King and to any Duc in need! Members of all Houses and none are welcome to join our ranks!

The Oath to Chivalry

I) To fear God and maintain His Church
II) To serve your Liege in valour and faith
III) To protect the weak and defenceless
IV) To never attack an unarmed foe
V) To speak truthfully at all times
VI) To never abandon a comrade
VII) To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Distinguished Patrons

King Phillipe - - Tristan de Castlereng
Prince Louis (Aquitaine) - Ramses II CP
Duc Hugues de Champagne (Lorraine) - Overknight (deceased)
Duc Raymond de Provence (Bourgogne) - Cecil XIX
Duc Alain de Rohan (Bretagne) - AussieGiant

Officers

Captain: Prince Henri
Steward: Gaspard de Neufville
Lieutenant: Alexandre Le Sueur

Members

Hermant Mauvoisin (Bourgogne) - econ21
* Simon de Montpierre - Ituralde
Eloi de Montferrat - TheLemongate (retired)
Gaspard de Neufville (Bourgogne) - Ignoramus
* Alexandre Le Sueur (Bretagne) - Marcus Agrippa
Robert Bouchart (Bretagne) - Northnovas (deceased)
* Prince Henri (Lorraine) - Braden
Gaetan de Rethel (Acquitaine) - YLC
* Gauthier de Beauvais - Northnovas

* = on active duty.

Charter of the Order of the Fleur de Lys

Aims
1. The Order is a company of knights formed to fight for France. Its goal is the protecting the welfare of the French people in accordance with the standards of chivalry.
2. Members of the Order will seek to fight together where possible, but offer their services wherever there is most need.

Duties
1. Order members must fight for the good of the people of France above all.
2. Order members must serve their King as their ultimate authority and any liege they swear fealty to.
3. Order members must respond to calls for help whenever the country is in danger.
4. Order members must swear an Oath to Chivalry

Membership
1. Any noble of France may apply to join the Order.
2. Applications will be discussed at Order sessions and, if there is opposition, subject to a simple vote.
3. Between sessions, the Captain may accept applications as provisional members.
4. Members can be expelled for conduct unbefitting of an Order member by a 2/3 majority at an Order session.

Leadership
1. Every session of Council, members of the Order will elect a Captain from its ranks.
2. A Captain cannot immediately stand for re-election, but can stand at later sessions.
3. Should an Order member ride with the Captain, they agree to serve under his command.
4. The Captain may ride with another noble and agree that he, and all members with him, serve under that noble's command.
5. The Captain has a casting vote at Order sessions.
6. On assuming the position, the Captain will immediately choose a Lieutenant as his second in command. The Lieutenant will assume the duties of the Captain if the Captain falls, resigns or is otherwise incapacitated.
7. At the end of his term of office, just before each regular Conseil session, the Order Captain must appoint an Order Steward. "

Order sessions
1. Each session of Council there will also be a session of the Order. Members of the Order may vote by simple majority to decide how Order units be deployed and any Order land used.
2. Between sessions of the Council, the Captain will make any day to day decisions.
3. If half the membership of the Order petition for it, an emergency session of the Order will be called where members can vote on policy or Charter amendments.
4. The Charter can be amended by a two-thirds majority of Order members.

Land and units given to the Order
1. Members of the Order may freely possess their own lands and military units; units under their personal command will not have their ownership transferred if stationed in Order lands or serving in the Order Company.
2. Any land given to the Order will be formally owned by the Order Steward.
3. Ownership of Order land can only be transferred when the Order Steward leaves office, when it must be passed to the next Steward.
4. Any units given to the Order, recruited from its settlements or assigned by the Seneschal to garrison its lands will be formally owned the Order Captain.
5. Ownership of Order units can only be transferred when the Captain leaves office, when they must be passed to the next Captain.

Hermant Mauvoisin stands before the few knights in front of him and solemnly intones:

As God is my witness, I swear:

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Brother knights, I am honoured to join you in this company - the Order of the Fleur de Lys.

Hugues enters and surveys the room, a servants lingers behind him.

Well, the first thing we should do is get some better digs, isn't there supposed to be some sort of round table?

The servant leans in and whispers something to Hugues.

Right!

The Duc straightens up and solemnly intones:

I vow to:

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

So help me God.

The moment passed, Hugues resumes his usual mien.

Well I think that calls for a drink.

Gaetan de Rethel stands, a look of determination upon his face, and he speaks with fervor.

I vow to:

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valor and faith
To protect the weak and defenseless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

It is good to be amongst you brother knights! A drink for me as well my Duc!

Hugues snaps his fingers and his servant proffers a few bottles and glasses.

Ah, here we are.

He offers a glass of wine to Gaeten.

Good to see you here, Sir.

Hugues raises a glass to his lips, but then stops and glances at Hermant.

We can have a drink correct? It isn't one those orders is it? Defending the innocent is all fine and good, but a life without wine would be unthinkable.

Simons face lights up as he hears the vows that he had thought about for so long repetead in front of him. He is a small man and the trimmed moustache only accentuates the weasel like features of his face. But for now he is happy. With confidence ringing in every syllable he intones proudly.

I, Simon de Montpierrem, swear:

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Comrades in Arms, I am honoured by your presence here.
He bows to the Duc.
And of course it is a special honour to have the Lord of Champagne with us.
He raises a goblet himself.
And while our aspirations are high this definetly isn't one of those Orders.

Eloi de Montferrat stands proudly before the assembled knights:

I, Eloi de Montferrat, solemnly swear:

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal


Pour la France mes amis!

In the name of the Lord I, Raymond de Provence, hereby swear

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Gentlemen, here's to auspicious beginnings!

In the name of the Lord, I, Alain de Rohan, hereby swear;

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Excellent work. This is going to be outstanding!!

Gaspard de Neufville wanders in, shortly after the entrance of his Duc. At the sight of the Duc d' Bretagne, a slight frown forms upon his face.

"I am concerned about the character of the Duc d' Bretagne. I have heard reports of questionable behaviour down at one of the city's taverns. I trust the Duc will be willing to answer such reports? I am sure they must be misfounded, but I wish to make certain.

However, that aside, I will willingly swear the oath.

Before God who is my witness, I solemnly swear:

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal."

"Ah Gaspard. 'ow bought you relax a little and wipe the frown off your face. You look like you 'ave a lance up your a'se."

Alexandre Le Sueur enters and surveys the assembled knights proudly.

In the name of the Lord, I, Alexandre Le Sueur, hereby swear;

To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

I will proundly call all of you brother and stand by you in the darkest of times.
For the King and for France!

Gaspard turns coldly to the Duc d' Bretagne.

I will kindly ask you to withdraw that offensive mark. I would have expected better of one who has pledged to uphold the virtues of chivalry.

Hugues looks confused.

Whats all this then? Sir Gaspard, you're saying carousing in a tavern is "questionable behavior"? There's nothing in the Oath or Charter that covers that. It's not like Duc Alain is building a pyramid out of the skulls of women and orphans or strutting about in obsidian armor.

Seems like you're making a mountain out of a mole hill.

Hermant takes Gaspard aside and whispers earnestly to him. He then stands between the knight and the Duc of Bretagne, bowing to the latter.

"Duc, I am delighted that you come before us. It is a most welcome honour and we are in your debt. Please, avail yourself of all our hospitality."

He turns to Gaspard, beseeching:

"Brother knight, the Duc's remark was merely in jest and was not meant to impugn your honour. Please, come with me and let us drink to your joining the Company."

Nodding back at Hermant the young Duke seems annoyed, his normally pleasant and airy demeanour is replaced by controlled fury.

"I'm not sure what you are playing at Gaspard, but stepping in here and questioning my behaviour seems a little provocative. Perhaps you need some perspective!!?"

The words boom across the room, followed by a moments silence.

Cracking his neck in tension, his face returns to its boyish form, his manner again light, even flippant.

"Get yourself w'ore and work out some of your tension Neu'ville. The ride seems to 'ave addled your brains."

Gentlemen, I am honoured by all of your support, but we shouldn't desolve into infighting on our first day.

The issue does raise some questions which we should solve. We have all here sworn the Oath in front of God and our comrades. It shold be our duty then to guide our comrades in standing firm in the upcoming times and hold true to the words that were spoken here today. We should agree on passing judgement, together as equal Knights towards another equal Knight should he go astray and betray the Oath he has sworn here today.

I don't imply that anything like that is about to happen here. This is merely a misunderstanding between two of our members that should be solved between them as virtuous Knights as they are without consequence. But we can not tolerate one member tarnishing the reputation of everyone here.

Gaspard turns to the Duc, this time with a bemused expression.

I do not know how you became Duc, but one thing is for certain, you have not learned to respect your elders or those who have proved themselves in battle.

I only questioned your behaviour, and I granted you full benefit of the doubt and the chance for you to explain. Taking me flippantly, with rather coarse language is unbecoming of your position.

I hope that some time on campaign will help you see that respect is important - even of the English.

A smile spreads across the young mans face.

"You open your mouth Gaspard and nothing but vile and 'atred spews forth.

The qualities of jealousy, lack of respect and of course personal insults seem to be your forte.

The delusion you are living seems to indicate that I need to explain myself to you about some unexplained be'aviour, which of course only you seem to be aware of as you have failed to explain to anyone else except yourself.

W'en you 'ave managed to make sense to someone I'll be more than 'appy to discuss your problems my friend.

Until that time may I suggest you go and provoke a small dog, it might be more enjoyable to t'ose w'o wish to listen."

Gaetan raises an eyebrow in confusion and partial disdain.

"Gentlemen, Simon de Montpierre has a point - cease this pointless bickering. What goes on now between the two of you, is what has divide France for hundreds of years. For once, let us put France and her people ahead of our own concerns, and unite under the Oriflamme."

Nobles, brother knights! Peace! We have two purposes here in this place, two purposes which - while linked - are distinct.

The first is to swear an Oath to Chivalry. This is open to all and its observance is between each oath-maker and God. Merely swearing such an Oath does not open a man to our investigations or accusations over his conduct in taverns or private life.

The second is to form a company of knights to fight for France. In this endeavour, all knights must swear the Oath to Chivalry but not all who swear the Oath must join. In this company - this Order - there will be more duties and obligations than mere observance of the Oath. And we will be aswerable to each other for any untoward behaviour, although we have yet to finalise the details under our Charter.

I propose that the Ducs who swear the Oath be regarded as patrons of the Order. They must put the defence of their Duchies first and will not be expected to ride with our company. The company may, of course, seek to ride with them if their Duchies find themselves hard pressed. As our patrons, they will doubtless honour their Oath to Chivalry but will not be subject to any further strictures or obligations we may decide Order members should observe.

For the knights who wish to join the Order, I propose a voluntary fellowship. They may ride together for the King and country as a company of knights - let us call this body of men the Company of the Fleur de Lys. [OOC: the Company will be a group of knights who move together as part of a stack in the campaign map.] Or they may ride separately with their Ducs. Depending on our numbers, we may be able to organise “tours of duty” to allow all to fulfil their obligations to their Houses and still to actively participate in the Company.

For my part, I do not yet have a House and will ride with the Company in the coming campaign, whatever form it takes. I would ask my brother knights for their intentions in this matter - during the period after the Council session, do they wish to ride with me as part of a Company or to they wish to take some leave from the Company to ride with their Ducs? This matter need not be decided yet - it may depend on the precise nature of any campaigns France undertakes -but it is one that merits some thought even now.

Prince Louis enters the chamber entirely unannounced and glances around at those present. With a nod that seems mostly to himself he makes the sign of the cross with a practiced gesture. Then, placing his right hand on the pommel of his sword, he kneels and recites the oath in a heartfelt tone of voice,

Before the Allmighty I vow;
To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valour and faith
To protect the weak and defenceless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Rising the Prince then addresses the group,

"I cannot commit myself to true membership in the Order for reasons which I trust are obvious, but this oath and the idea of a free company of knights who ride for the King are of such importance that they must be supported. Know that for my part you have the good will and best wishes of the royal family. If the Order is ever in need of aid merely ask and what can be done, will.

Unfortunately I cannot stay to enjoy the company, but hold your heads high mighty knights of the realm, and prepare for war. Dark days are coming, days when this code and your brothers in arms may be all that preserve your own lives and the very nation of France. Be ready."

With that the Prince makes a point of seeking eye contact with Hermant Mauvoisin and giving him a respectful nod before departing as quickly as he came.

:egypt:

Hermant bows low to the departing Prince and then turns to the remaining nobility, an expression of surprise quickly replaced by a confident smile:

Ducs and brother knights, this is a greater success of our opening than we could have wished! All four of the Kingdom's Duchies have endorsed our endeavour. Surely, we may now petition the King with confidence!

Hermant grabs a quill and begins to scribble in large untidy script a list of names

Quote:

---

Distinguished Patrons

Prince Louis (Aquitaine) - Ramses II CP
Duc Hugues de Champagne (Lorraine) - Overknight
Duc Raymond de Provence (Bourgogne) - Cecil XIX
Duc Alain de Rohan (Bretagne) - AussieGiant

Members

Hermant Mauvoisin - econ21
Gaeten de Rethel (Lorraine) - YLC
Simon de Montpierre - Ituralde
Eloi de Montferrat - the Lemongate
Gaspard de Neufville (Bourgogne) - Ignoramus
Alexandre Le Sueur (Bretagne) - Marcus Agrippa

Of which, volunteering to serve in the Company for the coming campaign:

Hermant Mauvoisin
…

---

He flourishes the document around the room:

Is this an accurate list? Are we all content?

Hermant looks in particular at Gaspard, then returns to scan the entire room:

And who will join me in the Company for the first campaign? [OOC: i.e. who will stack together as a Company and be deployed together in the next 10 turns.]

Hugues shakes his head and smiles.

The Dauphin is full of surprises isn't he?

He turns to Hermant.

Well, it seems everything is under control, I'm going to go before I'm accosted for my unseemly behavior or harangued by mysterious nameless Knights emerging from the shadows.

If Gaeten wishes to join the Company for this campaign, he has my blessing.

Let me know if the Order needs anything.

The Duc nods and leaves.

I do not believe that now is the appropriate time for Chevaliers to decide whether they will campaign with the Order. That decision will be dictated in large part by where they are likely to be campaigning, which for now we can only guess at. I suggest that for the moment we formalize the character and continue accepting recruits, then discussing campaigning concurrently with the Conseil.

Hermant bows before the Duc of Bourgogne:

My Lord, your wisdom guides us. You are quite right. Let us put aside the issue of deployment until we know more of the Kingdom's plans.

Hermant takes the quill and hastily strikes out the last two lines on the parchment.

Simon turns the goblet around in his hand thoughtfully. Ever since the Prince had come and left again so quickly is brow had beend slightly furrowed.

"Maybe there should be someone who watches that we keep that Oath. Otherwise it is no more than an empty husk. Just words derived of meaning.

He turns toward Hermant.

You know how important that is to me. I can see where it could cause difficulties though. But just because it isn't practical does not mean that I like it.

He gazes towards the door for a moment staring at it silently. Then shrughs, and with a smile empties his goblet in gulp!

It will be an honour for me to ride with you into battle, Hermant! I know that the Council might change some things, but for those of us who have not sworn directly to one of the Dukes it should be achievable. Of course should the King require us to separate I would do so.

Hermant bows to Simon.

It will be an honour to ride with you, brother knight! I would hope that we can persuade at least two others to join us on the coming campaign.

He sits down beside Simon.

On the keeping of the Oath, we have a provision in the draft Charter to expel members whose conduct is unbefitting on a 2/3 vote. Is that sufficient or do we require additional rules?

For my part, I would prefer to keep our Charter simple and I would be wary of entrusting any one man with the power to scrutinise our personal conduct. But now is the time to discuss this and any other aspects of our draft Charter.

No you are right. That is more than sufficient. I would settle for nothing less than a unanimous vote to be honest, but the Charter is fine as is.

Loup de Gisors opens the door and approaches, kneeling down.

I vow to:
To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valor and faith
To protect the weak and defenseless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Alexandre Le Sueur stands and raises his goblet

"My brothers in arms ans honour let us toast this great beginning and pleadge to fight our common enemies and not each other. We still have a country to unite and the English to fend off, least they hear us and think they can divide us"
"For France and her noble king and knights, may they create a kingdom that will challenge the world and serve god on earth!"

Welcome, Chevalier de Gisors! We are honoured to have you join the Order!

Hermant excitedly writes another name on the parchment. Then he sits back and pulls out a letter in his pocket and slowly, deliberately begins to re-write the original parchment in a fairer hand.

[EDIT:] Disturbed from his laborious writing by the round of cheers and celebrations, Hermant hurriedly grabs his tankard and belatedly joins in Alexandre's toast:

"For France and her King!"

Hermant finishes transcribing the Order documents into a fashionable Gothic script and then looks around. The tavern that has served as the venue for the first order meeting is emptying and few knights proper remain. Hermant rises to his feet and addresses the remaining audience:

Brothers, we have had a successful first day as an Order! To have attracted seven knights and all four Dukes to this cause is a greater achievement than I had dared imagine!

But now, brothers, we have some serious work to do. We must formalise this company - agree its rules and see it properly constituted. Therefore, I propose that the seven knights who have come together this day be regarded as the founder members of the Order. I ask them each to study the draft Charter of the Order carefully. I propose we put aside two days for debate over the contents of the Charter, so that we may discuss any amendments they wish to make. Then, at the end of that period, we will vote on whether to accept the document we have produced as our Charter. For the purposes of amendments and accepting the Charter, if we are unable to achieve a consensus, I propose we resolve disagreements by a simple majority vote of founder members. It is better to have some Charter than none at all.

I do not expect our distinguished patrons, the Ducs, to be involved in this donkey work of scrutinising arid text. But we will greatly appreciate any recommendations or suggestions that they may make.

We will continue to accept applications for membership of the Order, although existing members may request a vote on any new admission if they have reason to question the character of the applicant. Any new applicants who are admitted before our Charter is finalised will also be treated as founder members and have a right to participate in all constitutional decision-making.

Any knight is of course free to enter these chambers and swear the Oath to Chivalry with no obligation to join the Order. Their solemn vows will be a matter of rejoicing amongst us and we will wish them every success both in the tourney field and in the darker campaigns soon to come.

You already know what I think of the Charter. I accept it as it is now written. This has truly been more succesful than I imagined. This bodes well for the future of France and I am glad to see so many honest and virtuous men around me. It will be an honour to fight you at the tournaments and an even greater to fight with you against our enemies!

Hermant Mausvoisin's page enters the tavern that is serving as the Order's temporary headquarters. It is deserted - all the men are at the tournament. The page pins a coat of arms to the main parchment identifying the Oath to Chivalry and the Draft Charter.

"Flowery order" the page chuckles to himself and runs out to return to watch the tournament.

Hermant's page walks sulking into the tavern, knocking over a bar stool in his anger and scaring the cat. He walks over to the main piece of parchment and with a cursory scribble, crossing out the "Draft" on "Draft Charter of the Order".

"Stupid Hermant! He gets to whack people in the tournament, I have to do the paperwork."[/i]

"I propose a toast to those among us who have participated so successfully at the Tournament! Our dearest patron Alain de Rohan has won through his valouros charge, while the knights Mauvoisin and le Sueur came in second and third. What further prove do we need that chivalry and martial prowess go hand in hand!"

He nods statisfied.

"While I didn't see everything during the opening stage my early capture gave me the opportunity to observe our fellow knights. Most of them have adhered to the Code of Chivalry though some couldn't resist the opportunity to use their numbers against a single opponent. All in all I am proud to be a member of this Order and look forward to fight alongside you in the upcoming campaigns!"

Hermant temporarily looks discomforted by Simon's words, but then rises to acknowledge the toast:

"Here, here!"

He then shifts and his tone changes:

"Gentlemen, the Council session has opened so now we too can use this moment of reflection to decide the Order's priorities for the coming ten seasons.

I propose that we form a company, composed of at least four brother knights with one of them in command as its captain. We need a formation of such a size for our Order to have any military weight within the Kingdom. We therefore face three questions:

First, who will ride with the company?

Second, where will the company be deployed?

And third, who will be captain of the company?

On the first question, I believe Simon and I have already indicated our intention to ride with the company. Are there any other brother knights among us who will join? The commitment is for the next ten campaigning seasons, but it will be a bond of fellowship only. Brothers will be free to leave the company at will - for example, if their Duchy requires their assistance - but so long as they remain part of the company, they should follow the Captain and fight together for France.

On the second question, I propose that initially we act as reinforcements for the Seneschal's army, supporting its maneouvres. Let us gather in Ille De France (OOC:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

ask Zim to spawn your avatar there if you wish to ride with the company.

Lacking any infantry of our own, the Company is currently unable to fight autonomously against most threats so we can only support Royal or Duchal armies. At the Captain's discretion, we may redeploy elsewhere - for example, if the Seneschal requires knights elsewhere on the front or if a particular Duchy comes under threat. While we have the luxury of time to debate deployment now, when the campaigning season starts we must have a chain of command and the Captain should have operational control of the Company.

On the third question, I nominate Simon for election to the post of Captain. Simon, will you accept the nomination and stand? Any other brother knight may contest the post, but they should be drawn from those riding with the company for the next ten seasons. The office is for ten seasons only - by our Charter, at the next Council session, we must elect a different Captain.

Gentlemen, I ask for your opinions on these three questions and any others you may have relevant to the Council session and the following term of the Seneschal."

"I to support Simon as our Captain, and would ride with the Company once Bruges is secure. The Germans will move on it soon, and it is a powerful point whence we can starve the English in the Royaume of men and supplies, while acting as a possible staging ground to strike at London, heart of the English Crown. I plan to take it within a two seasons with Bertin's help and the men available to my Duchy."

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

I had hoped you would get notifications about this:
https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/group...scussionid=189
Maybe something to keep in mind next time.

Brothers, I am honoured by your support and accept your support for the position of Captain. In the interest of fairness I would like to see another candidate step forward so we have competition for the post and will strive to do our best. Maybe one of our successful tourney entries will lead us? They would have my support.

I agree that we should gather in France. We are still an unknown though and I don't know whether any Seneshal would realize our true potential right from the start. Maybe we should take up a course of our own to prove our worth in battle. You said that we can hardly hope to act alone, but we could throw our support behind one of the proposed campaigns of the Council. What do you think about reinforcing Saint Armand in capturing Metz? We could get the required Edict to pass and then join in the fighting, making Metz the first test of our fighting strength.

"Interesting proposal - should we then march upon Bruges? It is in my mind that maybe Bruges should remain a neutral staging ground for the Order should it be captured - it stands in the way of both English and German forces, making it a heated conflict zone that should be best left outside of House politics. Bruges as the main center of defense against English reinforcement seems reasonable to me, and it should end the debate on which House it rightfully belongs to."

"However, gaining land does make the Order a political entity, and I am worried that we may be dragged into interhouse bickering simply for holding it. We could sign a possible agreement with the King to preserve it's neutrality. Thought fellow brothers?"

Gaetan seems to ponder for a moment. "I may be a bit hotheaded for suggesting such, but if you truly wish for competition Simon, I shall throw my hat into the ring as well."

You have my support Gaetan de Rethel.

I may have worded my proposal badly. The main goal of this first campaign would not be to gain land, but to gain notice throughout the Realm as an efficient fighting force. Bruges is as good a goal as any, but we can only support and need other men to give more weight to our attack.

"I was thinking of having the Order take both Metz and Bruges and using Bruges as a base for further operations, and using it as a neutral staging ground. However, my Duc may object to not having Flanders within his realm so I am at a loss - still, Bruges must be taken, or Paris and our effort in the interior of the Royaume may be placed in grave danger, no matter whom controls it."

Brother Simon - I agree with your initial proposal, given the King's words in Council supporting the attack on Metz would be the logical first step for the Order. Provided Thomas can be persuaded to wait long enough for us to ride from Paris... What happens next we might even leave to the discretion of the Captain, although further discussion is certainly wise.

Brother Gaetan, you are welcome to run for Captain, but to do so I think you would have to commit to ride with the Company for the next ten seasons. I would not like to leave the Company leaderless even for a short period when another such as Simon is available to lead. Earlier you spoke of marching first with your Duke, so this may require some negotiation with him. If the Company were to support your Duke's march, there need be no conflict and I would not be opposed to that. Both brother knights and Dukes will have to become accustomed to satisfying obligations to both House and Order, but with good will on both sides, I cannot see this being a problem. After all, we already serve King, France and God without seeing a conflict.

I am also willing to nominate for Captain. I wholeheartedly believe Brother Simon would be an excellent captain, but I will also run in order to give the Order a greater scope.

A competition is always healthy, Gaspard.

To reinforce my earlier words about membership of the Order being fully compatible with membership of a House, I have offered my services to the Duke of Burgundy. I discussed my being on active duty with the Company before making my oath to him and I believe we can make the arrangement work.

I would like to propose we formalise things a little. Each Council session, I propose that Order members declare themselves available for active duty with the Order or on reserve duty. Those on active duty are expected to ride immediately to their Captain and to serve with him, unless some pressing matter - such as defence of their Duchy - arise. Those on reserve duty will not be counted as members of the Company, but are free to ride with them or not as they please.

A member may chance their duty status at any time - we are a band of brothers, bound only by fellowship - but while on active duty should obey their Captain in operational matters. (OOC: move in his stack or under his direction).

The Captain is expected to be on active duty throughout the ten seasons. Should he have to depart the Company, he must resign his post immediately so that a replacement on active duty be found.

If we have sufficient numbers, I envisage rotating tours of duty so that a member is on active duty for ten seasons and then on reserve for the next ten. That way, we may actively serve both the Order and our Dukes. However, I would like to see the Company of knights on active duty at least four knights strong at all times.

I will maintain a log of each member's status (patron Dukes will not need to declare their status).

Simon and I have already declared we will be on active duty for the next ten seasons. By your candidatures for Captain, Gaetan and Gaspard, are you also declaring that you will be on active duty?

I will be ready to ride with the Company as soon as the conseil session is concluded. I am sure mon Duc can spare me, for our Duchie is well protected.

Glad to have you aboard Gaspard!

Indeed, well met, Gaspard!

On another matter, I wonder if there are any nobles of France not yet in the Order we should approach to join us? I would welcome your thoughts on this in private (OOC: started membership drive thread in social group).

I will join the company and run for position of captain.
As for the matter of Metz I wait for the Kings approval.

de Gisors will support any of the efforts the Order of the Fleur de Lys finds worthy of supporting. However, just make sure de Gisors gets on the boat for the Holy Land when such a time arises.

Yes, brother de Gisors - a crusade to the Holy Land would be an opportunity I would also find irresistable. But for now, do I take it that you wish to be on active duty?

If the first venture of the Order is to support Thomas's march on Metz, perhaps we should muster in Rheims rather than Paris?

"Brothers - I have come to the conclusion, based upon Metz's defenses, that I and one other can handle the whole of it's garrison. In this, yes, I shall ride with the Order, but I and Thomas shall take Metz, while you head north to Bruges, and together, with either the support of my Duc or the King, we shall take it. From their , we shall be vigilant and insure the sanctity of Rennes, and come swiftly to Duc Alain's help if it is needed."

"Is this plan acceptable to my fellow members?"

Brother Gaetan, your boldness is impressive but I do not believe your proposed course of action is wise. There are three hundred and three score rebels defending Metz and you propose to take it with a mere two score men? This is recklessness. Far better that your Duc bring his infantry and the entire Company of the Order move on the settlement in mutual support, to fight at more even odds. There is no need for your extreme proposed course of action. We are a military order and should fight strategically, not a band of berserkers. I do not wish to see any member of the Order fight in a way that unnecessarily endangers the life of his men. We will take risks when we must but should use every advantage when we can.

I suspect we may not reach a consensus on the exact course of action but I sense a general agreement that the first priority of the Company is to support the King's will and return Metz to the fold. Therefore, I suggest that Simon, I and whoever else wishes to be on active duty muster at Reims rather than Paris. It seems there is some urgency to the march on Metz, so starting out from Paris may render us irrelevant.

We now have four candidates to Captain the Order - Simon, Gaetan, Gaspard and Alexandre. I propose that whichever is elected be allowed to decide exactly how to deploy the Company against Metz and subsequently. In this, I would urge them to liase closely with the the King and the Dukes as lacking infantry, our Company will fare best when fighting in cooperation with their armies. When our Company maybe only four brother knights and their retinues, I am uneasy at dividing it as Gaetan proposes, but if he is elected our Captain, then I believe we should allow him the operational freedom to deploy the Company as he sees fit.

As a matter of routine, the deadline for nominations to Captain will be the same as that for the Seneschal and Order voting will be simultaneous with Council votes.

"I understand your concerns Brother Hermant, but it is not reckless at all, but rather an esteemed estimate of the overall strength of Metz. I could take it by myself, but run the risk of defeat, whereas with two men, I assure you, I cannot be defeated. The only threat is their mailed knights, and with swift action, I can crush them between two charges. The Town Militia and archers are of no true consequence, and once the knights guarding Metz are defeated and captured, they will fall easily and quickly."

"This I promise, this I can assure the entire Order. Thomas and I can handle Metz, there is no doubt of that at all."

Alphonse la Hire enters

Greetings to all. I've recently heard of your splendid idea to form this company. While I do not wish to join at the moment I would like to give the Oath of Chivalry.

Drawing his sword and pointing it towards the ceiling he recites:

Now all hear this!
I vow:
To fear God and maintain His Church
To serve my liege in valor and faith
To protect the weak and defenseless
To never attack an unarmed foe
To speak truthfully at all times
To never abandon a comrade
To never refuse a challenge from an equal

Sheathing his sword again he takes a look around.

Don't you think it awkward that the preferred venue to give the oath is an inn? I'm sure a more... suitable place could be found here. And shouldn't a priest administer the oath, eh? Anyway, by your leave, I have other things to attend to. Au revoir.

Gentleman, I have accepted your invitation to join such an esteem group and will join the Order. for King and France!

Hermant embraces Robert, perhaps over-enthusiastically:

"Fantastic! You are most welcome. Now we are a round eight members. We are soon to seek an audience with the King to gain his endorsement - you will join us?

Please drink - make yourself at home.

Now, let me ask - do you wish to ride with the Company at the start or do you have other obligations you wish to attend to? I am keeping a register of those on active duty for the coming term of the Seneschal. For my part, I will ride with the Company for this term but next term am inclined to go on reserve duty and see if there is work for me in Burgundy. I think such rotations would suit vassals whose Dukes expect to see activity. Ha, listen to me talk - I talk too much. Only Thierry and myself appreciate it. Please make yourself at home"

Robert gets himself some refeshment, smiling at the enthusiastic welcome.

I appreciate the offer to ride and feel that I maybe missing out on some action but I have important personal matters to complete. As I explained to my Duke it may be several seasons before I can full commit myself to the task at hand. I am sure you can understand.

When my business is finished I will see who needs my services the Duke or the Order and shall heed the call. For the time being I think I will return to Bretagne after I have had some time to socialize with my brothers and enjoy the excellent drink and food being offered.

I am a man of my word, I didn't give my word to the Order on a whim, I shall go with any man I can muster, to enlighten the rebels for the greater glory of France. I am preparing my saddle as we speak.

Simon nods towards Alphonse la Hire.

I am honoured to have you take the Oath. We are but a small company for now. Once we grow I am sure more suitable lodgings can be found.

He then turns towards Robert Bouchart.

Welcome to the Order Brother Bouchart! I am glad to see...

Simon is interupted by a messenger that comes towards him. Simon seems to recognize the man and begins to frown. After a short hushed conversation the two men embrace curtly. Simon fumbles the letter that was given to him for a moment, staring off into space, before he finally opens and reads it. After a short contemplation he reads it once more, then again. Finally he looks up and turns to the other members of the Order.

The Lord have mercy! Grave times have befallen my family. My father passed away. It was... unexpected. I apologize to all of you. I.. I am the eldest son. It's not that simple though. I..

He looks flustered for a moment then visibly composes himself.

Brother Hermant. I regret to inform you that I will be on reserve duty for the upcoming season. I will also have to withdraw my candidacy for the position of Captain. I know this comes at a bad time, but I have to deal with this personally. Once I am finished I will return to you as fast as I can. I wish you all God's favour in the near future. Serve the King, serve France!

Hermant rushes into the Order headquarters:

Brothers! It appears our priorities are changed - the King has requested that we accompany him to Bruges! Surely we cannot refuse. Gaeten may wish to still ride with his Duke to Metz - and given my earlier offer to the Duke of Company support, I would encourage this - but I would that any other knight who can ride with the King.

I shall ride With the King to Burges.

As shall I, in the confidence my Duc and Thomas can easily handle Metz.

Excellent - I would much prefer to see our Company fight united and what better start than to ride out with our King!

We ride from Paris then?

Personally, I have made arrangements to begin the campaigning season at Reims. I think that will serve as well as Paris. Whoever is elected Captain can liase with the King so that our company makes a rendezvous with him outside Bruges.

OOC: I've already changed my starting settlement once with Zim and Reims is in reach of Bruges, so I won't change it again. Whoever is elected Captain is going to have to work closely with the leaders of the Kingdoms armies to set up battles etc. To be honest, if it were me, on the first turn, I would just let Tristan move our Company but it won't be my call.

OOC: Players on active duty will have to give the Captain of the Order permission to move their avatar in the orders thread. That's the idea of being on active duty - we move as a single stack, the Order Company.

OOC:

For simplicity, we can determine who is on active duty from the orders thread - if you say your avatar can be moved by the Captain, you are on active duty. To facilitate coordination - e.g. with the King over Bruges - allowing the Captain to move your avatar will also include giving him the power to delegate moving the Company to another player; e.g. he may authorise Tristan to move the stack to join the King's attack on Bruges.

From the OOC thread:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Ignoramus

Econ: I was going to do it last week, but then my download ran out and it's going really slowly until tomorrow, when it starts another month. Sorry about that, but as I'm unlikely to be fighting a battle in the first turn or so, I should have everything installed before I'm required to access the save.

---

To act as Captain (ie move the Company stack), you will need to have installed the mod.

When the Council closes, I will make a poll for Captain from those on active duty with the mod installed. So please could you let me know when you have installed the mod, Ignoramus. And together with YLC please post in the Orders thread that the Company captain is authorised to move your avatar. Thanks. :bow:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

OOC:I will do my best to have everything installed tomorrow. :yes:

A letter arrives in the Order headquarters. It is displayed to see for all members.

Brothers of the Order!

I greet all of you. Word has reached me in the South of your recent success! I heard you fought valiantly alongside our King and helped to bring more land into his Demesne. I congratulate those of you on active duty for the outstanding job they have done for the King, France and the Order! Captain Gaeten de Rethel you have shown to be an outstanding leader.

I fear the things are still looking grim here. Inheritance can be a contested issue. My distant cousin a Italian Noble lays claim to half my fathers lands. I'm not prepared to part with one inch of it. I see how I can stop him short of open war. For now I have to remain here, for if I returned to you now things would soon turn very ugly indeed. I hope for your understanding. I have sworn to serve in the Order and do everything I can to make this happen. Hopefully I will be back before the next Council Session.

Your brother in arms,

Simon de Montpierre

It is good to hear from Simon, but it appears the die has been cast in his absence - we are at war with Germany. Any news from the front, brother Captain? I hope you can once again secure for our Company a position of honour at the King's side. While none of us have wished it, this war gives the Order a chance to prove its worth to the King and to France. We must serve as dutifully and honourably as we can.

[OOC: I have not been checking the save, so any info is appreciated.]

Gaetan storms in, clearly frustrated. He goes to a shelf and pulls out a map, and several pieces representing the armies of the Empire and the Royaume, and lays them out so all can see.

"Forgive my mood - I have many things to attend to at the moment, and will begin speaking with our King as soon as possible regarding how best to handle the situation."

"As of right now, there are two large German armies, the largest of which is within 2-3 season's march of Bruges, and is commanded by a competent general no less. The smaller, but far from less threatening army is located near Metz, and is easily within a single Season's march of the Castle."

"As of right now, I have no men under my command except you brother knights, and then only Half of you may show up. We would be next to useless if we are sieged, and with the current Seneschal antagonizing the English, I do not feel comfortable taking men away from Bruges."

"I would have us harry the larger army - sap them on their march to Bruges or Paris as it may be, so when they arrive, the combined might of the Order and any defenders we are allotted will suffice in crushing them. The Royaume must come first, and I hope my Duc shall forgive me as he must fight them alone."

Gaetan slam's his fist into the table, causing the pieces to tumble, as he turns to head out the door.

"I have another matter to attend to - it seems that when it rains, it must also pour."

A message arrives from the Prince of France. It reads,

At a time of war a member of this Order has greviously and falsely insulted the crown Prince of France. In so doing he has violated the Oath of Chivalry, tenet Five, "To speak truthfully at all times." I have been called a thief, a butcher, a bully, and a coward. I say there is no truth to these words, and call Gaetan an oathbreaker for speaking them in public without proof or evidence. In particular no man may call me a coward, I have never in life turned my back on enemy unless he was dead.

What sort of men are there here, the type who will bandy words and shift meanings to justify a villain in your midst, or the kind who answer the dictates of honor directly? If you believe what Gaetan has said to be true you cannot complete your duty to this Order and should not pretend otherwise. If you acknowledge the falsity of his claims then I will leave his fate as a member to your sure justice.

Furthermore he has vowed never to swear fealty to me as King, even should God choose that I be so elevated. This would also violate his duty as a member of this Order. Not to mention that he stirs conflict against the royal house at a time when we are at war with a foreign power, a time when our very King has declaimed a traitor in our midst.

I am not a member of this Order, but I have sworn the oath and upheld it beyond reproach. I have come to respect the noble actions of many other members of this Order. I call on them now to do what is right before God and King, and to bring the oathbreaker to account for his false words.

:egypt:

Hermant picks up the Prince's letter and reads it, his mood growing sombre. Given that the Order are scattered, he commands that the letter be forwarded and invites members to consider their response in private.

[OOC: starting a thread on this in the social group for private discussion.]

A letter arrives from Duc Raymond

By my reading, the fifth clause does not forbid knights from insulting each other. Regardling specific accusations such as thievery, which one can objectively prove or disprove, I would say that one cannot be called a liar if one actually believes what one says. However, making statements that cannot be proven true, and must be automatically assumed false for obvious reasons, is in my opinion a violation of the fifth clause of the oath, which I believe demands more than an absence of lies, but that knights should only make statements of fact that they can personally vouch for. In this regard, accepting Sir Christophe de Perronne's is the least one in Sir Gaeten de Rethels postion can do. I would also suggest adding another clause to the Oath of Chivalry, something along the lines of forbidding members

I hope Prince Louis is not offended by my speaking so generally, but as this issue is of great importance and will have a large impact on the future conduct of the Order, I believe it is best to tackle the issue neutrally, with regard to possible future incidents as well as this one.

Finally, I must take issue with the Prince's statement that any who agree with Sir Gaeten's words cannot fulfill their duty to the Order. This will be true once his highness the Dauphin becomes King, but not before. In fact, the Charter of the Order does not mention the title of Prince specifically.

Hermant reads his Duc's letter, but then puts it to one side and focuses on a shorter missive from Gaeten. With a sigh, he slowly rises and strikes Gaeten's name from the list of Order members.

On hearing of the Duke's comments the Prince issues one brief further statement,

No man will in any way be upbraided for respectfully disagreeing with the Prince's interpretation of the oath. Each man swears the oath as he means it in his heart, but for the common good an agreed upon meaning must be found and upheld. As in all things, God will be the final arbiter.

:egypt:

Brother knights,

With the resignation of Gaeten de Rethel, the Company is leaderless. Are there any knights on active duty who wish to stand for the post of Captain? Standing now will prevent you standing next session, but with the war, we sorely need leadership.

As he has recently been active in the field, I propose Gaspard take the role of acting Captain until the post will be properly filled.

I will allow 24 hours for nominations and then organise one day of voting.

Yours in arms,

Hermant

I am willing to assume the role of Captain for the remainder the Seneschal's turn. I am deeply disappointed in Gaeten de Rethel's actions, and would strive to maintain the integrity of the Order.