The Middle World - Hungary AAR (Death and Taxes MOD)

Section I

Chapter 12 (part 2)

[February 7, 1356]

(Debrecen, Hungary)

The mayor is eager to arrive at the viceroy's castle. Located in the center of the city, the castle stands tall and symbolizes the great wealth and power of the viceroy. The castle has two sets of walls surrounding the keep. A courtyard is sandwiched the two walls. A moat surrounds the outer wall. To get past the moat, one must travel across the drawbridge. There is only one way in and out. The viceroy has a thousand men garrisoning the castle at all times. The mayor has came to the castle once before and knows the place well. When he arrives at the drawbridge with his escorts, he is met with the viceroy's guards.

Guard 1: Halt! Who goes there?
Rick: I am the mayor of Debrecen. I was invited to the meeting.

The guard takes out a paper and looks through the list. After a brief look, he signals the guards on the gatehouse to lower the drawbridge.

Guard 1: You may bring one bodyguard with you. Rest of your men will need to wait at the camp set up in the back.

The guard points into the distance. Following the guard's finger, the mayor sees a small camp set up behind the castle. After giving his men some orders, the mayor and the captain walk across the drawbridge into the outer gatehouse. As soon as they entered, the drawbridge is raised again. Another guard leads the mayor and the captain onto the courtyard where they see more guards patrolling the walls. Little did they know that Cato is waiting on the gatehouse for this opportunity. When the mayor enters the inner gatehouse, Cato gives the signal.

Guard: Assassin! Capture him!

The mayor looks around to see where the shouting is coming from. When he turns to his left, he sees a cloaked man running at his with a dagger in his hand. The assassin slashes at the mayor's neck before stabbing the captain in the chest. The assassin then runs out of the inner gatehouse towards the outer gatehouse. The assassin didn't made it because Cato made sure that an arrow would end his life. Cato walks down the stairs and waits patiently in the shadows. The group inside the gatehouse are trying to save the two men. The captain died first with the dagger still in his chest. The assassin is well trained and his dagger pierced the captain's heart. Shortly after, the mayor breathes his last breath. When Cato is sure the mayor and the captain are dead, he walks to the keep to report to the viceroy. Cato finds the viceroy in his chamber flirting with a maid. Seeing Cato approach, the viceroy dismisses the maid. As soon as the maid leaves, Cato speaks to the viceroy.

Cato: It is done, viceroy. They are now dead.
Martin: I hear the assassin is dead too.
Cato: We don't want any loose ends. The assassin may just talk if someone offers him the right price.
Martin: You're right. Now, what reward do you wish to have?
Cato: I wish to be the new mayor.
Martin: Is that all? I could reward much more.
Cato: I believe I only deserve so much.
Martin: I like you, Dominik. Continue your loyalty and I will reward you handsomely.
Cato: Thank you, viceroy. Are you going to speak to your guests?
Martin: Of course, I hope you will join me.
Cato: I am honored.

The two men walk out towards the great hall on the ground floor. The guests have all arrived and many of them are surprised to see the viceroy walking on his own. The viceroy reaches his seat and signals everyone to sit.

Martin: I know that you all heard the rumors. I can assure you that I am fine. The assassin was stopped before he can harm me. Yet, it would appear that he attempted for my life again today. He may have failed but we have lost a great man. The mayor has been killed by this assassin. I am saddened by the loss of such a close friend. I wished he could've survived but fate has been cruel. Now, you may wonder why I called this meeting. I have received information that the Transylvania ruling class is attempting to overthrow our rule. I have just sent a messenger to our king to inform him of this. I wish all of you to prepare for a bloody war. We will not stand by while our subjects rebel against us.

The viceroy pauses for a moment to let the message sink in. The guests start discussing amongst themselves. After a short while, the viceroy continues.

Martin: I know this is a surprise. However, they are never loyal as long as they stay our vassal. To ensure that we obtain their full loyalty, we must integrate them into our nation. I have been attempting this through peaceful means but they are too stubborn. With the new evidence, we will be able to use force to teach them a proper lesson. That is all!

Section I

Chapter 12 (part 3)

[February 7, 1356]

(Kalisz, Poland)

The moon has risen up into the sky. The group Alwin is traveling with has called it a night. Alwin sits down on a rock beside Zoltán who is having a drink.

Zoltán: You sure you don't want to try this? It's the best and I don't mind sharing.
Alwin: You can have all of it.
Zoltán: No way I can argue against that logic.

Zoltán drinks a bit more before putting down his cup.

Zoltán: Are you in the mood of telling me a story? The one you promised me earlier today.
Alwin: Will this be your bedtime story?
Zoltán: I will stay awake.
Alwin: I guess I could start tonight. The story takes place in my home.
Zoltán: Where in Pommerania?
Alwin: Hinterpommern. That is my birth place.
Zoltán: Are there any beautiful women there?
Alwin: Are drinking and women the only things you think about?
Zoltán: I'm practical. Those are the only two things a man should worry about.
Alwin: I'm not going to answer your question.
Zoltán: Why? I answered yours.
Alwin: Do you still want to hear about my story?
Zoltán: Alright, please continue.
Alwin: I was just a lad then. Probably only five years old.
Zoltán: I remember when I was five years old. There was this girl.... What? Can't I think about my childhood?
Alwin: Maybe I should listen to your story then.
Zoltán: You're a slippery one. Fine, you win this one. Have you wondered where I come from?
Alwin: I have. However, I doubt you would know.
Zoltán: What makes you say that?
Alwin: You look like someone who never had a home.
Zoltán: You have a good eye. I was abandoned by my parents at an early age. Luckily, a priest decided to adopt me. The priest traveled around a lot and I always tagged along. In a way, he was the reason I enjoy traveling. Before I realized, I reached an age where I can start becoming a priest.
Alwin: Let me guess. Drinking and women ended that career.
Zoltán: Yup. I wasn't cut out for that work either. I decided to travel around to see the world. The travels brought me to a mercenary camp where I met a good man. He taught me how to be a mercenary and rest is history.
Man: Run!!!

Alwin and Zoltán stand up and see torches in the distance. Soon, they can hear sound of horses and armor.

Zoltán: I think those are armies. I wouldn't stay around. Let's go.
Alwin: What about your brew?
Zoltán: I can always get more. Let go!

The two men begin running away from the army. Zoltán knows too well that they are caught in a war and need to get away. Luckily for the two men, Zoltán is rather familiar with the terrain and leads the two men to the safety of a bearby forest. Other people that were traveling with Alwin aren't so lucky. They were cut down by the soldiers before they can get away. Hiding in the forest, Alwin and Zoltán decide to take a rest before moving on.

Alwin: Why do they kill innocent people?
Zoltán: War is bloody. There is no longer right or wrong. Only those that live and those that die. A man you don't kill today may kill you tomorrow. That's the grim reality of war.
Alwin: I assume you have a fair share of killing people.
Zoltán: Yes, I'm not proud of those but it's a way of life. Let's rest a bit longer before we move forward. I don't like staying around too long.
Alwin: I agree.

vasziljevics said:

your interpretation of Zoltán is perfect!

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Thanks!

Section I

Chapter 13 (part 1)

[February 8, 1356]

(Kalisz, Poland)

Alwin and Zoltán keep walking all night. In the distance, they can hear war cries as the armies clash against each other.

Zoltán: I think we put enough distance between ourselves and the armies.
Alwin: I can still hear their shouting from here.
Zoltán: It's merely their voices echoing. Though, I don't mind getting to Sieradz soon.
Alwin: I thought it takes two more days to reach there?
Zoltán: That was assuming that we go around the forest. Right now, we are going right through it. We are making good time.
Alwin: I'm surprised we haven't seen any wildlife or bandits here.
Zoltán: There aren't any here.
Alwin: Does that mean the Polish army patrol here and rid all the dangers?
Zoltán: Not quite. You see, they call this the Forest of Death.
Alwin: Forest of Death?
Zoltán: Yes, no living things survive after staying in the forest for an entire day.
Alwin: Yet you suggest that we go through here.
Zoltán: I thought it would be fun to explore here. We might come out alive or, in the worse case scenario, we will be half dead.

Alwin starts looking around. His face is pale. Looking at Zoltán, Alwin knows that his new friend wasn't kidding around.

Zoltán: Don't worry. We are out of the forest soon. We will get out alive.
Alwin: I hope you are right.
Zoltán: When have I been wrong?
Alwin: Hopefully not now.

The two men move quickly until the two exit the forest. Pointing into the distance, Zoltán speaks to Alwin.

Zoltán: See that distant city? That's Sieradz.
Alwin: We are still quite far from there.
Zoltán: At least we got out of the Forest of Death.
Alwin: Looking at your expression, I would say you know we would survive.
Zoltán: I got through the forest a few times alive. Guess what's common about all those trips?
Alwin: Just tell me.
Zoltán: I got through the forest in a single day. I haven't stayed longer and I have no intention of finding out what will happen if I do.
Alwin: You decided to keep me in the dark.
Zoltán: You should see yourself. Your face was so pale that dead people look more alive.
Alwin: Very funny.
Zoltán: It was. I will never forget about it. Let's go!

Zoltán starts running down the mountainside and Alwin, hesitantly, decides to follow. To his surprise, there is a great thrill running down the mountainside. When the two men reach the base of the mountain, they were panting.

Zoltán: That was fun, wasn't it?
Alwin: It sure was.

Section I

Chapter 13 (part 2)

[February 8, 1356]

(Kaposvár, Hungary)

Sophie is cleaning up the storeroom when she hears Pebbles.

Pebbles: Meow!
Sophie: Do we have a customer, Pebbles?

Sophie walks to the front of the stall and sees a man holding Pebbles.

Man: Is this your cat?
Sophie: Yes.
Man: She's quite adorable. You take great care of her.
Sophie: Thank you.
Man: I'm Augustyn. I was wondering if your stall needs any workers. I just arrived from Poland and need a job.
Sophie: I'm afraid I cannot help you there. My father is in charge of this stall. He should be back soon.
Francisco: Who do we have here? Sophie, I wasn't aware you have a boyfriend already.
Sophie: What are you talking about, father?

Sophie rushes back in.

Francisco: I hope I didn't offend you.
Augustyn: I wasn't. Are you hiring?
Francisco: Work for me? What can you offer to our little stall?
Augustyn: I have quite an extensive experience with bookkeeping. I can assure you that you won't regret hiring me.
Francisco: The problem lies in that we just started here not that long ago. I just don't have enough to pay you.
Augustyn: That's fine. I see promise in the goods you sell. Guarantee me three meals a day and I'll be happy. Once you start turning out large profits, then you can pay me what you owe me.
Francisco: I like your attitude. However, I need to test your skills. I have some old records in the back that need to be looked through. Following that, you need to make new records that are organized and clear. If you can prove to me that you are indeed good at bookkeeping, I will hire you.
Augustyn: I won't let you down.
Pebbles: Meow! :happy:
Augustyn: I'm glad you're happy, Pebbles.

Augustyn puts Pebbles down before following Francisco to the back. There is a stack of old records and Augustyn immediately gets to work. While Augustyn works, Sophie take peeks at him. After a few minutes, she returns to the storeroom.

Sophie: What do you think of him?
Pebbles: Meow!
Sophie: He's not that bad looking. He also has a way with cats.
Pebbles: Meow!

Pebbles starts nudging Sophie towards the door.

Sophie: I'm not ready to confront him yet.
Pebbles: Meow!
Sophie: Don't be mad. I just don't feel ready yet.
Pebbles: Meow.
Sophie: Give me a few more days. I need to think through this.
Pebbles: Meow.

Sophie gets down on her knees and begin petting Pebbles.

Sophie: You miss our home too, don't you? I wish I could go back.
Pebbles: Meow.
Sophie: So much has happened. I wish my mother was able to escape with us.
Pebbles: Meow.
Sophie: I'm damping your mood. Maybe you can visit Ferdinand. He looks like he needs company.
Pebbles: Meow!

As Pebbles heads out the door, Sophie sheds a tear. She really misses her mother who has died trying to save her and her father.

TheChalk said:

AUGUSTYYYYYYN!
I like how you've written him in, good job Mr. Blklizard!

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Thanks! You also have a great suggestion that fits into my story perfectly.

Jape said:

I'm liking the script style, this a lot of fun, keep it up

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Thanks! Feel free to pm me a character if you want.

Section I

Chapter 14 (part 1)

[February 9, 1356]

(Kaposvár, Hungary)

Francisco knocks on a door. He waits a few seconds before knocking twice more. The door opens a little with a person looking out.

Francisco: It's me.
Man: Who are you?
Francisco: Keep this up and I'll throw you in the river.
Man: Some things never change. Come in!

The man opens the door wider to let Francisco in. He checks the neighborhood before he closes the door.

Francisco: Relax. I made sure I wasn't followed.
Man: I hope so. I don't intend on getting a knife in the back at night.
Francisco: How have you been doing, old friend?
Man: I'm doing just fine. I've been trying to find you everywhere. It's a good thing I found you. I was losing hope.
Francisco: Escaping from them wasn't easy. I made sure that our tracks were covered.
Man: Where do you two live?
Francisco: Old friend, I don't think you need to know.
Man: When have you learned to keep secrets?
Francisco: I learned the day my wife died.
Man: Well, it's best you tell me so I can give you some suggestions.
Francisco: When have we discussed important matters without drinks?
Man: I cannot believe I forgot. Let me get some brew from back home.

The man leaves the room and heads down the basement. Francisco immediately heads towards his friend's chest. Opening it slowly to avoid making a sound, he searches through until he finds an envelope. He takes out the letter and reads it quickly. When he is done, he looks around until he sees a knife on a drawer. He closes the chest before going over to the drawer. Francisco hides the knife in his clothes and goes back to his chair. When the man returns with the drinks, he throws the letter on the table.

Francisco: What is this?
Man: Where did you find that?
Francisco: You didn't intend on telling me, did you?
Man: You see, I was going to.
Francisco: Going to? Then why were you so eager to know where we lived?
Man: I guess I should come clean. This world is cruel, Francisco. I intend on continue living.

The man charges to throw a punch but Francisco was ready. After a dodge, Francisco takes out the knife and stabs his friend in the chest.

Francisco: You're not the only one that wants to live.
Man: Good luck, old friend. Maybe we will both meet in hell.
Francisco: Yes, old friend. We will meet in hell one day. However, I hope that day will be a long time from now.

The man closes his eyes and draws his last breathe. Francisco searches the house for ducats and finds a good amount. He quickly rushes out and heads towards the stall.

Section I

Chapter 14 (part 2)

[February 9, 1356]

(Debrecen, Hungary)

Cato walks around his new manor. The previous owner, the former mayor of Debrecen, has kindly left the property to Cato since he didn't have a will written. Cato doesn't mind that he gets such a great manor. He has spent the day before to pack all his belongings and move into the manor. By the time he finishes moving in, it was quite late and he headed straight for bed. After a good night sleep, Cato starts exploring his new home. The manor is quite large and he decides to start downstairs. When he passes a window, he sees a person outside in the distance. Cato quickly runs to the front door to speak with his guards.

Cato: Guards! I need you to escort someone here. See that man with the red hat?
Guard 1: Yes!
Cato: Bring him here. If possible, avoid using force.

The two guards run off to "kindly" escort the man with the red hat to the manor.

Man: I am very sorry. I didn't do any crime. Please let me go.
Guard 1: The mayor wishes to speak with you.
Man: The mayor? I am but an average person. Please let me go. I have children I need to feed.
Guard 2: Shut it before we stuff your mouth.

The man becomes silent and gets escorted to where Cato stands.

Cato: Richard! How nice of you to join us. Please come in.

The guards shove Richard into the manor and close the door behind him.

Cato: The mayor has wanted to meet you for a long time.
Richard: So you betrayed me!
Cato: Betray? I don't think I swore loyalty to you at all.
Richard: All I ask for is a quick death.
Cato: The mayor doesn't want you dead.
Richard: Does he foolishly think I would work for him? I'm not a coward like you.
Cato: How did I become a coward?
Richard: You promised him my capture for your own life.
Cato: You underestimate me, Richard. Please follow me to the study.

Cato walks up the stairs and Richard, seeing no other options, decides to follow. Cato opens the door to the study.

Cato: Please enter.
Richard: What game is the mayor playing.
Cato: You'll see soon enough.

Richard enters the study and finds it empty. He turns around.

Richard: What sick game is this?
Cato: The mayor will be here shortly. I have a few questions for you though.
Richard: If answering gets me a quick death, I'll gladly do it.
Cato: Are you the leader of the Serpents?
Richard: Yes.
Cato: The Serpents are the most feared criminal organization in Debrecen, right?
Richard: It was until your mayor decided to hunt us down.
Cato: I assume that you were attempting to rebuild it back to its glory.
Richard: Of course. I wished for revenge on your mayor. However, it would appear that he has won this game.
Cato: What if I tell you that you will live?
Richard: There's a catch, isn't there?
Cato: If you are willing to work for me, you will live and the Serpents will rise once again.
Richard: You haven't told the mayor of my arrival?
Cato: You have no idea, do you?
Richard: Enlighten me!
Cato: I'm the new mayor.

Richard bursts out laughing. After a short while, he sees the seriousness of Cato's face.

Richard: You aren't kidding, are you?
Cato: I'm indeed the new mayor.
Richard: What happened to the old mayor?
Cato: I ordered his execution. However, we kept his death a secret.
Richard: You bastard! I was supposed to kill him.
Cato: That's the Richard I know. You were pitiful earlier.
Richard: I'm afraid of death. That's why I'm so good at running.
Cato: I'm surprised the guards caught you.
Richard: Someone tripped me up. Otherwise, I wouldn't be here.
Cato: You wouldn't be given this great opportunity either. So, what's your answer?
Richard: I knew you were promising. I will work for you. What's the plan?
Cato: We will meet tonight and discuss the details. You will get your organization up and running while I get my revenge.
Richard: You want that viceroy dead, don't you?
Cato: A death would be too merciful. I hope to ruin his reputation and let his enemies hunt him down.
Richard: The hunter becomes the hunted. I like it.

Section I

Chapter 14 (part 3)

[February 9, 1356]

(Kaposvár, Hungary)

Sophie and Augustyn are preparing to open shop when Francisco enters the stall panting.

Sophie: Father, where were you? You are not the type of person that is late for anything.
Augustyn: At least he's here, Sophie. We can open up shop now.

Francisco pulls Sophie into the storeroom leaving Augustyn confused.

Francisco: They have discovered our whereabouts. We must pack up and leave now.
Sophie: How is that possible? I thought they had no idea where we were.
Francisco: Someone betrayed us. Let's just get going.

Francisco runs up the stairs to head directly to his room. Sophie walks over to Augustyn.

Sophie: Something urgent came up. I need to leave with my father. I guess it's goodbye.
Augustyn: What are you hiding?
Sophie: What do you mean?
Augustyn: Please tell me. I know I can help.
Sophie: No, you cannot. I don't want you to get killed.

Just as Sophie was going to turn around, Augustyn pulls her towards him and gives her a kiss. The two embrace for a few seconds when Pebbles enters.

Pebbles: Meow!

Sophie pushes Augustyn back a bit to regain her composure.

Sophie: There are people trying to kill us. I don't want you to get involved.
Augustyn: I love you too much, Sophie. Let me help you and your father.
Sophie: But.

Augustyn turns around.

Augustyn: I'll be back in a few minutes with my stuff. Then we can leave together.

Augustyn runs out onto the street. Sophie starts making her way upstairs. When she reaches the second floor, she sees her father standing there.

Francisco: What took you so long? Get packed now.
Sophie: Can we wait a bit?
Francisco: We don't have time.
Sophie: But.
Francisco: No buts. If you do care about him, don't let him get involved.
Sophie: You're right.

Sophie quickly packs her belongings and, with her father and Pebbles, get out through the back. While running, Sophie cannot stop her tears from rushing out. They exit the city quickly and start heading to an undetermined destination. Meanwhile, Augustyn runs into the shop to find it empty. He runs upstairs to find no one there either. When he enters Sophie's room, he sees a small necklace on the bed. On the necklace, there is an engraving. The engraving says: I love you, Augustyn.

Webstantine said:

I know this is an incredibly story based AAR but we really haven't seen anything to do with Hungary for ages, not saying it's a bad thing.

Click to expand...

Don't worry. I'm merely building things up. Let's just say the king will get his spotlight soon. For those without a character, I'm accepting more characters so pm me the name, gender and a short bio.

Section I

Chapter 15

[February 12, 1356]

(Buda, Hungary)

Istvan enters the king's study. To his annoyance, Adrian is already in the study.

Louis: Istvan! You are finally here. Please read this.

The king gives Istvan a document. Istvan quickly reads it over before returning it to the king.

Istvan: This is rather interesting. Poland shouldn't need any help in their war. Yet, they call us in.
Adrian: I thought the same thing. It would appear their ruler is checking how reliable we are.
Istvan: Reliable?
Louis: They want to know whether or not we will always have their back. If we fail to aid them against a weak enemy, they have no doubt we would abandon them against a powerful enemy.
Istvan: That makes sense.
Adrian: There is another reason though.
Istvan: Do enlighten us.
Adrian: They want us to pour our resources into this war. That way, our power remain unchanged while their power grows stronger in the region.
Louis: I see. They want to keep us under control.
Adrian: Yes.
Istvan: For once, I would agree with you, Adrian.
Louis: I guess I should decline the offer then?
Adrian, Istvan: No!
Louis: It's clear what their intentions are.
Istvan: We have a reputation to keep. Dishonoring this call will affect how other nations view us.
Adrian: There's also a way around it.
Louis: Really?
Adrian: We can agree to join but not participate. If the Poland ruler asks, we can say we are preparing.
Istvan: We simply need to buy time until the war is over.
Louis: I will go ahead and send a messenger to Poland then. We will join his war.



The king calls for a messenger and quickly writes up a document. Once the messenger leaves, the king and his two advisors continued their discussion in the study.

Louis: Now that we got that out of the way, we have another pressing issue in our hands.
Istvan: Pressing issue?
Louis: Yes, I believe you still remember the stolen chest?
Istvan: Yes....
Adrian: That's odd, Istvan. You don't look so great.
Istvan: The room is stuffy.
Louis: Why don't you admit it?
Istvan: Admit what, my king?
Louis: Alex found out about the large sum of ducats in your home. Apparently, it's more than double your income. Care to explain where it came from?
Istvan: ....

Istvan suddenly runs out of the study. The king has posted two guards on the stairway but Istvan has the element of surprise by his side. With his dagger, Istvan made short work of the guards before running down the stairway. The king, upon seeing this, runs after him. By the time the king reaches the main floor, Istvan is nowhere to be found. Adrian, following close behind, runs to the barracks to alert the captain. Next, he returns to the king's side.

Adrian: Damn it, he got away. I didn't know he was that good with a dagger.
Louis: Neither did I.
Adrian: I'm surprised he didn't attempt to kill you.
Louis: He got too nervous that he only thought about escape.
Adrian: What now, my king?
Louis: I don't know. Istvan was the thief and, with him gone, we lost our only lead to the location of the chest.

Section I Concluded

Section II

Chapter 16 (part 1)

[February 13, 1356]

(Sandomierz, Poland)

Alwin and Zoltán have arrived in Sandomierz two ago already. Zoltán drunk too much the first day they arrived and, as a result, got them into a fight. The two men were nursing their injuries for a full day before they continue their trip to Hungary. The sun is shining now and Alwin checks around for supplies they need for their trip. As for Zoltán, he is searching around for beautiful women.

Zoltán: I'd say we should be encountering a beautiful maiden soon.
Alwin: What makes you say that?
Zoltán: Call it a gut feeling.
Alwin: What will you do if you meet one?
Zoltán: I will propose marriage, of course.
Alwin: That's quite unlikely.
Zoltán: Why?
Alwin: Even a sow would reject you.
Zoltán: Now that's harsh!

Zoltán bumps into someone. Zoltán looks and sees a beautiful woman on the ground. He quickly kneels down to help the woman up.

Zoltán: I apologize for my rudeness. My friend here was distracting me. Please forgive me.
Woman: It's fine.
Zoltán: Please give me a chance to earn your forgiveness. Maybe a wonderful dinner?
Woman: No, I'm fine. Don't worry about it.
Zoltán: You look like you are in distress. Maybe I can help you.
Woman: Who are you?
Zoltán: How silly of me. I am the well known Zoltán.
Woman: Never heard of you.

Zoltán runs into a alleyway to cry. Alwin walks up to the woman.

Alwin: I apologize for my friend. He is rather childish.
Woman: It's fine. Is your friend well known?
Alwin: Not really.

Zoltán cries even louder.

Alwin: I'll go comfort him.

Alwin pulls out some ducats.

Alwin: Go buy a beer.
Zoltán: I cannot believe my luck. She never even heard of me. I have nothing to live for anymore.
Alwin: I bet she's already got a husband.
Zoltán: Nice try there. I will not give up!

Zoltán runs up to the woman.

Zoltán: May I ask for your name?
Woman: It's Laura.
Zoltán: I know it's unexpected but will you be my wife.
Laura: I'm already engaged.
Zoltán: Nooooooooooo!

Zoltán runs back to the alleyway to cry. Alwin decides to get some beer for his friend. Zoltán quickly gulps down the beer before crying some more. Laura walks up to the two men.

Laura: I'm sure you'll find someone.
Zoltán: I will remember your kind words. Anyways, I'm sure I can help you. I'm a mercenary. Please tell me what you need help with.
Laura: I'm running from bad people with my brother. They wish to kill me.
Zoltán: That's horrible! I will not stand around idle while a beautiful maiden fears for her life. I will aid you free of charge!
Alwin: I thought you were going to help me.
Zoltán: You're a grown man. You don't need my help. Laura, let me help you.
Laura: Well, I don't know why but I feel I can trust you two.
Zoltán: Where are you and your brother headed?
Laura: We have been traveling around Poland to lose our enemies. We hope to make it to Buda to meet the king.
Zoltán: As luck would have it, our friend Alwin is heading there too. I guess fate brought us together.
Alwin: Yet fate won't give you a beautiful woman as a wife.
Zoltán: Fate is indeed cruel.

Section II

Chapter 16 (part 2)

[February 13, 1356]

(Buda, Hungary)

Viceroy Alex enters the king's study.

Louis: Alex, it's wonderful to have you here.
Alex: I heard about his escape. It's a shame we cannot capture him.
Louis: With his skills, I doubt we can capture him alive.
Alex: What are your plans then?
Louis: We need more leads. I've already sent soldiers to Istvan's house.
Alex: He won't be stupid enough to return there.
Louis: I'm hoping that we can find some clues there.
Adrian: May I enter, my king?
Louis: Yes, you may.

Adrian enters with an envelope in his hands. Adrian walks up to the king and hands him the envelope. King Louis begins reading.


Istvan,

I've received the chest. You have done well and I will reward you generously. Currently, I don't have a lot of funds available. However, I decided to give you what I could. Please take 500 ducats for now. You will expect the remainder shortly. Please avoid arousing the suspicion of the king. I have another job for you and I need you to stick to him like glue. Once you finish your second job, you will be a very rich man. You can go anywhere and live the rest of your life in luxury. We will speak again soon.

Nitram

The king ponders for a few seconds.

Louis: Any idea who this Nitram is?
Adrian: I don't think I know anyone that goes by that name in our court.
Alex: I'll be surprised if this person decides to use his real name.
Louis: We do know that this person is very wealthy. 500 ducats.
Adrian: If I were to guess, I would suspect someone in Partium.
Louis: Partium?
Adrian: There are many criminal organizations there. The bosses are usually quite wealthy.
Alex: I heard that some of them are richer than our king.
Louis: I wish I can remove them and take their wealth.
Alex: That would be a problem. They will hire mercenaries if they feel threatened. We could easily get into a civil war.
Louis: That's what Austria and Bohemia want, isn't it?
Alex: Maybe we should contact Martin.
Adrian: I wouldn't do that. There are rumors that he may have connections with the criminal organizations. We need someone who is new in the region.
Alex: How about that new mayor? I think Dominik is his name.
Louis: Can we trust he'll keep his mouth shut?
Adrian: With the right bribe, he will cooperate.
Louis: We can't send in people we can trust?
Alex: They are strangers there. They will attract attention.
Louis: Alright, I hope that you chose the right candidate.
Adrian: I will deal with this issue immediately.

Adrian leaves the room.

Alex: It's a problem, isn't it?
Louis: I need to know what secret is within the box. There must be something valuable if people are willing to pay so much for it.
Alex: I wish I knew as well. What does Nitram want with you?
Louis: Looks like things are getting interesting.
Alex: We should post more guards.
Louis: It's fine. With Istvan's cover blown, I doubt Nitram will strike anytime soon.

Section II

Chapter 16 (part 3)

[February 13, 1356]

(Sandomierz, Poland)

The moon has risen and both Zoltán and Alwin followed Laura to her temporary home. When the two men enter the compound, they see five men rising to their feet. The five men are armed and look ready to fight. Laura signals them to back down when another man enters the room.

Man: Sister! Why did you bring strangers here? Do you not know that we are trying to escape our enemies?
Laura: Brother, I know we can trust these two men. If they were our enemies, I would be dead by now.
Man: You are gullible sometimes. However, I guess you have a point. What can these two men do? They look like travelers that cannot hold their grounds against bandits.
Zoltán: Please don't insult us! I may no look like much but I can beat you in a duel easily.
Man: Really? You make me laugh. Old man, why don't you retire and start raising some sheeps.

Zoltán wants to lash out at the young man but Alwin holds him back.

Alwin: This is not a place for a fight. Cool it.
Zoltán: Tell that to him. The brat needs a proper lesson.
Man: What are you two blabbering about? Let this old man come at me. I will show him a thing or two about a duel.

After a brief hesitation, Alwin lets Zoltán go.

Zoltán: Tell me your name first. I like to know the names of people I defeat.
Man: I will tell you if you beat me.
Zoltán: Be ready for a beating.

Everyone in the room move to the edge of the room to give the two men some space. The two men carefully stare at each other and trying to measure the other's strength. The man charges first but Zoltán, a veteran, easily dodges it.

Man: Not bad, old man. I guess you can dodge ...

Before the man finishes his sentence, Zoltán moves in with his dagger resting on the man's neck.

Zoltán: Never lose focus. The second you do, you will lose your life.
Man: You are good. Fine, my name is Attila.
Zoltán: You want to the like the king of the Huns?
Attila: My father wants that. Unfortunately, I'm merely a fugitive right now. Why do you offer your service? You appear to be a mercenary.
Zoltán: I have my own reasons. Don't worry about it. Are these your guards?
Attila: Yes, they are. By the way, who's your friend there?
Zoltán: He's my travel buddy. Travelling can get lonely sometimes.
Attila: Will you two be parting ways then?
Zoltán: He's heading to Buda as well. He has something to deliver to the king of Hungary.
Attila: So God let us meet. Good, I don't mind. However, we cannot safely get to Buda without ridding our enemies.
Zoltán: How many are there?
Laura: When this all began, we knew that the mercenary group that was hired had about 50 men. As for now, we still suspect that there is still two dozens.
Zoltán: That's not too bad. With they searching for you, I bet they are stretched thin now. Why not find them and attack them instead?
Attila: With you in our party, we may just do that. Welcome! What's your name.
Zoltán: They call me Zoltán.

Section II

Chapter 17 (part 1)

[February 14, 1356]

(Sandomierz, Poland)

A man knocks on the door. After a few minutes, the old man inside opens a small opening. After looking through the opening, the old man opens the door wide enough for the man the enter.

Old man: Lukas, what brings you here? You do know what time it is, right? An old man like me needs his beauty sleep.
Lukas: It's rather urgent. I need your help. Plus, why would an old man need beauty sleep?
Old man: Don't underestimate what a bit of sleep can do. Anyways, what help do you need?
Lukas: Remember the new recruit that joined?
Old man: That youngster? I knew he was trouble. Why didn't you listen to me earlier?
Lukas: No, he was doing fine. Unfortunately, he got caught up in a fight and died. I want to know the group that killed him.
Old man: I'm surprised you are willing to avenge him.
Lukas: He grew on me. Plus, I don't like having a new group in the region.
Old man: What can you tell me about them?
Lukas: This group appear to be mercenaries. They are after a small group of people.
Old man: You should know that I cannot pull a rabbit out of the hat with this much information.
Lukas: From their accents, I would say they are Hungarian. Rough estimates put them at around two dozen men.
Old man: Hungarian mercenaries? I'd say that I just need this much information.
Lukas: Thank you, old man. I guess I will owe you one.
Old man: No need to thank me. I'm just doing my part. By the way, when will you marry Anna?
Lukas: ...
Old man: Stop blushing and tell me.
Lukas: ...
Old man: In a fight, you act like a man. When we speak of marriage, you act like mouse.
Lukas: I would rather not talk about it.
Old man: Did you two get into a fight?
Lukas: Yes.
Old man: That's normal.
Lukas: What do you know?
Old man: I've seen more than you. Just give it some time and you two will make up.
Lukas: When did I ask you to give me advices on my love life?
Old man: Your father asked me to do so before he died.
Lukas: ...

Section II

Chapter 17 (part 2)

[February 14, 1356]

(Sandomierz, Poland)

Zoltán and Alwin sit in the bar waiting for Attila. While they have their drinks, a man enters the bar. The man heads straight to the bartender and orders a drink.

Man: Have you heard about them yet?
Bartender: No. They haven't visited this bar since their last visit.
Man: Remember to tell me once you see them again. I want them taken cared of.
Bartender: Don't worry. By the way, are you going to pay for your drinks this time?
Man: Very funny! When was the last time I didn't pay?
Bartender: Two days ago.
Man: My friend was going to pay for it.
Bartender: Sure he will.
Man: You don't believe him?
Bartender: I don't believe you.

Someone shoves the door open and runs in. He heads toward the man.

Stranger: Lukas! I just saw them!
Lukas: Take me there! Now!
Bartender: Are you going to pay?
Lukas: Tomorrow, I promise.
Bartender: You better!

Lukas and the stranger quickly rush out of the bar. Meanwhile Zoltán and Alwin watch the entire scene with curiosity.

Alwin: Bartender, I guess that man is a regular here?
Bartender: Yes, he is. If only he can pay his bills on a more timely manner.
Alwin: You two must be close if you let him off that easily.
Bartender: Our father go way back. We grow up together.
Alwin: What came up that had him leaving so quickly?
Bartender: Aren't you too curious? They say curiosity kills.
Alwin: Sorry. I'm new to Poland and enjoy learning about the place. I didn't mean to intrude.
Bartender: I guess it wouldn't hurt to tell you. He has a friend that got killed lately. He wants revenge.
Zoltán: Revenge is a dangerous thing. You sure it's a good idea to not stop him?
Bartender: My friend is quite stubborn. You shouldn't try to talk him out.
Zoltán: Well, I think we had enough drinks for the day. I will pay the bill now.

Once Zoltán paid the bill, he leads Alwin out the bar.

Zoltán: Let's follow those two.
Alwin: Why?
Zoltán: Call it a gut feeling. Trust me on this and follow me.