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Post by FieldMarshal Bismarck on Jun 19, 2023 6:07:15 GMT -5
The great hall of Winterfell was alive with anticipation as the northern lords and their retinues gathered, filling the grand space with a sense of purpose and determination. Banners bearing the sigils of various houses fluttered proudly overhead, a visual testament to the unity that prevailed in the North. Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, stood at the head of the hall, his gaze sweeping across the assembled lords.
"My lords, I welcome you all," Eddard's voice boomed with authority, carrying the weight of his convictions. "Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in the history of the North. The realm has been shaken to its core, and the time has come for us to seize our own destiny."
The murmurs of agreement and anticipation rippled through the hall, echoing the sentiments shared by the northern lords. Their eyes were fixed on Eddard, their faith and trust resting upon his shoulders.
"Kings Landing, the seat of power, has fallen," Eddard continued, his voice resolute. "A tragedy has befallen the realm, as wildfire consumed the city, leaving ruin and chaos in its wake. But amidst the ashes, a new dawn has emerged. Rhaegar Targaryen now sits upon the Iron Throne as the king."
Some lords exchanged cautious glances, their loyalty to House Stark ingrained deep within their hearts. Many had lost sons or fathers fighting Rhaegar not long ago. But Eddard's tone remained steady and unwavering, his next words kindling a flame of hope.
"We have weathered the storms of war, endured losses and suffering. Now, we must turn our focus towards rebuilding and strengthening the North. Our lands are vast, our people resilient, and our resources abundant. Let us forge a path towards prosperity, unity, and unmatched strength."
A cheer erupted from the assembled lords, the hall shaking with their fervent applause. Eddard allowed a moment for their enthusiasm to subside before continuing.
"To achieve this vision, I call upon you, my trusted lords, to lend your wisdom, experience, and unwavering loyalty. Together, we shall create a future where the North stands as the strongest and most prosperous region in the realm where the blood of the first men reigns!"
Eddard's gaze swept across the hall, meeting the eyes of each lord individually, acknowledging their importance and contributions.
"Our priorities will be many," he declared. "We will rebuild our families, restore and expand our infrastructure and provide for the needs of our people while giving them the tools to succeed! We will invest in agriculture, trade, and education, fostering growth and innovation. We shall fortify our borders, ensuring the safety of our lands and people and hunt down those who seek to gain what is ours! And we will honor our ancestral traditions and values, preserving the unique identity of the North."
The hall buzzed with anticipation, the northern lords already envisioning the future that awaited them. Eddard's words had ignited a fire within their hearts, a shared determination to shape the North into a bastion of strength and prosperity.
"Let this council be the starting point of our journey," Eddard proclaimed, his voice filled with conviction. "Together, we shall write a new chapter in the history of the North. A chapter of resilience, unity, and greatness. The North remembers, my lords, and we shall make our mark upon the world."
Eddard Stark, the quiet and honorable Lord of Winterfell, had set the course for a new era, and the North stood ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
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Post by oznerol on Jun 19, 2023 10:47:58 GMT -5
Lord Wyman Manderly was sitting in what could be considered a throne, for no normal chair could withstand his powerful girth. He was wearing a magnificent doublet, in teal, heavily embroidered in gold and a livery badge with green hands interwined.
"Hail, hail, Lord Stark!"
Said the voluminous lord.
"You speak the truth. The North will always follow a Stark"
He added, nodding, the twin chins trembling with emotion as he said so.
"White Harbor is now the largest town in the Narrow Sea! Trade will flow, and with due support from you sire, it shall grow into a formidable city!"
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Post by Magnate Lucius on Jun 19, 2023 12:28:46 GMT -5
The thick bearded and brawny figure of Lord Karstark sat in his chair, listening to the words of his cousin, the Lord Eddard Stark. One of his nieces had already met with the Lady Lyanna, where rumors were abound of the renewed friendship between the now King Rhaegar and the heir that was born of Dragon and Wolf blood. Given the positive attitude of Lord Stark, these rumors must be true. Otherwise, Eddard wouldn’t be here nor would the North know peace.
The stern faced Rickard was nonetheless a loyal subject to the Lords of Winterfell. Quite the vision Eddard had for the North.
House Karstark is with you, cousin. Peace will help us grow once more.
Even as Winter came. There was already a chill in the air.
Karhold will do its best towards the effort of the North.
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 19, 2023 13:15:12 GMT -5
There were more than a few murmurs - Eddard had taken them off to war and met only defeat and ruin, and now returned north with what many saw as Southron ideas. Farmland in the north was neither plentiful nor fertile. It was a realm of pine and oak, a sparse wilderness largely untouched by the hand of industry. Holdfasts and villages were clustered around the major arteries of the rivers or the Kingsroad, with vast swathes of snow-capped mountains and pine-covered hills lying in between. The people were not traders or teachers. They were boisterous and fierce even in peace. But Eddard knew his people, and therefore would not have found any reticence surprising. Their priorities were their own bondsmen and kinsmen; the threat of Wildling raids or struggles with rival clans were their chief concerns.
“Aye, Lord Stark.” Said a Mormont, a big swarthy man in furs. “But what of the Ironmen, sniffing down our coast? What of Wildling bands with weapons and mail?”
Now another man stood wearing the Chained Giant.
“We do things our way, the way we always have. Our oath is to you, Lord Stark, but we want no part in new southern ways. Yer father dabbled in southern politics, and it got him killed.”
A few men nodded and murmured their agreement through their cups.
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Post by FieldMarshal Bismarck on Jun 19, 2023 15:38:50 GMT -5
Lord Wyman Manderly was sitting in what could be considered a throne, for no normal chair could withstand his powerful girth. He was wearing a magnificent doublet, in teal, heavily embroidered in gold and a livery badge with green hands interwined.
"Hail, hail, Lord Stark!"Said the voluminous lord. "You speak the truth. The North will always follow a Stark"He added, nodding, the twin chins trembling with emotion as he said so. "White Harbor is now the largest town in the Narrow Sea! Trade will flow, and with due support from you sire, it shall grow into a formidable city!"
Lord Eddard Stark listened attentively as Lord Wyman Manderly spoke with fervor and pride. The sight of the Manderly lord seated in his grandeur, his booming voice echoing in the hall, commanded attention. Eddard's gaze shifted briefly to the sigil of the green hands interwined on Lord Wyman's attire, a symbol of House Manderly's loyalty and strength.
As the words filled the air, Eddard couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope. White Harbor, the largest town in the Narrow Sea, thriving and poised to become a formidable city. The prospect of trade flourishing and the North's influence extending beyond its borders was a vision that resonated with Eddard.
In his mind's eye, he could see the potential, the possibilities that lay ahead. A prosperous North, with White Harbor as its economic hub, would bring wealth, stability, and opportunities for the people. It would strengthen their position and provide the means to better defend their lands and people against any future threats.
As Lord Wyman Manderly's voice trailed off, Eddard rose from his seat, his eyes scanning the gathered lords and ladies. The weight of their expectations rested upon him, but he knew he was not alone. The North stood united, ready to follow a Stark.
"In the days to come," Eddard began, his voice steady and resolute, "we shall forge a path that leads the North to prosperity and strength. Together, we shall build a future where our people thrive, where the North stands tall and resilient. Together with House Manderly we will expand White Harbor."
The room filled with murmurs of agreement, the atmosphere charged with anticipation. Eddard's gaze met Lord Wyman Manderly's, a silent acknowledgement passing between them. They shared a common goal, a shared determination to see the North rise.
The thick bearded and brawny figure of Lord Karstark sat in his chair, listening to the words of his cousin, the Lord Eddard Stark. One of his nieces had already met with the Lady Lyanna, where rumors were abound of the renewed friendship between the now King Rhaegar and the heir that was born of Dragon and Wolf blood. Given the positive attitude of Lord Stark, these rumors must be true. Otherwise, Eddard wouldn’t be here nor would the North know peace. The stern faced Rickard was nonetheless a loyal subject to the Lords of Winterfell. Quite the vision Eddard had for the North. House Karstark is with you, cousin. Peace will help us grow once more.Even as Winter came. There was already a chill in the air. Karhold will do its best towards the effort of the North.
Lord Eddard Stark's eyes met those of Lord Rickard Karstark, his kin and a stalwart ally of House Stark. The presence of House Karstark at the council held significant weight, as their loyalty and martial prowess were well-known throughout the North. Eddard acknowledged the words of support from Lord Karstark, a confirmation of their shared vision for the future of the North.
The mention of peace resonated deeply within Eddard. After the ravages of war and the bloodshed that had stained the lands, the prospect of peace brought a glimmer of hope. It was a chance for the North to heal, to rebuild, and to thrive once more.
As the winds of winter began to bite, Eddard understood the challenges that lay ahead. The harsh seasons could be unforgiving, but the resilience of the Northern people was renowned. With the support of houses like Karstark, the North would weather the storms that came their way. Winter is coming.
"I thank House Karstark for their unwavering loyalty," Eddard replied, his voice carrying the weight of his responsibilities. "Your dedication to the North and your pledge to contribute to our shared effort is deeply appreciated."
Eddard's gaze swept across the council chamber, where representatives from various houses were assembled. The unity displayed among them instilled a sense of confidence within him. The North was more than just a collection of individual houses; it was a collective strength, bound by honor, tradition, and the common goal of securing a prosperous future.
"We stand together, united in our purpose," Eddard continued, his voice carrying a note of determination. "Let us embrace this opportunity to build a North that thrives in peace and grows stronger with each passing day. House Karstark, I trust in your commitment, as I trust in the unwavering loyalty of all those gathered here. Winter is coming. A strong and united North will rise to meet the challenge."
The council chamber filled with a sense of solemn resolve, each house recognizing the significance of the moment. Eddard knew that the path to prosperity would not be without its challenges, but with the support and cooperation of houses like Karstark, the North had the potential to rise above adversity.
As the council proceedings continued, Eddard's thoughts turned to the people of the North, to the generations that would come after them. It was their future that they were shaping, a legacy that would endure long after their time. The weight of their responsibility settled upon Eddard's broad shoulders, but he stood tall, ready to lead and guide the North towards a brighter tomorrow.
There were more than a few murmurs - Eddard had taken them off to war and met only defeat and ruin, and now returned north with what many saw as Southron ideas. Farmland in the north was neither plentiful nor fertile. It was a realm of pine and oak, a sparse wilderness largely untouched by the hand of industry. Holdfasts and villages were clustered around the major arteries of the rivers or the Kingsroad, with vast swathes of snow-capped mountains and pine-covered hills lying in between. The people were not traders or teachers. They were boisterous and fierce even in peace. But Eddard knew his people, and therefore would not have found any reticence surprising. Their priorities were their own bondsmen and kinsmen; the threat of Wildling raids or struggles with rival clans were their chief concerns.
“Aye, Lord Stark.” Said a Mormont, a big swarthy man in furs. “But what of the Ironmen, sniffing down our coast? What of Wildling bands with weapons and mail?”
Now another man stood wearing the Chained Giant.
“We do things our way, the way we always have. Our oath is to you, Lord Stark, but we want no part in new southern ways. Yer father dabbled in southern politics, and it got him killed.”
A few men nodded and murmured their agreement through their cups.
Eddard listened to the concerns voiced by the Mormont and the Umbers. He understood the skepticism and wariness of his people, for the North had always held a sense of independence and pride in their own ways. The mention of the Ironborn raiders and the threat of Wildling incursions struck a chord with the Northern lords, reminding them of the constant challenges they faced.
He met their gaze, his eyes steady and filled with a quiet resolve. "I hear your concerns, my loyal bannermen," Eddard began, his voice firm yet tempered with understanding. "I did not return to the North with the intention of imposing new southern ways upon our lands. I know the strength of our traditions and the resilience of our people. I brought ruin... death. Now I seek to repay the debt. Winter is coming and house Stark will stand with its bannerman as we have for thousands of years."
He paused, his mind drifting momentarily to the memory of his father, Rickard Stark, and the choices that ultimately led to his demise. "My father's involvement in southern politics was a lesson learned, a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk beyond our borders. I have no intention of repeating those mistakes."
Eddard's gaze swept across the room, meeting the eyes of each man gathered there. "Our oath is to protect and uphold the North, to safeguard our lands and our people. It is a duty we bear with pride, and I will ensure that our way of life remains preserved."
He took a step forward, his presence commanding. "But let us not forget that the world is changing around us. The fall of King's Landing, the rise of King Rhaegar Targaryen, these events have reshaped the realm. We cannot isolate ourselves entirely. We must adapt, but in our own terms."
Eddard's words hung in the air, a quiet yet potent reminder of the delicate balance they needed to strike. "The Ironborn shall be dealt with, as they always have been when they dare to threaten our shores. The Wildlings too shall find no quarter within our lands. Our focus shall remain on the North, on our people, and on ensuring our prosperity and security. Each house will contribute. The Ironborn and Wildlings will meet Northern steel."
The murmurs and nods of agreement rippled through the room, the men recognizing the strength and conviction in Eddard's words. They were not being asked to abandon their ways or bend to the will of the South. Rather, they were being called upon to stand strong and united in the face of a changing world. So they could one day seize back their own destiny.
Eddard's hand clenched around the hilt of his dagger as he looked upon his bannermen. "I call upon each of you, my loyal lords, to continue to defend the North, to uphold our customs and traditions, and to forge a prosperous future for our people. The North remembers, and together we shall ensure that our legacy endures."
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Post by Magnate Lucius on Jun 19, 2023 19:43:55 GMT -5
FieldMarshal BismarckThey certainly had quite the issues popping up now. Ironborn reavers were renewing their presence along the Western coasts from Bear Island to the Shield Islands in the Reach. The Stark fleet was entirely on the other side, docked at White Harbor. Hopefully, Lord Stark might try to negotiate an agreement with the Southerners from the Westerlands and the Reach to help keep these pirates under control. Not to say the Manderly sailors were bad, but it would save them quite the trip otherwise. On the matter of Wildlings, a group of them had intruded and were just north of Last Hearth, Umber's lands, and were thus close to Karhold. Rickard had a suggestion to make. I may suggest, Lord Stark.His hand then gestured towards the immense and strong figure that was Lord Umber, Greatjon. Then over at the Mountain Clan chiefs. Myself, the Mountain Clans, and Umber can certainly handle these Wildling raiders. That way, you can focus on the more important plans you desire to make.Boltons and the Mountain Clans may want in, but surely, the levies of the three fiefs would be enough to send these barbarians back across the Wall. Rickard scratches his beard slightly. Winterfell won't have to worry with your northern most vassals dealing with them.
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Post by FieldMarshal Bismarck on Jun 20, 2023 17:25:53 GMT -5
Eddard's attention shifted to Lord Karstark as he made his input regarding the Wildling raiders. The mention of their encroachment on Umber's and Karstark's lands added a sense of urgency to the matter. Lord Karstark's proposal, supported by the involvement of House Umber and the Mountain Clans, offered a practical solution to deal with this immediate threat.
Eddard's gaze settled on Lord Karstark, recognizing the resolve in his voice. The idea of Karstark, Umber, and the Mountain Clans combining their forces to repel the Wildlings resonated with Eddard's strategic thinking. It would not only address the immediate concern but also demonstrate the strength and unity of the Northern houses.
"Your suggestion has merit, Lord Karstark," Eddard acknowledged, his voice firm and decisive. "House Umber and the Mountain Clans have long proven their prowess in defending the North. I trust in their capabilities to deal with the Wildling raiders."
Eddard's gaze shifted to Greatjon Umber and the representatives of the Mountain Clans, conveying his confidence in their martial skills. "I grant you the authority to mobilize your forces and drive the Wildlings back beyond the Wall. House Stark stands with you in this endeavor, and we shall offer our support in whatever form necessary. If needs arises."
Eddard's words carried the weight of his commitment to protect the North and its people. The unity among the Northern lords was crucial in facing the challenges that lay ahead. He knew that by entrusting House Umber, Karstark, and the Mountain Clans with this task, they would demonstrate the strength and resilience of the North against any threat.
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 21, 2023 6:52:12 GMT -5
”Authority? Hah! Wildlings were driven back by my own hand. Umber needs no help.”
Boomed a fierce and gigantic man that Eddard would know as the Greatjon, Lord of Last Hearth.
”What concerned me is that they carried good steel and chainmail, not their usual filthy rags and dirty bronze. Someone has been arming the Wildlings, and the Watch is too weak to defend their bloody gift.”
The Giant of Last Hearth threw a steel blade at the feet of Lord Stark; it was well made, a hand and a half sword with a black hilt and slender crossguard.
”This is what I found. You telling me they make this in the Frostfangs or the Haunted Forest?”
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Post by FieldMarshal Bismarck on Jun 21, 2023 10:58:02 GMT -5
Eddard's gaze fell upon the blade that lay at his feet, its dark hilt gleaming in the light of the council chamber. He could feel the weight of the Greatjon's words and the gravity of the situation.
He looked up, meeting the fierce gaze of the giant lord. "You raise a valid concern, Greatjon," I acknowledged, my voice steady and measured. "The presence of such well-made steel and chainmail among the Wildlings is troubling indeed. It suggests outside influence, someone arming them purposefully."
I crouched down and picked up the sword, examining it closely. The craftsmanship was superior, not the crude weaponry one would typically associate with the Wildlings. It spoke of organization and coordination, a force behind their actions.
"This blade," I said, raising it slightly for all to see, "is evidence that there are forces at work beyond the Wall, supplying the Wildlings with weapons and armor. We cannot ignore this threat, for it endangers not only our lands but the Night's Watch as well. This is why you will work together with the other houses lord Umber. Find out where when and how the wildlings got this steel."
I turned to face the council, my gaze sweeping over each lord and lady present. "We must strengthen the North and so strengthen the Watch, provide ourselves and them with the resources they need to defend the realm. If someone is arming the Wildlings, it is a direct challenge to our authority and the safety of the North."
There were murmurs of agreement from some, while others remained skeptical. The threat of the Wildlings and the unknown force behind them weighed heavily upon us all.
"We must gather more information," I continued, my voice resolute. "Lord Karstark, Umber and the mountain clans will work together. Send scouts beyond the Wall, infiltrate their ranks if necessary. We need to uncover the truth, to understand who is behind this arming of the Wildlings and what their ultimate intentions are. And when you do... you will seek justice."
As I spoke, I could sense the gravity of the situation sinking in, the realization that the North faced a new and dangerous enemy.
"The North has always stood strong in the face of adversity," I declared, my voice filled with conviction. "We will not falter now. Together, we will protect our lands, our people, and the integrity of the Night's Watch. This is our duty, our responsibility as lords and ladies of the North."
Silence fell over the council chamber as the weight of our task settled upon us. We would uncover the truth, confront the hidden enemy, and secure the safety of our lands. The North would not yield, for we were bound by duty and honor, and our resolve would be unyielding.
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Post by Magnate Lucius on Jun 21, 2023 21:03:02 GMT -5
Rickard looks over at Greatjon, a man of stubborn pride and a strong resolve. A man of the North through and through, considering the ancient bloodline of his family.
Don't consider this suggestion as you needing help, Lord Umber.
Karstark speaks before stroking his thick beard.
More like a hunt for all the northernmost lords of the Stark lands to enjoy.
A big grin appeared on the Lord of Karhold's face. Besides, he had a thought to smooth things over with Greatjon. A way for him to feel more like an equal than the two of them competing for who was best. But, then again, that was Northmen, the competition of the strongest.
Karhold can't certainly let Last Hearth be alone in aiding the Wall. All of us Northerners have kin that have served the Night's Watch for centuries!
There were certainly nods and murmurs of agreement among the gathered.
Besides... if these damned Wildlings got castle steel in their grasp, certainly would make the hunt more interesting together, wouldn't you agree, Greatjon?
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