Ernst Hirschler

[Dronaw]

*My last word flies out and I stand there surprised. Surprised about myself to do this intervention but also about the Komtur and the others who do nothing just listen. I'm ready to answer the captain when the Komtur's word freeze me for a moment.*

<Wow, that was really powerful! But I mastered the situation there was no need for this. If I hadn't intervened many people would die. But after I make them calm and try to save the day he steals the show.>

*We cross the island to Vencel's palace. I pay attention to go next to Anselm not before or after him. The people know me so it's a wise idea to make them believe that I'm in level with the Komtur. We go inside the palace. It's just as I remembered nothing changed. The only difference now is that Vencel seems to be a little worried. The Komtur words surprise me but make me proud of myself so I start immediately. Tho' I always had to knee before the great prince when I met hit, now it's a different situation. Now I can negotiate in equal grounds or even better but I also know that I have to make him believe that we don't want to harm his interests. Frightening is not a way we can make him obey. As Vencel used Latin I will do the same.*

- /Lat/ Great Prince Vencel, ruler of the Hungarian! I'm Ernst Hirschler the son and merchant of your old friend, Klaus Berger from Salzburg. I'm here to protect my Sire's interests which always met with yours in this country. We are the vanguard of the crusade and we only want to ensure that they will have no trouble marching through these lands. I'm sure you understand our situation and you mean no harm to us. But someone wants to ruin our agreement, someone, who maybe wants to use us to destroy you for him so he can take over your kingdom. Unfortunate for him I know you and I know you are a wise person. I know you would never move against us. But my comrades need assurance so I bring them here. But back to the point! Someone in your name made an ambush on us. We would like to know what do you know about that force gathering near your town. They are our common enemies!
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Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*At the very least, the intervention of Ernst certainly catches the attention of everyone. No one tries to interrupt, or brush him aside. Perhaps he's starting to garner a modicum of respect? Or is it merely the power of the moment?
Anselm stares back at him, pondering. It is still unclear whether he understands the language, but if it's up to Ernst's judgement, he probably isn't.
The mercenary captain cackles out.*

-/Hun/ Ah, a familiar voice! And who might these "knights" be? Your armed escort?!

-/Lat/ Begone!

*Thunders the voice of the Komtur, immediately freezing the grin on the captain's face.*

-/Lat/ A-awright...

*He slowly backs away. His men seem practically relieved that he finally relented, averting their violent deaths. The Kindred are fully aware how merciful Anselm has been using that Discipline instead of his man-sized sword.
Nevertheless, the entire night guard now follows the crusaders, with hasty footsteps. The island is not large and the estate is rather close, already visible due to the rich illumination. It was built in Italian style, with multiple storeys and rich decorations made of a large amount of materials - both wood, stone and metal.*

-/Hun/ Let them in...

*Grumbles the guard captain to the warriors by the door, who reluctantly obey and show the dismounted crusaders in. The majority of the ghouls remain outside, but a handful of them, and the entire number of Kindred move in, straight through the elegant corridors to the "throne room" of Vencel. Surprisingly, it is much less glitchful, sporting only a handful of bust statues, silk curtains, Persian carpets, paintings and a small fountain. Very humble...
The man is in his fourties, perhaps late thirties by mere appearance, though it is well-known for Ernst he's at least two centuries old. His friendly, shaved face, usually so jovial and agreeable is now beset by the shadows of surprise, outrage and anger.*

-/Lat/ What is the meaning of this unannounced barge-in? Who the hell are you?!

*This is when he notices the symbols of the Black Cross. And falls silent in recognition. The captain tries to save the moment somewhat by a handful of careful words while the Komtur and his fellow knights survey the situation with either a serious frown, or delighted amusement on their faces.*

-/Lat/ Sire... forgive me... resisting would only have led to bloodshed. And a much worse bargaining positi-...

*The Prince interrupts.*

-/Lat/ Let them speak.

*After a moment of silence, the Komtur, still as driven as ever, and to the surprise of many in attendance, turns to Ernst again.*

-/Lat/ Present our case, brother.
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[Dronaw]

*Sophia and Albrecht leave with the wolves. One of my half feels sorry because I would like to get known those beasts better but my other half is glad that they are not around. I only feel sorrow for Albrecht as he is now alone with those creatures and Sophia but he is a superb fighter, he will be okay. We begin our ride to the island but the Komtur doesn't choose the shortest way.*

<Well, I'm sure he doesn't know this place well but why cannot he ask for guidance? I'm sure Csongor also knows the way to our destination.>

*As he calls me to ride with him, I ride forward. I think about talking with him not to march into Vencel's residence but as I look at him I know that at this time I can do nothing. Maybe at the right place at the right time I can turn the wheel into the right position. As we ride next to the Danube some remembrance come to my mind. Spring near this beautiful and powerful river. All in all I like the sprig best when Nature refreshes himself. And here near this river spring always surprise me with wonderful events. But now it's winter and we are marching into a useless battle. Or not! We reach the bridge and the Komtur answers too fast I cannot interact but I ride next to him as the first question rings out. Tho' I also pull my weapon I still hope that we can do this without using force. As the Komtur answers again I cannot wait further. Tho' I ask him I will continue my words. I must try to make them calm.*

- /Ger/ Please, Anselm, let me try!

Awe (Char+Exp diff 7) +1 Willpower

Dobás:

Eredeti dobás sorozat: 6d10 Rögzített 10-Sided Dice Results: 4, 5, 6, 8, 2, 8 (Total = 33)

- /Hun/ I am Ernst Hirschler the merchant of Klaus Berger from Salzburg and Lord Jürgen from Magdeburg. You know me as I traded with you for ages. We don't come to fight we only want to speak with your Prince Vencel Rikárd. The remaining of the trade routes and the good neighbourhood are essential to both of us. You all know I speak the truth! So I ask you, followers of Vencel, let us handle this misunderstanding in a peaceful way!

*While talking I move a little closer so Anselm's horse is a little backward. I'm sure I can handle this problem!*
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Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*Finally, it's time to drang nach Osten again, and the mighty crusaders leave behind the furry monsters and the two souls unfortunate enough to be stuck with them. The aim is the Island of Hares, the residence of Prince Vencel Rikárd of Clan Ventrue, current vampiric ruler of the towns of Óbuda, Buda and Pest.
The horses rumble through the outskirts, passing the many snowed wheat fields and tiny peasant houses by, eventually reaching the towns themselves. Though Ernst knows his way around rather well, it seems the Komtur wishes to waste no time with directions and pursue the obvious, unmistakable route: straight to the river and then follow it until they arrive.
With a shout and a hand gesture, he also calls the one with local knowledge forward.*

-/Ger/ Ride with me, Herr Ernst!

*The Danube, as usual in the winter, is frozen, but not quite frozen, its gigantic plates of floating ice would make any attempts at crossing in anything but the strongest and sturdiest of watercraft nigh-suicidal. The Komtur knows this, and so does Vencel. Taking this road instead of through the town itself might also serve the element of surprise, preventing Vencel from burning the sole wooden bridge, although if he really is behind all this, then he will certainly expect a response in force already.
Luckily for the Black Cross, as soon as the island comes into view, its small bridge, too, stands there intact. Tiny spots of light indicate the presence of a moderate guard on the far side, but the horses - about two at a time - are able to climb the bridge without any opposition.
Riding right beside Anselm, the Hand of Jürgen, Ernst suddenly realizes just how important and decisive the following couple of minutes are going to be; as well as this entire journey, hell-bent on writing history. The rest of the knights are following closely. The bridge groans out in burden. But it endures.*

-/Hun/ Heeey! Who the Devil approaches at this hour?! 'Ooold it right there!

*The night guard is vigilant, it seems, for they've already blocked the bridge exit with about half a dozen men in heavy armour and shields, and about the same number is scrambling to fall in line as well.
Not quite a standard weeknight watch. But it isn't quite a defensive army either.
Whether he understands the unwitting insult or not, Anselm immediately replies in kind; in the Church-tongue and with all due kingly Ventrue majesty.*

-/Lat/ Minions of Prince Vencel, we are Knights of the Black Cross on the mandate of Lord Jürgen of Magdeburg himself! We demand that you lay down your arms and let us through to your lord immediately!

*While most of them are taken by fear and awe, not so the guard captain and his two associates, standing in the front. Perhaps fellow Cainites? At any rate, his response is sharp and not exactly void of all sarcasm...*

-/Lat/ Ah, forgive us, o, brave knights, but my messenger pidgeon here says you were not announced!

*This, of course, pulls certain strings.
The Komtur and many others behind him and Ernst pull their weapons.*

-/Lat/ I shall give you one more chance to remove yourselves on your own free will... then by God, we'll run you into the ground!

*The situation is... explosive, as it were.*
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[Dronaw]

-/Ger/ Karl, I'll need you at the meeting tonight. Polish my ceremonial armor and yours too.

<I hate that armor but for a crusader meeting ... I have to>

-/Ger/ I'll be back before midnight, then we will depart for the meeting.

*I leave my residence, and head towards the south gate, as usual. My body demands provision again.*

<I have to eat before the appointment>

*As I used to eat a few times since I arrived, it's only a routine to find a ploughman, and ease my hunger. Although they leave outside of the city, I have time after it to sit down for a while at the bank. Before midnight I go back to Karl and put on my plates. He already finished with his.*

<Why do I need this sword? Okay, it looks good, but I don't like it!>

*I buckle on my sword, and we depart to the meeting.*

Continued
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Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

-/Ger/ As you wish. Please be careful out there, Sire.

*The acknowledgement of Ernst's wishes comes as swiftly and simply as usual from Karl, the staunch servitor bodyguard. Bowing their heads, they both disappear into the Magdeburg night.
Time to leave.
Casually walking through the city towards the gates, Ernst can most definitely detect an increase in traffic, as compared to previous nights. In fact, the town almost appears to be a beehive. A patrol here, a fancy Italian carriage there, a group of riders over yonder. The preparations are evident.
As Ernst leaves by the south gate, it begins to snow again, lightly and gently, in a quite likeable way. He makes his way to his favourite spot while realizing it's freezing cold out here; and that it no longer matters at all. In a certain irony of fate, even though he cannot gaze upon the sun-lit lands of God's Earth anymore, he's able to endure far harsher conditions of mother nature than he could ever dream of while alive.
Potentially, if he plays his cards well... eternally.

The concept of eternity just might be one of the many thoughts going through his mind as he sits and watches idly at the river bank. A fish flapping. A fox yelping. A deer wandering nearby. Not having a living scent anymore also makes these animals much less likely to flee before he can see them. Again, a wonderful gift, a blessing.
Throughoutly snowed-in now and the sun starting to rise soon, Ernst himself also rises from his place of rest, simply dusting the snow off and walking back to Magdeburg for a well-deserved sleep.
The next night, or rather, afternoon, given the season, awaits him with the growing realization of his growling stomach. Not having fed in a while begins to take its toll; he is no Elder yet. Other than preferably taking care of that, there is also the issue of how to dress for the coming occasion, what to wear and what to make the servants wear.
Worst of all, he doesn't even know yet what these Black Cross crusaders are precisely up to this night. But he'll see.
Soon.*
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[Dronaw]

*As I step out of the cathedral, I take a deep breath.*

<Finally, I hate that mass of people.>

*I send Karl and Irene home to rest, as I mainly have task for them after sunrise. I leave Magdeburg and go to my well-known resting place at the river bank, far from the city. Although there are no hills to command a fine view, I’m still able to sit hours at the bank just watching the running water and the wild life in it. In these weeks I scouted the nearby area and found this place the best for... well, just to be.*

<Tomorrow midnight… Finally!>

* I give a sigh. *

<Finally, I will leave this crowded city, this mass is unbearable. I hate to stay long in the same area, which sets back my search for God. My journey here from Salzburg wasn't that interesting as I first thought. How happy I was when my Sire said that he has a task for me. A task to travel here to find my companions, then continue to the Holy Land. Well, I don’t really care about the Holy Land. Humans don't know where to find God. They don't understand the majesty of nature. They cannot see what's right before their eyes. But this journey will be a good opportunity to find God, or at least His greatness in nature.>

*A fish drew my attention by flapping near me. *

<What a perfect creation for swimming! This also proves His almightiness.>

*I stay at the bank for a while, and go back to my room just in time to avoid the sun.*

<I'll go back to the bank, hopefully the last time tomorrow night, before the meeting. And then come what may.>

*As I fall asleep, my two servants begin their duty.*

[Freiherr von Rosen]

"The wish to acquire more is admittedly a very natural and common thing; and when men succeed in this, they are always praised rather than condemned. But when they lack the ability to do so and yet want to acquire more at all costs, they deserve condemnation for their mistakes.
Entrepreneurs are simply those who understand that there is little difference between obstacle and opportunity, and are able to turn both to their advantage."

- Niccolò Machiavelli


*****





-/Lat/ Forever and ever; Amen.

*What a brilliant Sunday, what a beautiful mass. The very presence of this place is astonishing, lifting the spirits of any true Christian with monumental architecture, breathtaking stained glass windows in a miriad colours, statues and depictions of the Virgin and the Saints, powerful, commanding acoustics and the truly blessed service of the ancient-old archbishop, Wichmann von Seeburg personally leading the mass.
To be sure, the only slight inconvenience might be the overwhelming presence of a great many large, brutish soldiers, many of whom are also "Damned" (although the term "Blessed" is certainly gaining in popularity these nights), bringing their servants along, not unlike Ernst Hirschler, proud Ventrue and dutiful church-goer.
This "church", however, is the Grand Cathedral of the City of Magdeburg in all its majesty and pomp, and the midnight mass celebrated tonight was practically a war sermon. The archbishop took pains to emphasize the importance of discipline and steadfastness in faith; to stand firmly against one's sinful desires on the inside and the whole world, if needed, on the outside. Naturally, some people were more inclined to hear the latter part of that particular sentence, especially since the vast majority was already preparing for a great Crusade said to set off when spring finally blooms. Holy war is in the air, and the Church incites it like a good blacksmith does his forge.

For Ernst, however, this Crusade, this opportunity just might start earlier than for the rest. His Sire, the honourable and much-esteemed Klaus Berger decided that he'd repay a favour to the higher-ups of the local Clan, particularly a certain Black Cross knight he was indebted to. The debt would be settled, the Crusaders would gain a shrewd and valuable counselor and Ernst would get to fulfill his desire of seeing the world. Everybody wins.
Knowing he will be required to accompany a vanguard of the coming Crusade, the young Ventrue has already arrived in Magdeburg several weeks earlier. Others might have found the waiting boring, but he certainly appreciated almost every aspect of this old merchant town (and well, military fortress), whose good name, trading fame and town law have spread its influence far and wide in Europe.

Living in an elite room of the relatively luxurious Golden Sceptre Inn, Ernst could afford himself to see the town from every side and angle, as well as to make important connections among locals both mortal and undead. But it was soon time to leave this place. Tomorrow at midnight, he is to attend the gathering of the Black Cross Order, where he'll ceremonially take up the Cross and meet his fellow companions in Magdeburg Castle. Thus, he has about twenty-two hours, to be exact.
His head full in thoughts, he and his personal servants, Karl and Irene step out of the majestic cathedral at the backdrop of holy chores. He still has no idea why the elder vampires tend to avoid going to mass, for it is both an affront against God and frankly, missing out on a wonderful experience. Ah well. Here he is, with half the night still before him and no appointments to meet whatsoever.*

Ambience
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[Freiherr von Rosen]

The discovery of new horizons by a young merchant under a banner of glory.
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