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Thread: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

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    Default Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford




    Golden Tooth Castle
    Seat of House Lefford



    Characters Present

    Lord Harmund Lefford, Lord of Golden Tooth
    Raymar Lefford, Heir of Golden Tooth
    Ser Ulfric of Sarsfield, Bodyguard of Lord Harmund
    The entire 7,500 strong Lefford Levy is massed at the castle.

    Golden Tooth Castle


    Golden Tooth Castle is the seat of House Lefford, and is an imposing fortress built on high ground in the mountain pass. Its high, imposing walls look east, up the valley into the Riverlands: passage along the road is impossible without the agreement of the Lord of Golden Tooth, as the fortress stands along the only road through the pass.

    Bonuses:
    73,500 Dragons income (70,000 as a Very Rich Province + 5% income bonus from Lord Harmund Lefford)
    +1 siege when attacked from the east.
    -1 siege when attacked from the west.



    The commanding position of the castle within the pass enables easy control of the surrounding area as well as security: behind the fortress walls running across the valley, a town has sprung up. The Town of Golden Tooth is small compared to the likes of Lannisport or Oldtown, but large enough to get lost in. The town is characterised by its surroundings: a large number of miners live there, and the market bustles with standard fare like food and clothing to the more specialist like hardened headgear and mining attire. Many blacksmiths ply their trade in the streets of the town, forging the pickaxes and spades the mines consume, and there are more engineers to be found here than in many towns thrice the size.

    There is little space for farming in the pass, and this is reflected in the town itself: meats are plentiful, harvested from the many sheep and goat herds kept on the slopes of the mountains and in the many small tributary valleys that feed the pass. Grain is imported from the Riverlands and Westerlands, making the roads busy with commerce: grain merchants travel back and forth amongst crowds of would-be prospectors and merchants from far-off lands going to or from Lannisport.

    The gold economy makes the area fairly wealthy, with the town and castle kept in good repair. A lively market and plethora of boarding houses attracts many from the surrounding area seeking their fortunes in the mines or market, and the safety offered by the large number of sellswords working the gold caravans means bandits and highwaymen are rarely a trouble.



    In addition to the main fortress of Golden Tooth, a small network of guard posts exist along the road as places for the valuable gold caravans to stop for the night in safety, often garrisoned by no more than a dozen men which, though small, would considerably bolster the ranks of sellswords should bandits ever strike gold caravan nearby. These exist on both sides of the valley, though with the small amount of gold that goes east from Golden Tooth, some question the true purpose of the watchtowers near the Riverlands: Harmund is a way man, ever cautious.



    Last edited by Poach; February 26, 2013 at 01:59 PM.

  2. #2

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Alfred's audience with the Lords of Castamere left more questions than answers. If the Lannisters were losing their tenuous grip on the Westerlands, Waldo would want to know. Furthermore, the unsettling would no doubt cripple the Westerland's ability to wage war effectively, or to defend itself. Too much of the Frey income relied on the status of the trade lanes west. Seaguard's banners seemed to be crisscrossing the Westerlands of late...so Alfred had them lowered lest they be suspected of something...like promoting insurrection.

    The party approached Goldentooth, requesting an audience with Lord Lefford.

  3. #3
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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Alfred's arrival at the gate caused mild interest amongst the guards: a party bearing no visible banners requesting to see the Lord. They didn't look like merchants or petitioners, but most nobles tended to fly their banners. After a short wait, Ser Ulfric appeared atop the walls, gazing down at the party.

    "An armed party seeking audience with Lord Lefford", he bellowed, "an interesting event in interesting times. What business have you here, strangers?"

  4. #4

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    The banner of Seaguard was unfurled from a spear carried by a rider as Alfred called out to the man above

    "I am Lord Frey of Seaguard, I come seeking an audience with Lord Lefford of Goldentooth to discuss certain events of the realm as well to make mutually beneficial agreements."

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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Ulfric, without saying a further word, departed the battlements. After a few moments, the sound of shouting could be heard behind the great wooden doors, shortly followed by creaking and groaning as the doors were slowly swung open, revealing Ulfric standing in the centre of the road.

    "Lord Lefford will see you. If you'll accompany me to the keep, my Lord." said Ulfric as the party moved through the archway.

    The party passes through the castle into the central keep, drawing intrigued looks from all manner of guards, retainers, stewards and others. Doors swung open before them, and before long they found themselves in the castle's Great Hall, where Lord Lefford sat in his chair at the head of the room in front of a wall-sized banner of the Lefford arms. Raymar watched from the balconies above. Ulfric stopped at the door to the Hall.

    "Lord Frey of Seaguard, my Lord!" he announced loudly, as he motioned Lord Frey into the room. He stayed by the door, standing next to one of the guards at the back of the room.

    "Greetings, Lord Frey. You have travelled far from your home to be gracing these halls. I can arrange food and lodgings for your party if you are in need of it. What brings you to Golden Tooth?" ​said Harmund as Lord Frey walked across the room.

  6. #6

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    So this is how the other half lives...
    The Frey party made their way through the town, arriving at the keep. Alfred couldn't help but notice the stares, they obviously looked a bit bedraggled from riding on the road for so long.
    Let them think we're dangerous, dour, or even grim.

    Upon reaching the keep, the Frey party unhorsed and entrusted their mounts of the half dozen or so stable boys that rushed to greet them One help his hand out for a coin, at which point one of the Frey honor guard produced a fish head, no doubt from his morning breakfast, and tossed it into the boy's hand with a loud guffaw. If he was expecting a coin he wouldn't get it from a Riverman. Alfred ignored the behavior and made ready to meet with the Lord Lefford. He heard the bailiff announce their arrival in the hall and Alfred mounted the steps and made his way into the hall.

    "We thank you for your hospitality, Lord Lefford. I've just come from Castamere. I come with offers of trade between us. If we can secure your goodwill I would also be willing to share information you may find pertinent to the good governance of the Westerlands. News from King's Landing is grim, even without mention of the invasion."
    Last edited by Pontifex Maximus; February 26, 2013 at 10:07 AM.

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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    "But of course, Lord Frey. Trade is always welcome along the River Road, and who better to trade with than the road's namesake people!" laughed Harmund, "I'll have a clerk draw up an agreement to which I shall affix my seal gladly."

    At that statement an aide was sent from the room to summon a scribe. The exact details of the trade were briefly discussed between the two parties: right of way along the roads, protection, investments for bridges and embankments to aid in the flow of traffic, and trading rights between the various towns along the road itself. The topic turned to more serious matters.

    "You talk of news worse than the invasion of Cracklaw? I could hardly think of worse! Still, no word comes from House Lannister regarding a mobilisation: the invasion must surely be overstated in magnitude if the King sees fit to leave it to the Bannermen of the Crownsland!" he jested, before leaning forward and adopting a more serious tone, "Tell me, Lord Frey, what dark news do you bring?"

  8. #8

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Lord Rhalion Greystark of Moat Cailin arrives at the Golden Tooth. He comes with a few trusted guards, 20 men in total. The come with the black silver and maroon hues of the Greystark banner flying behind them.

    Rhalion looks at the pass smiling. It had been a fun journey. The men around him were now familiar to him as brothers. Rhalion was never brash or concerned with the formalities of stature. It was a trait he adopted from his father. In their eyes men were equal. A mans actions seperate him from those around him, not birth. So as he looked at the pass he continued to smile.
    I wonder what these Westermen will be like.

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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    The discussions between Lords Lefford and Frey are briefly interrupted by an aide from the raven roost of the castle. A short message from one of the eastern guard towers says a small party bearing what appears to be Greystark banners are riding down the road. They number somewhere near two dozen men, and their intentions are unknown. Harmund privately wonders if they are connected in some manner to the Frey party: are they the reason the Freys rode without banners? He folds the note up and continues listening to the news being conveyed by Lord Frey. While Ulysses pauses to drink from his wine cup, Harmund quickly scrawls instructions onto a piece of parchment, handing it to the guard and motioning towards Ulfric.

  10. #10

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Quote Originally Posted by Poach View Post
    "But of course, Lord Frey. Trade is always welcome along the River Road, and who better to trade with than the road's namesake people!" laughed Harmund, "I'll have a clerk draw up an agreement to which I shall affix my seal gladly."

    At that statement an aide was sent from the room to summon a scribe. The exact details of the trade were briefly discussed between the two parties: right of way along the roads, protection, investments for bridges and embankments to aid in the flow of traffic, and trading rights between the various towns along the road itself. The topic turned to more serious matters.

    "You talk of news worse than the invasion of Cracklaw? I could hardly think of worse! Still, no word comes from House Lannister regarding a mobilisation: the invasion must surely be overstated in magnitude if the King sees fit to leave it to the Bannermen of the Crownsland!" he jested, before leaning forward and adopting a more serious tone, "Tell me, Lord Frey, what dark news do you bring?"
    Frey gave a glimmer of a smile but it quickly dissolved

    "The Reynes of Castamere are investigating the Lannisters' connection to crimes in King's Landing...murders. They seem to believe the Lannisters have played a hand in notable assassinations. They are pursuing these investigations tenaciously and they are beginning to gather support. If the Lannisters are exposed as guilty, the Lord Regent may very well declare them enemies of the throne."

    (trade = income 1 + income 2 /10)

  11. #11

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Tygett Lannister, Heir to the Rock, arrives at the head of a small group of Lannister retainers. They fly the banners of house Lannister; Tygett is dressed in ordinary court clothes with the addition of riding boots, although he does wear a sword. His retainers are armed and prepared for any assault or obstacle. The group request entry to the golden tooth.

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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    (Harmund's income from Golden Tooth is 73,500 Dragons)

    Harmund hid the feeling of great concern he felt at this news. If these allegations were true a very large host may soon be marching down River Road for Lannisport. With whom does Harmund's loyalty finally lie? With House Lannister or with the Crown? Murder is a serious crime, moreso for a Lord of a Great House. That said, the Reynes may simply be making a play for power in the Westerlands. Harmund feared dark times were approaching.

    "What evidence is there of this? Who supports the Reynes?" asked Harmund, eager to acquire as much information has possible before playing his hand.

    Ulfric and the bulk of the castle guard had assembled in the courtyard, making the Frey party anxiously finger their sword hilts. Ulfric walked towards them alone.

    "You have nothing to fear, Freys. We're not gathered for you."said Ulfric confidently to the assembled Frey band, who looked visibly relieved.

    "Half of you remain in the courtyard here, the rest of you accompany me to the main gate" he shouted at the assembled guardsmen as he walked through them towards the main gate "Keep an eye on the Freys, Lord Harmund has reason to believe there may be trouble afoot" he muttered to the Guard Captain taking charge of the courtyard group as he passed. The guard hastily nodded to Ulfric and had his men gather in front of the keep door.

    Ulfric marched out the front gate, still open from the Frey party arrival, with the bulk of his guard, before ordering the gate closed. The man-sized door on the gate was left unlocked in case a hasty retreat was needed. The archers lined the walls above the gate and stood atop the towers overlooking the approach road. Ulfric unsheathed his Greatsword and rested it on his shoulder, standing before the assembled Castle Guard, awaiting the arrival of the Greystark party which was passing by the town on the valley floor.

    As the party drew closer, it quickly became apparent this was not the Greystark party that the guard tower had sent warning of. These banners were Lannister banners: Ulfric approached the group and addressed the well-dressed of the group.

    "Forgive the display, Lannisters. You were not the party we were expecting to meet at these gates. My Lord is currently entertaining a guest, who is discussing important matters with him. You are welcome to saddle your horses and quench your thirst while I inform Lord Harmund of your arrival."
    Last edited by Poach; February 25, 2013 at 03:15 PM.

  13. #13

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Tygett smiled courteously at ulfric as he dismounted, his men doing the same.


    I thank you Ser, I surely will.

    And with that, the Lannister men began leading their horses into the stables, the retainers making sure to bow their heads to ulfric as they walked past.

  14. #14

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    My Lord! There is a Lannister party at the gates ahead of us! Ser Ronnel shouted to Rhalion as they began to approach the gate.


    It looks like we have arrived to a party, go and herald our approach Ronnel. And make sure they know this is a peaceful trade meeting! I do not want anyone getting out of sorts expecting some Northern raid. Kilgore would break my nose! He jested. He was too excited to sit still. It was his first meeting with a Lordly House as a Lord of a city. Even if it was just as a title and he was more of his brothers Castellan.

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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Ulfric grumbled to himself. So many Lords in one place, usually that meant a wedding or a gathering of armies, and he was sure someone would have told him of either by now if it were so. A rider of the Greystark party approached the assembled guards, the younger and more nervous of whom readied themselves, as if one rider would attack a few dozen infantrymen. Ulfric casually drew a deep breath, Greatsword still resting against his shoulder, and bellowed out his challenge.

    "The timing of your arrival concerns my Lord. State your business, Greystark!"

    The rider reined his horse hard, clearly surprised at the armed company assembled infront of the now-closing gates and the archers gazing down from the walls.

    The guards in the central courtyard watched the Lannisters carefully: both they and the Frey party eyed each other as they caught sight of their opposites. Ulfric had been scant on the details of what trouble to expect, putting both the Captain and his guards on edge. He hoped there would not be a clash in the courtyard, as by oath he would have to cut down the Freys who had arrived in peace and thus far done nothing except dash the hopes of a rather bold stable hand.

    [ooc: I'll have to conclude the chat with Ponti before I can move any of this forward and he's currently offline. I apologise for any wait incurred. As far as RP goes I guess Frey and Harmund would be finishing their conversation as the Lannisters enter the castle, so once Ponti and I finish up I'll advance it from that moment in time: Lannisters coming through the gates and Ulfric challenging the Greystark rider]
    Last edited by Poach; February 25, 2013 at 04:08 PM.

  16. #16

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Ser Ronnel almost fell from his horse, and his usual good nature dropped.
    Well my Lord Rhalion Greystark was coming for business of trade. But he did not presume to meet with hostility. Its a good thing he is far enough back to not know this ever happened. Though... He does apologize for not sending word earlier of our coming. Now please, I've not drawn my weapon. I'd ask of you, Lord, your name and to please put the bows down. There's 20 of us and your walls are strong, we can leave if you wish.

  17. #17

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    "There's no hard evidence to show other than a letter, which I've kept safe. The Reynes seek support, they sought it in the Riverlands at least and the seven know where else. Its possible I was their sole confidant. I'm sure you understand the position this puts you in. If the Lannisters are guilty, a big if, supporting them could be directly dangerous if the Reynes can convince the crown."

    Alfred paced a bit, his hands behind his back.

    "I'm not telling you this so you're simply up to date with the gossip. It is in my interests that the Westerlands remain more or less intact. I have nothing to lose if the Lannisters fall, but the Reynes and now Goldentooth constitute a sizable amount of Seaguard's income through trade. This makes me naturally unfavorably disposed to the Lannisters."
    Last edited by Pontifex Maximus; February 26, 2013 at 10:07 AM.

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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Harmund considered his position carefully. Playing his hand too early could prove disastrous, while waiting too long could see him painted as guilty by association. House Lefford had no great influence in Kings Landing: it was not a Great House, merely a banner to accompany the Lannister Lion in battle, so Harmund's options were limited.

    He resolved to play it safe, as he usually did.
    "Thank you for this information, Lord Frey. As the guardian of the mountain pass, I will continue to perform my duty while this investigation is underway. It is my hope the Lannisters are innocent, and my hope that conflict will not arise if they are guilty. I need time to consider my position: you understand you've forced upon me a question of loyalties, that of the Crown over my liege Lord."

    As he spoke an aide whispered to him that a Lannister party had arrived in the castle. Harmund knew this day would prove to be an interesting one.

    "Now, if you'll excuse me, other matters have arisen in the meantime. A Lannister envoy has arrived in the castle and awaits me in the Courtyard. I will have my aides show him in: you are welcome to remain in the castle for as long as you and your party need to recover. Good meals and bedding can be made available if you desire. Naturally you shall sleep in the Keep and will be invited dine at my table as befits you."

    * * *

    Ulfric lazily looked over both shoulders up to the ramparts. While none of the bows were drawn, some of the more eager archers had knocked their arrows for a quick draw.

    "Stand down, lads, no one's dying today." he said as he swung his broadsword off his chest, bringing it to rest point-down in the dirt. He lent on the broad handguard and stared hard at the flustered Graystark: clearly the man felt insulted at the welcome, and his Lord was fast approaching up the road behind him. Ulfric mulled his options: he couldn't very well deny a Lord passage into the castle during peacetime, but Harmund had written "Delay Graystarks until I send word.", and no such word had arrived.

    Ulfric awaited until the rest of the Graystark party had arrived, and just as the Lord was about to open his mouth to question the presence of a large, armed party in front of the castle, Ulfric spoke up.

    "Lord Rhalion Graystark, you are far from home! My lord currently attends to important matters within the walls, and the timing of your arrival has raised questions as to your motives. My Lord has requested I ask some questions, if it pleases you."

    [ooc: Waiting for Ponti to signal he's happy to conclude before I move forward with the Lannister party]
    Last edited by Poach; February 25, 2013 at 05:00 PM.

  19. #19

    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    Alfred gave a nod of the head

    "If the Lannisters are here I would sooner take my leave. I don't wish to become embroiled in regional disputes, or become an accessory in one."
    Last edited by Pontifex Maximus; February 26, 2013 at 10:07 AM.

  20. #20
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    Default Re: Golden Tooth, seat of House Lefford

    "Very well, Lord Frey. I wish you fair weather on your journey, where ever it takes you. You'll find the town below the castles sells any provisions your men may need: their horses have been fed and watered and their bellies filled while we spoke."

    As Frey left the Great Hall, Harmund signaled an aide to fetch the Lannister party. Before long, though long enough to ensure Lord Frey was safely away, Lord Tygett Lannister entered the Great Hall.

    "Lord Tygett Lannister! A pleasure to have you as a guest in my Hold. To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?" asked Harmund as he sent the newly returned aide away on another mission.

    * * *

    Outside, the aide caught up to Lord Frey just as he was approaching his men.

    "Begging your pardon, my Lord. A Greystark party is at the front gates and my Lord knows not their motives, nor why they arrived so soon after your own party. I can show you and your men to a Postern Gate at the back of the keep where you can exit the castle in stealth if you seek to avoid them."

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