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Message: <blockquote data-quote="talien" data-source="post: 4104979" data-attributes="member: 3285">Herald of the Yellow King - Part 2a: The Village of DunoverWhen they returned to Duke Adolphos’ castle, the herald was directing the hanging of certain banners around the hall.  Each banner was adorned with a different set of colors, depictions and patterns, and each one represented a different noble person.  “Nice banners,” said Kham.“The noble families invited to the winter solstice celebration will know where to sit by gathering at the tables closest to the banner of their lord,” explained Vlad.“No,” called out Duke Adolphos.  “Move Lord Andreas further up towards high table; his family always brings that wonderful jester to entertain.”Just then, the duke noticed Vlad waiting.  He nodded a greeting and moved to a side table.  Vlad apologetically explained what they had witnessed.“I am rather disturbed by your news,” said Adolphos, “and even more so because I do not know its cause.  I command you to travel to Dunover and Brighton, the next two villages closest to the castle.  Learn what they might know of this madness or plague.” He turned away, then hesitated and turned back.  “This time, take some supplies and warm clothing.  The quartermaster will send you with two bottles of wine to present to the heads of the villages.  Yule gifts might loosen their tongues.”“And what of Derek’s Holding, your grace?” asked Vlad.“Speak not of what you witnessed,” Adolphos said with a frown.  “It will be a small matter to replace the peasants once spring comes, but a more difficult one if the lands get a reputation for being cursed.”  He leaned closer to Vlad.  “Or rebellion.” He straightened up and spoke louder for the benefit of those eavesdropping.  “Leave at once and travel with all haste.  I’ve instructed the stable master to issue you two mounts, a sleigh, and a horse to pull it as well.  Come directly to me upon your return.”  He leaned forward again.  “Report to none but me. Do I make myself clear?”“Yes, your grace,” said Vlad.“Excellent.  I expect you back in time for the Yule celebration in five days.  Some of my guests might inquire as to where my Bailiff is, and I don’t wish to explain your absence.”He nodded to Vlad with a serious look.  Then he returned to his herald and the preparations for the Yule celebration. Once Vlad was out of sight of the Duke, his shoulders sagged.“Amazing,” said Kham.  “He’s like a Milandisian version of Quintus.”“Don’t chide him too much.” Ilmarė stared pointedly at Fleshripper hanging from Kham’s hip.  “We all have our burdens to bear.”</blockquote>

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