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Amadhrill's eyes followed the face of marshal Rowena carefully, trying to read the bealdorhælend's response to her report. She opened her mouth as if to speak, but finding no room for it, she closed it again. There was a smirk on the bealdorhælend's face at one point, but not much else of an reaction.

There was a nod and a motion from the marshal, a wigend approached and the marshal wrote something and handed it to her. Ama took the note, her eyes glanced in the direction of Rowena's nod, towards Shivased. Without a word she was dismissed with a salute from the marshal, and for a moment she watched Rowena exit, looking slightly confused. Again, she opened her mouth, but quickly closed it again. She looked at the note in her hand, it was folded, the words hidden from her green eyes. She took a deep breath, only then realizing that she had hardly breathed in the presence of Rowena.

Forcing a confident smile into her face, she turned swiftly, making the strawberry blonde plait swing brightly around her. She held her head high, back was straight as she saluted the marshal Shivased, a shadow passed quickly over her face as she realized she had spoken with the bealdorhælend without saluting first.

«I think the Bealdorhælend ment for me to give this to you, I have only just returned from my training task in Helm's Deep and handed my report to her.» Her voice was clear, calm, maybe a little forced as she battled the butterflies in her stomach. She brushed the front of her well-worn cavalry tunic, as if trying to remove the dirt of her travel. Forcing her breath to slow down and deepen, she awaited her judgement. Again she opened her mouth, as if to speak, closed it again. Then she opened it, speaking softer.

«Marshal, I do not want to sound as if I am sure I have excecuted the task to the Bealdorhælend's satisfaction. I do hope I have, but I can also think of some things I would've done differently and that will need to be followed up...» she hesitated, then spoke, more quickly, her cheeks growing red and her eyes darting between her feet, the marshal's face and the marshal's feet, she knew she spoke out of turns, yet it was important for her to have the words spoken. «Ma'am, I have husband and children here in Edoras, and do not misunderstand, I will go where I am ordered, today and any other day, if I am accepted back into the cavalry, that is, and I will undergo training and start at the very bottom, if that is what the marshals find necessary. But, if it is at all possible...» she drew her breath, slowing her stream of words, straightened her back and looking straight into the eyes of the marshal.

«I beg your pardon, marshal, but if I may ask it of you, can I stay as much as possible here in Edoras, where I have my children and husband? And in time, be placed in Meduseld eored? I do understand that I might be more needed in the Eastmark, or the Westmark, and I will of course take my posting there if that is the marshals decide.»

Then she closed her mouth, her cheeks still burning brightly, her hands smoothing the tunic again.

Though trepidation still coursed through Taeth, her steps back into the Dragon Room were sure and measured. Marshal Rowena's sword was clutched in her hands as she strode up the steps and through the doors, nodding at the guards who stood watch.

As she made her way back to the dais, she was a little surprised to see that the Second Marshal was not there, but she waited quietly until First Marshal Shivased was available.

"I've come to complete the task the Second Marshal gave me," Taethowen spoke. "But I see she isn't here at the moment. I think, due to the nature of it, I will need to present my response to both of you, so I can wait until she returns."

Taeth looked down at the Second Marshal's sword. "But also, I will only hand this sword back to her. I know it is precious to her."

(OOC @Rowena Ellenweorc OMG I'm so sorry to have this up later than I said I would. I had four migraines between Sunday and yesterday and it through a giant crick into everything.)

Élmehtar

The Sperewigned strode into the hall purposefully, but at the entrance his confidence wavered and he paused, lifting a hesitant hand to remove long strands of golden hair from his forehead. He had not been here for too long, he mused. A slightly confused expression creased his brow. The hill, the flags, the light: everything was precisely as he remembered. It was right, it was how it should be. Why, then, was he feeling so strange? Perhaps, he thought as he stepped inside and made his way to the dais at the end of the hall, it was him. The hall changed not, but he had. His eyes narrowed as they accustomed themselves to the relative shadiness of the hall; twice he had to avoid collision with hurried soldiers carrying urgent messages. His frown deepened, but suddenly his brow cleared and the slightest hint of a smile twinkled in his eyes. The Riders of the Mark, he thought with some pride, will allow nothing to stand in their way to complete a mission.

Before the dais he stopped and bowed. "My lords," his voice rang clearly, "Long have I been absent from these halls, but now I have returned. I was in the midst of my training with the Marshal," here he lowered his head respectfully towards First Marshal Shivased, "but we were interrupted." Drawing his sword, he laid it at their feet. "Command me! How may I serve the King?"

Taeth didn't miss the slight frown and widening of Shivased's eyes at the sight of Rowena's sword in her hands, and her breath caught slightly as she realized there was some memory, likely painful, that she'd caused to be recalled. But the Marshal was composed again in an instant, and now was not the time for Taeth to inquire more.

Marshal Shivased sent for Marshal Rowena, then, and Taeth said, "Thank you, First Marshal" as she stepped back from the dais to make way for others who could be helped as she waited.

Taeth lost track of the time as she went over, again and again, in her mind what exactly she wanted to say. Her entire Cavalry career might hinge upon it, and she wondered if anything she could say would be sufficient. So lost in thought was she that she startled when the Second Marshal swept into the Dragon Room and up to the dais.

Taeth smiled and laughed softly, glad for the easing tension as Rowena mentioned massaging a dryhtguma. (OOC - Pun TOTALLY intended.) After another moment to let Rowena speak with Shivased about a potential trainee who came in behind her, Taeth stepped forward again.

With a final deep breath to calm the fluttering of her pulse--blasted nerves were always more annoying than anything, but she could never quite quell them completely--Taethowen spoke. "Second Marshal, you asked me to determine how your family motto applies to me, and to return with a way to show my sincerity."

Taeth raised Marshal Rowena's sword, resting it across her outstretched palms. "I have never been one for grand gestures," she said. "I've known many people--my own kin, most often--who take grand actions in public places, but cannot keep their word behind closed doors. As such, this is all I can offer as my sincerity. Your sword, returned unscathed, and my own actions. But not only by my actions as a Rohirrim, but my actions as a member of the Cavalry, and as such, a representative of the King.

"No matter the damage that illness caused to my memories, if I let myself pause and take stock of who I am, I know that I would never willingly bring dishonor to my family, my country, or my king. My mind may sometimes falter, but my honor, my character, and my courage will not. Who a person is does not consist of only their memories and thoughts. It is also determined by their heart, and no illness can steal that away."

Taeth paused for a breath, gaze dropping down one final time to the sword still in her hands. She knew what she was wanting to say, but sometimes her thoughts escaped her and she needed a second to sort them back out. Then she looked back up, look back and forth between both Marshal Shivased and Marshal Rowena. "Since the day I first joined the Cavalry, I wanted to be a Marshal. I was young and naive then, with no concept of the responsibility that would entail, but I gained experience and wisdom, though I still have a long way to go. But my deepest desire is to serve as a Marshal once again, especially since my time as one was cut short so quickly.

"All this ties back to Ellenweorc motto: in war we know willpower, in peace we know love," Taeth continued. "For in war, that willpower must be the will to survive, so that we are able to know peace afterwards. I've survived with that willpower for most of my life, for war in the Cavalry is not the only battlefield I've faced. But now what I want is the opportunity to love Rohan and its people, and its King. For I think that if we have that love, then even in the midst of war, we will be able to find peace."

And with that, Taeth fell silent, and waited to hear the Marshals verdict.

ATTN: All Cavalry!

Small images are now able to be put in signatures! So, here is the links to your Cavalry Badges for everyone to use! Please put your correct badge in your signature, and enable your signature in all Cavalry posts!

Westmark
Marshal - @Rowena Ellenweorc Link: https://i.imgur.com/eobqV1X.jpg
Dryhtguma - @Elarith Link: https://i.imgur.com/4bhFVb1.jpg

Meduseld
Haelend: @Amadhrill Link: https://i.imgur.com/XLT4T5H.jpg
Paethfindian: @Gwai Link: https://i.imgur.com/vYXJJjP.jpg


To put an image in your signature, go to your user control panel, select the profile tab, then "edit my signature." In the signature box, click on the insert image option and paste the correct badge link between the [img] boxes.

Rowena nodded her approval at Taeth and took her sword back, reattaching it at her side. 'In the time away, you've proven much, even when I saw you in the infirmary resisting the urge to dare I say punch Esme, who is far too protective of me.' She paused a moment then said, 'The reason I changed your task, you may have figured out already, was your self doubt. A soldier who doubts themselves can be a danger not only to themselves, but those around them. That is not to say we can't have self doubt at all, but it is what we do with that self doubt that matters. And you seemed to have needed that reminder.'
'That said, I am pleased to announce that you may take your position within our ranks once more. And maybe one day, your dreams will come true, fair warrior. That said, I present you with your rank of Eastmark Paethfindian once more,' she pinned the badge on the warrior, and then saluted her. 'Welcome back Paethfindian Taethowen. Please don't forget to retake the oath of the Cavalry'


(Please put the following in your signature using Shiva's above written instructions - https://imgur.com/KgtUAte.jpg)

Allacan entered the Dragon Room in a dark and sombre mood that contrasted uncomfortably with her appearance here a few days ago. Much had changed since then; the hall was quiet because many of the cavalry soldiers were busy with the final day of the festival. Until very recently, Allacan had been too. As soon as she had returned to Edoras after completing her cavalry assignment in Helm’s Deep, she had not even had a chance to get home before she had been waylaid in the marketplace by reports of someone stealing a candied apple from a child, and another individual threatening the travelling cloth peddler Nyath Parwhyn-Cinth (known by his friends as NPC). She had not even extricated herself from these individuals when she was summoned to the Mx Meduseld competion by the Second Marshal. She'd spent a number of hours there, before rushing off to her promised duty of running the Campian Festival tournament, only just managing to make it in time. Even now after that competition was complete she was still not really at liberty; she needed to get back into her disguise and to the festival after-party that was due to start just less than an hour from now so that she could make sure those suspicious folk didn't get up to any mischief, but she had enough time to deliver the letter than had been burdening her more than its paltry weight would suggest. It would be a long time before Allacan had a chance to rest after her journey back from Helm's Deep.

She marched through the Dragon Room, scanning for the sight of the Second Marshal Rowena but not finding her immediately present among the few remaining solders (perhaps she was still dealing with the Mx Meduseld drama herself). So she turned to stop instead before the First Marshal Shivased and saluted. Allacan's appearance had also changed, necessitated by her attempts both to question the prisoner Cuthbert and to ingratiate herself with the more mischievous individuals at the festival Pageant Mx Meduseld. Her blonde hair was now dyed a dark black, and across her face was now marked by a black tattoo of celtic curves that was also twisted and spiked in the manner of Mordor. It was a vision that might give Shivased cause to hesitate, for it was the manner of the guise she had worn when she had returned from Mordor as the assassin Dulug-ob-Burzam. But everything else about her appearance; from the simple homespun shirt and trews and single knife at her belt all the way down to the slightly apologetic and rueful smile she gave her old comrade was that of the ex-Marshal Allacan. She was conspicuously lacking in her HCMA cavalry insignia; she had not yet had a chance to retrieve it from Pæthfindian Taethowen who had somehow ended up with it in her possession during the last round of the Mx Meduseld competition.

"Apologies for arriving dressed so, and please forgive me that I cannot linger for too long, unless the tidings I bare require it." she added as an afterthought as she suddenly remembered the events at the Helm's Deep stockade and the likely contents of the sealed letter she bore; so much had happened since her interrogation of Cuthbert that her thoughts had been filled with other distractions and she had for a while forgotten the details of those recent events, and the likely repercussions. "I've come to report following the undertaking of my assignment designated to me by the Second Marshal." she said, and without another word handed over the sealed letter from Watchmaster Grimthain. She waited patiently for Shivased to declare her fate; half expecting to be stripped of even her honorary rank and arrested, but desperately hoping that was not going to be the case.

Links to relevant posts:-

viewtopic.php?p=5677#p5677 - (Dragon Room) Rowena setting the task
viewtopic.php?p=6278#p6278 - (Dragon Room) Allacan accepting the task
viewtopic.php?p=5680#p5680 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Rowena's post establishing the scenario in Helm's Deep Stockades
viewtopic.php?p=7053#p7053 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Allacan's arrival at Helm's Deep Stockades
viewtopic.php?p=7386#p7386 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Allacan's discussion with the Watch-master
viewtopic.php?p=9581#p9581 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Rowena's post as prisoner in the stockade awaiting questioning
viewtopic.php?p=18037#p18037 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Allacan's preparations before interrogating the prisoner
viewtopic.php?p=18602#p18602 - (Cavalry Courtyard) The prisoner's response to Allacan's arrival
viewtopic.php?p=18692#p18692 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Allacan initiating questioning the prisoner
viewtopic.php?p=19159#p19159 - (Cavalry Courtyard) The prisoner's response and confessions
viewtopic.php?p=19593#p19593 - (Cavalry Courtyard) Allacan executing the prisoner
viewtopic.php?p=19616#p19616 - (Riddermark Ærendgewrit) The Watch-Master's report as delivered unopened by Allacan

Her heart had plummeted at First Marshal Shivased initial comments in reaction to the letter. She witnessed silently the Eastmark commander call Second Marshal Rowena out of the shadows that she might also peruse the letter - Allacan's keen eyes must have missed sight of her in her melancholy - and she mentally prepared herself for the worst.

She had been convinced that she would be facing a court-marshal for her actions. So it was that she blinked at the First Marshal in surprise when she made her proclamation, then glanced down at the letter still in Rowena's lap. She had no idea what the contents of the letter had said, but it must have been something positive. Then she considered her experience of working with the Watchmaster Grimthain and amended that conclusion. Not positive, but honest, which suggested that the Watchmaster had respected her as much as she respected him.

She was so relieved at the outcome that she couldn't help but laugh a little at the news that Taethown had so narrowly beaten her to the rank of Eastmark Pæthfindian. "Got there moments before me, eh? Snatched it right out from under my nose, but well earned all the same." she said in jest to Taethowen with a wink, as yet unaware that the newly returned Pæthfindian had not yet connected her to the mysterious figure who had appeared in the Mx Meduseld tournament only a few hours ago.She continued in a re-assuring tone towards Taeth "I don't mind freond, truly, it will be an honour to serve in the cavalry alongside you knowing you are a Pæthfindian again."

As First Marshal Shivased offered two proposals and gave Allacan her choice of being either Pæthfindian in the Westmark Eored, or Dryhtguma in the Eastmark, she found herself chewing her lip in thought. She stared at the roster for a long time, the corner of her mouth lifting up in a half-smile as she saw the slight spelling error on 'Sperewigend' and realised the Marshal's must be exceedingly busy to have not had time to spot or correct that. They needed her in the Eored that lacked a Pæthfindian; that was where her skills might be best put to use just now. It might not be the Eored of her homeland or of her heart, but it was a still the cavalry. She should be grateful for the rank, and take the higher one regardless of what Eored it sat in, if that's what the cavalry needed.

However her heart was not behind the thoughts, and they felt hollow even to her. Truth was that despite Shivased's re-assurance, despite all her efforts, she still felt like she had failed the cavalry due to the manner in which she had executed the task; she had lost her temper, she had acted with authority she did not have and she had ended the life of a man she despised rather than seeing him brought to justice before the King. She did not yet feel like she had earned any title above Dryhtguma just yet, or that she could be trusted with any level of authority. And more than that, as she stared at the roster and consider the soldiers within the Eastmark, her friends and comrades and those she admired as heroes and living legends, Pæthfindian Taethowen who had only a few short hours ago covered for her so skillfully in the Mx Mexuseld pageant. But most of all, she considered the commander who, despite being wounded by her blade and betrayed by her actions, had broken through her programming to bring her home all those years ago. Her best friend. She realised then that she could not leave that behind. Not yet.

"My heart is the Eastmark's, and the Eastmark's it shall remain." she concluded, turning back to Shivased with a satisfied smile "Thank you for the offer of the rank of Pæthfindian; I confess it is a rank I would love to bear again, but right now it is more important to me to be back among my comrades and friends, regardless of rank. And I am more than happy to wait as long as is needed to progress up the chain of command again. I would like to accept the position of Dryhtguma in the Eastmark Eored, if I may?" She reached a hand out to Shivased in a warrior's handshake to seal the deal.

Then, as an afterthought, she glanced back at the roster. "Additionally, and I hope I am not speaking out of turn here, but I was somewhat impressed with the Watchmaster Grimthain who aided me in my task, and could not help but think his talents were being wasted in his current position. He is an Ǣthelwigend, and those under his command respect him. I respect him. I notice that the Meduseld Eored is lacking a Marshal at present. While I appreciate that you are likely on the cusp of moving someone into that position, might I suggest perhaps having someone temporarily take up a sub-commander post so that at the very least the Hæland Amadhrill and Pæthfindian Gwai have someone to co-ordinate with? I believe Ǣthelwigend Grimthain would serve you well in such a position, although of course I say so purely as a recommendation and trust you Marshals to make the right decision" she finished her query politely.

OOC @Shivased and @Rowena Ellenweorc (Unless I am mistaken, I understand that you are allowed a second PC in the cavalry. If I may, I would like to continue to roleplay Ǣthelwigend Grimthain, the NPC I created for my cavalry re-test, but he could serve in the Westmark so as to help bulk out that Eored and to give Amadhrill and Gwai someone to roleplay with, as well as filling a sub-commander post until such a time as the Meduseld Marshal position is filled. If his rank is to high or you would prefer him positioned elsewhere then let me know because I am more excited about the character concept than his rank/position.)

Rowena (who had actually always been in her seat on the dais since her return from the infirmary, and likely was just missed) took the letter from Shivased, scanned it, an eyebrow raise at one new bit of revelation she had not known about Cuthbert. She pursed her lips at this, and knew that it would require a trip to Gondor to check out. She then looked at Allacan, 'Your advice on Watch Grimthain will be considered for the future. It will be discussed in private between Marshal Shivased and I.'
Her steel eyes furrowed and she then continued, 'I appreciate your concern, but please do not speak out of turn again. And I do appreciate your report of what happened with Cuthbert. It seems there is even details found that were unknown.'
A sigh of relief escaped her lips. Cuthbert was dead. She ran her hands through her hair. Now they just had to round up all his buddies and get them imprisoned or hung. She really hoped for the latter on most of them. 'Welcome back to the Cavalry Dryhtguma Allacan Beorhtlig of the Eastmark. Shivased has your badge. Do not forget to retake your oath of your Cavalry.' She then gave the woman a mischievous smirk, 'And no more merciless killing without permission.' She winked.
She then looked at Shivased, 'I'm traveling to Gondor. Tomorrow. And I'm taking Cuthbert's son with me. Looking into that poisoning that was mentioned. I have a gut feeling I know how he planned it. Sure his letters are read, but it's easy to make plans if you have codes.'

@Allafyrefleorhtlig We are still working on what to do with secondary PCs but definitely higher ranks probably won't happen, just to give you a heads up. That's why my Audley is just a dryht and always has been. )

Shivased watched as Alla considered the roster, imagining the woman was studying the two different eoreds and thinking back on time in the Eastmark. It was what she would be doing in the same situation. It was hard, when one had served in an eored their entire career, to suddenly be faced with a change, no matter if a promotion came with it.

While Alla considered the choice she was handed another missive, this one much shorter. Reading it quickly and sighing with clear exasperation, she picked up a quill and piece of parchment and scribbled down a new note, which she rolled up and handed to the messenger. She was not dealing with this. Send this to Eldrith. She will be required to see to the issue. Then find Jacen and bring him here. He can help rather than getting into whatever trouble he's getting into.

It wasn't a surprise when Alla chose to stay in the Eastmark, regardless of the promotion. It really hadn't been much of a choice.
She grinned and plucked a badge from the dish beside her and stood, handing out the blue dryhtguma insignia and returning the handshake. Welcome back to the Eastmark, Dryhtguma, she said. It will be good to serve with you again. She fisted her hand to her chest in a salute, then winked mischeviously. It will be just like old times, but please don't let your horse eat MY tent.

She then sat back down as Alla made a suggestion for Watchmaster Grimthain, nodding her agreement. The man seemed level-headed and with a good head on his shoulders. She hadn't had much interaction with him, but the former marshal's recommendation coupled with the letter he had sent and what she already knew of him, made him seem a perfect suggestion. It was true Meduseld didn't have a marshal yet and a decision hadn't been made on who to fill that role with, so having an aethelwigend there would be helpful. In battle it would be necessary, and it seemed a waste of a good soldier to keep Grimthain guarding the dungeon in Helm's Deep.

Rowena's voice broke into her thoughts, and she frowned. While she saw the second marshal's point, she did not agree. Gwai and Ama had duties to attend to, they couldn't be overseeing the Dryhts and Wigends in absence of a marshal. True, in battle Gwai would have authority, but in everyday duties, an aethelwigend would be helpful.

No, I think it is a good idea, she said to both Alla and Rowena, holding up a hand. True, they weren't sure what to do with promotions yet, but the issue of Meduseld need to be resolved at least in the short-term. A marshal could wait a bit more, but they needed someone to manage the Wigends and Dryhts. I don't think Alla is speaking out of turn, and I hope we have cultivated an environment in the Cavalry where members can come to us with suggestions and ideas. She directed most of the comment to Rowena, but included Alla, Taeth, and everyone else in the room just to be sure everyone knew. As a former First Marshal and current HCMA, she has a right to make suggestions on ranks. It is part of what being the HCMA is.

Picking out a red Aethelwigend badge and holding it out to Alla. He can either come here to be given his promotion and reassignment, or else you can give this to him along with the good news. I'm sure he will be thrilled either way.

She then turned to Rowena. I'm pulling rank on this one. I know we usually discuss things first, but I approve wholeheartedly of this and am making the decision as First Marshal to promote Grimthain to the rank of Aethelwigend and transfer him to Meduseld. I'm sure you have plenty of Dryhts and guards in the dungeon who are capable of filling his role. He will however be more useful in Meduseld. She rarely, if ever, pulled rank and preferred to discuss things with the other marshals. But in this she was firm. It solved a problem for the time being, and benefited the Cavalry.

At Rowena's declaration that she was going to head to Gondor, she nodded. Take Cuthbert's son, and clear up this matter. I think it is high time that it all comes to an end, as Cuthbert has. Hopefully you can find out who he worked with and bring them to justice too.
Signature Link: https://i.imgur.com/LOcnJYM.jpg

OOC: (@Eldrith can you present yourself to me here? I have been made aware of a matter that requires your attention as Quartermaster, that I am delegating to you or Shiv might strangle someone. )

Allacan looked surprised and confused at the Second Marshal Rowena's steely gaze and abrupt comment about her speaking out of turn, and a little hurt, and the last joke seemed oddly jarring against her earlier comments. She glanced across at the First Marshal but, seeing that Shivased was for the moment distracted, responded as politely as she could to the Second Marshal. "Please, can you explain so that I understand; how I was out of turn in providing my counsel on the empty roster when I hold the rank of 'High Councillor of Military Affairs'? I was providing my suggestion, and my opinion of another soldier's good service, and I personally believe it is important to good commend the actions of your comrades to their commanders. The Marshals are of course able to accept or dismiss my suggestions as they wish, which I similarly made clear when I gave it. And I made every attempt to be respectful, so I'm sorry to say I'm a little confused as to what I have done wrong. Could you please enlighten me so I can avoid making the same mistake again?"

OOC @Rowena Ellenweorc (I confess I am a little confused; I presumed that the second character rule had not changed in the plaza given that you have Audley and Shivased has Jacen. I'm afraid I was also unaware that there was a rule that secondary characters chad to be dryht's or I might have considered Allacan's choices differently. I thought that because Aethel is only a low commanding rank currently in charge of nothing but NPC dryhts and sperewigends, and both the rank of Pæthfindian and Hælend are higher rank, it wouldn't be an issue. Having just refused a higher rank of paethfindian for Allacan when previous discussions with you and Shiva led me to believe I would be offered a higher position for completing this particular task, I had hoped that a 'command' that was, for the most part, completely honorific and means nothing in practical terms given there are no PC dryhts or sperewigends would be ok. IC it made sense to put him in the Eored without a Marshal, and OOC it made sense to put him somewhere where I wouldn't outrank anyone. Is there any particular reason why you don't wish for my character to hold a sub-commander position, or anything more that I need to do to prove myself suitable for the role?)

@Shivased - apologies but I didn't see you posted while I was writing mine. I will edit my post in the morning but its 2:30am here so I am headed to bed for now.

Rowena snarled at Shivased, every bone in her body quivering in anger when Shivased pulled rank on her without so much as even a word. 'Fine. Don't consult me about someone from MY Eored. Presume he's more needed in a different Eored. Leave me in a lurch. Clearly we didn't read the same letter either, because if we did you'd at least give me a few weeks to figure out who in my Eored's watch I can trust to promote before sending away my watchmaster.' She stood up and walked off and headed toward her office, taking the letter with her, debating what to do next. She was frustrated. She motioned for a wigend, who immediately approached with pen and paper. 'No love. Don't need that right now. Get me another bilewitdox.' The wigend again looked like she was crazy. But Rowena didn't care. Right now, she would rather suffer the effects of the foul drink than anything else of the day brought before her.
The wigend returned and she smiled wanly. 'Now if you please, go find me Esme, and then when you return, I want everything brought to me on Cuthbert that we have. Is that understood?' The wigend nodded.
She rested her head on her desk, stressed out. It was good that Cuthbert was dead, to be certain. Justice was finally done on that front, but it did make things slightly more difficult when it came to finding his cohorts. Like how was she supposed to figure out now how he managed to control attacks from inside his cell? She could use a Paeth to help her figure that out. But of course her Eored was the only Eored that didn't have one.
Surely Grimthain had to have ideas on who would have access to the mail that would either alter it or just pass it along as being clear. Likely as not, Cuthbert was smart and coded his mail though, and his cohorts knew the code. It'd be a matter of figuring out the code. Either way, Rowena wanted to know who touched Cuthbert's mail. The other option was that people inspecting mail had limited literacy capabilities. Maybe she'd write up a notice for a report from Grimthain on his thoughts.

@Allafyrefleorhtlig My last post was a stall for time because Shivased had not discussed anything with me yet so I was taken by surprise -- Especially with secondary pcs since not even my Audley is on the roster as we've not decided anything yet about them )

Allacan was relieved when First Marshal Shivased seemed more amenable to her counsel and politely disagreed with the Second Marshal. She had been a little panicked that somehow she had done something to make Rowena chastise her so, when she didn’t think she had personally done anything impolitely.

In Allacan’s years previously serving the cavalry, the cavalry council - being the leading council who ran the cavalry including the Marshals, Aerest Paethfindian, Bealdorhealand and HCMA - had always been open and amenable to suggestions by its members of all rank, and especially mindful of suggestions from the HCMA, one who had led the cavalry in the past. It’s where the ‘councillor’ in the HCMA came from. She was more than accepting if the Marshals simply in disagreed with her recommendation; after all they were the cavalry leaders, not her, and Allacan respected the chain of command. But she had been entirely unaware that this Marshals team, and in particular Rowena, were no longer open or amenable to such comments from subordinates and it surprised her. It was personally reassuring when Shivased commented that she did not believe Allacan was speaking out of turn - loud enough for the whole room to hear - and diplomatically over-ruled Rowena , something she was perfectly entitled to do given she was the superior officer. She had just taken hold of both insignias, both hers and Grimthain ’s, when Rowena suddenly snapped.

She was not at all prepared for Rowena’s outburst. It was behaviour very unlike the Second Marshal, who was normally so considerate, respectful and pleasant. Allacan had no idea where the outburst was coming from, but there was clearly more going on here than initially meets the eye. Rowena’s words were an outright challenge that bordered on insubordination, especially given that Shivased holds the higher rank and had already stated outright that she was choosing to over-rule Rowena. Perhaps the Second Marshal was more shaken by the news delivered in the missive from the Watchmaster than either of them had realised, and if that was the case and she was speaking so aggressively because she was not thinking straight, Allacan would rather try and disarm the situation now as diplomatically as possible before Rowena did something she might later regret.

She lifted up her hands in a disarming and unaggressive manner, and said in a soothing tone. “Comrades, comrades, let us not allow the rafters of this hallowed hall of heroes to ring loudly with criticism and discontent. We all want the same thing - to see the cavalry thrive - we are all allies here. I meant my suggestion only as a recommendation, but it is obviously a topic of contestation between the two of you. There is no urgency to the matter, and you can discuss it between the two of you before any communication is sent to Grimthain” she said, politely returning the Aethelwigend insignia.

The Second Marshal had walked away to her office, a move that Allacan approved of; sometimes it was good to walk away and take some space gather yourself when you were feeling emotional, and she initially held up a hand to stop Shivased from going after her of snapping a nasty retort. She looked at Shivased and shrugged, a half-apologetic, half-bewildered look on her face, and the shared a gaze that spoke a hundred words in an instant.

Her eyes opened with alarm, however, when she heard the Second Marshal call for a drink - drinking on duty?! - and saw the terrified sperewigend scurry away. Seeing that Shivased was tempted to intervene she gently lifted her hands placatingly again and spoke softly and calmly. “No, let me, freond. I initiated this, and if she’s angrier at you for over-ruling her than she is at me for making a suggestion, you trying to get her in line will only make things worse. Take some space, let me talk to her, maybe she will let me know what’s going on if I can convince her I am not her enemy.”

She headed then for Rowena’s office and, waiting on the open threshold in as unaggressive and submissive a manner as she could while the sperewigend delivered the requested bilewitdox and exited again, she knocked politely and said in a respectful tone “Second Marshal, request permission to enter? I’m concerned... for you. Are you ok?” She finished with genuine concern and compassion, while mentally bracing herself for whatever tirade or outburst might follow.

OOC @Rowena Ellenweorc (if Shiva and you had not discussed the issue already then personally I would have preferred it if I had been left to wait for a reply, especially if it was a topic that surprised you. I’m afraid that I am not as familiar with your personal nuance as I would like, so I would never have interpreted your outright refusal of my request and telling me “do not speak out of turn” IC - while also making a definitive statement OOC that second characters cannot hold rank - as you stalling for time while you consider the issue with your fellow commander. Your OOC comments implied that you either had the agreement of Shiva on the rank thing or at the least a discussion had begun, which now does not appear to be the case. It looks like Shivased does not agree with you, which is fine, different perspectives is useful in a strong and co-operative Marshal team. If indeed the two of you do disagree, would it not be more appropriate for you to discuss it between you before posting here? And if you cannot reach a consensus (this is the exact reason three Marshals is useful, to break ties) then the ranking officer would take precedence.)

OOC @Shivased (Given Rowena’s response I will leave my earlier post as is for simplicity’s sake, rather than potentially creating more confusion by editing it. I hope that’s ok?)

Shivased blinked in shock at Rowena's reaction to her transfer of Grimthain. I will remind you that while you command the Westmark, I command the WHOLE Cavalry. she replied sternly. I answer only to the King. If I choose to exercise my authority and make decisions I deem best for the Cavalry, I will do so. You presumably know those in your eored and should not need a few weeks to decide on a promotion to replace Grimthain. His promotion and transfer takes effect immediately.

Her words mostly fell on deaf ears, as Rowena had stormed off into her office and given orders for a Bilewitdox. That made her shake her head, given that the Second Marshal had drank one already. As the wigend headed towards the room with a foul-smelling mug, Shivased waylaid him with a signal. Take that back, empty the tankard, and replace it with water, she told the wigend. I will not have a marshal getting drunk while on duty, it does not befit the position.

Then, turning back to Alla she shook her head and refused to take the Aethelwigend insignia. No, Grimthain shall have his promotion and transfer to Meduseld. The Westmark will survive his leaving, and he deserves it. Alla then asked to be allowed to handle the Second Marshal, and Shivased nodded her consent. Perhaps it is best she doesn't talk to me right now anyway. I would rather not continue to argue.

As Alla went to the office Rowena was in, Shivased leaned back in her chair and rubbed a hand over her eyes. She knew the whole situation with Cuthbert was stressful, but this was getting out of hand. She was glad he was dead and things would hopefully be put to rest.

OOC: (While I understand the promotion/transfer of Grimthain is not a decision you agree with, @Rowena Ellenweorc , as we talked about, I chose to do so as First Marshal, something I have never done before. We have had secondary characters in the past listed on the roster and as higher rank than Dryhtguma, so promoting Grimthain to that rank shouldn't be a problem. I also wasn't aware we needed to discuss secondary characters....we have a rule that people are allowed one secondary character in the Cavalry, and I wasn't aware that was up for change. ))

So many things had changed rapidly. It had been a strange impulse that brought her from the estate to Edoras to find the return of so many friends and heroes. Something within had pushed her on. This was her home. These people had taken her in, given her a job, given her the chance to serve and mostly they had not asked questions. She'd slipped from the bed of one recovering to finding a task in the festival so many years ago and then into holding the pub. And from there into tending an estate too big for her that now she could hand over. And now she had said that she would join and help in the cavarly. She still didn't intend to pick up a sword. Well, not a real.. sword. But she could help. And after an impulsive decision in the pub, the first marshall had written. It was.. a kindness. It gave her a way to say yae or nae. And to her surprise she found her wish to say yay undimmed.

She took the stairs and then, almost hesitatingly moved into the Dragon Room herself, looking about at the bustle that was going on and feeling strange and awkward amidst people she had known so long.*

I.. wanted to see if I could help still. With the storage area.

"Certainly, First Marshal," Taeth nodded. "I have an event to finish running for the Summer Festival, which I'm sure you're aware of as the Festival manager, but I will check back with you within two days before heading to the Aldburg."

The First Marshal's attention was then taken by the next arrival (Allacan), and Taeth stepped aside. The air had taken on a tense feel and while she would have liked to escape it, the First Marshal had not actually dismissed her yet. So she waited, and listened, and watched, though she was not familiar with the series of events that were being discussed.

She realized that the woman the First Marshal kept calling Alla was the same so familiar one from earlier at the M. Meduseld competition, but before she could ponder the coincidences further, she heard Marshal Shivased mention her name. "I am happy to return you to the rank of Pæthfindian, but the Eastmark position is currently filled by Taethowen.

Taeth gave a slightly apologetic smile at that, but didn't interrupt. The First Marshal gave Alla a couple other options, and she wasn't terribly surprised when the woman chose to remain in the Eastmark even at a lesser rank. There was just something about bonds of comradeship in the Eastmark, truly.

"I don't mind, freond, truly, it will be an honor to serve in the cavalry alongside you knowing you are a Pæthfindian again," Alla spoke, and Taeth smiled and nodded, trying to hide the aggravating frustation of once again being face to face with someone who knew her but that she simply could not remember.

The tenseness in the Dragon Room quickly rebuilt again, though, and Taeth desperately wished she could sneak out as terse words were exchanged, but she couldn't do so without drawing attention to herself. One moment made her pause, though. It was hard to know what all had conspired, but it seemed to involve a dangerous criminal in prison... who for some reason had been allowed to send and receive letters. If that were true, there was some serious neglect that had fallen into the Cavalry ranks since her own time as a Marshal. Such a gross oversight would never have been permitted back then, and any letters even attempted to be sent would have been confiscated for inspection and evidence.

Once the issue about the HCMA was cleared up--and Taethowen was well familiar with the rights of the HCMA from back in her first Cavalry days--and then well... Taeth wasn't really sure what all had happened, just that the Second Marshal and Alla had disappeared, and the First Marshal seemed exhausted. When there was a lull, Taeth stepped forward.

"I hope these matters get smoothed over quickly," she said to the First Marshal. "I will take my leave now, for my Summer Festival responsibilities are calling. I hope to see you at the celebration tonight for the M. Meduseld and Campian winners."

Taeth saluted one last time, then turned and left, passing Eldrith on her way out. She gave the woman a quick smile as they passed each other.

(OOC @Rowena Ellenweorc - I'm sorry I missed your message on Discord, there was a lot of RL junk that interfered with my ability to be available there this week. But it looks like the issue here has already been resolved. A potential change in eoreds is probably something best left to discussion in the Dragon Room, though, because people may not always be reliably reachable on platforms outside the Plaza.)

Walpurga, human, she/her

This was it. She was finally going to do it. She was nervous of course, who wouldn’t be? Butterflies flittered in her stomach. She was passed the point of questioning whether or not this was something she truly wanted to do. She passed that point a few streets away. She told herself she had to stop doubting herself and make a firm decision. So she did. Joining the Cavalry had been something Walpurga had wanted for as long as she could remember. Her first memory was of riding a horse, strapped tightly to the saddle in front of her mother. She had felt so free that day, so light and full of careless joy. Now here she was. Walpurga stood before the doors of the Dragon Room, the legendary hall of the Cavalry commanders.

She took a deep breath, clenched and unclenched her fists, a meditative technique she used to calm and center herself. She could do this. She was her mother’s daughter! She had laced up her riding boots that morning with a sense of purpose. She had only eaten a small breakfast, too concerned her nerves would get to her before the moment arrived. Her nerves, though, never did get bad. She was hungry, perhaps she could go to the marketplace and find something to eat after her audience in the Dragon Room. They ate badger here, so she had been told. It was an odd choice, but she was game to try new things.

Walpurga was greeted by the sounds of shouting and angry words being flung across the great expanse and for just half a heartbeat, she wondered if she was in the wrong place. There was something off in the air. A thick layer of tension hung about the room. The young Rohir felt it was like the moment right before a lightning string, when the world suddenly seems to slow down right before the great crash.

But then, suddenly, the energy changed. Whatever sense of brooding malice hung over the room was gone. There was still a sense of tension, a sense of things hanging on a knife’s edge, but it seemed in Walpurga’s mind that things had tipped back into the positive balance. She breathed a sigh of relief.

She strode into the hall, the wind blowing back her thick black hair, the only gift other than the ocean blue eyes her father ever gave her. The sudden breeze felt nice. She strode through the room and stopped before the three chairs at the end of the hall. Only one of the seats was occupied at the moment.

“My name is Walpurga Sæsnaca,” she bowed low, “I have come to request the honor of joining the Cavalry.”

Éomund, human, he/his

Éomund slowly entered the magnificent Dragon Room, his eyes darting around the room as he tried to take in the place. For some time now he had been interested in joining the Calvary. He had grown up hearing about it and was excited to finally be old enough to join.

A bit nervously, he had never been in the place before, the youth approached the end of the hall where the First Marshal sat alone on the dais, looking a bit concerned. There was someone else there ahead of him, a woman who introduced herself as Walpurga Sæsnaca. He waited until she was done and then stepped forward. "Good day Marshal," he said a bit awkwardly, "I am Éomund, from the Westfold." He rocked nervously back and forth on his feet, "If it pleases you, I would like to request to join the Calvary."

He looked around, not entirely certain what was the next proper move and hoped that the First Marshal wouldn't be too annoyed at his lack of proper decorum. It was his first time being in such a magnificent place.

Edited to fix a geography error.

Shivased was still sitting with her hand over her face when something bumped her fist. Looking up she found her ceorl, Haru, standing there with a steaming mug in his hand. Some 'o yer granny's tea, sweetened with cream and plenty o' sugar. I know ye save it for special occasions, but I figure this is close as y'ell get for now. Smiling at the old man and thanking Bema he refused to retire, she took the tea. He took the opportunity of passing off the mug to pat her hand gently. She smiled. She truly didn't know what she would do without him. Also, Jacen's here, ma'am. I cleaned 'im up a bit and told 'im ta behave.

Shivased took an appreciative sip and nodded as Haru disappeared again into the background, then returned her attention to the Dragon Room at large. Taeth took her leave and saluted. I will be there, and believe the Badger Chase winners will be announced there as well, she said as she returned the salute.

She picked her tea up, having set it down to salute, and took another sip of the heavily sweetened drink, savouring the unique blend her grandmother made herself. She got two sips in before Eldrith appeared and she noted a figure lurking at the edge of her vision. Thank you for coming, Eldrith she said, ignoring the lurking figure for a minute. It was her brother, she knew that. He probably thought he was in trouble, so she would let him stew a bit.

Instead, she smiled at Eldrith. I'm glad you chose to come, she told the woman. And so quickly, which is even better. She pulled the missive from the pile on the table beside her and held it out for Eldrith to take. It doesn't say much, just that the store-room was destroyed, and it looks like a pack of badgers got in there. That isn't confirmed though, it is just speculation. You will have to look and decide for yourself. But I'm told most of the stores are destroyed and the place is a mess.Your task is to oversee the clean-up and re-stocking of the stores. It is a big job, but I've found a helper for you, and you can use a few wigends.

She motioned Jacen forward and the lad came, looking suspicious. Sperewigend Jacen, reporting as requested, ma'am. he said a little unsteadily and awkwardly saluted. He was at least clean, though his lanky 15 year old frame looked gangly and odd in the unform.Shivased returned his salute and cracked a small smile for him. Jacen, you're to help Eldrith with the task I have given her. She will explain it once you report to her here in Meduseld. Behave and don't cause mischief. She will report to me if you do.

She gave Eldrith time to read the missive, and ask any questions she might have. While she gave a few minutes, she turned to two new entrants to the Dragon Room. Westu Walpurga hal, and westu Eomundhal, she greeted the man and woman who appeared in front of her, almost at the same time. She studied them. They both seemed nervous, but earnest in their attempt to appear professional. She nodded to both of them after taking a minute to study each potential rider.

You are both welcome to join the Cavalry, but due to the timing of your request, your training will be different than the norm. You will not report for training, but rather join us on an exercise that will be happening in the next while. Go ensure you are equipped with the appropriate equipment and armour, and keep an ear out for where to report for the exercise.

OOC @Eldrith (Feel free to RP this in the Cavalry Courtyard, and I will join in with Jacen. RP it however you want and order Jacen around, that's what he's there for! )

Thalionwen hadn't departed the Dragon Room on the best of terms when she'd left her retraining unfinished several weeks ago. There'd been hasty words spoken, and the possibility of a hearing before the King still hung in the balance. For the life of her, she couldn't figure out where she'd gone wrong--she'd taken such care, to set up an extensive system of support for the ailing prisoner she'd been sent to examine and question in the role of Haelend. She'd ensured everything was ready for his eventual release. Spoken of the duty the Cavalry owed him as one of their own, who'd been injured in their service. And yet somehow her plea on his behalf had been seen as insubordinate, and dangerous, even.

But she'd given her word to Alwin, the prisoner in Aldburg, that she'd do everything she could to see he gained an eventual release. Word had just come to her that he remained in prison, and Thalionwen could not let things stand so without trying once more on his behalf. Not even if a court martial or a prison sentence for her was the result. Though the first attempt hadn't gone well, she couldn't simply leave him in prison indefinitely, not when she believed he still had a chance at a productive and peaceable life.

Seeing only the First Marshal, Shivased, out in the Dragon Room's public area, Thalionwen waited her turn before stepping forward anxiously.

"First Marshal?" she said, twisting her hands together in front of her. "I know things ended badly the last time I was here. And I haven't come back in any sort of official capacity, or seeking the Cavalry's forgiveness for whatever my wrongs were. I'm just here as a healer, which is what the Cavalry trained me to be when I was young, and which I can never seem to shake. And as a healer, I'm concerned, because there's a good man in prison in Aldburg, who's still coping with the results of an injury he received while serving Rohan honorably in the war. I don't...I don't think prison's the place for recovery, not for a man like Alwin of Sailes, who's been doing his best no matter how it might look. Whatever the Marshals may believe, I'll go to my grave thinking it's unjust that he's not been granted another chance at a full life.

"So I'm here on his behalf again. Just me, Thalionwen. Not as a soldier, not as a haelend. I asked for Alwin's freedom once--advised that it's what I thought would be best. I'm not in a position to advise now, so this is just me begging, really. Don't keep a former soldier locked away for the rest of his life on account of an injury he might yet learn to control. Give him another chance. That's all I'm asking for. I think you'll be doing wrong if you don't, and I don't like to see the Cavalry carry out an injustice."

Letting out a trembling breath, Thalionwen nodded. "That's it. That's all I've come for. I'm sorry I've disturbing you, First Marshal. But I do hope for Alwin's sake, you'll consider what I've said."

It felt unnatural to turn and walk away without a salute, but she managed it, and nodded sadly to the two young recruits, Walpurga and Eomund as she went. If any trouble were to befall them in the line of duty, she hoped the Cavalry did better by them than it had by poor Alwin.

When the First Marshal call out to her, Thalionwen stopped and turned at once.

"Of course, Marshal Shivased," she said with a nod. "If it might help Alwin, I'll hear out anything you have to say. I'm at your disposal, and at Marshal Rowena's."

Taking up a place near the First Marshal's desk, but off to one side of the room so as not to be in the way should other business arise, Thali waited patiently.

Éomund, human, he/his

At the First Marshal's response, Éomund let out a sigh of relief, but then quickly stifled it. "Was it proper to sigh?" he briefly wondered. But before he had a chance to reply to the order to report for a training exercise in the near future, a woman (Thali) entered and said something to the First Marshal about some healing task or another. Éomund tried not to pay attention as it sounded like it was important business among higher members of the Calvary. Once the woman was done, she turned and nodded towards him and Walpurga. The First Marshal then requested her to wait until the other Marshal arrived.

Éomund took the brief lull as an opportunity to respond. "Thank you, Marshal Shivased," he said, as confidently as he could muster. "I'll go search for equipment and be ready to report to the proper location." He paused for a moment, and then added, "Do you have any weaponry recommendations?"

Walpurga (Human, she/her)

She bowed and let out the breath she didn't realize she was holding. The Marshal acknowledged her desire to enter the Cavalry, along with a young man (Éomund)she hadn’t realized was standing beside her. These were interesting times indeed, she thought, judging from the tension that hadn’t quite left the hall. Another woman (Thali), her demeanor one of trepidation but conviction, entered the hall behind them and spoke the Marshal. She spoke with eloquence and fervor and for a moment, Walpurga forgot she was in audience with the Marshal and became enthralled with the woman’s plea to release someone. While she has no idea of any of the previous events that transpired, she was moved by the woman’s speech. She felt herself wanting to say something in support but she remembered where she was standing. The whole urge became moot when the woman left, giving Walpurga and the other recruit a sad look. What was going on here? There were shapes moving behind the curtains and Walpurga could only spy them dimly. She saw a few of the hints that pieces were moving, but she was too small to understand them. Best ignore what’s not your business, she said under he breath, reminding her of her place right now.

“I thank you, Marshal Shivased, I will report at once for the exercise.”

With that, she whirled around and left the hall. She had a few supplies she had brought with her that she thought might be useful for training, it seems they would be good use now on an exercise. Walpurga smiled and her cheeks dimpled. Her life’s goal was coming true!

After a mature and inclusive discussion in the Command Tent thread, the decision has been made to open the positions of all three cavalry Marshals up for election.

So, without any further ado...

Windy and I will be co-ordinating the election and the thread is currently limited to nominations only for now.

Please read the Election Thread opening post though carefully before posting there or making your nomination, and keep your eyes open for future updates. Discussions can continue in the Command Tent thread so that we can hopefully keep that thread tidy and easy to digest for people who don't have time to read through all the posts in Command Tent.

To be safe, I have also taken a screen-grab of the current Cavalry Roster in case the decision is made to only allow votes from current cavalry members and trainees who had already engaged in training before the nominations opened.

Nominations will close midnight PST on Saturday 18th July (which is 3am on Sunday 19th July EST, or 8am on Sunday 19th July for BST) OR once every valid candidate has been nominated or has stated they do not wish to be a candidate; whichever comes first.

Aelflaed once more approached the doors to the Dragon Room, but this time her bearing had more confidence. Her brief period of training with Marshal Shivased, and the resulting admission to the ranks of the Cavalry as Dryghtguma had made her more self-assured - finally a place she belonged to, where she could grow, and where her past didn't matter. With an optimistic spring in her step she entered the Dragon Room and approached the dais. Only Marshal Shivased was there this time, and she sensed some tension in the room - evidently some events had happened whilst she was training which led to this atmosphere, but she would not let it dampen her good spirits.

Waiting until the other woman (Thali) had finished speaking with Shivased, Aelflaed then stepped forward, bowed, then straightened and saluted...some of this formal stuff would take a bit of practice, she thought. "Marshal Shivased, I have completed my training and taken my Oath, and I am now ready to serve Rohan and the Cavalry in any way I can. Please assign me a posting and I will gladly take on whatever task is needed." She looked up at the First Marshal seated on the dais with hopeful eyes.

The First Marshal's words came as a shock to Thalionwen. All she'd come for was to plead on Alwin's behalf once more--she hadn't expected another chance at rejoining the Cavalry. But it was gracious of Shivased to give her the opportunity.

"Thank you, Marshal," Thalionwen said, ducking her head in gratitude. "I appreciate your understanding. And while I am interested in serving as haelend again, I did come just for Alwin. Can you promise that it won't only be my fate the Marshals reconsider, but his as well?"

She knew it was bold, perhaps even foolhardy, to push the issue, but Thali had always been single-minded when justice hung in the balance.

Dicun had made his way back to Edoras as quickly as he could, he was eager to make his oath and find out where he would be assigned to. He was proud to have made it through his training with minimal injuries. A fall from his horse had left him with a bruise that seemed to cover his whole back. That was not something he was looking forward to explaining to his sister. Approaching the doors to the Dragon Room, Dicun began to wonder if he should have gone to visit her first. She would be so excited to hear his good news he was sure, it also meant he would have to hold her to her deal to help him purchase his very own horse. Hopefully whatever assignment he was given would allow him a little time to fully prepare himself.

As he entered the room, he noted there were fewer people than there had been when he'd visited before. It seemed strangely tense as well, a strange kind of silence hung in the air. There were only two people at the dais and only one Marshal sitting before them. Dicun smiled though as it was Marshal Shivased, at least it was a familiar face. He approached and saluted the best he could. "Marshal, I have returned as requested now that my training is complete. I have taken my Oath and I am proud to be a member of the Cavalry. I am ready to serve whichever eored is in need."

Thali's response to her apology had her nodding immediately. His fate is already being reconsidered, I promise that. Someone has already been sent to give a secondary evaluation, and I'm sure will confirm what you said. As soon as I receive the secondary report he will be released to the caretaker you have set up for him. She glanced towards the Second Marshal's office, but the woman still had not appeared. There is a Cavalry exercise coming up if you are willing to join our ranks still. I can give you the rank of Dryhtguma of the mark to start, and with the approval of the Second Marshal, I don't see why you cannot be returned to the rank of Haelend. If you are fine with this, I will place you in the Eastmark.

Once again giving Thali a minute to think, she took note of the two newly arrived, and newly minted, Dryhtgumas who had arrived. Westu Aelflaed and Dicun hal, she greeted them. I'm pleased you have reported so promptly. She turned and considered the roster for a second. Aelflaed, you will be assigned to the Westmark. Dicun, you will go to Meduseld.

She fished two insignias out of the now quite depleted bowl, along with a blue one just to be prepared and moved to stand in front of the two new dryhtgumas. Westu Dryhtguma Aelflad of the Westmark! she stated loudly, holding out the green insignia. Westu Dryhtguma Dicun of Meduseld! She held out the green badge. Once both had been taken from her she stepped back and saluted. Report to your respective Eoreds for orders.
Signature insignia Links
[b]Aelflaed:[/b] https://i.imgur.com/4bhFVb1.jpg
Dicun: https://i.imgur.com/M7x1JNj.jpg

Allacan, human, she/her, in Second Marshal @Rowena Ellenweorc's office

Allacan was not entirely convinced that Rowena was as well as she was trying to appear, but she made no further mention of it, trusting to her friend to look after herself. She sat down in the chair the Second Marshal indicated, graciously accepting the tea when it was offered to her and inhaling deeply the soothing scents. As Rowena passed over the letter, she skimmed it quickly, arching an eyebrow appreciatively; the Ǣthelwigend had been, as she suspected, frank and honest, but at all times respectful. Her regard for him increased once again, and she was satisfied to think that the unfortunate wedge she had inadvertently put between the two Marshal friends had been for someone as well deserving as he. "...not sure what to do... Watchmaster Grimthain is in my Éored... traitors in our midst... no idea who I can trust to promote to his position..." She pondered Rowena's words a while, carefully formulating ideas for how to phrase her response so as to be at all times respectful as Esme joined them briefly. Allacan nodded politely to the woman, not wanting to risk spilling her tea with a hand-shake, and noted silently both the hӕland insignia that Esme bore and the Isen clove poison Rowena mentioned. As Esme left, Allacan quietly asking her to pull the door to, so as to provide them both with a little more privacy.

She initially focused on the issue that was probably upsetting Rowena the most; Shivased over-ruling her order. "I can understand your irritation. Shivased is well within her rights as First Marshal, but I can see why it annoyed you when she 'pulled the rug out from under you', as you put it. But I think if we are both being honest here, she isn't the only person to have done that recently, is she?" she said, with a pointed but empathetic look to her good friend. "Remember Taethowen's task, when Shivased asked her to deal with the Dryht's arguing over the new mounts, but you over-ruled her to give Taeth your family motto sword task? Even though Taethowen was previously in the Eastmark, Shiva's Éored, and Shiva outranked you? That could just have easily irritated Shiva in the circumstances, but she took it in good grace and I suspect she was hoping you would do the same thing with Grimthain."

She hesitated, wondering if she could leave it there, but then decided if she was in for a copper, she may as well be in for a gold too. "I think its fair to say, from the recent disagreements between you, that communication has obviously broken down between the two of you. Which is a shame, because you work so well together when you are both listening to each other and respecting each other. I think, and I hope you won't hate me for being honest about this, that you almost didn't give Shiva any other choice but to contradict you publicly. You spoke to chastise me for providing my advice and request so loudly and vehemently - and where the whole cavalry could hear it - and thereby set a precedent for future behaviour without conferring with your commander and comrade. When you spoke those words, you placed behind them the implied authority of the whole Marshal team. In those circumstances, Shiva was left with only two options; to allow your comments to stand unchallenged, thereby implying her agreement with everything you had said despite it not being something she agreed with, or to publicly disagree with you and make clear her that her preference is for openness and approachability. Whether I agree with her stance on Grimthain or yours is irrelevant, sadly the lack of communication between the two of you has exacerbated this situation, and I am sincerely sorry for bringing that to surface in such a... er... tense manner." She shook her head, sadly, and muttered quietly. "I don't like it when my friends fight, least of all over something I have done."

She pulled herself together, not wanting to be misinterpreted in any way as attempting to emotionally manipulate Rowena, and continued. "All that said, I must also confess that there is another reason I requested Grimthain's transfer out of Westmark Eored. Grimthain confided in me his wish to be re-assigned to Meduseld Eored because someone important to him - a younger relation of some kind, I think - recently enrolled with the cavalry, and he wanted to be on hand to support this individual through their training and initiation into the cavalry. He already held the rank of Ǣthelwigend, so it was not a promotion really, if anything it would be a demotion as he would be giving up the role of Watchmaster and joining the regular troops when he transferred. The reason I did not say this earlier, sir, is because... well... Grimthain didn't want this new recruit getting any additional hazing or special treatment because of his association - you know how competitive sperewigends can be - and it isn't really the sort of thing he wanted me shouting about in front of the whole cavalry." She diplomatically did not comment on Grimthain's's other reasons for wanting to change Éored; his disenchantment in doing the same tiresome job for so many years without change, his discomfort over the orders he had been given to keep Cuthbert alive which ran counter to his own opinion on the subject, as did some of the orders he had received recently; his weariness at having to deal with such detestable people on a daily basis rather than gaining honour and glory in the field of battle; his shame at discovering the devious man had perhaps gotten the better of him; his embarrassment in front of his previous comrades - his subordinates - that he had failed in his duty... Allacan didn't think any of these were particularly relevant at this time, and in any event she already felt like she had betrayed the trust Grimthain's had placed in her by sharing what she already had; she didn't want to lose his respect entirely by babbling his entire confidence to the Second Marshal without his permission.

She concluded her point on the Ǣthelwigend's transfer, and the disagreement it had caused between the two Marshals; "I suspect that although I did not mention it, because Shiva and I have been friends for so long and she knows me so well, she might have read between my words and guessed that there was some other reason for me suggesting the Éored transfer, beyond what I said, but she suspected that it was perhaps not something to discuss publicly if I was not volunteering such information and instead trusted me that it was a reasonable excuse. For my part, on that basis I apologise for raising the topic in such a public domain, obviously I should have waited until the three of us could talk privately about it. I was just eager to help a comrade; he is a good man, Rowena, and he doesn't deserve to spend the rest of his cavalry life babysitting foul creatures like Cuthbert, too far away from the people he cares about to be able to see them as often as he would like. But I confess, I should have thought more carefully before I acted. Please, will you accept my apology for not explaining myself properly when I first made the request, away from ears that could overhear and eyes that could pry?"

Whatever Rowena's reaction to Allacan's apology might be, this new guilt - coupled with her remorse for the outcome of her recent cavalry re-initiation task - made her feel like she wanted to help in a manner that was more beneficial to the Second Marshal than simply an apology. "I'm sorry if sounded like a lecture; I didn't intend to go on with myself quite that much. I just really want to help, as a friend, do you understand? But you did not ask for the advice of a friend, you asked for the advice of a HCMA" she segued. "So I will give it, and you are of course welcome to regard it or dismiss as you wish; I assure you I will take no offence either way.

"Regarding the tension with Shivased, I know you may not be ready to make peace with her yet, but I would recommend you attempt to do so as soon as you can. It hurts the cavalry when the two commanding officers are at odds with each other, and more so, it hurts your friendship. And, I hope you will please forgive me for speaking frankly as a friend for a moment rather than a comrade, it is also unbecoming for a Second Marshal to be .... so argumentative at the order of a commanding offer, or indeed..." she glanced over at the cup of water... "Drinking on duty - and bilewitdox of all things?! - surely even you cannot withstand the taste that every other cavalry rider, even the greatest legends, could not stomach" she digressed, pondering curiously for a moment whether someone had been discretely watering down the Dragon Room supply, before pulling her focus back to the matter at hand. "I know you mean well, and we all know that sometimes your temper just gets the better of you - you are a true Westmarker, I will give you that! - but in my experience holding a grudge just hurts both people, and gains nothing."

She shook her head self-deprecatingly, trying to find the right way to phrase her words so as to sound like a friend sharing wisdom, and not aggressive in any manner "Sometimes those who outrank us make decisions we disagree with, and it is fine to have opposing opinions, but we have to respect the rank and do as they ordered all the same. If we hold a command rank of our own then we should be especially conscious of the example we set, and accept such orders as gracefully as possible. Think of the influence it could have on the discipline among the lower ranks if they repeatedly witness such insubordination among the highest ranking soldiers and took it as permission to be unruly themselves; it would be anarchy! I have already heard one or two of the dryhtguma talking about how you berated Shivased for drinking tea on duty and have seen how they are using it as an excuse to bully Sperewigends who are taking a break. Don't worry, I dealt with it, fear not. But we need to remember, whenever we express our dissatisfaction in the main hall rather than in a private space, especially if we are a commander, we need be considerate of who might be watching, and what they might think.

"I admit..." she said, softening "it is extremely hypocritical for me to be saying this given my recent... behaviour, and I will explain that to the Marshals on another day when we have more time, I assure you. But my position is slightly different; as respected as I might be for my past service and honours, I only hold the rank of Dryhtguma and therefore there is less pressure on me to always be the shining paragon of cavalry ideals. I admit, its one of the reasons I preferred the rank of Dryhtguma over Paethfindian, at least until I remember how to demonstrate proper discipline to the lower ranks" she said, with a guilty grin and an apologetic shrug.

"Also..." Allacan glanced mischievously at the door to make sure they were not overheard before leaning conspiratorially towards Rowena, saying in a low whisper "There is so much more scope for good-natured fun and innocent mischief in the lower ranks, if you take my meaning? When you don't hold any command there is so much less pressure; you don't have to be serious and responsible all the time. As long as you don't push it too far so that they can kick you out, what can they do? Demote you? There's not a whole lot lower than Dryhtguma and Sperewigend, except to re-train, and that takes effort on the commander's part. But the moment you start walking around with a Marshal insignia, or even that of Ærest Pæthfindian and Bealdorhӕland, you are under pressure to be serious and responsible all the time and it can be, quite honestly, boring!"

She sat back and looked worried for a moment, remembering it was the Second Marshal she was speaking to, and gave a pleading look in the hopes Rowena wouldn't demote her or worse, discharge her on the spot for such rebellious words. She then added with a wry smile. "I'm just saying, there's nothing wrong with asking for help now and then, or letting others make some of the decisions; no-one can manage everything all on their own. Nor should they have to."

"As for what to do regarding the recently deceased prisoner and his machinations. As Second Marshal you are, of course, privy to my somewhat unique skills granted to me by my, er, turbulant past. These skills are ever at the behest of the cavalry, and it might be that I can put them to good use to you presently. Unlike most Rohir, I am well disciplined with ink and quill, and I am used to studying lengthy papers over long hours. Similarly, I am perhaps uniquely familiar with some of the coding and symbols used by servants of the enemy to the East. If you wish, I could spend some time going through these letters for you; with the knowledge of at least one of his plans now revealed to us we might even be able to backwards-engineer this code and decipher some of his other messages? In fact, now I think on it, Pæthfindian Taethowen might be a good person to help with that, she is amazing at keeping paperwork organised and I trust her implicitly to be discrete about what we do here. Our first priority needs to be rooting out any soldiers within our ranks that might be disloyal to the cavalry; one of the reasons I have intentionally been presenting myself as someone with such dubious character and questionable loyalties is because it is all a ploy, I assure you, so that such people might think me an ally and trust me with their secrets, to their detriment. We need to clean the ranks of any traitors so that we can continue to trust our comrades with our lives, as we do every day of our service." she said grimly with an angry frown, clearly furious at the idea that anyone might betray their cavalry comrades, before taking a deep breath to calm herself.

"I also heard you refer to Isen clove poison; I have some experience of that from my... er... more dubious engagements, although I have yet to wrangle my rusty hæland skills into finding any kind of an anti-dote; Esme might be better at that, if she can be excused from her cavalry duties for a while; I noticed her hæland badge, and I presume she is someone you trust with your life, yes? We might need some allies positioned outside the official cavalry ranks, while we figure out how far Cuthbert's influences stretch, so she would be a prime candidate if she doesn't mind an honourable discharge from formal duties?" she queried.

"As for who to promote to Grimthain's position, given that we now have concerns regarding the possibility of traitors among the stockade guards, I would recommend you promote someone you trust to be above all reproach and who would never betray the cavalry, even if their life depended on it. Someone who is not known to the already established watch-guards and who is unlikely to hide anything from you, so that we can be confident that nothing is slipping past our notice. Someone who can easily keep you informed of the goings on via both official and unofficial channels, regardless of rank. Perhaps one of your closest aids, someone other than Esme, or someone more inclined to the militaristic side of the cavalry who would be keen for an opportunity at something new, like Audley? He can be trusted, yes? And is he not Westmark? It need not be a permanent position, if you hate to be separated from him for too long, but at least we know we can trust him!"

Allacan took a long sip of her tea while Rowena considered these suggestions, watching the Second Marshal. A wave of protectiveness and comradely affection rose up in her, and she found herself looking at the respected warrior with sympathy and compassion.

"Lastly, and please understand that I ask this out of a deep concern for your own personal well-being, and not only that of the cavalry, but I meant it when I said I was worried about you. You look a little fraught, sir, and these outbursts are not at all like you. Ask Esme, if you don't believe it, I am sure she can see it also, being a trained hæland as she is. Perhaps you are... dare I say it?... overtaxed with work presently? Juggling the duties of both Marshal and Bealdorhaelend must be a great strain, and I of all people know how dangerous it can be overtaxing yourself until you burnt out. Arguably my own cavalry career ended so abruptly because I failed to seek the aid of my comrades, and I nearly paid for that with my life. Some would argue that I did, in a manner of speaking."

She paused, and had to fight the urge to get up and hug her friend closely, and vehemently fight off any who would do her harm. "Perhaps all this business with Cuthbert is bothering you more than you realise? And its perfectly understandable if he has been! Don't get me wrong, he unsettled me deeply and I was only in a room with him for five minutes! I can only imagine how draining and demoralising it would be having someone like that hanging over you for years. You have born the burden like a hero, just as you have worn the rank of both Marshal and Bealdorhӕland with honour. But perhaps now is the time for you to accept some help in dealing with his vile actions and their consequences; maybe that is the real reason you gave me this task after all, so you weren't all alone in handling it any more? You have already achieved so much, despite that burden placed upon you. No-one can deny that you have been pivotal to the recent renaissance in the cavalry, and you will forever be respected for all the contributions you have made towards the reformation of its most elite ranks. But perhaps the time has come for you to actually permit yourself the time to also focus on more personal duties; your family, the mess that Cuthbert has made, your friendship with people like Shivased that have been strained because of all the pressure you are under. A holiday, I think that's what you need, and a decent one away from all of this..." she waved her hands vaguely at the office "... this duty and responsibility and this damn, heavy pressure! I know, I know, you could never abandon your oath and duty to Rohan like that, and I respect that in you. But could you maybe just put it to one side for a bit to look after yourself for a change? I just... I'm worried is all. For you, and also selfishly for me. I... I just... I don't want to lose you!" she confessed quietly, and this time she gave in to her instincts she stood to pull Rowena up into a tight, passionate hug, tears brimming for a moment as she squeezed her in a desperate attempt to express without words how much she cared, really cared for this person and their welfare, and wanted to see them laugh and smile and enjoy themselves again.

An idea struck her like a bolt of lightning, and she pulled away from the hug suddenly with a big grin on her face. "That's it! You should come to the Festival After-Party tonight, when your shift is over; a couple of the youngest recruits and I have some silliness planned in there that I guarantee will make you laugh" she said with enthusiasm. "Oh please say you will?! But don't come as a Marshal, come as my friend Rowena." Another thought suddenly struck her, wiping the smile from her face as her colour suddenly drained. "Oh no! Speaking of the party, I just remembered Shiva asked me to take the Dryhtgumas and Sperewigends down to the M. Meduseld tent so it can be properly set up for the party! I completely forgot!!" she exclaimed, and for the second time that day felt herself panic that she was neglecting her duties.

She ran to the door and popped her head out; she could see First Marshal Shivased handing out insignias to Aelflaed and Dicun even as she declared "Report to your respective Eoreds for orders" which heralded a need for the Second Marshal to also return to her duties. Allacan turned back to Rowena, rolled her eyes as she stuck out her tongue to one side in an absurd fashion. She winked again "See, responsibility sucks!"

Allacan then composed herself, drew herself up respectfully to her full height, and gave Second Marshal Rowena the most respectful, honorific salute she possibly could. "Permission to be dismissed to my duties, Second Marshal, sah!" she said crisply, staring at a spot on the wall just over Rowena's shoulder, but with a half-grin still sneaking its way onto her face.

(OOC @Rowena Ellenweorc I'm so sorry for the 'War and Peace' length post, I might have gotten carried away (again! I really need to stop doing that!). I just hope it is all interesting and useful stuff and most importantly, worth the wait! )

Congratulations to @Gwai, @Shivased and @Taethowen who were successfully elected as our new Marshal Team.

Thank you to @Rowena Ellenweorc and @Elarith for their willingness to stand as Marshal candidates and the efforts they made with their blurbs.

Thank you also to everyone who engaged in the election process, from its first tenuous sprouting of a half-formed idea through to the last minute votes. We had almost a 100% turnout among all those cavalry people who could vote, so Bema's blessings on you all!

And especially massive thanks for the wonderful @Winddancer, my support-admin throughout this hectic and wordy endeavour; much obliged!

---

We will leave this thread open until the end of Tuesday at least so people can respond to any of the earlier comments, and to allow Rowena to formally step down from her position as Second Marshal and for Shivased to say farewell to her comrade.

However it role-plays out, HCMA Allacan will be sure to get wind of this, and she will ensure that all the random assortment of Dryhtgumas and Sperewigends NPCs are there to provide a guard of honour as you exit, @Rowena Ellenweorc, in gratitude for all your effort in re-starting the cavalry and helping to facilitate its renaissance on NuPlaza. Thank you again!

Allacan, human, she/her, as HCMA saying thank-you to Second Marshal @Rowena Ellenweorc

The decision had been clear in Rowena’s eyes, at least to someone as astute as Allacan. It was one of those moments where a close friend can read the mind of another.

As she left Rowena‘s office, Allacan approached the First Marshal Shivased and, pulling her aside to somewhere more private, whispered some quiet words. Shivased listened carefully, nodded in understanding, and waved her HCMA away to achieve the necessaries.

Allacan gathered all the dryhtguma and sperwigends she could find together in the cavalry courtyard. They’ll err they waited; she was giving them a lecture on the importance of good appearances and proper comportment while on duty, on respecting your commanders and their wisdom, mentally selecting the few she would need to help set up the party tent. But more than that, she was buying time to allow events to transpire in the Dragon Room.

Her instincts were correct. She wasn’t sure exactly what transpired behind the grand doors, between the First Marshal and the Second Marshal as they both finished the watch for the day. She didn’t need to know; as Shivased popped her head out of the side door and gave her the signal to go ahead, HCMA Allacan quickly explained the real reason for their gathering and barked orders that demanded immediate attention.

In the time it took Rowena to cross from Shivased‘s office to the Dragon Room doors, every available Sperewigend and Dryhtguma, a couple of Ǣthelwigends, even Esme came hurrying over with a hastily grabbed sword in hand. All of them formed a long line on either side of the path that lead from the Dragon Room out of the cavalry grounds. It unsurprisingly continued a little way into the Riddermarket; there was such an enthusiastic response to the call for honours that there were simply too many to fit in the cavalry grounds. As Rowena emerged into the light of the setting sun, Allacan was waiting at the head of the guard of honour, and with tears in her eyes, she quietly said “On behalf of the cavalry, Rohan and the king, thank you for your service as Marshal of the cavalry. It has been an honour serving with you as Second Marshal, and may whatever challenges you go to face now give you the same sense of pride and achievement that your service here has provided.” She smiled; all her experience in command and comportment momentarily abandoning her and she could think of nothing she could say to properly convey the gratitude and honour they all felt to this Marshal who had helped bring the cavalry back from the brink. So she stopped talking - concise for a change, that was new! - stepped back to join the line of soldiers, reached for her sword and called in a commanding voice. “Cavalry. Atten-shun!”

They all drew swords as one, the ringing of steel like a wave of noise that washed over Rowena as the gathered soldiers lifted them up and saluted the Second Marshal for the last time. As she stepped away from the Dragon Room and her command position they stood to attention, respectfully, the entire length of her walk. As Allacan watched Rowena leave, she could not help but wonder what her friend would now go on to achieve, and silently wished her all the best in every endeavour.

OOC @Rowena Ellenweorc I hope you don’t mind the minor godmoding; @Shivased will be closing this Dragon Room later today and I wanted to make sure Rowena went out in style.

The Cavalry has been returned to Rohan, and we have found ourselves with some great riders that are already giving the Cavalry a run for it's money. With this thread closing, we are saying goodbye to our Second Marshal.

Before this thread is closed, I want to recognize @Rowena Ellenweorc for the hard work he has given to the Cavalry as Marshal of the Westmark for the last few years on the Old Plaza, and this most recent time on the NuPlaza. Their leadership and hard work have helped shape the Cavalry into what it is. Rowena has been a strong marshal, full of energy and enthusiasm, and that enthusiasm and energy were part of what got the Cavalry back up and running. We, as the new marshal team, look forward to seeing the same enthusiasm in their new Cavalry role going forward.

Rowena, it has been a pleasure working with you as a marshal. We've dealt with ups and downs, and created mischief and mayhem together. They were good times, and I look forward to the craziness we can create in the future together.



A new DR has been opened HERE. All Cavalry business can be taken there.