From the gatehouse, Robert sees a royal standard rise beneath the distant slope. The English herald advances beneath a renewed white flag, while the failed assault leaves ladders scattered in the ditch.
the English herald
Robert de Fiennes, hear me. Henry of Monmouth, King of England, has come near enough to demand your answer in person.
The herald stops beyond bowshot, his torn tabard marked by mud and dust. Behind him, the royal standard remains visible above the bare branches, guarded by mounted men.
Étienne
In person? After sending ladders against us? Let him come closer, and our stones will answer before his crown does.
Étienne
Lower your voice. If the king truly stands there, a spoken answer might spare the refugees and keep these walls from another assault.
Defenders crowd the gatehouse stairs, polearms pressed against the stone. Some glare toward the royal standard, others watch the eastern road, measuring outrage against the chance of survival.
the English herald
Your men have resisted honorably. Let your commander answer, and perhaps the king will hear what the walls have earned.
✓ Quest Accepted
Answer Henry’s demand
“"What does King Henry offer us?" *I called down from the wall, still skeptical*”
SUCCESS (Good Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Robert de Fiennes
What does King Henry offer us?
Robert calls down from the wall, his skepticism carrying across the yard. The English herald turns toward the royal standard, then waits for the king’s answer.
Henry of Monmouth, an adult man of medium build with a close-cropped brown beard, pale face, and dark royal surcoat, rides forward beneath the white standard.
Henry of Monmouth
A pardon for you and every defender who lays down arms. The wounded and refugees will be spared, and your property will remain under your name if you swear obedience.
Henry of Monmouth
Refuse, and I will resume the assault. Your walls have earned respect, Robert de Fiennes, but respect is not protection.
The offer reaches the gatehouse clearly. Several defenders lower their weapons a fraction, while others stare toward Robert, measuring pardon against submission.
the English herald
The king has spoken plainly. Your answer will decide whether this parley preserves your standing or leaves you marked as a rebel.
“"A rebel? You are a fool boy-king Henry, you are in France, YOU are the invader." *I called down to Henry, pointing down to him*”
SUCCESS (Good Diplomacy, rolled +3)
Robert de Fiennes
A rebel? You are a fool boy-king, Henry. You are in France. You are the invader.
Robert points down from the wall. His accusation carries across the open ground, stripping away the herald’s language of pardon and rebellion before defenders and English soldiers alike.
Henry of Monmouth
You speak boldly, Robert de Fiennes. I cannot deny that my army stands upon French soil, nor that your men have earned the right to name their enemy plainly.
A murmur passes through the English ranks. Henry raises one gloved hand, and the standards remain still while his captains hold their men back from another assault.
Henry of Monmouth
Your walls will not be stormed today. The wounded and refugees will pass unharmed, and your defenders may keep their arms while we withdraw beyond bowshot.
Étienne
He has heard you, my lord. The king gives ground before the whole company.
Henry turns his horse beneath the white standard. His concession leaves the priory secure for the moment, and the English host begins drawing away from the eastern approach.
Quest Complete
Answer Henry’s demand
Skill Upgrade: Diplomacy Good→Great