Response to the Challenge for the Fourth

[DoS Archive]

Date: 12/1/97 9:22 PM Pacific Daylight Time
From: KnDurandal



The letter had arrived the evening Beka had returned to the front and he had not opened it expecting her return on the 29th. But the day had come and passed with no word from his wife. By the morning of the 1st he had taken to pacing the empty halls of their castle, his thundering steps sending servants and knights alike to avoid him at all costs. They were accustomed to his moods and realized that his concern for his wife could well lead him to actions that were not usual for him. Evan, his best friend and advisor, came to him that evening with the papers and decisions that required his immediate attention and his mind could not focus on the tasks of this supply running low or that route being patrolled more often. And then he came to it, "My lord, the Lady's challenge must be answered by the morrow else she might forfeit her title unduly." He could tell by the tone of Evan's voice that he had been hesitant in bringing up the subject of Beka and that could only mean one thing... "What word have you heard of my wife, Evan.", a command for knowledge, not a question. Knowing that hesitation would only make his friend's rage worse Evan spoke the message he had been given just an hour hence, "My Lord... your wife's turma... the last report they have of them was that they had fallen prey to an enemy ambush and are believed lost." Durandal shook his head fiercely as he turned to face Evan, "She is not dead, I would know it through the bond we share.", defiance and concern mingled in his voice. "Then she is behind enemy lines, Rand.. the Lord protect and save her.", Evan's head bowed down as he began to pray silently. He had grown to love his Lords' lady in the short time he had know her, she had a vitality and a genuine purity of heart that gave those at the castle a renewed sense of hope and faith. "Send a reply to this challenger immediately. I ride in the morning to find and return with Beka. Give me as much time as you can, Evan.",as he strode from the room he pretended not to hear Evan's reply. "May the Lord have mercy on her soul..." After he had completed his prayer, Evan penned a reply and stamped it with Durandal's signet ring for authencity.Warlord Huma Dragonbane, As my wife's second I have been given leave to respond to challenges in the event that she was away on business when one was issued. I leave today to bring her news of your challenge and I know that I speak for her when I said she will be expecting an honorable and skilled clash of blades. I would suggest the 15th day of the month of December at the hour of nine past by the eastern standards. My wife's standard and colors will be forthcoming. Knight Durandal of Verdun,Second to the Lady Beka Cavish of Rhiminee'The Lord bless those pure of heart and forgive those of us that are too human. D@V ((This is a posting of the private letter sent to Huma. Please remember thatonly the actual letter would be made public the rest is to garnish the roleplay.))