Expansion Quest
- Thread starter Silent_Sepharim
- Start date
- Location
- United States
Okay, now that I'm not sleep deprived, there's one other order of business to address.
[X] Cirila
[X] The Department of Foreign Expansion
Not fond of the organization name. If someone comes up with something interesting, I'll switch. We are essentially homesteaders laying claim to uninhabited lands so something to that effect.
As neither plan addresses it, might as well take care of it separately.
[X] Cirila
[X] The Department of Foreign Expansion
Not fond of the organization name. If someone comes up with something interesting, I'll switch. We are essentially homesteaders laying claim to uninhabited lands so something to that effect.
Is there a reason behind this name or you just like it?
I am curious.
- Location
- United States
The latter. A hint of exotic without being too onerous. That said, this is one area I'm not particularly invested in. If anyone has any better ideas I'm all ears.
As an added note, we're royalty or somewhere close to it so fancy names that stand out is par the course. Finding one that isn't cliche or Chūnibyō takes a bit of thought though.
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Turn 1 Results
Seek an advisor
Roll=1d100+14: 60
Your office is swamped dealing with the plethora of applications and referrals that your searches have gathered, indeed it has gotten to the point where you spend weeks pouring over dossier and profile before you come across two that suit your needs. Both of which are your cousins, unsurprising as the branch family often have gregarious natures due to the lack of pressure from family politics, and they have to deal with both the Main Branch and the peasantry, you quickly read further and have a detailed observation of your candidates ordered. A few months pass before you make your decision, while cousin Hew has potential his tendency towards indulging in carnal pleasures with the peasantry could prove a risk, so instead you choose your cousin Americ.
Americ arrives late into the year, with the coastal winds battering against his carriage. On his arrival he immediately has his wife and young daughter escorted into the familial mansion you inhabit as he makes his way to your office. The sharp smell of cloves indicating his arrival before the door opens and he enters, flanked by two of your hand picked guards. His wide smile greets you as he bows, before you grant the guards leave to exit the room.
"Cousin! I was thrilled when I received you message confirming my appointment, my spirits rose like the spears of Riordian. I understand that you have a lot on your plate and don't need me getting in your way, so going forward simply state your will and I shall have it done."
Gained Americ Riordian-Galtier, Branch Family member. Diplomacy 21
+1 Diplomacy action
Military Matters
Roll= 1d100+22: 102
When you sent word to your family that you where searching for a military adviser, you did not expect that you would have your Uncle Bryant send forward his dossier. It might have taken the better part of 6 months before it reached your desk, and you took another three confirming that it wasn't a hoax from an ill meaning sibling, but eventually you where convinced that offer was genuine. Not one for large expressions of emotion, you non-the-less broke out into a short happy dance at the coup that you have secured for your new organization. After all, it's not often that the head of the special operations training course joins your organization is it?
He arrived a mere month before the new year, and without fanfare. A single rider on a bay horse approached the facility and waited to be greeted by the guards, who swiftly directed him towards you, catching you during an unscheduled beach walk.
"I can see that we have our work cut out of us. The patrols where abominable and it would take a single company to seize this base. I know you are new to this but it's unacceptable. I'll get this lot whipped into shape before any bad habits seep in."
The old man grumbled, his disastified scowl pulling the scar across his brow into an ugly knot of flesh, but you can see that he is pleased to be away from the comparative hustle of his former job.
Gained Millitary advisor Bryant Riordian-Demios, Branch Family Member. Martial 31
+1 Martial action
+20 to all actions involving training small groups.
Seek a personal shadow
Roll= 1d100+21: 82
The act of acquiring a Shadow, or a spymaster as they are so gauchely referred to by the peasantry, is a bit more complex than just opening up applications. It is an inherently untrustworthy position that requires a great deal of trust, something that does not come easily. So the majority of your time over the year goes into vetting every single profile that you deem worthy of your time, exhaustive reporting on affiliations, relationships, histories, actions, and values for every candidate before you come to the conclusion that your sister Sussanah Riordian would be the best choice. Slightly higher on the inheritance ladder so no threatened by you but not too high where she has significant powers of her own, a talent for investigation matched with a quiet disposition, and most importantly she never made fun of you for loving reading as a child. While you're not happy to have a shadow, at least you found a reasonable one.
Her arrival is subdued, simply turning up via carriage early one morning and requesting an appointment. On arrival to your office you immediately notice that your files are not complete, Sussanah is missing a prominent tooth and even for her is being quite quiet. She explains that she offended your brother Teobald and he struck her, unfortunately for her there where no witnesses and since then he has been trying to make her life harder. Accepting your offer was her means of escape.
"My thanks for your timely intervention sister, I fear for what our escalating feud would have lead to otherwise. I assure you that this will not impact my work, and that if a situation arises that would influence your organization I will inform you immediately."
Gained Intiruge Advisor Sussanah Riordian. Intrigue 26
+1 Intrigue action
Acquire a Stewardship
Roll=1d100+18: 111
When you searched for a steward a leading contender immediately came to your attention, a serf by the name of Stefanus had recently submitted a treatise on improving the agricultural output of some outlying villages but in doing so had criticized the works of the lord. He was promptly barred from all libraries and research gatherings, and was considered a social pariah in the local environment. However this was the tip of the iceberg, it seems that the serf had written over a dozen papers during his short studies and each of them was quite insightful. So when you extended your interest towards the man, he promptly packed his bags and made his way towards Sorrow's Point.
"Thanking you greatly My Lady, you got me out of a tight spot you did. Now I noticed on the way here that you ain't got any infrastructure for utilizing the seas. Not to question your choices and all Ma'am, but seems to me like a bit of an oversight! Luckily you have me around now and I can get that sorted right quick for your Ladyship."
His energy is obvious and the passion he shows for planning is great, but by the Patriarch you forgot how much the rural accent irritates you!
Gained Stewardship Advisor Stefanus the Serf. Stewardship 32
+ 1 Stewardship action
+10 to all industry development actions
The deadly tides
Roll=1d100+20: 36
Stubborn Re-roll=1d100+10: 41
Action locked in for next turn
The seas around Sorrow's Point are full of life, coral grows just off shore and there are small rock nurseries that brim with fish and crabs. But for the life of you the mechanism that brings ships to ruin escapes you! You have several small rafts constructed and sent out to the waters but nothing happens! They seem to have no issue and if not for the visible wreckage just under the water line you would assume that there is a massive conspiracy of lies, but even so you continue to investigate. The sea life continues to swell around the rocks and the waters seem warmer there than at the beaches, the tide comes in and out a full dozen meters each day but nothing indicates the reason for the wreckage!
Your frustration combined with the focus on finding new staff leaves you in a perpetually bad mood as you glare at the ocean from your office. It will not best you. After all, come next year you will have more time to rip its secrets from the depths.
Roll=1d100+14: 60
Your office is swamped dealing with the plethora of applications and referrals that your searches have gathered, indeed it has gotten to the point where you spend weeks pouring over dossier and profile before you come across two that suit your needs. Both of which are your cousins, unsurprising as the branch family often have gregarious natures due to the lack of pressure from family politics, and they have to deal with both the Main Branch and the peasantry, you quickly read further and have a detailed observation of your candidates ordered. A few months pass before you make your decision, while cousin Hew has potential his tendency towards indulging in carnal pleasures with the peasantry could prove a risk, so instead you choose your cousin Americ.
Americ arrives late into the year, with the coastal winds battering against his carriage. On his arrival he immediately has his wife and young daughter escorted into the familial mansion you inhabit as he makes his way to your office. The sharp smell of cloves indicating his arrival before the door opens and he enters, flanked by two of your hand picked guards. His wide smile greets you as he bows, before you grant the guards leave to exit the room.
"Cousin! I was thrilled when I received you message confirming my appointment, my spirits rose like the spears of Riordian. I understand that you have a lot on your plate and don't need me getting in your way, so going forward simply state your will and I shall have it done."
Gained Americ Riordian-Galtier, Branch Family member. Diplomacy 21
+1 Diplomacy action
Military Matters
Roll= 1d100+22: 102
When you sent word to your family that you where searching for a military adviser, you did not expect that you would have your Uncle Bryant send forward his dossier. It might have taken the better part of 6 months before it reached your desk, and you took another three confirming that it wasn't a hoax from an ill meaning sibling, but eventually you where convinced that offer was genuine. Not one for large expressions of emotion, you non-the-less broke out into a short happy dance at the coup that you have secured for your new organization. After all, it's not often that the head of the special operations training course joins your organization is it?
He arrived a mere month before the new year, and without fanfare. A single rider on a bay horse approached the facility and waited to be greeted by the guards, who swiftly directed him towards you, catching you during an unscheduled beach walk.
"I can see that we have our work cut out of us. The patrols where abominable and it would take a single company to seize this base. I know you are new to this but it's unacceptable. I'll get this lot whipped into shape before any bad habits seep in."
The old man grumbled, his disastified scowl pulling the scar across his brow into an ugly knot of flesh, but you can see that he is pleased to be away from the comparative hustle of his former job.
Gained Millitary advisor Bryant Riordian-Demios, Branch Family Member. Martial 31
+1 Martial action
+20 to all actions involving training small groups.
Seek a personal shadow
Roll= 1d100+21: 82
The act of acquiring a Shadow, or a spymaster as they are so gauchely referred to by the peasantry, is a bit more complex than just opening up applications. It is an inherently untrustworthy position that requires a great deal of trust, something that does not come easily. So the majority of your time over the year goes into vetting every single profile that you deem worthy of your time, exhaustive reporting on affiliations, relationships, histories, actions, and values for every candidate before you come to the conclusion that your sister Sussanah Riordian would be the best choice. Slightly higher on the inheritance ladder so no threatened by you but not too high where she has significant powers of her own, a talent for investigation matched with a quiet disposition, and most importantly she never made fun of you for loving reading as a child. While you're not happy to have a shadow, at least you found a reasonable one.
Her arrival is subdued, simply turning up via carriage early one morning and requesting an appointment. On arrival to your office you immediately notice that your files are not complete, Sussanah is missing a prominent tooth and even for her is being quite quiet. She explains that she offended your brother Teobald and he struck her, unfortunately for her there where no witnesses and since then he has been trying to make her life harder. Accepting your offer was her means of escape.
"My thanks for your timely intervention sister, I fear for what our escalating feud would have lead to otherwise. I assure you that this will not impact my work, and that if a situation arises that would influence your organization I will inform you immediately."
Gained Intiruge Advisor Sussanah Riordian. Intrigue 26
+1 Intrigue action
Acquire a Stewardship
Roll=1d100+18: 111
When you searched for a steward a leading contender immediately came to your attention, a serf by the name of Stefanus had recently submitted a treatise on improving the agricultural output of some outlying villages but in doing so had criticized the works of the lord. He was promptly barred from all libraries and research gatherings, and was considered a social pariah in the local environment. However this was the tip of the iceberg, it seems that the serf had written over a dozen papers during his short studies and each of them was quite insightful. So when you extended your interest towards the man, he promptly packed his bags and made his way towards Sorrow's Point.
"Thanking you greatly My Lady, you got me out of a tight spot you did. Now I noticed on the way here that you ain't got any infrastructure for utilizing the seas. Not to question your choices and all Ma'am, but seems to me like a bit of an oversight! Luckily you have me around now and I can get that sorted right quick for your Ladyship."
His energy is obvious and the passion he shows for planning is great, but by the Patriarch you forgot how much the rural accent irritates you!
Gained Stewardship Advisor Stefanus the Serf. Stewardship 32
+ 1 Stewardship action
+10 to all industry development actions
The deadly tides
Roll=1d100+20: 36
Stubborn Re-roll=1d100+10: 41
Action locked in for next turn
The seas around Sorrow's Point are full of life, coral grows just off shore and there are small rock nurseries that brim with fish and crabs. But for the life of you the mechanism that brings ships to ruin escapes you! You have several small rafts constructed and sent out to the waters but nothing happens! They seem to have no issue and if not for the visible wreckage just under the water line you would assume that there is a massive conspiracy of lies, but even so you continue to investigate. The sea life continues to swell around the rocks and the waters seem warmer there than at the beaches, the tide comes in and out a full dozen meters each day but nothing indicates the reason for the wreckage!
Your frustration combined with the focus on finding new staff leaves you in a perpetually bad mood as you glare at the ocean from your office. It will not best you. After all, come next year you will have more time to rip its secrets from the depths.
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I agree, great rolls with the advisors, although i am sorta happy that the roll for the tides failed, because without securing OpSec first the secret can leak, and if it leaks, that means the advantage of the impossible to navigate waters for our enemies is rendered null.
Is it intentional that there is nothing to vote for yet?
Yup, working on the next turn now. Should be out in the net 24 hours or so.
- Location
- United States
While the next turn's in the works. Let's discuss some options.
We'd be blowing through half our budget, though with plenty of salvage options we should be just fine as long as we can set up trade.
Either shipwrights or trade. Which do we do first?
Either this or elite. The point about operational security holds merit.
Combined with docks seems a good way to get things off the ground.
We'd be blowing through half our budget, though with plenty of salvage options we should be just fine as long as we can set up trade.
Turn 2
"I congratulate you all for your service! The first year of The Department of Foreign Expansion has been a quite one, but it has been formative. Great talents have joined us, and bring their expertise to our future endeavors. Now is the time to strive for greatness, we have the opportunity to do great things for our blessed Patriarch, let us exceed his remit and bring glory to our Autocracy"
Partial written record of a speech delivered by Cirila Riordian to the Department of Foreign Expansion.
The year has gone by with an undue haste, only letting up in brief moments of rage induced serenity as the secrets of the Sea of Sorrow evade you. However the rest of your endeavors have born great fruit with excellent advisers now filling your cabinet, a cabinet that you didn't really want as it dilutes the power you hold over the DOFE but being in a better position to fulfill the Patriarch's mandate is more important. Shaking your head to clear the thoughts you look over the meeting room that serves as a council room, it lacks any specialized equipment beyond wax tablets but it serves adequately for now. The grandiose words of Americ dueling with the bland and precise Sussanah as Bryant reads through a tablet, his scarred brow catching the candlelight and casting him in a threatening light. Indeed it seems that Stefanus has made sure to be on the opposite side of the table to Bryant, and is doing his level best to ignore him as he makes small adjustments to a proposal he plans to submit.
"Alright my council, we have a big year ahead of us. Lets make this work."
Resources
CROWNS
Previous total: 115
Spent: 10
Income: 15
Current Total: 120
Unless stated otherwise, all actions take 1 year (1 turn) to complete.
Advisors will add their full relevant stat and half of yours.
The new category personal has been added to reflect the lessening time demands
Turn 1
Diplomacy (Choose 2)
Establish contact with the Capital: You have started to operate at the will of the Patriarch, perhaps improving relations with the capital of Val Harman would allow you to gain more backers, or to create opportunities to expand your influence amongst the powerful.
DC 30 Crowns 5
Result: Establish contact with the movers and shakers of Val Harman, more diplomatic options.
Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation: There are many groups that have been founded in the glorious history of your family, many of which are still operational and some amongst those that could aid you. You just need to choose who to contact.
-Council of Zoning
-Alchemical College
-Shipwrights Guild
-Trading Consortium
-The System Archives
DC 50 Crowns 10
Result: Increased relations with the selected group, further interactions available.
Local connections: There are no real villages or settlements nearby, but that could change. Speak to your followers and see what the mood is with your workers.
DC 10 Crowns 0
Result: Understanding internal sentiment, identify potential problems
Funding Propositions: All things run off money, this is the conventional wisdom of nobility. While your funding is sufficient to cover your operational expenses it won't continue if you begin to expand or become active. However you haven't produced any results that would warrant an increase in funding. This would require a persuasive argument.
DC 80 Crowns 5
Result: Gain an increase of +10 to yearly income.
Branches of greatness: Many memorable and talented members of the Branch Family lack the opportunities to expand their skill-sets and prospects, instead languishing around local estates and frittering away their time. Americ suggests that he could sound of some of these dilettantes and provide a meaning and goal to them.
DC: 60 Crowns 10
Result: Improved relations with Branch Families, potential for hero/elite units.
What do they say?: Your organization is new, and untried. His could attract derision from your competitors and give them a means by which to attack your reputation, set Americ to the task of investigating this possibility.
DC: 50 Crowns 5
Result: Awareness of Branch and Core Family views towards you.
Military (Choose 2)
Secure your immediate vicinity: It seems that the area around Sorrow's Point has only been lightly scouted, the remote location being trusted as sufficient to ensure that no real threats where present. That is not good enough. Deploy your limited martial forces to ensure that nothing threatens you.
DC 30 Crowns: 0
Result: Knowledge of local threats, landmarks, peace of mind.
The Spoils of Sorrow, Martial: Have your forces scour the beaches for any wreckage that has made its way to land, based on the rumors surrounding the place there is a good chance your people will make some valuable finds and gain some minor field experience.
DC ? Crowns: 0
Result: Variable, but likely trade good and resources from shipwrecks. Potentially valuable objects.
Expansion, Mass: You have a very limited amount of forces, 2 squads of 10, and a great deal of land to manage. By sending word to everyone you can think of and calling upon recruiting practices you can expand your available manpower many times over. It will strain your logistics but the pay off should be worth it.
DC 20 Crowns: 10
Result: Gain up to 100 squads of green soldiers.
Expansion, Targeted: Instead of opening the floodgates, you could target the promising squads from the armies of Riordian and offer them a better position. Not quite as guaranteed as the previous option, but wont be as straining to manage and likely will result in better troops.
DC 40 Crowns 10
Result: Gain up to 20 squads of Professional soldiers.
Expansion, Elite: Quantity has a value, you know this. But it has a risk, more people aware of your actions and existence. Instead go for the very best, the cream of the military training programs, special forces soldiers, the Household Guard. You don't need a hammer, you will wield a scalpel.
DC 60 Crowns 20
Result: Gain up to 5 squads of Elite soldiers.
Fitness, the Demios way: Bryant Riordian-Demios is a first and foremost an educator, in the realm of physical and martial excellence. Allow him to set up a custom training field using the sea, sand, and stones to improve the physical conditioning of your soldiers. He recommends only sending a small amount through for now as proof of concept, but the scale can be increased if it produces results.
DC: 80 Crowns 10
Result: Consistent improvement to the physical capacities of your soldiers, chance for trait gains.
Patrols: You might only have 2 squads of soldiers but they can be better arranged by reducing internal patrols and focusing on external threats. Bryant is a little surprised at the extensive list of behaviors and signs you have your guards alert for, and recommends a specialist force for that with the current forces put to their intended purpose. Patrol around the area and make sure nothing and no-one approaches without your knowledge.
DC 40 Crowns 0
Result: Increased security against outside threats, basic patrol scheme set up.
Intrigue (Choose 2)
Meddle with the family: While you have the potential to rise far above your siblings in the Patriarch's esteem, perhaps it would be a good idea to see what your relatives are doing and if the need a few less than helpful pointers.
DC 60 Crowns 5
Result: Establish what your siblings are doing, future intrigue actions unlocked.
Establish an intrigue department: Sometimes more hands are simply required when it comes time to snoop around. After all, you can only be in one place at a time and that simply isn't enough. Gather some talented investigators, spies, scouts and more to form the core of your nascent shadow force.
DC 50 Crowns 15
Result: A barebones spy agency established, reduced DC for future intrigue actions.
Random workplace inspections: While you may have vetted your workers so far, time has passed and there is no guarantee of loyalty. Every oath has a loophole and that doesn't account for poorly secured documents, so you will make sure that everyone is following the correct procedures for sensitive information.
DC40 Crowns 0
Result: Increased information security, decreased chance of leaks.
Shadow-ways: While the nearest town is a weeks ride away, there are ways and means to reduce that. Have Sussanah establish these to gain access to the town of Vel Latimos, and begin to investigate the underworld actions around there.
DC: 70 Crowns 15
Result: Knowledge of criminal activities in Vel Latimos
Test procedures: You have spent a great deal of time and effort creating a series of policies you employees must follow if they suspect they are compromised or observed, for attacks and sabotage. Set Sussanah loose and have her stress test these.
DC ? Crowns 5
Result: Gain counter-Intel practice, establish DC of enemy infiltration/spy efforts.
Stewardship (Choose 2)
Expand the base 1/3: Your facilities are adequate for your current operations, however if you hope to increase in scale you will need more buildings. Housing, administrative centers, mess halls, clinics, recreation zones, and even more. An invigorating challenge to manage!
DC 40 Crowns 10/30 (10 crowns per turn, for a total of 30)
Result: Expanded facilities allowing for more staff, space for specialist buildings, improved moral.
Construct a dock: You are located right by the ocean, you have hungry staff. Combine the two and you have need for a fishing industry, and the beginnings of a naval effort assuming you can learn to master the currents that drown all who attempt to brave them.
DC 30 Crowns 10
Result: Improved moral, further development open, more naval options.
Survey for resources: The area around Sorrow's Point is mostly uncharted, with no significant surveys done to locate any natural resources. Change this and have the land reveal it's bounty to you.
DC ? Crowns 5
Result: Possibility of exploitable natural resources, locate natural landmarks.
Comb the beach: Have the professionals begin reclamation efforts on the beach, making sure to search deep within the dunes and under the surface for any hidden caches. The potential windfall is massive, if anything has survived the harsh environment.
DC ? Crowns 5
Result: Variable, but likely trade good and resources from shipwrecks. Potentially valuable objects
Better dunes and gardens 1/2: Establish growing fields and sheltered areas for valuable crops to be grown to fund your organization, it may take time but should allow for you to establish a basic level of self sustainability.
DC 80 Crowns 10/20 (10 crowns per turn, for a total of 20)
Learning (NONE, DEADLY TIDES LOCKED IN)
The deadly tides: The sea around the Shores of Sorrow are lethal for all those who try brave it, requiring anyone who wants to sail past it to go far out to sea where some are still lost forever. It may behoove you to try understand by what mechanism the seas claim the lives of all who try traverse them
DC 70 Crowns 10
Result: Identified the dangers of the Sea of Sorrow, further naval research.
Efficient Training: The armies of Riordian train their soldiers well, fostering competition between soldiers to help elevate the strengths gained from the system. However the Main Family has secrets of its own and some of the minor ones are ways to increase in power faster than all others, perhaps you could try implement a small portion of these to ensure your warriors are better than their competition.
DC 50 Crowns 15
Result: Soldiers gain inveteracy faster, increased chance of specialist units developing.
Faster messengers: The wonder of isolation is that you can experiment and grow as you desire, but it does make hearing the news from home much slower, and in the event of a disaster you may never know until it has passed. That is intolerable and you turn your mind towards means by which to hasten your messengers.
DC 80 Crowns 20
Result: Access to timely rumor mill, can call on others and be called on, work towards projecting organisations power.
Better Buildings, Foundations: Being so close to the ocean is an unusual choice for Riordian society, not many structures have been extensively tested in such conditions. As a result there may be room to improve the core design principles behind your buildings.
DC 50 Crowns 10
Result: Sturdier buildings better able to handle the salty weather, advances in design philosophy
Better Buildings, Materials: Stone has always served Riordian, and now you have access to a whole coastline of it. Explore and experiment with different compositions and see if anything is well suited to the environment.
DC 40 Crowns 5
Result: Building actions slightly cheaper, less maintenance costs.
Personal (1 action)
Train your self: Practice makes perfect, and you have never been one to shy away from putting in the hard work needed to improve. Buckle down and set your mind to work.
-Diplomacy
-Military
-Intrigue
-Stewardship
-Learning
DC 70 Crowns 2
Result: Improvement on chosen skill, has diminishing returns if used on the same skill.
A suitable courtier: Despite your position far from the throne, indeed being the 64th in line to inherit, you are still a desirable political commodity, let alone for your wit and knowledge. Your combat form is above average and you burn with passion for self advancement. While you are being observed for courting you could do the same and ensure that you find only the best candidates.
DC 40 Crowns 5
Result: Identify potential spouse, remove avenue of weakness to gossip and whispers.
Double down: Your full attention is a valuable thing, and sometimes is needed to ensure that a plan goes ahead without fail.
-Select an action to add your full stat to instead of half.
DC NA Crowns 5
Result: Add full stat to a chosen roll.
The system of power: The Riordian Autocracy has long held it's power through the judicious control and usage of the System. Blessed to be of the Main Branch, your particular interface is less restricted than most, and you can utilize this to achieve feats of physical and mental prowess that have been dubbed "Unnatural" by the unenlightened. Take the time to fully activate this blessing.
DC ? Crowns 5/10/15 (variable, choose how many to devote)
Result: Gain full access to the System, with unique powers and rewards you do.
I know you, but let's speak further: You have full dossiers on each of your advisers but you haven't taken the time to get to know them as individuals, an oversight that could lead to problems down the line. Rectify this.
-Choose an adviser and speak with them.
DC 30 Crowns 0
Result: Improve relationship with selected adviser, gain fuller understanding of them, secure loyalty.
##############################################################################################################################################
Please use plan voting and any questions I am happy to answer!
Partial written record of a speech delivered by Cirila Riordian to the Department of Foreign Expansion.
The year has gone by with an undue haste, only letting up in brief moments of rage induced serenity as the secrets of the Sea of Sorrow evade you. However the rest of your endeavors have born great fruit with excellent advisers now filling your cabinet, a cabinet that you didn't really want as it dilutes the power you hold over the DOFE but being in a better position to fulfill the Patriarch's mandate is more important. Shaking your head to clear the thoughts you look over the meeting room that serves as a council room, it lacks any specialized equipment beyond wax tablets but it serves adequately for now. The grandiose words of Americ dueling with the bland and precise Sussanah as Bryant reads through a tablet, his scarred brow catching the candlelight and casting him in a threatening light. Indeed it seems that Stefanus has made sure to be on the opposite side of the table to Bryant, and is doing his level best to ignore him as he makes small adjustments to a proposal he plans to submit.
"Alright my council, we have a big year ahead of us. Lets make this work."
Resources
CROWNS
Previous total: 115
Spent: 10
Income: 15
Current Total: 120
Unless stated otherwise, all actions take 1 year (1 turn) to complete.
Advisors will add their full relevant stat and half of yours.
The new category personal has been added to reflect the lessening time demands
Turn 1
Diplomacy (Choose 2)
Establish contact with the Capital: You have started to operate at the will of the Patriarch, perhaps improving relations with the capital of Val Harman would allow you to gain more backers, or to create opportunities to expand your influence amongst the powerful.
DC 30 Crowns 5
Result: Establish contact with the movers and shakers of Val Harman, more diplomatic options.
Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation: There are many groups that have been founded in the glorious history of your family, many of which are still operational and some amongst those that could aid you. You just need to choose who to contact.
-Council of Zoning
-Alchemical College
-Shipwrights Guild
-Trading Consortium
-The System Archives
DC 50 Crowns 10
Result: Increased relations with the selected group, further interactions available.
Local connections: There are no real villages or settlements nearby, but that could change. Speak to your followers and see what the mood is with your workers.
DC 10 Crowns 0
Result: Understanding internal sentiment, identify potential problems
Funding Propositions: All things run off money, this is the conventional wisdom of nobility. While your funding is sufficient to cover your operational expenses it won't continue if you begin to expand or become active. However you haven't produced any results that would warrant an increase in funding. This would require a persuasive argument.
DC 80 Crowns 5
Result: Gain an increase of +10 to yearly income.
Branches of greatness: Many memorable and talented members of the Branch Family lack the opportunities to expand their skill-sets and prospects, instead languishing around local estates and frittering away their time. Americ suggests that he could sound of some of these dilettantes and provide a meaning and goal to them.
DC: 60 Crowns 10
Result: Improved relations with Branch Families, potential for hero/elite units.
What do they say?: Your organization is new, and untried. His could attract derision from your competitors and give them a means by which to attack your reputation, set Americ to the task of investigating this possibility.
DC: 50 Crowns 5
Result: Awareness of Branch and Core Family views towards you.
Military (Choose 2)
Secure your immediate vicinity: It seems that the area around Sorrow's Point has only been lightly scouted, the remote location being trusted as sufficient to ensure that no real threats where present. That is not good enough. Deploy your limited martial forces to ensure that nothing threatens you.
DC 30 Crowns: 0
Result: Knowledge of local threats, landmarks, peace of mind.
The Spoils of Sorrow, Martial: Have your forces scour the beaches for any wreckage that has made its way to land, based on the rumors surrounding the place there is a good chance your people will make some valuable finds and gain some minor field experience.
DC ? Crowns: 0
Result: Variable, but likely trade good and resources from shipwrecks. Potentially valuable objects.
Expansion, Mass: You have a very limited amount of forces, 2 squads of 10, and a great deal of land to manage. By sending word to everyone you can think of and calling upon recruiting practices you can expand your available manpower many times over. It will strain your logistics but the pay off should be worth it.
DC 20 Crowns: 10
Result: Gain up to 100 squads of green soldiers.
Expansion, Targeted: Instead of opening the floodgates, you could target the promising squads from the armies of Riordian and offer them a better position. Not quite as guaranteed as the previous option, but wont be as straining to manage and likely will result in better troops.
DC 40 Crowns 10
Result: Gain up to 20 squads of Professional soldiers.
Expansion, Elite: Quantity has a value, you know this. But it has a risk, more people aware of your actions and existence. Instead go for the very best, the cream of the military training programs, special forces soldiers, the Household Guard. You don't need a hammer, you will wield a scalpel.
DC 60 Crowns 20
Result: Gain up to 5 squads of Elite soldiers.
Fitness, the Demios way: Bryant Riordian-Demios is a first and foremost an educator, in the realm of physical and martial excellence. Allow him to set up a custom training field using the sea, sand, and stones to improve the physical conditioning of your soldiers. He recommends only sending a small amount through for now as proof of concept, but the scale can be increased if it produces results.
DC: 80 Crowns 10
Result: Consistent improvement to the physical capacities of your soldiers, chance for trait gains.
Patrols: You might only have 2 squads of soldiers but they can be better arranged by reducing internal patrols and focusing on external threats. Bryant is a little surprised at the extensive list of behaviors and signs you have your guards alert for, and recommends a specialist force for that with the current forces put to their intended purpose. Patrol around the area and make sure nothing and no-one approaches without your knowledge.
DC 40 Crowns 0
Result: Increased security against outside threats, basic patrol scheme set up.
Intrigue (Choose 2)
Meddle with the family: While you have the potential to rise far above your siblings in the Patriarch's esteem, perhaps it would be a good idea to see what your relatives are doing and if the need a few less than helpful pointers.
DC 60 Crowns 5
Result: Establish what your siblings are doing, future intrigue actions unlocked.
Establish an intrigue department: Sometimes more hands are simply required when it comes time to snoop around. After all, you can only be in one place at a time and that simply isn't enough. Gather some talented investigators, spies, scouts and more to form the core of your nascent shadow force.
DC 50 Crowns 15
Result: A barebones spy agency established, reduced DC for future intrigue actions.
Random workplace inspections: While you may have vetted your workers so far, time has passed and there is no guarantee of loyalty. Every oath has a loophole and that doesn't account for poorly secured documents, so you will make sure that everyone is following the correct procedures for sensitive information.
DC40 Crowns 0
Result: Increased information security, decreased chance of leaks.
Shadow-ways: While the nearest town is a weeks ride away, there are ways and means to reduce that. Have Sussanah establish these to gain access to the town of Vel Latimos, and begin to investigate the underworld actions around there.
DC: 70 Crowns 15
Result: Knowledge of criminal activities in Vel Latimos
Test procedures: You have spent a great deal of time and effort creating a series of policies you employees must follow if they suspect they are compromised or observed, for attacks and sabotage. Set Sussanah loose and have her stress test these.
DC ? Crowns 5
Result: Gain counter-Intel practice, establish DC of enemy infiltration/spy efforts.
Stewardship (Choose 2)
Expand the base 1/3: Your facilities are adequate for your current operations, however if you hope to increase in scale you will need more buildings. Housing, administrative centers, mess halls, clinics, recreation zones, and even more. An invigorating challenge to manage!
DC 40 Crowns 10/30 (10 crowns per turn, for a total of 30)
Result: Expanded facilities allowing for more staff, space for specialist buildings, improved moral.
Construct a dock: You are located right by the ocean, you have hungry staff. Combine the two and you have need for a fishing industry, and the beginnings of a naval effort assuming you can learn to master the currents that drown all who attempt to brave them.
DC 30 Crowns 10
Result: Improved moral, further development open, more naval options.
Survey for resources: The area around Sorrow's Point is mostly uncharted, with no significant surveys done to locate any natural resources. Change this and have the land reveal it's bounty to you.
DC ? Crowns 5
Result: Possibility of exploitable natural resources, locate natural landmarks.
Comb the beach: Have the professionals begin reclamation efforts on the beach, making sure to search deep within the dunes and under the surface for any hidden caches. The potential windfall is massive, if anything has survived the harsh environment.
DC ? Crowns 5
Result: Variable, but likely trade good and resources from shipwrecks. Potentially valuable objects
Better dunes and gardens 1/2: Establish growing fields and sheltered areas for valuable crops to be grown to fund your organization, it may take time but should allow for you to establish a basic level of self sustainability.
DC 80 Crowns 10/20 (10 crowns per turn, for a total of 20)
Learning (NONE, DEADLY TIDES LOCKED IN)
The deadly tides: The sea around the Shores of Sorrow are lethal for all those who try brave it, requiring anyone who wants to sail past it to go far out to sea where some are still lost forever. It may behoove you to try understand by what mechanism the seas claim the lives of all who try traverse them
DC 70 Crowns 10
Result: Identified the dangers of the Sea of Sorrow, further naval research.
DC 50 Crowns 15
Result: Soldiers gain inveteracy faster, increased chance of specialist units developing.
Faster messengers: The wonder of isolation is that you can experiment and grow as you desire, but it does make hearing the news from home much slower, and in the event of a disaster you may never know until it has passed. That is intolerable and you turn your mind towards means by which to hasten your messengers.
DC 80 Crowns 20
Result: Access to timely rumor mill, can call on others and be called on, work towards projecting organisations power.
Better Buildings, Foundations: Being so close to the ocean is an unusual choice for Riordian society, not many structures have been extensively tested in such conditions. As a result there may be room to improve the core design principles behind your buildings.
DC 50 Crowns 10
Result: Sturdier buildings better able to handle the salty weather, advances in design philosophy
Better Buildings, Materials: Stone has always served Riordian, and now you have access to a whole coastline of it. Explore and experiment with different compositions and see if anything is well suited to the environment.
DC 40 Crowns 5
Result: Building actions slightly cheaper, less maintenance costs.
Personal (1 action)
Train your self: Practice makes perfect, and you have never been one to shy away from putting in the hard work needed to improve. Buckle down and set your mind to work.
-Diplomacy
-Military
-Intrigue
-Stewardship
-Learning
DC 70 Crowns 2
Result: Improvement on chosen skill, has diminishing returns if used on the same skill.
A suitable courtier: Despite your position far from the throne, indeed being the 64th in line to inherit, you are still a desirable political commodity, let alone for your wit and knowledge. Your combat form is above average and you burn with passion for self advancement. While you are being observed for courting you could do the same and ensure that you find only the best candidates.
DC 40 Crowns 5
Result: Identify potential spouse, remove avenue of weakness to gossip and whispers.
Double down: Your full attention is a valuable thing, and sometimes is needed to ensure that a plan goes ahead without fail.
-Select an action to add your full stat to instead of half.
DC NA Crowns 5
Result: Add full stat to a chosen roll.
The system of power: The Riordian Autocracy has long held it's power through the judicious control and usage of the System. Blessed to be of the Main Branch, your particular interface is less restricted than most, and you can utilize this to achieve feats of physical and mental prowess that have been dubbed "Unnatural" by the unenlightened. Take the time to fully activate this blessing.
DC ? Crowns 5/10/15 (variable, choose how many to devote)
Result: Gain full access to the System, with unique powers and rewards you do.
I know you, but let's speak further: You have full dossiers on each of your advisers but you haven't taken the time to get to know them as individuals, an oversight that could lead to problems down the line. Rectify this.
-Choose an adviser and speak with them.
DC 30 Crowns 0
Result: Improve relationship with selected adviser, gain fuller understanding of them, secure loyalty.
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Please use plan voting and any questions I am happy to answer!
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- Location
- United States
[X] Plan: Start-up
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Expansion, Targeted
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
A preliminary plan to get us off the ground. Diplomacy with shipwrights since we're likely going to interact with ships a great deal with our position. We can pursue trade later when we actually have something to show for it.
Local connections to head off problems there. Going for focused expansion to increase our manpower without blowing huge holes in our security rating.
It's unlikely that opposing force will make any serious moves this early, so our focus should be on securing our economy.
Next turn we'll likely focus on training the new recruits and plundering the beaches for all they're worth to refill our coffers.
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Expansion, Targeted
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
A preliminary plan to get us off the ground. Diplomacy with shipwrights since we're likely going to interact with ships a great deal with our position. We can pursue trade later when we actually have something to show for it.
Local connections to head off problems there. Going for focused expansion to increase our manpower without blowing huge holes in our security rating.
It's unlikely that opposing force will make any serious moves this early, so our focus should be on securing our economy.
Next turn we'll likely focus on training the new recruits and plundering the beaches for all they're worth to refill our coffers.
Is there a reason for why this has no DC, cost, or Result?
Ahh, a mistake on my part, fixed up now. Thank you for the heads up
Honestly, i like that Plan, with the exception that i would change Expansion for Patrols.
Would Expansion increase anual costs/reduce our income?
Expansion would increase your expenses, the amount depending on the option you for and what the rolls are. But for the mass option picture an increase of 10-15 on an okay roll to represent the increased expense of maintaining the equipment and supplies for up to 100 squads (1000 people)
- Location
- United States
I wanted to delay that until we secured some more manpower as we are rather short staffed at the moment. Patrols feels like it could benefit from a more filled out roster.
It's also the reason I'm sticking to targeted recruitment, better quality manpower without breaking bank.
Expansion also increases expenses.
- Location
- United States
Presumably a d20 will be rolled for how many we gain so the per turn expense gain shouldn't be much.
If you're still not satisfied, I'll put together an alternative plan soon-ish.
- Location
- United States
[X] Plan: Start-up
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Expansion, Targeted
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
[X] Plan: Delayed Start-up
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Patrols
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
Take your pick.
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Expansion, Targeted
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
[X] Plan: Delayed Start-up
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Patrols
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
Take your pick.
I am torn between going with your Delayed Start-up plan or making one called "Shipping" where i change the Double down option for "A suitable courtier".
I have no one to ship her with, yet.
- Location
- United States
Next turn we can focus on contacting the capital, plundering the beaches for funds, and yes, bracing for the war to end all wars:
The dreaded Shipping Wars.
[X] Plan: Delayed Start-up
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Patrols
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Patrols
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
[X] Plan: Start-up
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Expansion, Targeted
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
-[X] Establish Contact with a Royal Organisation
--[X] Shipwrights Guild
-[X] Local connections
-[X] Secure your immediate vicinity
-[X] Expansion, Targeted
-[X] Establish an intrigue department
-[X] Random workplace inspections
-[X] Construct a dock
-[X] Survey for resources
-[X] Double down (The deadly tides)
Plan Delayed Start up wins it, I shall get started on that now.
If you feel like it, have a think about what kind of navy ships you are wanting to work towards. And if there is a specific kind of soldier that you want, ie get them working towards training as marines or cavalry.
If you feel like it, have a think about what kind of navy ships you are wanting to work towards. And if there is a specific kind of soldier that you want, ie get them working towards training as marines or cavalry.