- Location
- Canada
((Believe it or not, that was a victory. Just barely... let's just say its a good thing fire was employed - cause it really came down to an advantage on that roll.))
In the Name of the King - A Dark Fantasy RPG (Sign ups open)
- Thread starter BlackBishop
- Start date
- IC Council Original
((Believe it or not, that was a victory. Just barely... let's just say its a good thing fire was employed - cause it really came down to an advantage on that roll.))
Spring of 3889
- Location
- Canada
Telmooth Castle, seat of the disgraced Baron Fayden
Spring of 3889 P.L.
The Spring passes slowly in Anchor. Plentiful rains tell of a bountiful crop come autumn and trade ships and caravans along the road keep commerce flowing within the kingdom. By all accounts it is a fair spring, with talk mostly preoccupied on the matter of the former spymaster, Fayden of Telmooth.
Over the spring, Lord Commander Samuel of Ramos commandeers Telmooth Castle as he conducts his investigation and keeps a close eye on Wealdhere of Telmooth, Fayden's son and heir, and regent of Telmooth.
In the bog outside of the castle, buried under the blackened earth, a score of bodies are discovered. With Baron Reddington's help, one of the bodies is identified as Tiffany Dyre, Raymond's informant and a witness. While her testimony died with her, the presence of her body so close to Fayden's castle is telling enough.
One final piece of evidence is uncovered in a secret room beneath the castle. A puzzle box is found much akin to a child's yet with a cunning mechanic the lord-commander is unable to open. The box, the knight finds, is marked with a fae rune similar to the one found among the trolls.
Sir Ramos returns to Eafold Palace late in the spring, with evidence enough to see Fayden beheaded. The question is will the Council order death in judgement to their former brethren?
News has spread that the Order of the Hunt, or commonly known as the Motley Hunters for the japing nature of their commander, was attacked upon the southern road as they made their way toward the Great Bile. It seems it was an attempt at robbery by bandits. The huntsmen drove off the would-be thieves, however, with deaths inflicted on both sides. It seems for all their antics, the huntsmen are competent warriors, and defended their bounty given by King Morcar.
Throughout the spring, Cicero of Augustus, Royal Steward of the Crown, investigates the disappearance of gold from the treasury. His investigation results in the apprehension of three counters who were found to be skimming crowns off from collected taxes and docking fees. The thefts were found to be the work of the King himself, who has been helping himself to the treasury after the death of his grandfather, buying new clothes, baubles and commissioning the construction of a sailboat without due consultation of the Royal Steward.
Meanwhile, the promise of land and knighthoods has pushed hedge knights to mount expeditions into the Griefwood in order slay monstrous trolls in an act of vengeance for their fallen crown prince. Of the some hundred knights that set out into the Griefwood, 50 never return, their levy escorts disappear as well, half of the 300 sent out never return home. 6 hedge knights distinguish themselves and gain anointed knighthoods from the Royal Steward himself, swearing oaths of fealty to the Count of Augustus, and traveling to Augustus County to settle their new lands. Waiting for them are 700 men, raised from the shires of Cicero's fief, and sent to work tame the wilderness and assist the knights in settling their new land.
Rumours abound that this is a costly endeavour, leaving the coffers of Domus Augusti empty.
North of Anchor City, on the road north of Hilltop, a caravan raid has left the personal property of Count Cicero of Augustus robbed. Commander of the Winged Hussars, Sir Albus Samson, takes up the charge of recovering the Count's missing caravan, launching after the trail of the bandits.
Sir Albus uncovers the lair of the bandits, located in an abandoned mine in the hills east of Hilltop. The Hussars are able to turn the rudimentary defenses and invade the mine, slaying some twenty bandits and capturing another five. From the confessions of the bandits, Albus learns that the bandits were in the process of packing up their camp and bringing their ill gotten gold, 2,000 dragons of Count Cicero's wealth, to their fortress on the edge of the Griefwood.
The gold is returned to the care of Sheriff Sibwine of Treleigh, who promptly leads it to Anchor City, into the care of the Royal Steward.
As for Commander Albus Samson, the knight leads his Hussars northward, bound for the Faerun Forest to link up with the rest of the Hussars, who have already reported skirmishes with wild folk. Samson arrives late in the spring, and begins conducting patrols among the scattered villages around Northwatch Castle.
By the end of Spring emissaries begin arriving from distant lands, dispatched by Chancellor Alysanne Camren on diplomatic missions across Pruhest. Their aim; communicate the good will of King Morcar and a desire for peace and amiable relations. The emissaries are received warmly by Razor and Frostgrave, but are given icy receptions in the Duchy of Grael, the Exile Kingdoms, Godsreach, and Brohm.
The emissaries bring back news that the Exile Kingdoms are on the brink of war. A wedding between the Prince of Shade and Princess of Silvermoon, heralded as being a seal of peace between the two beleagured realms, was broken off. The Princess has reportedly fallen victim to poison, and clings to life and the King of Silvermoon has laid the blame upon Shade.
The proposed marriage between Princess Freta and King Morcar seems to be in jeapordy. Princess Freta has reluctantly reported that her father, Prince Hama, has declined the initial marriage proposal, restating his terms. The prince expects King Morcar to travel to Frostgrave to personally ask for his daughter's hand, and for the traditional dowry he is expected to pay, to be waived.
Princess Freta, it is said, has grown frustrated with her father, beseeching him to accept the proposal, and is even planning a return to Frostgrave to reason with him in person.
Knights and horsemen of the King's Banner return to Anchor City by mid-spring, welcomed home as heroes for slaying three monstrous spriggans who have long haunted the road to Perrigwyn. Though many were lost, some solace can be taken in the countless lives that will be saved with the infestation now clear.
Throughout the remainder of the spring, the King's Banner continues their training, honing their skills in combat and practicing marches, logistics, and formations. By the dawn of summer, all are confident that the King's Banner is well fit for any encounter they may cross.
Lord Marshal Varr also looks into the garrison's armory, taking a detailed inventory and identifying possible shortcomings in defense of the city. One glaring shortfall is the absence of any professional navy the kingdom holds. While the Imperium maintains a navy, the Dagger Coast has let its own fall into disrepair and disband a generation ago. Since then, the kingdom has relied on pressing merchant vessels into service and sell sails. While this ultimately saves the kingdom dragons, if they were to war with a kingdom with a professional navy, the kingdom will likely not be able to gain dominance of the seas.
Insofar as the defence of the City of Anchor itself, the capital is well defended, with walls and battlements in pristine working order, outlying towers and holdfasts well equipped to give advance warning of any perceived threats.
The armory is in good order, with sufficient equipment for the current banner. Should ranks be expanded, the city houses many a talented craftsmen to provide arms and armor for the king's needs. The city relies on trade with Perrigwyn and realm's northern reaches for its iron, having no direct access to iron itself.
Hills to the north-west could be scouted in hopes of finding a source of iron, but the land is wild and dangerous, and there is no guarantee that iron could be found, not to mention the possible friction from cutting out Perrigwyn and other fiefs from their iron exports.
A speech by Archpriestess Maria before the Great Maw, has reinvigorated the debate for arcane in Anchor. This, however, seems to have emboldened the growing faction of the Sect against magic. Some openly preach against the arcane in contradiction to the Archpriestess' stance. Many notable nobles, including the Count of Hilltop and the Duke of Grael have petitioned the King of their concerns of ending Harrad's law against the Arcane in Anchor.
Courtiers speak of a growing rivalry between the Royal Seneschal and the Archpriestess. It seems Maria Longinus was set to impart speech lessons upon the monarch but always seems to foiled by some last minute engagement, often heralded by the seneschal. It is said the Archpriestess grows increasingly frustrated, and it seems Sir Godfried is using his influence to keep the King and Vicar of Dragons apart.
With the passing of the spring rains, the land now grows warm and the sun shines brightly above most days. It is now the Summer's Moon, and despite a mix of setbacks and victories, time marches on and peace within the kingdom has been maintained another season.
For now, the realm braces for Baron Fayden of Telmooth's final judgement, and the seemingly inevitable declaration of Baron Raymond Reddington's ascension to Spymaster.
- Location
- Florida
A letter arrives marked specifically and explicitly for the Royal Council bearing the personal seal of the leader of the Winged Hussars
Honored members of our fair and just council,
I hope this letter finds you well and that everything is proceeding with stability, prosperity and above all else peace in Anchor. Prior to our arrival to protect the scattered village of Northwatch Castle, we had split our forces to engage active banditry to great success. Now that we have caught up with our fellow brothers-at-arms we have begun our patrols and have already engaged the Faerun barbarians in several skirmishes. As Commander of the Winged Hussars, I intend do to more than simply keep these savages at bay. It is why I have sent this letter. My duties to the realm presently have me in the north but I humbly request nonetheless to improve our numbers. In times of war the order had as many as 500 riders. During peacetime the force is 50-strong but given the situation, our projection is limited. A recent example is the very battle we undertook to defeat the bandits. We had originally set to ride north with the bold act of thievery an unexpected occurrence, this is no exception. Half of the men continued with the original charge while I personally hunted those responsible of attempting to make off with Count Cicero's wealth. Of course, the end result was good but alas, as well-trained as the men are this will not always be the case.
I ask the council to please approve additional funding to double the force to 100 men for at least two seasons. I do not wish to burden the realm financially more than I have to but seeing the safety of the land and its people is a central tenet of our men and myself, I ask you for this aid. After two seasons it is my hope that we will have acquired a more permanent solution to continue to keep 100 men in the service of Anchor.
I eagerly await your decision.
Faithfully,
Commander Albus Samson of the Winged Hussars
I hope this letter finds you well and that everything is proceeding with stability, prosperity and above all else peace in Anchor. Prior to our arrival to protect the scattered village of Northwatch Castle, we had split our forces to engage active banditry to great success. Now that we have caught up with our fellow brothers-at-arms we have begun our patrols and have already engaged the Faerun barbarians in several skirmishes. As Commander of the Winged Hussars, I intend do to more than simply keep these savages at bay. It is why I have sent this letter. My duties to the realm presently have me in the north but I humbly request nonetheless to improve our numbers. In times of war the order had as many as 500 riders. During peacetime the force is 50-strong but given the situation, our projection is limited. A recent example is the very battle we undertook to defeat the bandits. We had originally set to ride north with the bold act of thievery an unexpected occurrence, this is no exception. Half of the men continued with the original charge while I personally hunted those responsible of attempting to make off with Count Cicero's wealth. Of course, the end result was good but alas, as well-trained as the men are this will not always be the case.
I ask the council to please approve additional funding to double the force to 100 men for at least two seasons. I do not wish to burden the realm financially more than I have to but seeing the safety of the land and its people is a central tenet of our men and myself, I ask you for this aid. After two seasons it is my hope that we will have acquired a more permanent solution to continue to keep 100 men in the service of Anchor.
I eagerly await your decision.
Faithfully,
Commander Albus Samson of the Winged Hussars
- Location
- Space
A letter arives to Archpriestess and every high priest from the Anchor and abroad with personal seal of Highpriest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort
Honoured devotees of the Dragons, brothers and sisters of the Dragon Sect
I sincerely hope that this letter finds you all well and that everything is going well for you. As i'm sure you are all familiar with happenings inside of the Dragon Sect, a question about the usage of magic and a growing Schism this is causing.Dragon Sect was and is the only true representative of the will of the Dragons in this world, a divine institution that guides mankind in better future.Or at least it was, now this institution is in turmoil and conflict from within, plagued by dogmatic differences between different factions and used as a toll by outside forces sending different messages to our devoted followers , causing strife and further conflict and if we continue this way others will see to it that they seize our success, our glory and prey upon our weakness but i say no to this decline and call upon all honoured Highpriests and her eminence Archpriestess herself to do the right thing and call a council off all higher enchleons of Dragon Sect to Anchor, Great Maw cathedral to discuss the future direction our institution will take and a common message we wish to send to our devotees through the world without involvement of others and any decision brought on this holy council will be new direction of the sect so that we all may come out of this stronger than before.
We of the Dragon Sect need to solve and decide our future and stand united against the evils and unfairness of this world because in opposite the blood will flow, blood of devotees of the Dragons.
I eagerly wait everyone's decision
Highpriest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort
I sincerely hope that this letter finds you all well and that everything is going well for you. As i'm sure you are all familiar with happenings inside of the Dragon Sect, a question about the usage of magic and a growing Schism this is causing.Dragon Sect was and is the only true representative of the will of the Dragons in this world, a divine institution that guides mankind in better future.Or at least it was, now this institution is in turmoil and conflict from within, plagued by dogmatic differences between different factions and used as a toll by outside forces sending different messages to our devoted followers , causing strife and further conflict and if we continue this way others will see to it that they seize our success, our glory and prey upon our weakness but i say no to this decline and call upon all honoured Highpriests and her eminence Archpriestess herself to do the right thing and call a council off all higher enchleons of Dragon Sect to Anchor, Great Maw cathedral to discuss the future direction our institution will take and a common message we wish to send to our devotees through the world without involvement of others and any decision brought on this holy council will be new direction of the sect so that we all may come out of this stronger than before.
We of the Dragon Sect need to solve and decide our future and stand united against the evils and unfairness of this world because in opposite the blood will flow, blood of devotees of the Dragons.
I eagerly wait everyone's decision
Highpriest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort
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- Location
- California
A letter arrives to the office of the Seneschal:
A letter arrives to the office of the Chancellor:
My Lord Seneschal, @BlackBishop
Evidence has come forth proving King Morcar has been using the Royal Vaults as his own personal purse.
Rein him in.
Evidence has come forth proving King Morcar has been using the Royal Vaults as his own personal purse.
Rein him in.
A letter arrives to the office of the Chancellor:
My Lady Chancellor, @Anann
Evidence has been discovered proving that the Treasury thefts were the work of King Morcar, using the Royal Treasury as his own personal purse to fuel his own wants. Should certain events come to happen, you shall receive the evidence to do what you will.
- The Steward
Evidence has been discovered proving that the Treasury thefts were the work of King Morcar, using the Royal Treasury as his own personal purse to fuel his own wants. Should certain events come to happen, you shall receive the evidence to do what you will.
- The Steward
Teloch
ಠ_ಠ
- Location
- The middle of nowhere
Ah, screw it! I'm gonna play as if after the sprigan butchery event everyone was so damn busy or celebrating that de-facto he was shown that ain't no one
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- Location
- Space
((@BlackBishop I wrote this letter but can i write events that happened after Spriggan event that lead up to this, mostly OOC events featuring Flann but will include @Terran Imperium if she is interested as only players in Dragon Sect ))
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- Location
- Canada
((You can. Try and keep it isolated to your own character and his inner circle. Any major moves that may impact the region and kingdom must be used as an order for next turn))
Teloch
ಠ_ಠ
- Location
- The middle of nowhere
((Change of plans. Gonna send the dude for the second time this turn. He may be rather sullen this time around though.))
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Terran Imperium
[French]
- Location
- Southern France
A letter arives to Archpriestess and every high priest from the Anchor and abroad with personal seal of Highpriest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort
Honoured devotees of the Dragons, brothers and sisters of the Dragon Sect
I sincerely hope that this letter finds you all well and that everything is going well for you. As i'm sure you are all familiar with happenings inside of the Dragon Sect, a question about the usage of magic and a growing Schism this is causing.Dragon Sect was and is the only true representative of the will of the Dragons in this world, a divine institution that guides mankind in better future.Or at least it was, now this institution is in turmoil and conflict from within, plagued by dogmatic differences between different factions and used as a toll by outside forces sending different messages to our devoted followers , causing strife and further conflict and if we continue this way others will see to it that they seize our success, our glory and prey upon our weakness but i say no to this decline and call upon all honoured Highpriests and her eminence Archpriestess herself to do the right thing and call a council off all higher enchleons of Dragon Sect to Anchor, Great Maw cathedral to discuss the future direction our institution will take and a common message we wish to send to our devotees through the world without involvement of others and any decision brought on this holy council will be new direction of the sect so that we all may come out of this stronger than before.
We of the Dragon Sect need to solve and decide our future and stand united against the evils and unfairness of this world because in opposite the blood will flow, blood of devotees of the Dragons.
I eagerly wait everyone's decision
Highpriest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort
Dragons, Bless you.
The concerns raised by High Priest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort were acknowledged. Her Eminence Maria Scapula Longinus has authorized a grand meeting between the forty-two High Priests of the Dragon Sect to discuss the matter. An absence to the meeting will be seen as a severe offense to Her Eminence. Be sure to attend it.
High Priest Logen Strata
The concerns raised by High Priest Flann Blackflame of Lorefort were acknowledged. Her Eminence Maria Scapula Longinus has authorized a grand meeting between the forty-two High Priests of the Dragon Sect to discuss the matter. An absence to the meeting will be seen as a severe offense to Her Eminence. Be sure to attend it.
High Priest Logen Strata
The King's Council ~ Summer of 3889
- Location
- Canada
The King's Council
2nd of Summer's Moon, 3229 PL
"I speak with the breath of Dragons.
My word is law. My word is justice." ~ King Harrad
"All rise for his Royal Majesty, King Morcar of Eafold, King of Anchor and the Dagger Coast!"
King Morcar entered the room wearing a crimson doublet and a gold silk cloak draped around his shoulders, a rapier at his hip. The king wore a faint smile as he was met with bows and curtsies from the chamber. "Loyal lords and ladies of Anchor. Long overdue is my presence at this chamber. I hope my lateness can be forgiven as well as the burden I place on all your shoulders, for the weight of this crown is great, and I lean on all your strength to bear it."
Morcar found his seat at the head of the table, undoing the clasp that fastened his cloak, letting a servant take the garment before sitting down. The rest of the council take their seat as nobles and courtiers look on.
"Now then," smiled the king, nervousness leaking through his attempted regal demeanor, "Sir Godfried, what is first on today's agenda?"
"Your Majesty," says Godfried with a nod of his head. "I believe our first order of business should be to resolve the judgement of Baron Fayden. He has been languishing in the dungeons over the Spring and given the grave accusations he faces, we would do well to pass judgement and begin healing the great wound the kingdom has suffered."
"Ah very good. Summon Fayden then. I am eager to put this matter to rest."
Godfried turned to Sir Sameul Ramos, standing nearby. "Lord-Commander, would you be so kind as to bring Fayden here at once." The grisly old knight saluted, and departed from the chamber. "Now then, while we wait for Fayden what shall we discuss?" Godfried's eyes surveyed the members of the Royal Council.
State of the Kingdom
King's Banner
~ 15 Knights
~ 25 Horsmen
~ 100 Spearmen
Diplomatic Report
The Kingdom of Anchor is currently at peace, with friendly relations with Razor and Frostgrave, and cool relations with the Imperium, Exile Kingdoms, and Brohm, and neutral to the Half Folk, and hostile against the Horde of Alor Wastes. The king is currently unwed, with negotiations between Frostgrave and Anchor ongoing regarding a possible marriage with Princess Freta and King Morcar.
A feud between Greenrest and Hilltop continues with reports of heavy road taxes being levied against merchants from both counties.
Coin and Counter's Report
The treasury has remained stable, with a small increase in dragons recorded after last season's expenses. There is currently 4195 dragons in the treasury.
Martial Report
The Winged Hussars have traveled north, fighting wild folk in Faerun and safeguarding villages around Northwatch. They have discovered the location of a bandit fort east of Hilltop, near the edge of the Griefwood.
The King's Banner has suffered casualties over the course of the spring from a Spriggan ambush north of the city. While the lost spearmen have been easy to replace, the knights and horsemen are more difficult, with a projected price of 3,750 dragons to replenish ranks and horses.
While under manned, the banner is still deemed sufficient to police the city and man a defense of the walls. In times of crisis, a levy of 3,000 men can be raised within a fortnight, ready to fight. 5,000 men can be assembled in a month's time. Given the report from the counters, however, an army of 2,000 is all that's sustainable over an extended campaign.
Banners may be raised, calling in the king's vassals to answer their obligations during war, however it is expected that the lords would send a paltry force to fight for the untested king.
Spy Report
The agents of the crown are currently idle, maintaining vigilance across the Kingdom, with no pressing matters to report. Though there is a significant lack of direction as the chair of Royal Spymaster is currently vacant.
The dungeons beneath the castle hold a score of criminals, mostly drunks and petty criminals. Three counters, caught skimming from the treasury are locked in the dungeons There is also a pair of captives taken from Harrad's campaign in Faerun Forest, who despite all odds, have survived all these years in the dungeon.
Sect Report
Animosity is growing between members of the priesthood, with a widening rift between those that argue for the emancipation of mages while others affirm the king's law of persecution. The rift is growing and the factions of pro and anti magic users are becoming more clearly defined.
The people of Anchor remain mostly devout to the Sect, however the infighting within the order is beginning to turn worshipers away, seeing fewer attendance then is typical in dragon shrines across the land. The debate among the common folk is raging across the kingdom, though a majority in Anchor favor emancipation while the majority of the nobility are against it.
QM Note: Turn 2 has officially begun! Minor characters are welcome at the council and may make proposals and contribute to debates. Councilors get first dibs on making proposals, the presented topic discussed and hopefully a consensus reached for the king to make a decision, then the next topic is presented.
King's Banner
~ 15 Knights
~ 25 Horsmen
~ 100 Spearmen
Diplomatic Report
The Kingdom of Anchor is currently at peace, with friendly relations with Razor and Frostgrave, and cool relations with the Imperium, Exile Kingdoms, and Brohm, and neutral to the Half Folk, and hostile against the Horde of Alor Wastes. The king is currently unwed, with negotiations between Frostgrave and Anchor ongoing regarding a possible marriage with Princess Freta and King Morcar.
A feud between Greenrest and Hilltop continues with reports of heavy road taxes being levied against merchants from both counties.
Coin and Counter's Report
The treasury has remained stable, with a small increase in dragons recorded after last season's expenses. There is currently 4195 dragons in the treasury.
Martial Report
The Winged Hussars have traveled north, fighting wild folk in Faerun and safeguarding villages around Northwatch. They have discovered the location of a bandit fort east of Hilltop, near the edge of the Griefwood.
The King's Banner has suffered casualties over the course of the spring from a Spriggan ambush north of the city. While the lost spearmen have been easy to replace, the knights and horsemen are more difficult, with a projected price of 3,750 dragons to replenish ranks and horses.
While under manned, the banner is still deemed sufficient to police the city and man a defense of the walls. In times of crisis, a levy of 3,000 men can be raised within a fortnight, ready to fight. 5,000 men can be assembled in a month's time. Given the report from the counters, however, an army of 2,000 is all that's sustainable over an extended campaign.
Banners may be raised, calling in the king's vassals to answer their obligations during war, however it is expected that the lords would send a paltry force to fight for the untested king.
Spy Report
The agents of the crown are currently idle, maintaining vigilance across the Kingdom, with no pressing matters to report. Though there is a significant lack of direction as the chair of Royal Spymaster is currently vacant.
The dungeons beneath the castle hold a score of criminals, mostly drunks and petty criminals. Three counters, caught skimming from the treasury are locked in the dungeons There is also a pair of captives taken from Harrad's campaign in Faerun Forest, who despite all odds, have survived all these years in the dungeon.
Sect Report
Animosity is growing between members of the priesthood, with a widening rift between those that argue for the emancipation of mages while others affirm the king's law of persecution. The rift is growing and the factions of pro and anti magic users are becoming more clearly defined.
The people of Anchor remain mostly devout to the Sect, however the infighting within the order is beginning to turn worshipers away, seeing fewer attendance then is typical in dragon shrines across the land. The debate among the common folk is raging across the kingdom, though a majority in Anchor favor emancipation while the majority of the nobility are against it.
QM Note: Turn 2 has officially begun! Minor characters are welcome at the council and may make proposals and contribute to debates. Councilors get first dibs on making proposals, the presented topic discussed and hopefully a consensus reached for the king to make a decision, then the next topic is presented.
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The King's Council ~ Alysanne's Proposal
- Location
- Australia
Countess Alyssane Camren, Chancellor
"I regret to report a stall in the plans for your majesty's forthcoming engagement." Alyssane inclines her head towards King Morcar. "Prince Hama is proving characteristically stubborn, despite the Princess's enthusiasm for the match. With your majesty's permission, I believe it is time to escalate negotiating tactics."
"I propose an increase to border tolls for travelers to and from our northern neighbor, as well as a raise on tariffs for Frostgrave's largest imports from Anchor. In addition to providing a slight buoy to the royal coffers, which I am informed are still on shaky grounds..."
Because of the king's profligacy, but it would be impolitic to say so.
"...It would serve to remind Prince Hama of the necessity of maintaining our good will. Frostgrave is small and comparatively geographically isolated - even if the old man retaliates, we can endure the economic damage far longer than he can."
The countess arches an eyebrow at her sovereign before continuing with a tone of conspiratorial levity.
"Your majesty could also contribute to our negotiating position by being publicly seen to court the attentions of some of the daughters of our own prominent noble families - nothing too serious or too committal, just enough to stir some gossip that would make its way back to Frostgrave." Alyssane smirks wryly at King Morcar. "I apologize for burdening you with such an onerous duty, my king, but I feel we should remind Prince Hama that this match is a valuable and sought-after opportunity. We can only hope his pride does not overrule his sense."
Of course, Alyssane would have to write to Princess Freta to assure her that she was still working diligently to ensure the marriage went ahead as planned. This was probably unneeded - the girl struck Alyssane as much more clearheaded and clever than her father; not the type to be easily offended by such inconsequential dalliances - but better safe than sorry.
- Location
- Canada
The King looked uninterested as the Chancellor laid out her proposal, his interest piqued as she came to the end of her plan. Morcar visibly blushed, giving a smile toward Sir Godfried.
The seneschal sighed, giving the king a knowing glance. "I will formulate a list of viable candidates, your Majesty. I trust you will take great care..."
The king waves a dismissive hand. "Yes, yes. Have no fear, good sir."
The seneschal sighed, giving the king a knowing glance. "I will formulate a list of viable candidates, your Majesty. I trust you will take great care..."
The king waves a dismissive hand. "Yes, yes. Have no fear, good sir."
- Location
- Canada
((I forgot to mention, the Hussars have discovered the location of a bandit fort east of Hilltop, on the edge of the Griefwood.))
Terran Imperium
[French]
- Location
- Southern France
Maria took this chance to speak. Her beautiful voice echoed in the whole room, her graceful appearance and her striking red hair making her slightly stand out. Of course, Maria was not aware of that.
"Now then, Your Majesty. Do you wish to discuss the matter we talked about at our last meeting?" she suggested. Leaving the offer open and leaving it subtle enough as it wouldn't immediately expose what that 'matter' is if His Majesty wished for it to stay hidden for now. She glanced at both the Chancellor and the Marshal who had promised her their support. She was disappointed when His Majesty did not hold up to his promise as to meet her every now and then to help him in his speeches, she made that known as soon as her eyes caught the King's.
@PoptartProdigy @Anann
Teloch
ಠ_ಠ
- Location
- The middle of nowhere
OF TIME, PRUDENCE, AND FAITH IN PEOPLE
Somewhere near the Anchor castle district
Somewhere near the Anchor castle district
Early summer sun shines high above the horizon, fair folks of the Anchor city hustle, tending to their own devices: guardsmen wats, numerous stall merchants call for customers, tradesfolk badmouth their scurrying apprentices from time to time, and children play knights and soldiers on the streets, not yet suspecting how grim of the fates those really are. The kingdom - even if not in its most prosperous - still stands with each and everyone reveling in the summer's bustle of life and labor.
Five horsemen ride the streets of the capital, All either bearing small black shield insignias with red stripes, have the stripes of the mentioned colors wrapped around their armored elbows, or both. In the head, rides the dark-haired man clad in plates and with the claymore behind his back, his expression is a peculiar mix of brooding and angriness, often seen on the faces of the soldiers to be engaged in an up-and-downer, two other horsemen, clad in banded mails with black tabards and glaives strapped to their horses, ride by his sides, paying more attention not the their headman but to the life on the streets, gathering curious and sometimes fearful glances from the indigenous onlookers. Somewhat behind them, there are two more horsemen: both clad in brigandines, both leading per a spare horse after the entourage, with the mounts carrying two disproportionate sacks filled with whatever cargo they were transporting, a large leather sheath rolled up, and the essential long-road supplies such as tools, tent rolls, firewood, and ratios. While the three riders ahead were silent, the two in the tail of the formation murmured to each other.
Well, it is a lad in mid-twenties who was making the most of murmuring, nervously occupying the ears of the older fellow with the heavily-scarred face with one particularly fresh gush making it even uglier.
"Rorik, ay Rorik? Why's captn' so grim? And why it feels like we're riding to battle and not some fancy-arse audience," the younger lad speaks out quietly.
"Captn' hath no soft spot for neither Anchor in general nor for power-vying vipers that live in 'ere", Rorik responds phlegmatically like a monk.
"But, ain't he of the local douth?" the lad asks again.
"He sure is, and this be yer 'why'" the man answers patronizingly, which puts the younger comrade into a few minutes of contemplating.
"But hath ye been to the court? Like, a season past? Have ye seen the king?"
"Nay. Ain't no one in the stronghold found no time nor reason to listen to us, and thus why our captain looks like a sleepless bear in winter. Though, I've seen Harrad some years past," saying that, Rorik respectfully touched his forehead, giving honors to the deceased ruler, "Late King had an eager ear to our progress and saw much promise in our lands. Captn' anguishes 'bout it dippin' the backwater of the kingdom now"
"B-but... we hath thou ores and woods and forest scum's bits and hides, speakin' naught 'bout the high grounds..."
"Rich men often know not of the bounties yet they are lost, and thus our captn' shall rub the specks o' these riches in lords n' ladies' powdered mugs 'fore the wildfolk, the horde, or even Frostgrave scratch their sacks and go for a chance. 'Tis a question o' trust, time, and prudence, which we hath no count or power over in these walls".
The youngster surrenderingly lowers shoulders and gives a sad look the loot they are transporting. Seems like he's also not very optimistic.
"Rorik? Why did we take more mounts than must?"
"I know not," the more life-experienced man replies with the infuriatingly phlegmatic shrug.
Five horsemen ride the streets of the capital, All either bearing small black shield insignias with red stripes, have the stripes of the mentioned colors wrapped around their armored elbows, or both. In the head, rides the dark-haired man clad in plates and with the claymore behind his back, his expression is a peculiar mix of brooding and angriness, often seen on the faces of the soldiers to be engaged in an up-and-downer, two other horsemen, clad in banded mails with black tabards and glaives strapped to their horses, ride by his sides, paying more attention not the their headman but to the life on the streets, gathering curious and sometimes fearful glances from the indigenous onlookers. Somewhat behind them, there are two more horsemen: both clad in brigandines, both leading per a spare horse after the entourage, with the mounts carrying two disproportionate sacks filled with whatever cargo they were transporting, a large leather sheath rolled up, and the essential long-road supplies such as tools, tent rolls, firewood, and ratios. While the three riders ahead were silent, the two in the tail of the formation murmured to each other.
Well, it is a lad in mid-twenties who was making the most of murmuring, nervously occupying the ears of the older fellow with the heavily-scarred face with one particularly fresh gush making it even uglier.
"Rorik, ay Rorik? Why's captn' so grim? And why it feels like we're riding to battle and not some fancy-arse audience," the younger lad speaks out quietly.
"Captn' hath no soft spot for neither Anchor in general nor for power-vying vipers that live in 'ere", Rorik responds phlegmatically like a monk.
"But, ain't he of the local douth?" the lad asks again.
"He sure is, and this be yer 'why'" the man answers patronizingly, which puts the younger comrade into a few minutes of contemplating.
"But hath ye been to the court? Like, a season past? Have ye seen the king?"
"Nay. Ain't no one in the stronghold found no time nor reason to listen to us, and thus why our captain looks like a sleepless bear in winter. Though, I've seen Harrad some years past," saying that, Rorik respectfully touched his forehead, giving honors to the deceased ruler, "Late King had an eager ear to our progress and saw much promise in our lands. Captn' anguishes 'bout it dippin' the backwater of the kingdom now"
"B-but... we hath thou ores and woods and forest scum's bits and hides, speakin' naught 'bout the high grounds..."
"Rich men often know not of the bounties yet they are lost, and thus our captn' shall rub the specks o' these riches in lords n' ladies' powdered mugs 'fore the wildfolk, the horde, or even Frostgrave scratch their sacks and go for a chance. 'Tis a question o' trust, time, and prudence, which we hath no count or power over in these walls".
The youngster surrenderingly lowers shoulders and gives a sad look the loot they are transporting. Seems like he's also not very optimistic.
"Rorik? Why did we take more mounts than must?"
"I know not," the more life-experienced man replies with the infuriatingly phlegmatic shrug.
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- Location
- Canada
Morcar caught the Archpriestess' hard stare and avoided it rather then meet it. Listening instead on the word of his councilors.
- Location
- Canada
QM Note: I want to clarify the rules of funneling money from your home fiefs for council projects. See the stats for fiefs here.
I may have indicated differently but as we proceed it is clear that the potential for an endless money pit you can lean on can ruin tension. So let's be clear from here on out.
Your fief's wealth is the limit you may safely take from your fief relatively safely. Anymore then that, and you risk the safety and peace of your homeland. Assume your home fief has a regent in place, making decision in your stead regarding the day to day administration of your fief. They have expenses, there are monsters, there are banners to maintain, fortifications to repair, and vassals to consider.
You can expect more leeway in the autumn, when lords of the realm are collecting their due tithes.
Minor characters have more freedom to directly control their fief and I encourage them to keep a running stat page in google docs, sheets, or on their own character sheet. To be clear, the focus of the game remains on the Royal Council. I will only track stats of Kingdom, rather then individual fiefs.
I may have indicated differently but as we proceed it is clear that the potential for an endless money pit you can lean on can ruin tension. So let's be clear from here on out.
Your fief's wealth is the limit you may safely take from your fief relatively safely. Anymore then that, and you risk the safety and peace of your homeland. Assume your home fief has a regent in place, making decision in your stead regarding the day to day administration of your fief. They have expenses, there are monsters, there are banners to maintain, fortifications to repair, and vassals to consider.
You can expect more leeway in the autumn, when lords of the realm are collecting their due tithes.
Minor characters have more freedom to directly control their fief and I encourage them to keep a running stat page in google docs, sheets, or on their own character sheet. To be clear, the focus of the game remains on the Royal Council. I will only track stats of Kingdom, rather then individual fiefs.
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- Location
- Rockford, USA
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Two weeks prior to the second Council meeting.
Maria sat on her magnificent comfortable chair that was specially made for the ArchPriest that preceded her. She didn't have any desk to speak of, as it was unnecessary. The Archpriestess doesn't handle if rarely paperwork.
Nevertheless, a door, she has. Torrhen knocks on it, peering inside. "Your Eminence? Do you have a few moments?"
Maria was slightly surprised, as she didn't expect to hear the Royal Marshal out of all the court here. After she sat more properly and fixed her appearance, she ordered one of the nuns beside her to open the door and welcome the Marshal inside. Accompanying him were two priests which were one of the guards outside.
"Your Eminence. Lord Marshal wishes for an audience." spoke one of them. She simply nodded, she was hardly one for formalities. Especially in her home.
"What brought us the pleasure of your visit, Sir Varr?" she asked softly.
"Discussions regarding the future of mages," he replies, entering the room. "To begin with: that skirmish on the edges of the Griefwood. Your priests acquitted themselves well. Very well. We might not have won without them. Not that this was the deciding factor, but I continue to support your plans to increase the widespread acceptance of magic." He smiles. "My compliments to them again, although I certainly gave them in the aftermath" Maria could only smile brighter as she heard that the Priests she sent were of use to the Marshal.
Then, though, he sobers. "That said, there is one matter of rather greater weight. I am sure that you have noticed Sir Godfried's late hostility towards you. What you may not know is that he has been moving among the nobility to garner further support. Among others, he has approached certain of my vassals." Torrhen momentarily bares his teeth in anger. "He saw fit to inform them that I support your measure, and they began to complain to me. While that is their right as vassals, and my duty as their liege is to hear and address their concerns, I do not appreciate his imposition. That said...I have a duty to address their concerns, as their liege. And while Godfried's grandstanding is not appreciated, his point is made. There is significant resistance to your idea from certain sectors of the nobility. Additionally, Godfried has pointed out that there may be difficulties from Razeholm. They must be addressed -- and since our dear Lord Seneschal has been kind enough to find a way to exert pressure on me personally, I must be seen to do something about it myself."
He withdraws a scroll from his pocket and passes it to the Archpriestess. "What I have in mind is an initiative to address both concerns. The root of the nobility's concerns lies in the church's increasing authority. They fear what a Sect with the loyalty of all mages could do to the realm. And while I trust you, Your Eminence, I do understand from where that concern comes. Furthermore, Razeholm is likely to object simply due to their distaste for mages in general." He gestures to the scroll. "What you are holding is a proposal to send an envoy to Razeholm, asking the Underking to send us trainers in the ways of combating the arcane. With those trainers' assistance, I would train the retinue to the point of being capable of serving as an anti-magical force. This would reassure Razeholm that we take the, 'threat,' of mages seriously. That the force would be under secular command would reassure the nobility. And…" He sighs. "Magic is powerful. Eventually, there will be a hostile mage. I must admit that I would feel somewhat more secure if there was more than one force capable of handling rogue mages. More eyes on the problem, and more security in numbers." He leans back. "What say you, Your Eminence?" Maria was silent for a moment, however. Something stuck to her mind. Something that the Marshal spoke about.
"Excuse me, Sir Varr but did you just say that the Seneschal pressured you?" she asked, her voice was slightly edging on anger.
"Politically, yes," says Varr, showing an unpleasant smile. "As I said, he brought his concerns to some of my vassals, who now are flooding my desk with letters. Oh, nothing illegal or strictly improper -- any man may speak to another man, after all. That said, he's placed me in a position where I must act to placate the concerns of my vassals. As I said, I have a duty to them." He sighs. "It was very well played on Godfried's end, I will admit. Infuriating, and I'll be making demonstrations to those vassals in question, in the near future, to demonstrate how little I appreciate the pressure. That said, he was within his rights and the law. Galling as it may be for me to admit."
None of that, in fact, was a lie. Godfried proved a very effective way to showcase which of Torrhen's vassals felt like they could get away with pressuring him, and a baron serving on the Royal Council has many ways to favor one vassal over another.
Maria with a wave of her hand, summoned a nearby nun who brought a cup of wine from which she took a small sip to calm herself. To use the word of the law to go against its spirit and politically threaten your colleague! This man was bolder than what Maria initially thought.
"Regardless, let us put such a matter to rest. However, you have my support if you feel the need, Sir Varr. I am reluctant to allowing Razeholm to train soldiers specifically to kill my men but if you feel it is needed... Then perhaps. I have Lady Camren's reassurance that she would handle any tensions from the neighbor polities. Let us see how she will do, first. We could not simply allow foreign polities to decide on how the Kingdom should be or shouldn't be, you must understand or Anchor would hardly have any legitimacy. As for Sir Godfried himself, he has been proving outright hostile to us and some of my most devout priests have suggested to outright excommunicate him for his Heresy and hostility to me and the Sect. I am not yet sure on what actions I should take, the nobles seem to have an icy relation with us and that is most unfortunate considering my upbringings. I may hold a banquet in Perrigwyn and invite all of the Nobility. Perhaps, then the Sect's relation with them would be warmer?" she suggested, waiting for Torrhen's input on the matter.
"I have a lot of faith in Lady Camren," replies Torrhen, sitting at ease. "I've worked with her for many years, and she knows her craft. I've little doubt that she will be capable of handling Razeholm. My primary concern is for the domestic troubles, and Razeholm is merely convenient for that." He spreads his hands. "A banquet may make people personally like you, Your Eminence, but the nobility's concerns are not rooted in any dislike for you. Their concern is that the Sect is exercising too much power within the Kingdom. That -- and, I'll admit, my duty to reassure my vassals -- is why I suggest cross-training the retinue. Not as some squad of assassins." He shifts in his seat. "I must be seen to do something, even if it is not this, or my vassals will have just cause to report their concerns above me. That will start a mess which would only harm the cause of mage legalization. And...I do not want that. Not at all." He looks for a moment as though he's about to say something further, but stops there.
"I… Very well. I understand. Thank you for informing me of this when you didn't have to or did you wish for something else from me?" she asked curiously. She understood Torrhen's position a bit better now. It took a bit of time but finally did the nuns bring a full bottle of wine. They served Sir Varr as well. Maria took this opportunity to refill her cup, or rather it was the nuns who refilled it.
He nods, acknowledging that the conversation has stalled for the moment. Tension eases out of his body. "Thank you," he says for the wine. "On a more positive note, I wished to discuss possibilities for further integration of magical support into the retinue. Priest Hortensius was quite impressive, and as I said, his assistance was invaluable. Did he tell you that he personally slew one of the beasts? It was an honor to work with him." He sets down his cup. "The retinue could use support like that. Many more would have died, had it not been for your priests."
"I am glad that they did. Hortensius was modest about his feats most likely! I will be sure to reward him personally! He is a good faithful man that hasn't failed me ever since I met him." Maria only paused to take another sip of her wine. The nuns beside her were slightly worried that she might be drinking a bit too much right now.
"As for further priests being given to the Army as support? I will have to discuss that with my High Priests. Hortensius and his men are my personal bodyguards as an Archpriestess, I had full authority over them. As I do for others, of course, but it will be impolite to do so without asking for the High Priests' input on the matter. You must understand." she explained her situation a bit more. She doubted the High Priests would oppose it but it is only good to be on the safe side of things.
"Naturally," replies Torrhen. "I simply wished to make it clear that I had the interest." He takes a -- very small -- sip of wine. "How have you been settling into your new duties, Your Eminence? I recall my first year on the Council was a very hectic time, and I was not dealing with dissent among my subordinates. I imagine it must be a very busy time for you." Maria's 'sips' could no longer be called sips as she drank a bit more of her wine. Her face was slightly redder now indicating her intoxication.
"I suppose. I have some troublesome subordinates indeed. I suppose… *Hic*. I will have to speak to them soon enough. We will hold a grand meeting in the Grand Maw someday in the near future. Only members of the clergy would be allowed in it, of course. I… must say that I am not yet sure on how to handle them. Many of my devout followers give me more than enough suggestions but they are mostly extreme ones that go against the Dragons' teaching." Maria, of course, didn't know that these 'extreme' measures she spoke of were the only standard in the political scene. A nearby nun hurried over to refill her cup as the Archpriestess ordered her to.
Torrhen covers his mouth in feigned contemplation to hide his amusement as Maria gets deeper into her cups. Goodness, she can't hold her liquor. I should probably prevent her from getting any worse. He clears his throat. "Your Eminence, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a drink, and I've certainly had my share, but…" He points to her new cup of wine. "Speaking from long personal experience, you're going to regret that cup later." He smiles. "Perhaps pace yourself somewhat. Set it aside for now, drink it later."
"I.. apologies. I didn't notice… It is such an enticing drink that holds much beauty in it both in its taste and appearance… It must be why so many people covet it… Especially the Grand Maw's collection…" her way of speech was now more slurry, as she drew in the air to breathe, she suddenly hiccuped. Maria reluctantly set aside her cup as the nuns beside her sent a thankful glance toward the Marshal. She turned to Sir Varr as she remembered he was here. She momentarily forgot him.
"Ah... What were we discussing?" she asked.
Torrhen's head is tilted, as he peers as Maria. "...you really are exactly what you appear to be," he wonders. "So many of the concerns I've heard are from nobles convinced that your ideals are a facade in order to make people underestimate you, but…" He shakes his head. "You really are as you present yourself." He laughs. "You are a rare kind of person, Your Eminence. One very unused to her alcohol." He glances at one of the nuns. "I believe Her Eminence would find it easier to deal with the aftermath of her drinking were she to have some clean water now." He then looks back to Maria. "What made you first come to the cause of the legalization of magic?"
"It came from my wonder as a child when High Priest Logen came to my home to teach me about the basics of Magia and the little tricks he has shown me as a child. I can still remember it clearly. Another reason would be the death of my father who I can recall was a kind but prideful man. He was taken away because of an illness. I am sure it could have been cured with Magia but due to the law in place. There wasn't much effort put into place to try and save my father. The conventional healers tried their best without success until he passed away, leaving me, my little brother and my mother. I dread to think that other people would experience the same thing, that feeling of loss and emptiness. I hope to fill it with the legalization of Magia which could bring much of a relief to the kingdom from many of the problems that plague it, currently." she said, her voice slightly tinted with sadness and melancholy, she unconsciously reached for her cup of wine but it was nowhere to be found, unfortunately.
Torrhen freezes for a moment, mid-sip. Then he sets down his cup. "...I see." He smiles, although there's something missing from it. "You are a rare soul, Your Eminence. I can't help but feel that the Sect is fortunate to have you. I wish you all good fortune in the trials to come." He then stands. "I'll take my leave. Remember: water will help, later." He bows slightly, then turns to leave.
"Ah, before you leave. Here is a gift. Certainly, a small one and I apologize for that." she said as one of the nuns reveal what she was holding. A basket full of fruits and beautiful flowers that were prepared while Torrhen and Maria were discussing.
Torrhen accepts it with grace. "Any gift is a welcome one, if it is honestly offered," he replies. "Pleasant day to you, Your Eminence." And then he leaves.
Maria smiled lightly as one two nearby nuns helped her up from her seat and escorted her back to her quarters.
Maria sat on her magnificent comfortable chair that was specially made for the ArchPriest that preceded her. She didn't have any desk to speak of, as it was unnecessary. The Archpriestess doesn't handle if rarely paperwork.
Nevertheless, a door, she has. Torrhen knocks on it, peering inside. "Your Eminence? Do you have a few moments?"
Maria was slightly surprised, as she didn't expect to hear the Royal Marshal out of all the court here. After she sat more properly and fixed her appearance, she ordered one of the nuns beside her to open the door and welcome the Marshal inside. Accompanying him were two priests which were one of the guards outside.
"Your Eminence. Lord Marshal wishes for an audience." spoke one of them. She simply nodded, she was hardly one for formalities. Especially in her home.
"What brought us the pleasure of your visit, Sir Varr?" she asked softly.
"Discussions regarding the future of mages," he replies, entering the room. "To begin with: that skirmish on the edges of the Griefwood. Your priests acquitted themselves well. Very well. We might not have won without them. Not that this was the deciding factor, but I continue to support your plans to increase the widespread acceptance of magic." He smiles. "My compliments to them again, although I certainly gave them in the aftermath" Maria could only smile brighter as she heard that the Priests she sent were of use to the Marshal.
Then, though, he sobers. "That said, there is one matter of rather greater weight. I am sure that you have noticed Sir Godfried's late hostility towards you. What you may not know is that he has been moving among the nobility to garner further support. Among others, he has approached certain of my vassals." Torrhen momentarily bares his teeth in anger. "He saw fit to inform them that I support your measure, and they began to complain to me. While that is their right as vassals, and my duty as their liege is to hear and address their concerns, I do not appreciate his imposition. That said...I have a duty to address their concerns, as their liege. And while Godfried's grandstanding is not appreciated, his point is made. There is significant resistance to your idea from certain sectors of the nobility. Additionally, Godfried has pointed out that there may be difficulties from Razeholm. They must be addressed -- and since our dear Lord Seneschal has been kind enough to find a way to exert pressure on me personally, I must be seen to do something about it myself."
He withdraws a scroll from his pocket and passes it to the Archpriestess. "What I have in mind is an initiative to address both concerns. The root of the nobility's concerns lies in the church's increasing authority. They fear what a Sect with the loyalty of all mages could do to the realm. And while I trust you, Your Eminence, I do understand from where that concern comes. Furthermore, Razeholm is likely to object simply due to their distaste for mages in general." He gestures to the scroll. "What you are holding is a proposal to send an envoy to Razeholm, asking the Underking to send us trainers in the ways of combating the arcane. With those trainers' assistance, I would train the retinue to the point of being capable of serving as an anti-magical force. This would reassure Razeholm that we take the, 'threat,' of mages seriously. That the force would be under secular command would reassure the nobility. And…" He sighs. "Magic is powerful. Eventually, there will be a hostile mage. I must admit that I would feel somewhat more secure if there was more than one force capable of handling rogue mages. More eyes on the problem, and more security in numbers." He leans back. "What say you, Your Eminence?" Maria was silent for a moment, however. Something stuck to her mind. Something that the Marshal spoke about.
"Excuse me, Sir Varr but did you just say that the Seneschal pressured you?" she asked, her voice was slightly edging on anger.
"Politically, yes," says Varr, showing an unpleasant smile. "As I said, he brought his concerns to some of my vassals, who now are flooding my desk with letters. Oh, nothing illegal or strictly improper -- any man may speak to another man, after all. That said, he's placed me in a position where I must act to placate the concerns of my vassals. As I said, I have a duty to them." He sighs. "It was very well played on Godfried's end, I will admit. Infuriating, and I'll be making demonstrations to those vassals in question, in the near future, to demonstrate how little I appreciate the pressure. That said, he was within his rights and the law. Galling as it may be for me to admit."
None of that, in fact, was a lie. Godfried proved a very effective way to showcase which of Torrhen's vassals felt like they could get away with pressuring him, and a baron serving on the Royal Council has many ways to favor one vassal over another.
Maria with a wave of her hand, summoned a nearby nun who brought a cup of wine from which she took a small sip to calm herself. To use the word of the law to go against its spirit and politically threaten your colleague! This man was bolder than what Maria initially thought.
"Regardless, let us put such a matter to rest. However, you have my support if you feel the need, Sir Varr. I am reluctant to allowing Razeholm to train soldiers specifically to kill my men but if you feel it is needed... Then perhaps. I have Lady Camren's reassurance that she would handle any tensions from the neighbor polities. Let us see how she will do, first. We could not simply allow foreign polities to decide on how the Kingdom should be or shouldn't be, you must understand or Anchor would hardly have any legitimacy. As for Sir Godfried himself, he has been proving outright hostile to us and some of my most devout priests have suggested to outright excommunicate him for his Heresy and hostility to me and the Sect. I am not yet sure on what actions I should take, the nobles seem to have an icy relation with us and that is most unfortunate considering my upbringings. I may hold a banquet in Perrigwyn and invite all of the Nobility. Perhaps, then the Sect's relation with them would be warmer?" she suggested, waiting for Torrhen's input on the matter.
"I have a lot of faith in Lady Camren," replies Torrhen, sitting at ease. "I've worked with her for many years, and she knows her craft. I've little doubt that she will be capable of handling Razeholm. My primary concern is for the domestic troubles, and Razeholm is merely convenient for that." He spreads his hands. "A banquet may make people personally like you, Your Eminence, but the nobility's concerns are not rooted in any dislike for you. Their concern is that the Sect is exercising too much power within the Kingdom. That -- and, I'll admit, my duty to reassure my vassals -- is why I suggest cross-training the retinue. Not as some squad of assassins." He shifts in his seat. "I must be seen to do something, even if it is not this, or my vassals will have just cause to report their concerns above me. That will start a mess which would only harm the cause of mage legalization. And...I do not want that. Not at all." He looks for a moment as though he's about to say something further, but stops there.
"I… Very well. I understand. Thank you for informing me of this when you didn't have to or did you wish for something else from me?" she asked curiously. She understood Torrhen's position a bit better now. It took a bit of time but finally did the nuns bring a full bottle of wine. They served Sir Varr as well. Maria took this opportunity to refill her cup, or rather it was the nuns who refilled it.
He nods, acknowledging that the conversation has stalled for the moment. Tension eases out of his body. "Thank you," he says for the wine. "On a more positive note, I wished to discuss possibilities for further integration of magical support into the retinue. Priest Hortensius was quite impressive, and as I said, his assistance was invaluable. Did he tell you that he personally slew one of the beasts? It was an honor to work with him." He sets down his cup. "The retinue could use support like that. Many more would have died, had it not been for your priests."
"I am glad that they did. Hortensius was modest about his feats most likely! I will be sure to reward him personally! He is a good faithful man that hasn't failed me ever since I met him." Maria only paused to take another sip of her wine. The nuns beside her were slightly worried that she might be drinking a bit too much right now.
"As for further priests being given to the Army as support? I will have to discuss that with my High Priests. Hortensius and his men are my personal bodyguards as an Archpriestess, I had full authority over them. As I do for others, of course, but it will be impolite to do so without asking for the High Priests' input on the matter. You must understand." she explained her situation a bit more. She doubted the High Priests would oppose it but it is only good to be on the safe side of things.
"Naturally," replies Torrhen. "I simply wished to make it clear that I had the interest." He takes a -- very small -- sip of wine. "How have you been settling into your new duties, Your Eminence? I recall my first year on the Council was a very hectic time, and I was not dealing with dissent among my subordinates. I imagine it must be a very busy time for you." Maria's 'sips' could no longer be called sips as she drank a bit more of her wine. Her face was slightly redder now indicating her intoxication.
"I suppose. I have some troublesome subordinates indeed. I suppose… *Hic*. I will have to speak to them soon enough. We will hold a grand meeting in the Grand Maw someday in the near future. Only members of the clergy would be allowed in it, of course. I… must say that I am not yet sure on how to handle them. Many of my devout followers give me more than enough suggestions but they are mostly extreme ones that go against the Dragons' teaching." Maria, of course, didn't know that these 'extreme' measures she spoke of were the only standard in the political scene. A nearby nun hurried over to refill her cup as the Archpriestess ordered her to.
Torrhen covers his mouth in feigned contemplation to hide his amusement as Maria gets deeper into her cups. Goodness, she can't hold her liquor. I should probably prevent her from getting any worse. He clears his throat. "Your Eminence, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a drink, and I've certainly had my share, but…" He points to her new cup of wine. "Speaking from long personal experience, you're going to regret that cup later." He smiles. "Perhaps pace yourself somewhat. Set it aside for now, drink it later."
"I.. apologies. I didn't notice… It is such an enticing drink that holds much beauty in it both in its taste and appearance… It must be why so many people covet it… Especially the Grand Maw's collection…" her way of speech was now more slurry, as she drew in the air to breathe, she suddenly hiccuped. Maria reluctantly set aside her cup as the nuns beside her sent a thankful glance toward the Marshal. She turned to Sir Varr as she remembered he was here. She momentarily forgot him.
"Ah... What were we discussing?" she asked.
Torrhen's head is tilted, as he peers as Maria. "...you really are exactly what you appear to be," he wonders. "So many of the concerns I've heard are from nobles convinced that your ideals are a facade in order to make people underestimate you, but…" He shakes his head. "You really are as you present yourself." He laughs. "You are a rare kind of person, Your Eminence. One very unused to her alcohol." He glances at one of the nuns. "I believe Her Eminence would find it easier to deal with the aftermath of her drinking were she to have some clean water now." He then looks back to Maria. "What made you first come to the cause of the legalization of magic?"
"It came from my wonder as a child when High Priest Logen came to my home to teach me about the basics of Magia and the little tricks he has shown me as a child. I can still remember it clearly. Another reason would be the death of my father who I can recall was a kind but prideful man. He was taken away because of an illness. I am sure it could have been cured with Magia but due to the law in place. There wasn't much effort put into place to try and save my father. The conventional healers tried their best without success until he passed away, leaving me, my little brother and my mother. I dread to think that other people would experience the same thing, that feeling of loss and emptiness. I hope to fill it with the legalization of Magia which could bring much of a relief to the kingdom from many of the problems that plague it, currently." she said, her voice slightly tinted with sadness and melancholy, she unconsciously reached for her cup of wine but it was nowhere to be found, unfortunately.
Torrhen freezes for a moment, mid-sip. Then he sets down his cup. "...I see." He smiles, although there's something missing from it. "You are a rare soul, Your Eminence. I can't help but feel that the Sect is fortunate to have you. I wish you all good fortune in the trials to come." He then stands. "I'll take my leave. Remember: water will help, later." He bows slightly, then turns to leave.
"Ah, before you leave. Here is a gift. Certainly, a small one and I apologize for that." she said as one of the nuns reveal what she was holding. A basket full of fruits and beautiful flowers that were prepared while Torrhen and Maria were discussing.
Torrhen accepts it with grace. "Any gift is a welcome one, if it is honestly offered," he replies. "Pleasant day to you, Your Eminence." And then he leaves.
Maria smiled lightly as one two nearby nuns helped her up from her seat and escorted her back to her quarters.
((I'll be posting to the Council meeting in a bit.))
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- California
Countess Alyssane Camren, Chancellor
"I regret to report a stall in the plans for your majesty's forthcoming engagement." Alyssane inclines her head towards King Morcar. "Prince Hama is proving characteristically stubborn, despite the Princess's enthusiasm for the match. With your majesty's permission, I believe it is time to escalate negotiating tactics."
"I propose an increase to border tolls for travelers to and from our northern neighbor, as well as a raise on tariffs for Frostgrave's largest imports from Anchor. In addition to providing a slight buoy to the royal coffers, which I am informed are still on shaky grounds..."
Because of the king's profligacy, but it would be impolitic to say so.
"...It would serve to remind Prince Hama of the necessity of maintaining our good will. Frostgrave is small and comparatively geographically isolated - even if the old man retaliates, we can endure the economic damage far longer than he can."
The countess arches an eyebrow at her sovereign before continuing with a tone of conspiratorial levity.
"Your majesty could also contribute to our negotiating position by being publicly seen to court the attentions of some of the daughters of our own prominent noble families - nothing too serious or too committal, just enough to stir some gossip that would make its way back to Frostgrave." Alyssane smirks wryly at King Morcar. "I apologize for burdening you with such an onerous duty, my king, but I feel we should remind Prince Hama that this match is a valuable and sought-after opportunity. We can only hope his pride does not overrule his sense."
Of course, Alyssane would have to write to Princess Freta to assure her that she was still working diligently to ensure the marriage went ahead as planned. This was probably unneeded - the girl struck Alyssane as much more clearheaded and clever than her father; not the type to be easily offended by such inconsequential dalliances - but better safe than sorry.
"On the note of the Royal Treasury, the investigation to the thefts are now concluded. People have been arrested and currently being dealt with," here Cicero looked directly at Morcar, "and we hope to have the stolen funds, all ten thousand dragons of it, back soon enough," then he looked hard at the Seneschal, "I have sent the Lord Seneschal a letter containing some details and with his assistance I am sure we'll see it safely returned into the Treasury. Right Lord Seneschal?"
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- Space
((Now this is interesting, you just cut of Archpriestess and given the field back to Sir Godfried to change the topic, this could be beginning of some sort of division ))
- Location
- California
((Wut. Looks back up the thread. Oh. Oh my. Ahem. My bad @Terran Imperium . Somehow I didn't see yours. Just... have my thing happen after you got replied to I guess.))
- Location
- Canada
((Alright, we'll omit that IC for now. Repost it when we're ready to change topics.))