> Twitter channel for announcement of times here: https://twitter.com/#!/CirrusandN
> Game Wikia (37 articles and counting) here: http://noblemanquest.wikia.com/wiki/NoblemanQuest_Wiki
> List of tasks here: http://noblemanquest.wikia.com/wiki/Task_List_and_Things_that_can_be_Done

Starting a little early for some warm-up time. If anyone would like to know anything more in particular, please ask away.

Today is hunting day, isn't it? Where are we?

>>18709172

Yes, you have invited Lesin to hunt today in the morning. It appears the weather is all for you doing so as well.

You sit up a little, and then finally you recognise this place. The red pillars, the gossamer blinds, the mahogany panels all around - this is your own room, in the Palace.

> What do?

Find our retainers and ask how we got back.

Let's look for Linden. Get up.

Either we are dreaming or someone carried us here in our sleep.

Pinch yourself to wake up. If that fails, get dressed.

> Going to get me some food. Pardon me.

Look for Linden, try to rustle up whatever type of falcon and the usual type of hunting dogs we need to hunt.

You said something about falconry last thread, right?

Do we even have any falcons at hand that would be ready to fly at present? I mean, you need to put those things on a diet or they'll just sit around on their ass.

Whoa, first we've got to find out how we got back to the palace, and more importantly did dad find out about our escapades last night.

>>18709292
>>18709282
>>18709279
>>18709247

'Linden...' you sit up and check your clothes; they are your normal sleeping clothes. You glance towards the rack in one corner of the room, and see the clothes you wore down to the city, folded neatly.

Just then the sliding door opens, and in comes Peony, looking completely unsurprised that you are awake and very confused. 'Breakfast, sir.' You notice that she has dark circles around her eyes.

'Did... who got me back here?' You look at her sleep-deprived face, then it hits you. 'Was it you?'

'Thank the bodyguard later, sir. He sneaked back in via the side gate and told us, so that His Highness would not be alerted. Father and I then went down to the city to look for you. We hunted all around the northern half, went up and down the Meridian Canal, and then we found you. But you were sleeping so nicely, sir, that we didn't have the heart to wake you. So Father took Linden back, and I stayed.' She then titters. 'You should see the inn-keeper's face; she was wondering how you got in with one woman, and got carried out by another. Thought I was a thief.'

> What do/say?

>>18709339

Oh man.

We should thank her.

> Oh, also:

You haven't got falcons right now, sadly; you're not normally into hunting, after all. But you do have a pack of hunting hounds, including some nice ones from your father's kennels.

Meanwhile, you see that the breakfast is simple, rough stuff - thick rice porridge with pig's innards and liver, and onions and ginger, all cooked in a clay pot. You know exactly what this is - it's restorative stuff. Peony's really had this thought out...

>>18709339

thank her, ask about linden, eat breakfast.

>>18709386

So... we're basically going to rustle them up with a flushing dog, shoot'em with arrows and have some sort of water dog actually get the game then.

Great.

Or are we going to hunt with sight dogs? Though that seems to be a terrible idea in a swampy terrain...

>>18709428
>>18709373

We shouldn't be thanking her, really. Again, it's her job. She's supposed to do this.

Just eat breakfast, and then think of the hunt.

> Rather quiet today, isn't it...

>>18709457

Sounds like it, though you are not sure if Lesin has falcons. You doubt it, though.

Certainly a bow and arrows will be part of your gear.

>>18709373
>>18709428

'I... well, thanks very much Peony.' Then you reconsider saying that. 'At least, I'll thank you on Linden's behalf, if she's still sleeping.'

'She's been cleaning the yard since dawn,' Peony says, frowning. Then she breaks into a smile again. 'It is but my duty, sir. Now, eat your breakfast before it gets cold. Cold pig's intestines are gross.'

She has a point. Blowing on the porridge before slurping, you go through the bowl like a whirlwind. The city's nice, but palace food is still the best - no argument. You give Peony permission to sit down on the stool next to your bed, and she does, looking down as if focusing on something.

When you're done with your porridge you look up expectantly... to see Peony, still looking down, but her svelte form gently swaying to and fro, head nodding one way then the other.

> What do? How would you like to prepare for the hunt - will you go with lavishness, simplicity, or something else?

stick to something simple

>>18709573

We should be simple, but proper. That guy is into etiquette.

>>18709604
>>18709620
>>18709639
>>18709665

You gently rouse Peony, then pass her the tray. 'Go on then. Go have a nap.'

'Will you be taking Rose along with you to the hunt then, sir?' She gets up. That's a good point; Rose isn't exactly a sort who likes watching hunts. 'I'm fine, sir. It's at your choice.'

> Take Rose or Peony along?

Meanwhile, you prepare for the hunt, wearing your riding clothes, but without the extra capes or cloaks. It's a warm day outside, after all. You're not wearing anything ostentatious, but still you are well-dressed.

You do wonder what Lesin would dress like, and whether he might not bring someone with him. Something else struck you as strange, in that you do not know for certain about his rank; you had sent Baseg to check before, and he says the man is probably a Viscount. Why would a viscount not use his style, and live in apartments in the northern docks?

Meanwhile, you realise that it's still quite early in the morning.

> Go off to the meeting place straightaway, or wait and arrive later? You are an earl, after all...

>>18709718

If Peony is all right with it, let's take her. She's more discerning and cleverer.

>>18709756
this
It's still early, so let her take a nap while we prepare for the hunt.

We are not trying to recruit this man, are we? If so, we can always go later.

>>18709780
>>18709756

You wonder who might be coming along with you on this hunt, and in any case Peony is a discerning person. 'Tell you what. Go and sleep. I'll send for you when I'm ready. You'll go with me.'

'Yes, sir.'

You shake out all the clothes selected for you, and sit down for a while, feeling the warmth of the day gradually driving out the morning's chill. Then, when you think Lesin would probably have arrived at the pavilion where you are to meet, you go downstairs and have Peony woken up. Within a few moments she is ready, though her clothes are slightly crumpled - clearly she's been sleeping in her clothes.

Just as you're about to go get the horses, Rose comes in from the gate. 'Good day, sir. It's the Fourth Earl. He's heard that you're going on a hunt, and he'd like to know if you would take him along. He says it's an auspicious day to be stalking quarry.'

Auspicious day, seriously... though the weather is pleasant, you'll grant him that. Your younger brother is just outside the entrance of your apartments, it seems.

> What do/say?

>>18709843

What's he brought along with him? Go out and meet him.

>>18709862
seconding

>>18709862

> What plans are you considering, actually?

He can come along, I guess. Be careful of him though.

Is our younger brother of age yet?

>>18709912

He is fifteen, and as such has just had his hair tied at the beginning of this year. That means he is of age, though he has no need to move out or take a fief yet.

>>18709883
>>18709871
>>18709862

You nod and go out, as Peony and Baseg go to lead your horses and hounds. Your younger brother, Imian, sits astride an impressive black horse, while two slaves hold back a pack of hounds, and another slave carries two falcons on a perch.

'Brother.' Imian gets off his horse to salute you. 'I haven't seen you since you went south. How has it gone?'

You are about to answer when you glance behind him and see another man, a priest of the Cloud-goddess. He is looking up into the sky, and occasionally gives a chuckle.

'It's gone quite well, I would say. But let us get there first.' You get on the horse Baseg brings you, your chestnut mare. 'We have cousins to meet.'

'Chestnut's not a very good colour for today, brother. Black suits the mood of the Cloud-goddess more.'

> What do/say?

> Am I being too early with running the quest today? Should I wait for a while and come back later?

>>18710004
>'Chestnut's not a very good colour for today, brother. Black suits the mood of the Cloud-goddess more.'

I thought that only the japanese went fully retard about that stuff?

>>18710031

Most things the Japanese go crazy about, they copied from the Chinese. So there you are.

As for the horse, forget it. Just smile and ride off.

>>18710044

Hey, at least he did not told us to TAKE THE OTHER GATE!!! TAKE THE OTHER GATE! THAT CARDINAL DIRECTION IS CURSEEEEED TODAY!

>>18710044
>>18710031
>>18710009

> Quite a few superstitions the Japanese have are indeed Chinese, though the Chinese themselves have lost a lot of them.

You smile, chuckle, nod noncommittally and get on your horse. Then, with everyone in tow, you begin to ride, out the gates of your compound and then Raumar Palace itself.

It is indeed a beautiful day, the sun's heat moderated by a cooling breeze. You decide to take the long route, going around Margade's walls, so you can have more of the breeze and less of the city's odours - even the residences of the rich can have some pretty foul smells.

Along the way none of you say very much. You notice the priest is still following your lot. Between you, you have two falcons, and probably about 20 hounds.

> Say something? Or just head for the pavilion quietly?

>>18710104

Does our brother like hunting? I'm guessing he does, given his gear. Ask him how the hunting has been.

>>18710171
>>18710126

> That is true, I guess. Kinda hoping it gets better later, wondering if it's because there's several quests on at the same time. Oh well. Thanks for contributing!

'So, how has the hunting been, brother?' You know for a fact that he is into it, partly because of your father's influence. 'Is the marshland still as rich with birds as ever?'

'Rich, definitely! Though recently one of the inlets got silted up, and they've had to dredge it to keep the marsh.' The marsh, after all, is an artificial project - one left over from your father's predecessor, a man who once killed three servants for feeding his favourite falcon the wrong sort of meat. 'But you know what it is now, brother. It's summer. Poaching season.'

'Don't tell me you're following me to hunt men instead of birds.' You are quite disinclined to have a rerun of what happened at the Ahun residence.

'No, no. But if there were... well, I would turn them over to the palace.' For all the good that would do the poachers. But why poach when there's honest livings to be made, after all?

> More incoming.

>>18710249

At the same time, Peony is talking with the slaves and your brother's servants. They seem quite impressed that Peony can ride so well, and that you've chosen her to follow you on a hunt.

Come think of it, you did remember your brother saying something about hiring a few girl servants recently. He does not say it in the 'I have a room that needs cleaning' way, either...

It isn't long before you, following the course of the Omera river, come within view of the Pavilion. Even from this distance you can see that Lesin is already there; and also that he is not alone. When you ride up, he salutes you and Imian. 'Fourth Earl. A pleasant surprise. I am honoured.'

'Honour is as names are raised, and names are as parents see, so honour is by nature a matter of sight,' an old, bearded man next to Lesin says, before saluting. You also notice two other men, one of whom you recognise from the feast in the palace... wait, he's the one who's tried to feel Peony up.

> What do/say?

>>18710294

Is the old guy a noble? Ask their names.

Look if they have gear and animals.

>>18710294
>>18710334

The men introduce themselves. The old man's name is Gamdun, and he says he is but a person who bandies words about. Sure sounds like it.

The two others, meanwhile, turn out to be your cousins, branches of the royal house. Peony's molester's name is Hadimi, and he does not seem to remember Peony, though he glances at her every now and then. The other man, with a slightly worn riding cloak, is Uduges.

'Well then, shall we go hunt?' Imian says, when you are done introducing yourselves. 'The time is right! The sun is in a good spot now!'

You turn to the marsh, its calm waters sparkling in the sunlight; even with the naked eye you can see plenty of waterfowl around. It does indeed look perfect. Your hounds, along with your brother's, have already been led around the marsh, ready to flush out the birds.

> Commence hunt? If so, roll 3d100 - the first one is for flushing, and the latter two are for archery, as you shoot the birds.
> Meanwhile, what do/say?

rolled 92, 22, 3 = 117

>>18710408
Commence hunting.

Ask the old man for the source of his honour quote and how he is acquainted with Lesin.

>>18710452
>Flush all the birds, then miss terribly

Guess archery isn't really our thing.

rolled 1, 1, 1 = 3

>>18710408

rolled 43, 86, 99 = 228

>>18710496
>d00
whoops

>>18710465
>>18710458
>>18710452

> If it makes you feel any better, your brother rolled a 21, 25, and Lesin rolled a 28, 67. Are you guys all facing east towards the sun or something?

The slaves, and their hounds, do admirable work - your father had always boasted about his long-haired hounds running as fast in water as on dry land, and from the panic they raise among the birds, you can totally believe it. Great flocks rise from the water, testament to its richness in early summer - ducks, grebes, geese, even several white swans.

'HAIL!' Your brother makes a sign of the wind-god on his forehead, then draws, just as you do. Your first shot whizzes into the cloud of birds, and goes on whizzing; your second shot misses a flock completely, arcing into the air. You glance at Lesin, who must have seen it go so far out, but he does not react.

The birds intend to land in the marsh again, but the dogs don't give them that opportunity, circling, splashing and baying. Looks like you can yet redeem yourself!

> Roll another 2d100 for two more shots, due to the effectiveness of the dogs.
> You'll ask old man Gamdun about the quote later. It's been noted.

>>18710496

> You shoot Peony thrice by accident, but thank heavens it's a dream.

rolled 14 = 14

>>18710551
Be wary of people like him rolling smalldice. Those were rigged to be 1's.

Not on purpose I assume, it looks as if he forgot the 1 in d100

rolled 58, 7 = 65

>>18710502

Can we take these archery rolls?

rolled 23, 63 = 86

What happened to the girls servants hired by our brother? I don't get the implication.

rolled 61, 97 = 158

>>18710542

>>18710578
...he hired them as fucktoys. Durr.

>>18710578
He got them for sexing

>>18710569

No worries. That's why it's greentext, I saw the email field.

Are people okay with me taking >>18710502? Otherwise I'm taking >>18710579.

As for your brother, you're not sure whether he's shed his child-body yet, and become, well, a man. (Of course you had already done so when you were his age! Like you were afraid... of proving yourself, well, manly!) But he certainly intends to do so, and who can blame a young man?

>>18710587
Oh good. I thought he had them for some bizarre ritual or something. You know, sacrifices.

>>18710621

.... oh god you actually have a point I don't want to consider.

>>18710621
>I thought he had them for some bizarre ritual or something.

Well, he IS going to dress them up according to a very bizarre calendrical system... and probably sex them up in accordance with it too.

>>18710621
>>18710633
Oh man. I didn't think of that. Servants for fucking is normal and perfectly fine, we have designs on that kind of thing ourselves. Sacrifices? Faux pas.

Still not really our business what he does with his servants.

>>18710502

This time round you shift your position a little, and then Peony comes over to you with her scarf in her hands. 'Sir! Use this!'

You immediately see her line of thought; the sun, being almost directly overhead now, really gets in the way. You tie a knot above your head, which leaves your eyes in the shade, and then nock and draw your bow.

> 86 - 10

Your first arrow quickly strikes a duck, sending it spiralling towards the water.

> 99 - 10

Your second arrow is better still - it hits a grebe, small as it is. The men cannot help but cheer.

Your brother, meanwhile, has an even better shot. Nocking a single arrow, he hit another grebe, but the force of the arrow impales it - and strikes another goose! Soon all the birds are brought to you, and the hounds too are returned and made ready.

> What do/say? Go another round, or do something else?

>>18710723
Congratulate the fourth earl on his fine shot.

Go another round

Go another round, but not before talking to the old man a bit.

>>18710778
>>18710758

> Hunt so far: 1 duck (Lesin), 1 grebe and one duck (you), 1 grebe and 1 goose (Imian)

You tell the slaves to prepare the hounds for another go, as you walk towards the smaller, western section of the marshland. While you do so, you ask Gamdun and Lesin about the honour quote.

'The old teacher thought it up himself, sir,' Lesin smiles. 'He is my teacher, and has been so for several years.'

'I dare not call master Lesin a student, sir.' Gamdun's smile indicates that is exactly what he intends to do. 'He is as wise as I am, at a third of my age. As they say: if virtue should come to a man disproportionate to his years, treat him as your elder brother! That is a wise phrase, a wise phrase...'

Meanwhile you hear the two other nobles talking to each other and laughing. You don't quite like the look of that Hadimi, and neither does Peony naturally, but the other man looks rather interesting. Certainly he dominates the conversation with ease.

> Talk some more, with the others? Or go straight into round 2, in which case 3d100 again!

rolled 48, 6, 96 = 150

>>18710931

Ask the other two what they're on about.

And then let's go!

>>18710931
Ask Lesin who his friends are.

rolled 39, 39, 75 = 153

Let's shoot, we'll talk more later.

>>18710996
>>18710993

'Lesin. Who are those men?'

'Distant cousins, sir.' Lesin sighs, as if he clearly did not intend for them to tag along. 'Hadimi said it was a good day for hunting, but he's brought nothing but a sword with him. Uduges, on the other hand... he's just come back from the capital yesterday. I think he seeks to see someone related to the Prince, sir.'

You nod and think that over. See you? But why?

Meanwhile the dogs are sent out again, but this time the water is too deep for them to be truly effective. Nonetheless some skittish birds do take wing, and you manage to shoot another duck, while your brother bags yet another goose. 'We will have plenty to eat for lunch today,' he says, keeping his bow.

It's noon now, and the warm balmy air is beginning to get uncomfortably hot. Accordingly, that pavilion over there is looking like a really tempting prospect. Alternatively, you could ride into the forest, where there is no shortage of clearings for you to sit and enjoy the wilderness...

> What do/say now?

>>18711136
We are an Earl. We do not 'rough it'. Head for the pavilion and sip river-cooled wine.

>>18711136

let's do the forest, it might be cooler. and also less prone to spies. then we can talk more freely.

>>18711172
I don't trust the guy who brought a sword only to a hunt where he heard we would be. That means a shady forest where things could happen out of sight is right out. Pavilion.

>>18711189
>>18711157

> Total hunt: 1 duck (Lesin), 1 grebe and 2 ducks (you), 1 grebe and 3 geese (Imian)

To be honest, with the number of dogs and men you've had, you weren't expecting a big haul. What you do manage to bag, however, is further augmented when Imian's falcons return with another goose. 'Those are some fierce birds, sir,' Lesin says, as Imian begins to cut strips of meat to reward his falcons. 'Shall we go somewhere to rest?'

'The pavilion, people.' You point in that direction, and soon you are all seated. A small gutter runs through the floor of the pavilion, allowing you to soak your flasks of liquor in the running river water for a refreshing drink.

'The earl was asking me about you, Uduges,' Lesin says. 'I told his lordship you just got back from the capital.'

'A noble lord asks favours of a man, but what favours can reward nobility as is appropriate?' You blink when Gamdun says that. Right, that one's slightly beyond you. Uduges doesn't trouble himself with that, though, saluting you.

'Yes, sir. I just came back from the capital, and... actually I should probably be saying this more privately, but since both you and the fourth earl are here, I should just say it up front. Something important has occurred in the capital while I was there...'

> What do/say?

Meanwhile, you can hear Hadimi talking to Peony. He is reciting a poem in Hillmanese - a language Peony can speak in her sleep, though she doesn't seem to have told him - about... peas... in a pod... rubbing together... gently. His pronunciation is so atrocious you question your own command of Hillmanese now. Maybe it's another dialect.

Peony smiles, and launches into Hillmanese herself. 'I know that a man with a dog's head, strung up on a chestnut by the ankles, could come up with a better rhyme.'

Hadimi laughs uproariously. 'Yes! Yes!' Then he turns to you. 'Um, sir, did you understand what your servant said? I think she's trying to match me in Hillman, but her tongue is a bit rough...'

> What did Peony say, according to you?

>>18711307
"A riddle is most elegant when the solution is not known, the land most mysterious when cloaked in night, and a woman most most beautiful when viewed from afar."

In other words, hands off. Very politely.

>>18711375
>>18711351
>>18711327

'What'd she say? Old Hillman proverb, Hadimi!' You then recite the proverb, which the Hillmen do take as a serious warning, to the young man, who mulls it for a bit. Then he turns to Peony, pressing a little close.

'You are a wise girl. And beautiful! And talented. Lovely!'

'Thanks for the praise, sir.'

Meanwhile you turn back to see Lesin shaking his head while Uduges chuckles; he does seem to think it was a worthy distraction. Imian, meanwhile, is leaning forward already, concentrating on what he is about to say.

'Oh. What was it? Oh yes, the capital. Some... pretty serious news.' He frowns. 'While I was there, something big happened in the Palace. Her Majesty, the Queen, accused two of the first-ranked officials in court of conspiring to depose the current Crown Prince, whom as you know is just a boy but will be a grown man by next year. They're important officials! And they're both from House Igumu.'

'What?' The first thing you think is that it is quite expected; after all the only concubine to also mother a son, a possible heir to the throne, is a lady of House Igumu. But certainly such a conspiracy could be bloody business...

> Background incoming.

>>18711445

Thanks very much. If I might say so, such compliments do keep me going.

>>18711456

Background:

You know the title of Crown Prince has had a troubled history in your kingdom. 20 years ago, the crown prince was killed in a hunting accident, which is how King Naren got to become king in the first place. (It should have been your father, too!)

It was only two years ago, too, when Queen Adina - then newly raised from concubine status, and having already had a child - accused the then crown prince of attempting to poison her. King Naren banished the young man, Prince Miheg, who then slit his throat in exile.

That incident has left only one concubine with a son, but if the Queen is seeking to take her out as well so quickly - that does not make much sense. Surely, once her own son has become an adult, she would have much less to fear in terms of legitimacy...

> How react, if at all?

>>18711490
I get the feeling that, before the day is over, we are going to have to put an arm around Peony in front of him, stare him down, and say "I trust you remember the Banquet night? If not, let me remind you. One should take what food is offered, and discard the ill manners of snatching from another man's plate."

>>18711527

Second this. Also, ask why he said he wanted to talk in private about something like this.

Or is it something we can already guess or know?

>>18711551

Roll d100 for thinking.

>>18711507
Casually say that if the Queen is so concerned about the legitimacy of her son, well, she is the one who knows him best after all. Perhaps there is a reason? Then smile and quickly say that that reason must of course be the treason of the ministers.

The others will understand what me mean, though, and Lesin will have affirmation of our plans to be a player in the big game. That's what this trip is about, after all. Recruiting him.

>>18711456
This guy is either thick, oblivious, or he's just pushy as hell and he can't speak a work of Hillmanesh. We're going to have to be blunt with him aren't we.

>>18711507
Look deep in thought. It's going to be hard to tell if the Queen actually is threatened or if she just considers Igumu a threat, given what happened to Miheg, it's entirely possible it's fabricated. But the current concubine has more reasons to take out the crown prince than the Queen has to take out Igumu, though the Queen could just be proactive about this sort of thing, but it seems likely that the concubine is trying to get her son into positions of power.

Don't say that out loud, could be considered treason. Instead note how brilliant it is that those after the Queens son are always found quickly, which is a most impressive feat given how close they are to the throne.

rolled 11 = 11

think. think. think.

rolled 84 = 84

>>18711573
Rollan for Thinkan

rolled 70 = 70

>>18711573

>>18711634
>>18711587
>>18711611

> 84 - well thought out!

You think about it, quite hard - why move against those two ministers specifically - and then it hits you. Of course; the concubine herself is their cousin, a sister of the Earl of Igumu.

And then you remember who else is in that position. The previous Earl had three daughters; one, famed for beauty, went to the King of Iru, your own king, one famed for intelligence went to a prince in the neighbouring - and much more powerful - kingdom of Kaso, your ancient rival; and the third, famed for being overshadowed, is the Premier Countess of Mar - Gesadag's wife.

'Well, you know how it is,' Uduges continues. 'The Queen is insecure, she knows her station. Compared to Igumu her house isn't much. But Igumu, and their good ol' friends the Naiseg - between those two families they could uproot half the families from here into the Kingdom of Kaso, if someone yanked hard enough.'

Hmmm. You'd figured that.

> More to come. What do/say?

>>18711587
>>18711611

You simply sit back. 'Well. Her Majesty is as the mother of the country; surely she would not throw accusations flippantly. If anything, it does seem impressive how plots against the young Crown Prince are uncovered so quickly.'

'Or fabricated,' Uduges mutters, before catching himself and glancing around. 'Oh blimey, that could've cost me.'

'Well, even if the Queen was to do something like this, she is but protecting a legitimate heir,' Lesin points out. 'From the ancient times to the present day, it is not wise to elevate-' and then he catches himself too.

You know why. Your father is senior to the current King. This is not a fact that bears repeatedly pointing out.

> What do/say? You can change conversation or end it at any time, by the way.

>>18711718

Think that over carefully. How can we turn this to our advantage?

If, perhaps, Igumu and Naiseg could be pried away from the king for such accusations, would they fall to our father?

That's a terrible thought, though - it would mean we are courting an open civil war and revolt...

>>18711754
Don't hold back on my account, barring avenues of conversation will give the truth a shadowy corner to hide in.

This is a serious issue that has the potential to lead to war and serious intrigue. Speak honestly with me.

>>18711809

We could press it for him. I'm not sure whether he wants to be in the throne, but... if he's not King, we will become like that Hadimi guy, or at least our sons will be.

But thinking about this the other way, could our father himself be threatened?

>>18711754
Finish his statement. It is not wise to elevate a younger son. It can create problems down the line. This is simply common sense, of course.

Smile, then ask Peony for a drink refill.

>>18711862
Errr, in case it was not clear, the statement is meant to convey that we ourselves are going to be the problem when we retake the throne.

>>18711807
>>18711802
>>18711862

'Not wise to elevate a younger son above an elder. It disrupts the proper order of things, and weakens the foundations of piety and loyalty.' You nod at Lesin. 'Please don't restrain yourselves overly here.'

They still look uneasy, though, and you think you can guess why. You have been trying your best to look relaxed, leaning back and sipping your liquor even while your younger brother is practically leaning forward now, as if to catch some whispering. Have to like the guy's eagerness.

'So why do you raise the issue of a possible fabrication, Uduges?'

'I... well, sir, the accusation came after a few things happened, see. First, there was... some news... about, you know, a slight ailment in the palace.' You know exactly what that means - the King was taken ill at some point. 'Then, not long after that, a large embassy from Kaso and several of its subject states came to the capital.'

'They what?' You don't recall getting any share of the gifts from that; that would have been customary, and even given the King's bad blood with your father, things have never gotten to the point of breaking ritual before. But you keep quiet.

'It just seems like too much of a coincidence, doesn't it, sir?' Uduges nods. 'I'm just here to see if I can talk to anyone from your house, and by fortune - two of you lordships.'

> Hmm! What do/say? Or think?

>>18711905

Wait, what, why? Don't get you, sorry...

>>18711914
Hmm, looks like Queeny is going all Cixi while the King is indisposed.

>>18711862

> On a lighter note:

You ask Peony for a refill. You also notice that Gamdun is attempting to get the girl away from her pursuer by talking about philosophy with her, but Hadimi - who by now is taking one shot himself for every shot he pours someone else - keeps cutting in.

At one point, finally, he sits up. 'You! Lady! You never drink! I am a Baron of the royal house, and I say you must drink.'

'I have work to do, sir.' Peony gives you a glance, and you can't tell if she's asking for help, or permission to take Hadimi's hand and jam it into her robe for the razorblades. Come think of it, you've really never seen Peony drink before.

> What do for this?

>>18711914
Think that there is significant intrigue going on in the palace and the queen might be trying to merge the state with another. Say nothing, smile and shrug, and suggest we return to the hunt. There seem to be some sparrows flitting around the conversation. (our brother, namely, and we don't want his pious ass spreading shit right now until we know where exactly he stands)

Mention that in the future we would like to speak again... he seems a man of insight. Perhaps he could come to the Palace a few days hence with Lesin and we could dine together.

Make sure we invite them to eat AFTER we talk with the Earl. I want to see all the sides of this plotting first before we commit ourselves to one.

Check to see if Peony is still being harassed. If so, do >>18711526 near the end of the hunt.

>>18711975

Kind of sounds like it, yes. She's eliminating competition, so no one can deny her son a regency.

Wait, OP, so if the king is incapacitated, who takes over? Nobles? Queen?

>>18711998
Well the queen is dealing with competition, we need to keep a close eye on this, see if we can find exactly what the Kaso's game is.

Hadimi, a servant who drinks hand shakes and is unfit for duty, do not request such things of my attendant.

>>18711998
Damn it. Well, looks like it's time to stand and confront him. Nod politely to Lesin and Uduges, and excuse ourselves. Go over to him and tell him, bluntly, that while he is a Baron, we are an Earl... and we do not like having what is ours coveted by another. Probably implies we're doing the horizontal dance between the sheets with her, but whatever. Maybe if word gets around that our attendants attend to us in more ways than one it will serve to keep idiots like this off of them.

Regardless, we tried being subtle. Everyone saw us trying to be subtle. Now we need to be blunt.

>>18711975
>>18712019

Normally, if the King is incapacitated or elsewhere (say, on campaign), it's a council of nobles who take over the decision rights. But of course, a crown prince nearing maturity will have a big say in the policies if his dad the king gets laid up in bed.

'Surely the Kingdom of Kaso is not... does not have designs on us right now, though?' Lesin points out, after a long while. 'They've just finished a civil war of their own.'

>>18712066

I say we slap that wine glass right out of his hand, if we're going to show anger.

>>18712066
It's boorish to hit on another noble's attendants without leave regardless. We don't have to imply anything, it's probably assumed by default that we get some from our pretty servants on the side. That we don't particularly like some asshole coming and trying to status-rape our household is probably a good thing to be known for. It means in the future people will think twice before barging in and foisting themselves on the maids at parties we have.

>>18712097
"A country that has just finished a civil war has twice the army... and need of resources to rebuild."

Just a note here:

You do have your Sumaskete sword with you. You know, the one you bought yesterday.

'Dandelion-marked and orchid-knotted, the finest of blades in the eleven states!' That's what someone wrote about those swords...

>>18712097
Oh, and what of this civil war? Was the prince that the second Igumu sister was betrothed to involved in any way?

I'm not sure an open confrontation with a baron is worth it over one of our house maids.

Again, sense of proportion people. She's not a noble, she's not our wife.

>>18712153
I know, I was assuming this would lead to a swordfight where we cut the shit out of him for trying this shit.

But things have to be done in their proper order. We need to warn him and slap the glass out of his hand before we draw steel, otherwise we will be seen as improper and bloodthirsty like our father and second brother.

>>18712066

This is not a good reputation to gain, though. It would give other people a weakness to exploit - we get with our maids, we'd do things for them.

We should, again, be subtle.

Meanwhile, try to think about how our father would be affected by this. Short of a war. Is the king or queen finally going to break things off with us?

>>18712175
She is actually noble blood. But why wouldn't this be worth a confrontation? The crux of the argument here is not her status -- yeah, normally he could have any girl like her no problem. It's that she is *our* property. And we've told him to stop.

So what he is doing is an insult to us. That is why we're about to cut a bitch.

Also, our personal attendants are somewhat more important than just some random servant or slave. They listen in on private information and are expected to be completely loyal.

>>18712175
Ah, but if this lower-ranked cad feels that he can treat our personal attendants as his own then it sets a very bad precedent. This is about asserting our status, not protecting Peony.

>>18712054
>>18712131
>>18712158

'If the Queen is dealing with her enemies, that's... neither here nor there.' You're not about to give away a stand, if you have one. 'But, of course, if this affair has links all the way to us, or worse still to Kaso...'

'Besides, Lesin, wasn't that civil war fierce? Think about it. The new King would have to assert his strength, and we have been the rivals of Kaso for two centuries. A signal victory over us would consolidate his position better than ten years of stable rule.'

'That is a fearful thought, sir, but true,' Lesin admits. 'But perhaps it is ours to look at what happens in Mar, first of all.'

> Still waiting for course of action wrt Peony. Also, do you have a stand so far regarding Queen vs. Igumu?

>>18712203
Don't be stupid. Of course your household is a weakness to exploit. If someone is going to burn down your house would you let it burn because "Well, I'd get a reputation for caring about my house! I don't want that!"

Stop being silly. Concubines, Wives, Personal Attendants, and other high ranking/highly useful servants like our master-at-arms are all under our protection. They give us service and loyalty, they get our umbrella of safety. That's just the way these things work. We would indeed gain a reputation if we just let him have Peony -- a reputation for being a pushover or someone who doesn't value his key people. This will be a big hit to the morale of the household, something that we have to be concerned about.

I don't care if this baron fancies some lowly serving girl or slave in our employ. Indeed, such a girl would be lucky for the attention. But our head maids are something completely different.

>>18712179

I don't think that china had a formal duelling culture though. So we'd basically have to stab him until he's dead and depose of the body.

But if he likes swords, we could possibly get him to drool on the sword rather than on our servants.

>>18712245
I think that we should be decidedly neutral on the matter. Neutral in the fashion of someone still working out all the angles. I personally would enjoy deposing the queen and taking our birthright, but there is more than one way to go about that... it can even be done from the inside in some cases.

No, for now we simply need to have our options and information gathering open on the matter. We still have much to learn of the situation, this has only been one conversation.

>>18712284
He is not of our status, though. That's sort of the entire point here. He is insulting us by doing what he is doing. If he was of our status -- another Earl -- then we would have to tread more carefully.

>>18712311
Words and wit only get you so far. This guy has been given the hint multiple times. It is time to be blunt and put our foot down, telling him to stop it right this second.

>>18712275
>>18712252
>>18712066
>>18712203

The conversation hits a lull as you consider nasty thoughts like war with a country four times your size and several times your population. But then you look up, and blink when you hear Peony's voice. It's gone up several tones, and she's red faced.

Ah, shit.

You nod to the others, gently ease Gamdun to one side, and then reach out and intercept the cup that Hadimi is pushing at Peony. He stares at you, wide-eyed, as you grab the cup and smash it on the floor of the pavilion.

'Sir... sorry about this...' Peony blinks, sways a little, and then turns around and falls on Gamdun, who being in his 60s is socially rather more appropriate to hug in public.

'Sir, sir, sir...' Hadimi sighs. 'It was only one drink. Look, I'm sorry, I didn't know her endurance was this poor. She's so clever, you know, I just thought, you know-'

'Hadimi!' Lesin stands up. 'Enough of this nonsense!'

> What do/say?

>>18712341
Why, oh why, did we not intercept the first cup like was said? I mean, really. What the fuck.

>>18712245
Hmmm, it appears that we have greater connection to the Igumus, and while father may not be willing to upset the status quo himself; if an opportunity to reclaim his birthright were offered to him, he seems ambitious enough to take it. But this is all on the strength of one conversation, we need more information before we settle our position; after all, while siding with the Igumus may be more natural for one in our position, we have not gotten where we are in life by doing the natural thing.

>>18712298

Agree with this. Besides, we have bigger - well, smaller - fish to fry. More manageable fish, like the sworn houses in our own fief.

As for the Hadimi guy, tell him in no uncertain terms that he is no longer welcome in our presence, and we reserve the right to put a swordblade through him the next time he dares get drunk before our sight. Let's see if that wakes him up.

>>18712362
HOLY SHIT, A MERE SERVANT ACCEPTED A CUP BEING FORCED ON HER BY A NOBLE WHEN HER MASTER DIDN'T INTERVENE

It's almost like the people saying "HEY, LET'S JUST WAIT AND USE MORE WORDS" on the guy who has proven oblivious to words were being STUPID or something! Who would have thought!

God damn it, you fucking retards.

>>18712341
Why did you do this OP? Why are you punishing us for one guy who kept insisting we do nothing?

>>18712365
>>18712362

You were called away by discussing serious things. Peony is not a frivolous servant who pushes around, so she took the first drink and waited for you to be free to deal. It's the way she is.

Come on, she watched you all night in an inn and then carried you back to your room at dawn. That's her for you.

>>18712402
>>18712365
>>18712362

People, please, try to resist the temptation to white knight. Peony would be expected to take the hit first if we were talking something important - which we definitely were, talking about the possibility of war.

I for one think Peony's more awesome for this. But now we need to be awesome back. Tell Hadimi to fuck off, now.

>>18712380
Agreed. Tell him that he is to be gone from our sight immediately, and that we had thought a man of his station would be more intelligent and not need to dishonor himself so.

Then we take Peony off to the side and speak with her, see how bad off she is exactly.

>>18712434
This is perhaps the first time I have ever been called a white knight.

No, I'm more pissed because he insulted us and I thought Peony would have better sense than that. I'm personally for backhanding him and saying he has shamed himself, and that we thought a man of his birth would act less like a commoner. Then banish him from our sight.

That should dishonor him well enough and make the point that you DO NOT touch our shit without our permission. Be that our servants, our mistresses, our goods, or our lands.

>>18712380
>>18712444
>>18712434

'Sir? Come on, sir-'

'Don't sir me, you cur,' you growl. 'Get up. GET UP.' When he doesn't comply, you grab his shoulder and pull him to his feet; he is too weak to resist, and yet too tipsy to stand, so he falls backwards and leans against a post.

'Sir! Please, restrain yourself, sir!' Lesin comes up as you press close to Hadimi. He burps in your face, and you slam his head back into the stone post.

'Hadimi, Baron of whichever cave produced you,' you say - it's the liquor in you too, you swear - 'I will say to you now, in all seriousness, so listen. The next time, the very next time, I see you in public acting flippantly towards any person in my employ - so help me, I shall put this across your neck and pull it.' With that you draw your new Sumaskete sword halfway, and it catches the sun, casting light about the pavilion.

'Sir! Woah! Don't, sir! Fine! I'm off, I'm off...'

You shove him so hard he trips over the steps and falls on the ground, and then he scrambles to his feet. 'I... it's my fault, sir, I acted out of line. Please... have mercy. Sir. Lesin, sir.'

> What do now? I hope you can understand my rationale - Peony drank not out of stupidity, but out of loyalty. 'If the master frets, his servants must need labour; if the master is humiliated, his servants must need die.' That's the way things are.

>>18712403
That makes sense OP. I am no longer enraged that she took a drink then. Peony is a good girl.

I am just ticked that one guy bleating about LETS BE NICE AND HOLD HANDS WITH WORDS is what got us here.

Also, you turn back to glance at Peony. She is now keeping herself upright by straightening both her arms against her seat, and Gamdun has just taken a bamboo flask of water for her to drink.

... so that's why you've never seen Peony drink.

>>18712520

Tell him to fuck off.

Then, come think of it, our younger brother being around does ruin things a little. We can't really discuss important things around him, since he's a potential rival. Maybe we should call it a day for now...

>>18712561
Let Lesin deal with Hadimi, we've already banished him from our presence. Help Peony and thank Gamdun for helping her.

>>18712520
>What do now? I hope you can understand my rationale - Peony drank not out of stupidity, but out of loyalty. 'If the master frets, his servants must need labour; if the master is humiliated, his servants must need die.' That's the way things are.
Understood now, I don't always pick up on things like that. She did good, then, and we have no problems.

Now that we have made our anger felt at this, sheathe our sword and take a deep breath. Calm ourselves, and take a seat again, ignoring the Baron and beckoning Lesin and the others back over. "I think that is enough to teach the man his lesson. As I said, I do not wish to look upon him again... but I am hardly so rash as some others might be in my household. I consider the insult to myself dealt with as is, and a product of a bull-headed man in his cups. I would be pleased if it did not mar the rest of this wonderful day."

That way we will give the appearance of a man not to be taken lightly or insulted frivolously, but still level-headed and keen of mind.

>>18712628
Oh, and it also has the extra -very- stinging benefit of completely cutting the Baron out of the conversation. Making him not worthy of being acknowledged in our company. Something I am sure everyone, especially Lesin, will immediately see and know to be the punishment that it is.

Basically, a way of showing that we aren't some violent asshole like our father or brother. We refuse to be insulted so blatantly, and we respond with enough force to handle the situation and follow up with cold, calculated maneuvering and swiftness of mind.

After all, how one deals with insults shows what kind of a person you are. We are a person you do not trifle with lightly, intelligent, cunning, and deadly. Not afraid to use force but able to temper it with intellect.

It occurs to me that Lesin might have brought this guy along just to see how we reacted to him.

>>18712604
>>18712610
>>18712618
>>18712628

'Get out of my sight,' you yell, hand still holding your sword half drawn. Only when you see him get clamber on his small carriage - who the hell takes a carriage to a hunt? - and drive off, do you sheathe your sword and return.

Lesin places a hand gently on yours. 'Sir. Are you feeling fine?'

You take a deep breath, and glance at Peony. She's looking very fixedly at a certain spot on the ground now. 'He's not worth my dirtying my blade, and he's not worth you people wasting your words, and he's not worth the mood of the day being spoiled.'

Sure enough, just as you say this, the servants start bringing up the food - the ducks you shot have been cleaned and roasted. The smell is lovely; Gamdun claps his hands. 'That is my mix of herbs! Ah, a man who eats meat marinated in those can live a hundred and twelve years.'

'I'd like that to be so, teacher,' Uduges says, and you laugh.

> What talk about over lunch? More on the queen? Or think of another topic?

>>18712618
>Help Peony and thank Gamdun for helping her.
Yes, this. We must show appreciation for his aid. A swift hand for your foes, a friendly hand for your allies. That's how it's done.

>>18712731
Talk about Gamdun, ask his origin and thank him for his aid. If he comes from somewhere with a language we know speak to him in that for a short while.

>>18712738
>>18712618

> Shit, I missed that.

Gamdun smiles and nods. 'You are very clever, too, sir, for your age. Ah, joy! If in age one finds a young man fit to be one's teacher, then what does a man have to teach? Surely one's endeavour in life is to learn, and learn while teaching even!'

You think about that for a moment. Nope, still don't get it.

>>18712765
From where I see you still have much to teach. Tell me where do you come from, I am curious as to where produces educated men such as yourself.

>>18712731
Bleh, yelling after him rather than just ignoring him was a bad move but we *are* only sixteen I guess. Some rashness can be excused as a character trait.

I think we should thank Gamdun for looking after our servant, and quietly ask her if she is well or wishes to return to the palace with a guard. I assume she will stay, in which case move on as if this had not happened.

How about we ask them about the merchants in town -- especially that merchant we are about to be in conflict with. See what they know about them and if they know how trade has been lately.

>>18712796
>>18712786
>>18712762

'Me, sir? Oh, well...' Gamdun looks down. 'I was born far to the west, in Merego.' You roughly know the location of that kingdom, a relatively weak one - not unlike your own. 'But then I grew up in Kaso, with some other relatives, before wandering the world.'

'Master Gamdun here has always thought about opening an academy somewhere to teach, actually,' Lesin says.

'Of course, things are slightly difficult in Iru. After that incident. It's been fifteen years, but still...'

You know, of course, about the Case of the Seventeen Scholars - a plan of reform that sought to replace the noble-based government with a more bureaucratic system, which ended with several treason charges and more than a hundred executions. It was pretty much the worst way King Naren could have started a reign, really.

'Are there people wandering in Iru, still? Academics and thinkers?'

'Some, yes. Some are hermits, though - difficult to find. I know where some of them hole themselves up,' Gamdun chuckles. 'Me, I have rheumatism. Can't stand the mountain fog, would kill me. So the city it is...'

> What do/say?

>>18712731

Is Peony fine then?

Also, hmm. Ask Lesin, perhaps, about how the nobles in here might react to the capital news. I don't imagine they'd be thrilled.

>>18712912
"It is a shame to have such men lost in the cold wilderness, when we could all benefit from their insights. If you have other acquaintances with rheumatism... or even without it, then you might wish to let them know the weather here is warm and inviting. And there are some who seek the advice of learned men, rather than scorn it."

Maybe we can get a scholar out of this shit, who knows! A wise man can have all kinds of benefits, from better farming and mining techniques in our lands to dressing our (possible) wounds and curing sicknesses of the body. Perhaps even knowledge of history and lineage that we could turn to our advantage. It is always good to have one around.

Plus, Lesin obviously values learning. It is a good positional move to express interest in taking on a scholar ourselves.

>>18712796

You mention the merchant, but then you realise you don't know the guy's name, which kind of hampers your efforts.

Nonetheless merchant talk piques their interest. After all, the first meeting of the Convocation of Merchants will be taking place just two days before the start of the Great Summer Festival. That will be where they decide on a shortlist of any additions to the Convocation, and any expulsions; if after two more meetings the name is still on the list, by the start of the sixth month, then the person's membership is confirmed.

Well, that's a convenient timeframe then. If by the sixth month you cannot break Geharo's uncle, whatever his name is, he will be under nominal protection of the Prince, and be free to grow his networks even more...

> What do/say?

>>18712983

Second this. We got swordsmen, we got strategists, we need administrators and academics now.

Is knowledge in this setting divided into technical subjects as well? Like, are there people who specialise in studying agriculture, or mining, or fishing?

>>18712912
Hmm, could be another angle for undermining the current royals here; if we are so inclined, make it known to the disgruntled learned men of the land that we would be interested in implementing a more... enlightened style of governance, if we were to achieve high office.

>>18713079
That would trash our support among the nobility. Also, anything that undermines nobility in general undermines our status. If anything I want to reinforce our birth status.

>>18712929
>>18713058
>>18712983

'That is a pity. That is a waste,' you sigh. 'If only they would come down and use their talent for the world, rather than hide away in the cold.'

'Sir,' Gamdun sighs himself, 'the cold is a harsh refuge. Service is preferable in so many ways. But do you remember, sir, that there used to be a musical director, who led the music company of the palace? And now he has been thrown out of the palace, so he's hidden away too.'

You ask him about whether he knows other such academics. 'Well. Some names do come to mind. There is Sugundi, that scholar of history, who wants to write a history of the cults and religions of the Realm.'

You glance at your brother; he looks like he's been chewing on a lemon all morning. 'I see. And who else? Perhaps someone of a more... administrative bent?'

'And why would you need that, sir?' Gamdun laughs. 'I mean, pardon me, sir. But you are not even twenty yet...'

'Well, if there could be a way to reform government...'

The conversation falls away. Everyone else remembers the Seventeen too. At length Gamdun speaks. 'Do you really mean to net the academics and scholars of the world?'

> What do/reply?

Meanwhile, Peony seems fine. It turns out she's the kind of drunk who is painfully aware of their drunkenness - which of course makes things much less threatening. 'I shall... return to the palace with you, sir.'

'You'll need a nap after that. I order it.'

>>18713129

In the long run, though, being a noble ruler in a sea of nobles is shit. If China is any clue, the way to go is to be the only royal house, and have everyone else be bureaucrats, subject to your whims.

But that's in the long term, of course. Still, an expert gold prospector wouldn't hurt us a bit.

>>18713135
Major reform isn't going to happen, especially to the noble houses, whether I wanted it or not. However there are a great number of educated, intelligent men who are unable to use their talents to better serve in public service due to them being run our and afraid of returning.

Suggest something akin to the Imperial Examination, which is meant to find intelligent educated men regardless of background and use their merit to determine their governmental position rather than background. They won't get anywhere near actual noble positions but it will advance scholars and lead to capable administrators and advisers.

>>18713135
Y u do dis op.

Are single comments from retards with no social graces really going to be given this much weight in the future? It was so painfully obvious and a mood-kill to bring it up in that way. Why couldn't we have just said it was for helping grow crops rather than the RETARDED idea of reform?! I mean, god, we aren't even close to a position we can even talk about that at the moment, much less implement it. The only thing it serves to do is announce to everyone here, including servants, all of whom will gossip about it later, that we just wanted to do something that ended in hundreds of deaths and charges of treason not long ago.

Just. Why.

Fuck.

>>18713195

I think, looking at the wiki, most of the positions are actually occupied by nobles...

OP, going to need more background on this. Who gets to be officials? Are there many posts reserved only for nobles, or what are the restrictions?

>>18713195
>>18713149
Exactly my point; besides, it is not something that we must openly pursue right away, just something to keep in mind for long term plans. And more than that, to make allies out of all of the factions that have been marginalised by the royals would be a worthy goal.

>>18713207
>>18713195
>>18713223

Some background:

Reform is not in any way an anathema in the Realm in general. Many of the strongest states within the Realm got strong because of vast-scale bureaucratic reforms, which created a strong base for governing people, managing taxes, gathering information and recruiting enormous armies.

Of course, in some kingdoms this works out way better than others. Iru, unfortunately, turned out very poorly indeed - though even then not as poorly as some states, where reforms led to civil war and even dissolution.

Most official posts in central government in Iru are reserved for those of noble birth - that is, no more than two generations from a ranked noble (ie. a Baron grandfather, at least). As for those who are further distant, or just of normal common descent, that's what gate-guests are for - exceptional performance as a gate-guest can lead to a noble title, and a proper official post.

Naturally, if you're a scholar of common birth, this is not an ideal situation; so most scholars will to some extent advocate reform, on grounds of efficiency, or of centralising power and asserting the proper hierarchy of men.

> Anyway, so, what say? And would you like to end lunch after this, or talk some more?

>>18713236

Sounds rather heretical, though. So far we've been reasonably nice to commoners and their concerns, yes, but we've not been afraid to show our nobility and assert our prerogatives.

Let's be careful about working with those who deny such prerogatives...

>>18713281
>or of centralising power and asserting the proper hierarchy of men.
I can get behind this part especially, and I fully endorse some measure of reform in such a way that it puts more power in our hands.

My complaint is that bringing it up like that was stupid and destroyed the mood. Way to break it, hero.

>>18713135

Fuck it.

'Yes. Yes, I feel it would be in our interest. If the world is gradually sliding in the way I suspect it is, we must have learned men by our sides.'

>>18713296
Talk about the possibility of slowly introducing a meritocracy system for finding some bureaucrats, while nobles have the highest chance of passing due to their education containing the knowledge needed for them it provides incentive for commoners to educate themselves, lowers dissension as they are at least theoretically able to better themselves and leads to dedicated intelligent people in advisory and academic positions.

>>18713359

Wait, how did you know it destroyed the mood? Are you OP?

>>18713434
>The conversation falls away. Everyone else remembers the Seventeen too.
Sort of gives it away.

Maybe reform was great in other places, but here, in this kingdom, it failed miserably and everyone still remembers it. It is a project that is to be done much much much later when we are in power.

>>18713388
>>18713399

You take a deep breath, wondering if you've hit a touchy spot somewhere. Then you make your necessary reply.

'If the state is tending in the direction I fear it is, then yes. We must have learned men, like a swordsman must have swords.' Then you realise that is not really the ideal analogy, but then Gamdun chuckles.

'I think there are many scholars who have worthy projects that require sponsorship of some sort. The attitude of His Highness, not to mention His Majesty in the capital... well, we already have an inkling about that.'

You nod. Father was never one for scholars.

'Still, sir, your first brother for instance is much esteemed among the scholars and learned men of the kingdom. Maybe if you had a reputation such as his, by sponsoring projects and encouraging learning, you too would have scholars flocking to your side in droves.' He chuckles again. 'Mind, for all our reading, scholars are simple people. We like to be liked. Men can profess any principles, but among other men they like first and foremost to be liked.'

Well. That's an intelligible piece of advice, there.

Also, Imian is beginning to look a little impatient. He's cracked open two duck skulls to suck at the brains while you've been talking and mulling, and now he's considering the bones for marrow.

> What do/say?

>>18713531
Talk about Gamdun and Lesin's travels to foreign lands. The people there, the languages, the different cultures, the religions which ought to interest Imian, and what they did there.

>>18713531
The conversation is becoming far too heavy for a hunting party, steer the conversation to something more lighthearted; and start wrapping things up here, maybe invite Lesin and Gamdun back to the palace for a little after-hunt discussion/frivolity.

>>18713654
>>18713559

You ask Gamdun and Lesin, as well as Uduges, about their movements and travellings around the kingdom and the world. They enthusiastically recount, and even re-enact, some choice anecdotes. 'So I was standing here, and Lesin was there with a pole, but the goat was over there, and all the village was waving their hands...'

Imian laughs, and so do you, but then as you laugh you suddenly see - or think you see - something. There's something stirring in the forest, not twenty paces from where you are resting in the pavilion. It could be animal, but then...

> What do?

>>18713692
Aw shit, eavesdroppers!

>>18713711

Stand up and give chase, maybe? Or wait and see if it stirs in the same place again?

>>18713692
In a language that Lesin knows and hopefully the eavesdropper doesn't. In a tone of voice that sounds like we're laughing at one of his stories, tell him that there is something, or someone rustling in the bushes over there.

>>18713730
Does anybody have a spyglass or some other magnifying instrument? It's a hunting party so maybe somebody brought one to track quarry.

>>18713736

Roll d100 for discretion, with bonus due to your precautions.

You lean over to Lesin as he sits down from talking about the famous White Hat scholar of the Northern Seas, and place a hand on his arm to get his attention...

rolled 70 = 70

>>18713767
Discretion HO!

I wonder if it would be reasonable to have an arrow go astray over into the bushes.

>>18713767

rolled 66 = 66

>>18713802
DAMN DICE THING

>>18713764

Not really, unfortunately; proper lens grinding technology isn't with you yet. Neither is glass, come think of it.

>>18713736
>>18713775

70 + 15 = big success!

'Hahaha, Ahahahaha, Lesin, the bushes behind you!' You then let go of his hand as he stands up and excuses himself and you go on and talk about how the poor goats must have been utterly traumatised.

Barely two moments passes before you suddenly hear the bushes rustle, loudly this time but farther into the forest, as Lesin nocks an arrow. 'Who's there? Reveal yourself!'

'What's happening?' Gamdun turns around to look at the forest as the two of you stand up, and then Lesin turns to shout.

'Poachers, sir! Into the woods!'

'Damned things...' Imian reaches for his bow.

> What do? Give chase?

>>18713846
Give chase, sword at the ready, Imian might miss and I doubt he was here by chance.

>>18713846

Don't we have... wardens for this kind of thing, within the forest? How serious is poaching?

>>18713846
Give chase! Release the hounds!

>>18713846
Poaching is a crime against our noble lineage. We would be no true noblemen if we didn't at least chase them down and take them in.

It might just be better to kill them off period though. They overheard some things that they would be better not spreading around.

Either way we need to give chase.

>>18713880
>>18713875
>>18713869

You leap to your feet and draw your sword, just as Imian looses an arrow into the forest. Nothing.

'Release the hounds! Track them down!' You and Imian take turns to yell, as you rush into the forest. Only then do you notice there is in fact a path into the forest here - whoever has been using this bit of the woods to poach has been doing it frequent and long.

As you set off down the path, you spot at least two pheasant traps, and then you spot them running up a slope.

> Apprehend, or just shoot? You have both your sword and bow with you.

>>18713959
Apprehend, we do have the right to kill them but no need to ruin a perfectly good hunt by having to deal with dead bodies, also they might be more than just poachers.

>>18713959
Let Imian shoot if he wants, otherwise apprehend.

>>18713935

I say we shoot to kill! Second this.

>>18713935
Oh right. They heard us.

Guess we shoot them then.

>>18713986
>>18713980

These; shoot if need be. We don't know if they were just passing by.

>>18713959
Shoot. We can't take the chance that they will get away. If possible don't shoot to kill, I would like to interrogate them.

>>18713959
Shoot all but one, interrogate the last one; then kill him.

>>18714016
Even if they were just passing by, they were poachers. To shoot is probably the wisest choice at the moment though, they know this area better than us if they come here often enough to wear a path. That means we only get one chance.

>>18714016
>>18713996
>>18713994
>>18713986
>>18713935

'Stop! Halt, now!' You yell at them, but they continue to clamber up the slope. Well, damnit. There's just two of them, this will not be difficult.

You nock your arrow and draw the bow, aiming at the lagging person, and then almost soundlessly you watch the person in front fall. You loose your arrow, which sinks itself deep into the man's shoulder.

As you run up with your sword drawn, you hear a low moaning sound. Kicking aside the moaning man, you then look at the body sprawled on the grass. Turns out it's a young woman. Imian's shot had been well aimed; if anything, she didn't suffer. That's probably more than you can say for her if she were arrested and sent to the palace prison.

The man is still alive, but paralysed with terror.

> Finish him off? Or something else?

>>18714086
WHAT DID YOU HEAR?!

>>18714086
Sword at throat, make sure he didn't have any ulterior motives other than poaching, ask how much he heard.

>>18714086
"What were you doing in the forest, and why? Answer quickly!"

apprehend

>>18714158
This does tempt me. If we were alone I would say just cut his throat and be done with it. But with Lesin here, who seems to be big on honor and propriety, it might be better to take him back for "justice" at the palace.

>>18714140
>>18714113
>>18714108

'Urrgh... sir...'

'What were you doing in the forest? What did you hear? Speak.' Your hand momentarily tips downwards so the tip of your sword touches his neck; to your slight shock, that is enough to draw blood. What a steal 220 taels was.

'I... ah... I was just laying traps... needed feed... baby...'

'What did you hear? Have you been lying in wait all this while, in the bushes?'

'No... no sir... please sir... I didn't hear anything sir, just putting a... a trap...'

Just then Imian comes over and looks at the woman's body. 'Well, I aimed for the head,' he mutters, sounding almost pleased. 'What're you doing, brother? Just finish him.'

> What do?

>>18714193
Making sure he wasn't sent to spy on us, one can never be too careful.

Then finish him off, it's kinder than what would happen if we took him to the palace.

>>18714193
Finish him, he could be lying and it is our right and duty to carry out the law.

>>18714193
Meh, I don't know. I really want to just end him. I don't particularly want to use the effort to haul him back and go through all that.

But it might look better to our brother and Lesin if we do.

Thoughts, everyone else?

I think we should just finish him.

Did he just mention a child or something?

keem 'em alive, infact, hire them for something

>>18714193
Carry out dat law

>>18714193
Finish him, complement Imian on his shot and say we were ensuring that there were no others. I doubt there were.

>>18714208
>>18714216
>>18714218
>>18714232
>>18714238
>>18714247

You nod. 'Well then.'

'No, no, sir, no-'

You cut his throat thoroughly so he goes quickly as well, just as Lesin and the rest catch up. Lesin looks dismayed as he surveys the scene. You're just rather glad you stepped out of the way of the spray, so your boots are clean.

'They... certainly this forest could spare pheasants, but what had they to spare?'

> What say?

>>18714193
When we get back to Lesin, if he disapproves (possible) then we should mention that we carried it out cleanly... which is not what would have happened had he been taken to the palace.

If he seems fine with it then don't mention it.

>>18714265
Should he have lived he would be subjected to a life of agony in the dungeon before wishing to die with every breath he had and being kept alive. The only control I had over the situation was whether he died cleanly or in agony.

It was not a decision I wished to make but in my position I have responsibilities to the law, that left me with but those two decisions.

'The forest can spare pheasants. But the law cannot spare an exception. It was better he died here than be brought back to the palace, really.'

>>18714265
"There was no option but to shoot when they continued to flee. They knew the forest better than we, and had been hunting here for a long while. Had they been listening the entire time and refused to halt, would you have held your shot? And once down, loathe as I am to say it, this is a far kinder fate than either would have had at the Palace."

>>18714315
>>18714296
>>18714275

You turn to Lesin and then wipe your sword, before squatting down to close the man's eyes. He's still looking at you, rather shocked; you're surprised someone like him - who's been around far bloodier situations - looks this shocked.

'The forest can spare pheasants, Lesin, but the law cannot spare an exception. Besides, had we arrested them and turned them over to the palace as poachers, they would beg for a death this quick.'

'I... understand,' he nods. 'Nonetheless...'

'Yes?'

'Nothing, sir.'

He seems a bit shaken, and by the time you go down to the bottom of the hill he pauses and looks up. 'Sir. If I may be excused. I would like to make sure those bodies are buried.'

You hadn't really thought of that. Well, that makes sense.

> What do? Farewell here?

>>18714401

Huh.

... well, suppose we should bid them goodbye then. Or do they need help with the bodies?

... Wow. It seems today has just... generally been really truly slow.

I hope it's not me, and I'm not implying its players - though there seem to be fewer around today.

Well. Maybe if we bid farewell and stopped here for now, then. I'll answer some questions from the previous thread before I go.

I'll be running the quest tomorrow, probably later - around 3pm EST. Let's see if that might get more people into the fold, or if the fading appears to be terminal.

help him with the bodies

>>18714401
>>18714536
There are ups and downs, it happens slow days occur.

Help him with the bodies, just they are poachers doesn't mean they don't deserve a proper burial.

>>18714548

Sheesh, no need to unload on me like that. It's not like I'm saying you're the one who's singlehandedly destroyed the quest or anything.

Mind, I do agree with your choice.

>>18714536
Saturday afternoon EST is always slow, and this quest requires more thought and care to participate in than most. I'd say you are doing just fine. Your writing is excellent and I plan on sticking around and participating when able, but I was busy for most of the day.

>>18714401
I honestly don't see Adrian overly concerned about the law, but I guess it's mostly to cover our ass with Lesin. He seems to be a very merciful and honorable guy.

We are less so. Pragmatic is what we seem to be, and in this case it is pragmatic to use the law to explain our actions.

>>18714491
>>18714572
>>18714539

'I'll help you move the bodies,' you offer. Lesin looks at you, hesitantly, but then accepts in the end.

To that end, you ride out of the forests with the corpses lashed to your horses, until you reach the pavilion again where Lesin salutes you once more. 'Well... I hope I shall see you again one day, sir.' He does not sound quite as enthusiastic as he did earlier today, though you guess you can understand why.

You salute in return, and watch as he rides off with the corpse-bearing horse, following the course of the Omera again. Gamdun and Peony, who have been waiting at the pavilion this while, realise what has happened and also come up to bid their farewell, as does Uduges.

Well, that leaves you with Peony and your brother then - not counting all the slaves and hounds, of course.

> What do, where go?

>>18714387
It would be nice to see if we could ask him this while they are being buried. Have our guards help with that, we shouldn't do the labor ourselves, but they do deserve a burial.

But it would give him more to chew on to ask that. He seems pretty flaky about what happened, and framing it in a way that it was an inevitable action that had to be done makes things like that more palatable to people.

>>18714654
Ask our brother his thoughts on Lesin as we ride back to the Palace, and concede to him that his choice of a black horse did indeed favor his hunt far better. We are not particularly pious, but it will make him feel good about himself and like us more if we say it. Loyalty bought with words is bought most cheaply of all, after all.

we have anything else to do today?

maybe work on that present for dear sister

> Actually, given I've had a late night burrito... I think I'd better stay. Sleeping now will give me some very amusing symptoms later.

> I-It's not like I am r-running this quest because I l-l-like you players anyway, okay?! I'm just, um, bored! That's all! Idiots...


You stand there for a moment, wondering if you should go with Lesin and assist him with his work, or go back to the Palace.

Imian, however, has no such doubts. 'I'm going back right now, brother. Would you like to?'

'I'll think for a while.' Then, smiling: 'you know what, you were right, that black horse seems to work for you.'

Your brother gestures to the priest whom you almost forgot, and he flashes you an obsequious smile as he bows.

> What do, where go?
> Also, no, none of the characters in this quest will talk like above. On my honour.

>>18714729
Think about, talk to Peony about what happened. Make sure she's alright then get Peony home and into bed for a nap.

We need to plan a good time to see Gesadag as he wanted to see us earlier, plan a character assassination and continue working on a mechanical bird.

I'd let Katesas and company continue to get us all the information on him they can for now and leave it for a bit, plan to have dinner with Gasedag if possible, invite him over to a nice spread. Work on the bird in the mean time.

>>18714727

Oh yeah, this one makes sense. Seconded.

>>18714759
>>18714758
>>18714727
>>18714703

'You coming along then, brother?'

'Yes, yes.' You are still trying to make sure Peony is not about to do something silly. She clambers on her horse with far less facility than usual, then leans forward and tussles her mare's mane. 'What's the rush, anyway?'

'The rush? Wait, you didn't know? Father wants to hold a meeting- I mean, he, uh...' you almost smile inwardly. Of course, you too were like that at fifteen - so happy to draw up plots that you spilled the beans at anyone who would listen.

> How wheedle info?

'Anyway, so, what do you think of Lesin?'

'Lesin? Good man, I think. Awful shot. Strangely... I don't know. He doesn't have the killing spirit about him.'

That's one way of putting it. You're not sure a killing spirit is a must-have for every person, but your brother has a point.

Meanwhile, Peony is riding her horse rather near yours. 'Master,' she murmurs. She almost never calls you 'Master', and it makes you feel almost a bit uncomfortable - it's what Linden sometimes yells when she, well, finishes. Hmmm.

'Yes?'

'I'm really quite drunk, master.'

'Even now?'

'It seems to get worse, not better...'

> What do?

>>18714632

I can understand your feel, man.

>>18714850
>How wheedle?

Start off straightforward enough. Ask what Father wants to talk about

>What do?

Anything but take advantage of drunk girl. Make sure she is capable of safely managing her horse. If not have another servant take the reins.

>>18714850
Offer to let her ride with us or at least to lead her horse.

>>18714850
Well, when we get back to the palace we need to get Peony into bed and ensure she is resting well. Then since Father is going to have a meeting we need to have someone dress us, Rose perhaps.

For now, just keep an eye on Peony and chat with our brother. Let's tack the tack of, "There seems to be quite a bit going on at the Palace lately. And to have Father recall me so soon, it almost seems as if there is something amiss."

>>18714850
How to wheedle info. He's exceptionally proud of whatever plot he's managed to draw up so we just dismiss it, tell him to have fun with whatever little plan he came up with and he'll do everything in his power to convince us that it's a brilliant plan. We start prying he'll get one hell of a kick out of not telling us.

For Peony give her our arm and if it seems rather bad, lead her horse ourself or transfer her to our horse and lead hers by the reins.

>>18714892

Second this. Just tell him to have fun with dad, then, and then wait for him to spill.

>>18714892
That's just a good way to get him to hate us. Don't be dismissive, but instead be more like... hmm, I guess the word is incredulous. Give him a "Really?" look, as if we perhaps don't think he knows anything about it.

have her ride with you before she falls and breaks her neck

>>18714948
This might be a good idea.

>>18714882
>>18714885
>>18714892
>>18714920
>>18714936

'Huh. A meeting? With father, I presume?'

'Well, I'm not supposed to tell.'

'I guess I'm not supposed to know, then? Well, that's fine...' You nod calmly. There is a long pause, punctuated only by clopping and footsteps.

'Well, you're not really not supposed to know, brother...'

'Imian, really, if it's not something I ought to know, it's fine. Do send father my regards.'

Just then Peony lurches a little in her saddle, and you make the decision, gently halting your own steed. 'Get the valet off her horse. She'll ride with me.'

As you help her, gingerly, into your saddle, she wraps her arms around you with a strange tightness. Of all weaknesses to have, and of all degrees of weakness to have! You have to keep her at least ten paces from the cellar at this rate. Just then Imian rides back to you, wiping sweat off his forehead.

'Well, brother, if you need to know, you I guess you don't need to but you could... Father's holding a meeting today to decide who should represent the Prince at the meeting of the Convocation of Merchants.'

You look at him. Eh.

> What do/say?

>>18715028
Interesting, who are the candidates and how did you of all people get involved in this? I thought father usually just picked someone and didn't pay all that much attention to it, what's different about this year?

>>18715028
Really? It seems rather unlike Father to be so concerned about that.

>>18715094
>>18715074

'Oh? Wait, father's holding a meeting for that? I thought he'd usually just choose someone and give the appointment.'

'Well, that's normally the case, I guess... I don't really know myself. Oh, there's also another thing that he wished to decide, which is the post of the life guards captain during the chariot races, for the Great Summer Festival.'

'You haven't got anything on between tomorrow and the festival, master,' Peony mutters, leaning into your back. 'Mmm. Sounds like a good holiday period.'

'Not now, Peony. But this is a bit strange, brother. Father doesn't usually do this. Certainly he does not tend to send us-' and then you think you get it. It sounds increasingly like a simple confirmation meeting, rather than an actual consultation...

> Hmmm. What do, then? Those two appointments are prestigious things, and allow for socialising and credit-gaining...

>>18715154
How many days away is the festival?

We should get to the meeting, we might be able to influence the choices to our favor and at the very least knowing who is speaking for the prince at the Convocation means we know who to influence and convince, hopefully through intermediaries, to bar Geharo's Uncle.

>>18715218
If it's just a confirmation meeting it might be a waste of our time. And if we weren't invited it surely was not to confirm us.

>>18715218

The festival is about 16 days away. The Convocation's meeting is about 14 days away, then.

Peony's only other recorded event for you is the meeting with Sagota tomorrow. She does not yet know about Katesas and friends, and the revenge plot. Or so you figure.

>>18715244

If we're in the mood for argument, though, we could always ask for confirmation in one of the two posts or something. It doesn't cost us anything - it's not like our dad will love us more...

>>18715259
When is the meeting with Father? And I wonder if we will be invited. If so, we might need to prepare. If not... hmmm. I don't know. Perhaps we should ask our brother if he thinks we will be invited.

On the maid front; It would probably be unwise to take advantage of a drunk Peony. A kiss or two before bed would probably be fine though. No sticking hands (or anything else) where there might be razorblades though.

>>18715244
>>18715312
>>18715218

> Take it you guys are going then? There's still time to decide.

The rest of the ride home is quite quiet; you and Imian exchange some small talk, while Peony, body pressed completely against your back now, is constantly murmuring stuff into your ear from behind.

'I can remember the names... of allll the noble ladies they'll present... on the third of fifth.'

'The fourth. You're squeezing me. You will crack my ribs soon.'

'The fourth. There's no chariot races on the fourth. Chariot races are on the first and second of the fifth. Master, do we have to go watch? I don't like it.'

'May I ask you a question, brother?' Imian's voice cuts through the highly instructional, if highly distracted, background dialogue. 'I'm not sure if you can give a great answer, since you're only two years older than me, but... how do men like us make our way in the world?'

You frown at the question. Meanwhile the palace's gate comes into view, bright in the afternoon sun.

> What do/say?

>>18715359

Imian informs you its at dusk. As for invite... well, Imian did get the notification yesterday. If you didn't, then...

Nonetheless - there is no strict convention barring you from requesting to join a meeting.

>>18715407
By men like us do you mean men of privilege, men with responsibility, men of intelligence or men of all three.

The answer honestly remains the same no matter which one you consider yourself.

You find that which you care about and you protect it, you find what in the world you want to change and you work towards that going through or around whatever obstacles are in your path and you find the man you want to be and you put on his shoes everyday until they fit.

You and I don't seem to be the sort who are content with idling away their life, shirking their responsibilities and coasting on the fortune brought by fate.

The way we make our way through the world is hard. We were born never knowing hunger or poverty, and in exchange our life is not entirely our own, we have a populace that we have a responsibility to. Thus we shoulder the burden and live our lives as best we can.

>>18715407
"I have been trying to figure that out myself, brother. And I have been finding some answers... but they are not always easy answers. The one truth I have found, however, is that if we want to make our way we will need to do exactly that... make it. Resting where we are, on our titles alone until another Prince is chosen..." trail off and shake our head, "There is no future there. There is only drinking and fondling serving girls at banquets until your hairs go grey and the invitations stop coming. I believe there is another path for me. A path where I will not fade away into the shell of a man, as so many others have. And I will need others with me on that path. Think on it, brother. And think where your path may lead you otherwise."

>>18715506
>>18715498

You mull over your words for a long while, and then say them to your brother. He listens, staring forward at the palace gates, nodding every now and again.

''We have to make our own future.' That is so very true, brother. But I wonder if there is only one future other than the ageing life you mention, and whether we'll have to fight over it...'

'Certainly, though, neither of us will refuse to fight on, yes?' He turns to you, smiling, and you cannot tell if it's genuine or a threat in some way.

> Say something more? You are the older brother, you have the last word.

As you part at the palace gate, you help Peony off the horse, and she immediately holds out two hands. 'Sir. I'm fine. I can... walk.'

'No, you can't.' Technically she can, but after she nearly swerves into the doorframe at your apartment's entrance you grab her shoulders to guide her. Just then Linden appears, pausing just a moment to take the situation in.

'Is she drunk, sir?'

'Yes, Linden, I am.'

'I don't think she's that drunk anymore,' you say. Linden helps Peony off you, and she turns around.

'But... sir... are you going to meeting, I have to attend... master...'

> What do? Go for meeting? Stay in?

>>18715596
Well I'm not planning on resting on my laurels. Life would be so much more boring if I gave up like that, both for me and you. That and the only people you get to talk to if you head for that aging life is the others who choose it, and they tend to be uninteresting people who can't carry their half of a conversation.

Peony, you have served me faithfully today, get some rest. Linden could you make sure Peony gets to bed and stays there until she's better.

Head to the meeting.

>>18715653

That is duly arranged, then. Rose fans Peony and feeds her water, while Linden wonders aloud how people get drunk on a single drink. Well, she'd never know, would she...

It's about late afternoon now. From the top floor of your apartments you can indeed see small clusters of people moving across the courtyard to the great hall...

> What do?

>>18715684

Tell our brother there is not just that one future. But whatever future we choose, it will be better than one which drifts by in a haze, from feast to feast.

Then we go to the meeting, ask to get in.

I think we can leave him at that.

See that Peony goes to bed, telling her she can attend to us another day. And ask Linden if she knows about a meeting invitation.

If not, well. Hmmm. I suppose we can go. I don't want dad to hate us, but this is important stuff.

>>18715696
Bid farewell to our attendants, head to the meeting. Since we weren't invited we may as well crash the meeting, the only person allowed to get mad at us for that is our Father and we've gotten reasonably good at sidestepping his wrath over the years.

>>18715738
"I am afraid the courier you sent with my invitation was ambushed again somewhere along the way, Father. Fortunately I took your words to heart last time and made certain not to be late."

>>18715774
Speaking of that courier, he basically died due to our decisions, didn't he? While essentially working for us, no less, since he agreed not to promptly return to the palace at our word and his death was something we used to excuse our actions. I find myself wondering if he had any family, and if they're getting along all right without him.

>>18715774
>>18715684
>>18715727
>>18715730
>>18715738

Well, while the girls are taking care of Peony, you can dress yourself for... um... which way does this... is this the button? No, wait...

'Linden! Linden.'

'Yes, sir.' She helps you figure out your robes, which you've only worn once every month for several years. When you ask her about an invite, her face scrunches up a little. 'I was wondering too, sir. I've heard some of the officials getting asked to the grand hall, and it seems a bit weird we didn't get a chit. But we didn't. Unless Peony took it in the morning.'

Well, if she did, you'd know, so you're quite sure she didn't. Damn.

Soon you are properly dressed, and you scramble and shuffle down to the grand hall with Linden in tow. Strangely enough, though you didn't get the chit, no one appears to even ask you for it. The guards at the compound stop two attendants and demand their chits, but you walk past as if unseen. The same for the inner guard post.

At the grand hall entrance itself you hand over your sword, and only then does the attendant ask you. You recognise this attendant. You know he is one of those in Hunaga's circle, that bunch of attendants swirling, along with itinerant preachers and fair-weather friends, around the Prince like flies these days.

'I don't have a chit. I was not issued one.'

'Then, sir, you may not enter the meeting. His Highness has made it clear.'

> What do/say?

>>18715821

It's possible to find out, well. You're pretty sure he has family above, if not family below - he seemed like a rather young man.

It's a waste.

>>18715884
"I see. That is fine. I will not attend the meeting then, I will simply speak to my father briefly before leaving. I would like you to come with me. After all, you will need to explain to him, personally, why you are keeping me from the meeting before I depart."

>>18715884
I'm sure it was a mistake, let me talk to him and should he not desire my presence he can tell me himself. Unless you'd rather explain why you are keeping members of the royal family from these meetings.

Let's crash this meeting.

>>18715884
Are chits issued to specific people only, or are they generic? In the future, if we get word of events like this where we weren't invited, we might want to ensure that someone else who was ends up giving us their chit. We'll need connections and/or stickyfingered agents amongst our servants to pull that off, of course.

Actually, if we've got someone that we can bribe or pressure into giving up their position now, we could do that here. Only if we see a convenient opportunity, though.

>>18715951
>>18715950
>>18715932

> The chits tend to be quite generic: they would just say 'The Prince of Mar Commands Attendance' on one side. You could force people to hand theirs over, but not now since you're already facing an attendant.

'Is that so? Fine. I shall seek an audience with my father the Prince, then.'

'But the Prince is in a meeting-'

'You are denying a son's right to petition his father.'

'No, sir, nothing of the sort, sir.'

'Then we go in. You and I, together.'

The attendant protests, but shuts up the moment you put a hand on his shoulder and lead him in. Your sense of timing isn't too bad; the candles are just being lit, and your father is sitting, slightly slumped, in the throne. Then he sits up after seeing you.

'Adrian. I was wondering where you had gone.'

'Father.' Wait a minute, what? 'Where I had gone, father?'

'Yes, and whether you'd gotten the invitation!' Just then you spot someone poke his head out from behind the throne; it's Hunaga.

> What do/say? Assert right to stay in meeting?

>>18715951
That might actually be a good idea if the chits are generic.

>>18716039
Assert right to stay in meeting. Mention that we went hunting with our younger brother and that we did not get our invitation.

Do not >imply anything here, but we will have to do something about Hunaga eventually.

>>18716039
Okay, wait, what is he implying?

>>18716039
Hold on before writing, OP. You post fast. I am composing a response.

>>18716039
"As it happens I did not receive an invitation, but given my recent difficulties with messengers it seemed prudent to come anyway. I would hate to miss an occasion should you desire my presence."

>>18716039
Okay!
>>18716083
Here.

"Fear not, Father. I remember well your words to me at the banquet, and they have taught me well. I resolved to be sure to attend this meeting on time and do you your proper honor, regardless of any errant messengers or obstacles."

>>18716039
Well, I had heard there was a meeting and due to some grievous mistake no doubt one hadn't been delivered to me, who was in charge of giving those out anyways, they must have simply gotten swamped and forgotten?

As for where I've been I went hunting this morning with my younger brother and some friends of mine and I recently returned, I came to join this meeting assuming you'll have me here.

>>18716083

Sorry. Please do compose.

Meanwhile I'll say something about the two appointments.

There is no doubt that of the two, the bodyguard commander appointment is the more prestigious one. Any official of the court, provided he is senior enough, may go and oversee the proceedings of the Convocation of Merchants; but only a son of the Prince himself may command his bodyguard, for obvious reasons.

Then again, commanding the bodyguard means you'll have to do nothing but follow your father around for two straight days of chariot racing. You may decide whether you enjoy chariot racing or not, but it's still two straight days of making sure people's armour is put on straight, and their spears and scabbards are properly polished.

So, it's really up to you which appointment you might like to fight for.

>>18716186
While it's more prestigious to go Bodyguard, the Merchant one is nicer for our current goal of discrediting the uncle, gets us on better terms with merchants and traders and we don't have to spend two days following our dad and watching nothing but chariot racing. Also intriguing with merchants seems more fun than making sure everyone has shiny armor. We can leave that for one of our brothers, I'm guessing our younger brother has his eye on it.

>>18716186
Things have been movin and shakin in the world of royal intrigue recently it seems. With that in mind, commanding the guard wipes out any other plans we'd have for two days, but carries the chance of us actually foiling a potential plot and getting into dad's good graces quickly. Or getting framed or fucking up but most likely just being bored for two days.

The convocation on the other hand advances our immediate goals, particularly with regard to those potential gate-guests of ours and getting more money and allies and all.

I say try and get in as the representative at the convocation.

>>18716065
>>18716132
>>18716133
>>18716156

'Father... well, I did not in fact get a chit or an order to attend. Nonetheless, seeing as I've been... unfortunate with messengers recently, I thought to attend anyway, in case my presence was needed...'

Thankfully it appears your father is in a good mood; he laughs with the joke. 'Oh yes, oh yes, your presence would be very nice. Do, do, sit down.'

You scan the hall as you take your first-rank seat. Many of the major officials are here, including the four personal officers. The Premier Earl, Gesadag, is also here, along with his younger son Malak, attended by two maids - Cloudberry being one of them. Other nobles are here too, from your house and the sworn houses.

'I want to find out who it was withheld the chit from Adrian, Hunaga. You'd better find him, whoever he is.'

'I'm sure it was an honest mistake, Your Highness,' Hunaga bows and scrapes.

'Well... perhaps so, perhaps. Well.' Father gets to his feet and cracks his knuckles. 'I've gathered all of you, beloved courtiers, to talk about some personnel appointments. There are two up right now - first, the commander of the Prince's Bodyguard during the chariot races. And second, representative of the Prince for the first meeting of the Convocation of Merchants.'

'I'd like to hear if you have any recommendations for the following posts.'

> What do/say? You are allowed to recommend yourself - it's not ideal, but it's by no means frowned upon.

>>18716291
Is it traditional to just nominate people with names, or does one normally justify their nominations with comments?

>>18716291
Recommend our brother for the Guard.

See if he can take a hint and recommend us for the Convocation.

>>18716311
Younger brother that is, of course.

>>18716291
Give our younger brother a look, recommend him for Bodyguard, hopefully he gets the hint and returns the favor and nominates us for Merchant.

If he doesn't wait a tad and see if someone nominates us for merchant, if Gesadag does we're pretty much assuredly in, and the chances aren't bad given that he likes us the most of the Prince's sons.

>>18716291
We're auto-saging.

>>18716291
>only a son of the Prince may command his bodyguard
>can't remember anything about our brothers except that they're very unlike us
>but hey, this quest has a handy wiki with all kinds of people on it
>wiki has nothing on our brothers
>fuck

So... what thread has information on our brothers in it?

>>18716291
Recommend our younger brother for the body guard, he's just come of age and it'd do him good to be seen with Father.

Prestige is nice and all, but it's important to have a good first year of adulthood and our family as a whole would prosper for it.

>>18716329
The first one.

Our oldest brother is a bookworm and doesn't live in the same city anymore. Our second brother is our father but younger, complete asshat has a shiny pair of slave kicking boots. There's us. Then our youngest brother, likes cults and religion, has occasional violent outbursts, likes the fact that we speak half a dozen languages as we can help him with foreign texts.

We also have a younger sister who everybody likes, she's adorable.

>>18716329
>>18716328

Sorry - I'd intended to fill in the brothers, but things got in the way.

Your first brother is a scholarly type, attracts lots of learned men, but he and your dad have a fear and loathing relationship. They simply hate each other.

Your second brother is far more like your dad - a womaniser (to put it mildly), heavy drinker, strong man and ferocious fighter.

Your fourth brother is, well, something like your second brother, but less so, and more religious and superstitious.

As for autosaging, we can use catalog: http://catalog.neet.tv/tg/

You know, I think we should go for the bodyguard.

Hear me out -- It will be a good chance to be in his presence and be at the very center of the court politics for that entire two days. We will see more courtly intrigue there and find out more about the political climate at court than at a hundred merchant gatherings.

>>18716326
>>18716317
>>18716311
>>18716332
>>18716329

You stand up and go to the middle aisle. 'Father.'

'Adrian...' he sounds a little bored already. 'Go on, then.'

'Father, the post of Commander of the Bodyguards has almost always been given to Second Brother, was it not?'

'Tinaga! Yes! Second Brother has been the guard for several years.' Your father's expression brightens as he nods. 'But this year, he is supplying his own chariot, and he will be riding it as an archer. Skilled as he is, he can't run round the track and protect me at the same time. So, what is it, Adrian?'

'I would like to recommend Fourth Brother for the post then, father. He is skilled with the bow, and with a sword. And in armour, I might add, he looks most dashing and heroic. Certainly he will be a glorious companion and protector.'

'Hmmmm.' You know your father's hmms get lower when he's pretending to think, and now they're very low pitched indeed. 'Well. You have a point. I was considering you, to be honest. But you have a point. Imian!'

'Father!'

'You will be given, from today on, the appointment of the Bodyguard Commander for the Great Summer Festival. Don't let me down.'

'I am your servant, father,' he salutes.

> More incoming.

>>18716446
Also, since dad is so martial it would probably be good to be seen in armor by him. We could also slip in some comments about our bloody doings in the north and get him to favor us more.

In general, it seems like the more "noble" option.

Bleh. If he had been considering us then that means we could have gained a lot of favor, potentially, by being the bodyguard. Just from how brightly he lit up when thinking of our second brother it shows it would have been a good spot to have to get into his graces. Blargh.

'Well, well. That was a quick and good resolution.' The prince sits back down again, clearly satisfied, and your brother turns to glance at you. You glance back. 'So. About the convocation. Any takers, or any nominators?'

This time round the field is rather more open. Radase of Ahun, the Chief Magistrate, was put forth (well, who's going to investigate the damn kidnappings then?), as well as Senjari, the younger brother of the Baron of House Daudu, serving currently as an attendant in the Palace. Someone then stands up, and nominates Malak, and you glance at Gesadag. He does not really smile.

> Would you like to do anything before I continue? Also, sorry for the lone vote for bodyguard - you're rather outnumbered I'm afraid.

>>18716509

Given this quest is Asian setting, I have the feeling father's just saying this to soothe feelings and save face.

He's not going to say 'I was afraid you'd volunteer, I'd have to slap you and tell you to get Imian'...

>>18716537
Yeah, I know.

I think we should give our fourth brother a pointed glance at this moment. We scratched his back, now it's his turn.

>>18716537
Shoot our brother a look and see if he returns the favor, or if Gesadag speaks up.

If not nominate ourselves I guess.

>>18716537
Give our little brother a meaningful look first and if nothing comes from that raise an eyebrow at Gesadag. If no one speaks up we might have to nominate ourself which is not the best position to be in at this juncture as it makes it seem like we really want it bad and has a lower chance of working.

How vital is it that we get this position, anyway? We can certainly carry out whatever schemes we wish even entirely in the absence of any official posting; there's prestige attached and an excuse to associate with merchants, but it's not as though we need an excuse to talk to whomever we please.

So what exactly does this post offer that's worth nominating ourselves over, and appearing so clumsy politically that we couldn't get a single ally to do it for us?

>>18716613
This position puts us over merchants, able to decide things that effect their business.

I cannot think of any better way to make connections and receive both gifts and favors -- all of which we need right now. Especially among rich people, since our coffers are waning rapidly.

>>18716559
>>18716558
>>18716549
>>18716538

You give Imian a glance, which he doesn't return. A more pointed glance, however, soon has to be retracted when you realise Hunaga and your father have both noticed. Ah, shit.

Your father frowns, and then plays with his liquor cup. 'All the candidates are good, very good. I'd ask the Registrar of the Houses, but unfortunately he's ill. So. Premier Earl.'

'Your Highness.'

'Give us some guidance here.'

'If I had to choose, sir, I would naturally choose Adrian, the third Earl.'

Your eyes widen a little. So do Malak's. Cloudberry glances sidelong at you, and for a fleeting moment you think it'd be nice to get more of that in a normal day. Then again, Malak's other girl is also really pretty - slightly brown hair, and...

Wait. Where were we?

'... the task of a Convocation representative appears easy, Your Highness, but it is in fact very difficult. When a hundred merchants, each with his own plots, enters the hall, it is very hard indeed to look detached from the situation, yet have one's fingers on several pulses at once. I am convinced that the third Earl's performance previously, in his investigation, shows he is quite capable of pulling this off.'

'Hmm. Hmmmm.' This time your father actually is thinking. 'I... see your point, Premier Earl. Does anyone second him?'

There is a moment of hesitation among the nobles, perfect for seeing the fault lines between factions. You know many of the nobles who back the ageing Registrar of the Houses would back his assistant, Senjari. But given the Premier Earl's standing...

... then the floodgates open. First three, then five, twelve, nearly twenty men - who probably expected to be acclaiming Malak, their leader's son - bow towards the prince. 'Your Highness. We are in favour of the Premier Earl's motion.'

'Well then! That too is settled. Adrian, I give you this appointment as of today.'

'I am your servant, father.'

> What do/say?

We shouldn't nominate ourselves if no one nominates us. Just keep quiet then.

It comes to mind that if Gesadag nominates us over his son there is a significant statement there. That might be why he isn't smiling. He doesn't want to have to do that.

Or it could be he doesn't like that son and would like to make such a statement by nominating us.

Either way, it will be a very clear statement that we are in his graces over one of his own sons if he does so. I personally would prefer for our brother to nominate us though. It will look like sheer political savvy if we nominate him and he nominates us, making us look good in front of the court -- and in front of Gesadag too. And we do want to look good in front of him, considering he is second in power after our father.

>>18716664
Formally bow to our father and return to our seat, listen for other important news.

>>18716664
I thank you all for this honor, I shall endeavor to show your faith in me was not misplaced. Give a formal bow, return to our seat.

Make a mental note to have dinner with Gasedag as soon as we can, he's a very good person to be on good terms with and he's playing his own game, the details of which would be very useful to know.

only bad thing is that we got caught giving bro hints to nominate us

Well damn. I'm not entirely sure what to say here. I think we need to have a word or two with our brother after this meeting, though. Let him know that we had expected better, and will perhaps call on him in the future... and he should remember that.

It's rather galling that we had to have Gesadag advocate us to get the position. Rather galling indeed. Though it at least looks like the court has taken notice of us after that and we probably just got a few free chips in the game courtesy of the Earl.

Still, I shudder to think what this is going to cost us in the future.

>>18716758
I'd let it sit as it is with our brother. He's a clueless 15 year old, and I think it is to our benefit if continues liking us and remains clueless for as long as possible.

>>18716777
Clueless, maybe. But we just did him a favor. I want him to have at least enough of a clue to know that when we ask him for something in return, he is expected to provide it.

>>18716707
>>18716700
>>18716695

With that the meeting is dismissed, and your father comes down from the dais to meet both of you. 'Adrian. Imian.'

'Father.'

'Do your work properly, then.'

'I will, father. I will not misplace your trust.'

'Good. Good. The symbols of office will be given to you by tomorrow.'

And with that, slightly excited at least, you make your way out of the hall, only to see two figures standing at the bottom of the steps leading to the hall. Two other figures stand nearby. It's Gesadag.

'... pushing a boat downriver...'

'...yielding!'

'A man yields when he needs to, son.'

> What do? Approach, avoid?

>>18716795
Avoid for now. We'll talk to Gesadag privately over dinner soon enough. Rubbing this in Mallik's face gets us nothing, neither does any kind of confrontation.

>>18716664
Welp, we owe the Earl for this one. Damn... and what's more, he's backed us very publicly, which is going to attract all kinds of attention and speculation. Better to have the position, of course, but this'll be a bit rough to handle elegantly.

We might need to do damage control with our competitors who lost out- Malak being apparently scorned in favor of his by his own father might REALLY piss him off, depending, and if Senjari was attracting the nomination then it's likely that he's someone in roughly our position- a young up and comer who others find promising. Such a man might be good to have as a friend regardless of other affiliations, depending of course upon his personality.We'll need to look into him.

>>18716795
Approach, give Gesagag a nod to indicate our thanks and join the conversation.

In the course of this we'll want to set a time to meet with Gesadag privately, either hunting or dinner/lunch, or just happen to be going in the same direction as him after the conversation breaks off and try to arrange something then.

> One vote for each. Calling vote please!
> Also this will be last post. Tomorrow I will start thread slightly early, and answer questions from two threads back. Because my latency is measured in weeks, it appears.

thank the guy and try and be polite and humble to his son

>>18716850
This. Find someone to chat with nearby while we wait for that to break up, then approach the Earl.

Yes, we have a meeting with him soon. But we should still acknowledge that he helped us here, as is polite. Also, I want to hear as much of this conversation as possible.

>>18716850

Let's do this, yes.

>>18716851
>join the conversation.
No no no! Do not do this! Fuck!

Eavesdrop, sure, but we do not want to confront Malak right now.

>>18716877
changed my mind, he seems busy.
keep going, unless he notices us, THEN thank him and act self deprecatingly if his son gets hostile

Approach after the son goes away.

Wait it out, don't speak yet.

Also, I've never yet participated in this quest, but I've been reading the archives. Weekends are actually pretty dismal for quest participation for me.

Too many names to make sense of (need to read the wiki), but I can get behind good ol' politics 'n' scheming.

>>18716850
>>18716885
>>18716907
>>18716909

You grab Linden - by the shoulders - and move her to a conveniently shaded spot, where you gesture a little, and she understands. As the others slowly leave the hall, you can hear most of their conversation.

'Father, look. I cannot have the same standing as you, father. If I am to have any name, I have to have an appointment!'

'And what makes you think this appointment is any use? Mucking about with merchants? Are you going to raise your kids to be ship-sellers?'

'No, father, but... look here. The more merchants we do know, the more we could ease our finances.'

'What will ease our finances is when you and your brother finally come to your senses!'

'What, I... you are my father! How could you do this, defending outsiders?'

'They are not any outsiders. They happen to be our masters. In any case, this year will be one of turmoil. I am not about to die this winter, and neither are you, so next spring we can do this. If you want to go to the bloody Convocation, you can go every day, I can set you in the permanent council there if you want.'

'Father! You are unreasonable!' With that you hear footsteps. Well.

'Cloudberry.'

'Yes.'

'Go look for the third Earl again. We will meet him one day soon. Tell him to set the time. Make him feel honoured. If you have to.'

'He is an honourable man, master.'

> And that ends it for tonight. I'll see you tomorrow! Thanks everyone. Great session.

>>18716957

I need to come up with a shorthand system of keeping track as well. In Genji Monogatari they only get mentioned by their posts... then again, the title's holder could change, which would confuse us all.

I'll fill up the Wiki as best as I can!

>>18716999
So the old guy has his own interests at heart, and isn't doing this to act against his son.

We will have to tread carefully around him. He's trying to use us towards his own ends, which may not line up with our goals.

Also gotta keep being smooth around Cloudberry.

>>18717022
Could you stick links to all the threads and the twitter on the wiki as well? I know it's not particularly hard to find them on sup/tg/ but having a single point of reference is handy.

>>18717062

Good point. Will do so.

>>18717052
We always knew he had his own goals concerning us, and him acting in our interest is just because it coincides with his. It's interesting to learn his goals towards his sons and his financial worries. Also we got a snippet of Cloudberry's thoughts, she seems to like us, obviously we should trust her about as far as we can throw our father, but she seems to hold a good opinion of us while Gasedag might find us useful he doesn't really seem to feel any lingering affection towards us.

>>18716999
At this point it would probably be wise to not speak with him right now (what I mean is don't step out and be all like "HO HO WHATCHA GUYS TALKIN' ABOUT THERE, HM?")

Hear him out during our meeting, don't let him know that we're suspecting him of scheming, and keep our cool unflappable face on.

Getting those three men to be our sworn bros4lyfe is obviously top priority right now, so get on that.

At some point it would probably be good to use the words "the world moves on apace, and I intend for it to not leave me/you/whoever behind."

As justification for killing the man earlier, tell Lesin that if we did not do it there, then dear brother would have no qualms about doing it.

additionally, i should point out that if this really is ChinaQuest, then women are the greatest assassins ever, and we should almost never trust them.

>>18717186
Quite.

>>18717164
>>18717092
>>18717052
I agree we need to keep being smooth with Cloudberry. No taking advantage of her. Be kind, but make it clear we think she's cute. Maybe look up a little poem beforehand about caged beauty and after she pays us a visit we recite it and give her a kiss on the forehead before sending her on her way.

Being as hot as she is, I really think Adrien would like to get down with her. But I also think that as long as she is working for someone else, he will restrain himself.

Though damn. Damn she's hot. We really need to find a legendary-hot beauty to concubine at the Grand Festival, if possible. It will no doubt one day save Adrien from the wiles of cute assassins. I don't think he could resist otherwise.

As for the Earl... well, I'd like to see what he has to say before making any concrete plans there. What is he trying to use us for? What is the basic goal underlying his manipulations? We need to know that. Seize a man's beginnings and you control his ends.

>>18717164
There are precisely 5 women so far we can trust. Lin, Peony, Rose and our little sister Martha. To a lesser degree that Stonefolk guide Mion.

We might be able to turn her, she seems to like us and assuming what she said in our first meeting was true, that Naseg and Malak are unpleasant to work for, she might like working for us much more. I doubt that she likes working for them much, especially given that she's a fallen branch, so if we continue to be suave and kind towards her and show ourself to be a better avenue to a higher position, perhaps getting her deserved rank she might change sides and work for us.

However still don't trust her one single bit, especially when she says that she's working for us now, that's when we should trust her the least, until she has proven herself beyond doubt me cautious, and once she has proven herself still don't trust her.

I can totally see her being used by the earl to fuck with us or use us as pawns for his own ends. we shouldn't let 'em succeed

>>18717463
Good, I was thinking more along the lines of showing her that we're nicer to work for, never trusting her, and using her to get information on the Earl. The question at that point will be whose side will she go with. She'll pass information to both of us about the other and we'll have no way of knowing if this is the other one using her to pass misinformation or to make sure they trust her so we can misinform them in the future. Or she'll have her own goals entirely and betray us both. Good fun.

>>18717475
i mean, we must have a reputation for enjoying women so far. it'd makes sense he'd dangle her in front of us like this so often. unless we can somehow go full rance on her or something, she is a threat

>>18717524
Why don't we use her as a convenient channel for whatever information, true or false that we want Gasedag to hear. We get the benefits of sexing her up and have a way to funnel misinformation to Gasedag. We can't give him entirely misinformation, true information that he can't use or is out of date, stuff that he can't confirm and so on so he can't just disregard what she finds out.

>>18717548
Because sleeping with a woman means that you are alone, unarmed, and very very vulnerable. This is why we sleep with wives, concubines, attendants, trusted servants/slaves, allies, business partners, and loyal subjects. That's a lot of potential cooch.

We don't need to include threats on the list. Mind, I am all for attempting to convert hostile hotties to our side and then sex them up. But that's a dangerous route.

>>18717428
This man is 95% correct. The 5% he is incorrect on is as follows: Cloudberry CAN prove her loyalty. It's not like she has any special love for the Earl, apparently. But it's going to be a bit of a process for her to do so, probably taking a year or two of devoted service. Maybe less, depending on what exactly she helps us do.

>>18717463
So far we seem less like James Bond seducing to the side of right and good and more like Lex Luthor seducing to the side of power and expediency.

And I'm totally alright with this. The girls will be happier and so will we.

>>18717760
If Gasedag wanted us dead I doubt he'd have someone known as a servant of his family kill us in bed. He'd probably do something with much less likelihood to track back to him.

Also we're very useful alive and he will want to make use of us. He knows we'll be making waves and want to where so he can plan accordingly while killing us will cause piles of chaos and not work at all for any plots he has.

>>18718148
It's more of a "This is our rule." type thing. /tg/ has a very hard time with things that are ill defined.