List of Tasks

> Martha's bird (5/9 complete!)
> You need to continue to monitor the investigation of House Ahun.
> You have decided to help Katesas and his friend Geharo's vengeance.
> You will be hosting Naimir and a few merchants in 2 days.
> Starting a spy network in the Palace/Margade would be a good idea.

Current Training:

> Archery (1 more roll to level 1)

Your profile page:
> http://noblemanquest.wikia.com/wiki/Adrian,_Earl_of_Mar

I hope they have some BUSINESS we can INVEST to to recuperate the COSTS of protecting them.

Because there's really no point in selling a shitton of jewels without acutally investing it.

Amirite?

Plus they're all uncut right now.

>>18963813

The jewels aren't uncut, they're unset. They're properly prepared to be placed into rings and necklaces - in fact, since you're a tinkerer, you could make necklaces for them if you want.

As for business, they run an inn and a large grocery store, catering to the travelling salesmen of the city. You could demand a share of the profits, or something else...

>>18963837

Maybe ask if he has any properties in the city we could use. We should find a location for that city base, ASAP.

>>18963813

They're already giving us a gift, though. Maybe ask to lease some of their rooms permanently, to house our own spies?

>>18963837
> in fact, since you're a tinkerer, you could make necklaces for them if you want.

That's actually a good idea. It would increase their value several times if we do that.

>>18963884
>>18963859
>>18963813

> I take it this means a yes, then.

You nod meaningfully, then fold up the piece of cloth and hand it to Peony. The message is clear; the two men bow to you.

'Your lordship is indeed wise and just! We shall make sure to tell people about it within the city!'

'I'd much rather you didn't. I have something to ask of you, actually. I hope you don't mind my greed.' You don't mean that bit of politeness, of course. Metigo looks up.

'Your lordship, if it is something we can help with...'

'I need a place myself. As in that piece of cloth.' You nod. 'A sort of base. I'm sure you have invested in... other properties within the city as well?'

'I... well, sir, there is a small house that we have. It's just south of the Meridian Canal, and we let it out to people from time to time, but it is not permanently occupied. If... if it does not insult you that it is an unworthy house...'

You think that over. It sounds like a central location, and anyway obscurity is good for your purposes.

> What do/say? Accept? Decline?

>>18963895

You can do this in your free time.

Alternatively, you can ask Peony to find a goldsmith. You might even be able to hire a goldsmith permanently in your household, though you're not sure you have enough gems to warrant that investment...

Course of action on this?

>>18963837

I was more thinking along the lines of using some of the income generated by selling those jewels to expand one of his businesses and use that income to pay for the merchenaries.
If we need some anyway.

Could just as well be that he's asking us to ask somebody else to stop bothering them. In that case, I'm all for making jewelry and use it to buy those people off.

>>18963953

So... you sell jewellery, give him money, take profits, and use profits to hire mercenaries to protect him?

It probably might be easier if you just got the mercenaries yourself, right now, and let them protect him. Then he could give you profits in return for the protection. That's an investment too.

You're not sure if he means anyone specific, really.

>>18963951
We should probably do that on our own when we have time.
How much would we need to pay the goldsmith anyway?

>>18963953

We're not going to waste money on mercenaries. I think we can get the Reds to move some muscle round his place.

We should ask Chemeho. Peony mentioned it to us just now, anyway.

>>18963932
This house will do for our plans for now.
And as for hired muscle once we get the reds to work with us we can put these fine gentleman under their protection.

>>18963932

Take the offer, pending us going to take a look.

Then send Linden or Rose down to look around and see how it is.

goldsmith sounds expensive, forget that for now I guess. one day when we're richer.
how much money do we have in our account?

>>18963953
>>18964031
>>18964049
>>18964047

'I'll send someone down to take a look. But yours sounds like a good offer. I'll accept it with gratitude, then.'

The two of them bow again. At length, the food and liquor runs out, and it seems the meeting will end soon unless you have something to say. Meanwhile, you ask for Linden and Rose, and tell them the address as they stand next to you.

'That's on the way to the weavers, sir,' Rose whispers. 'We'll go see.'

'Tell me how it is.' With that they run off to join the rest of the servants, getting prepared for the Charioteers' Parade tomorrow.

> Do/say anything more to the two merchants? Maybe if they know any potential gate-guests, the mood of the city, etc?
> Made acquaintances: Metigo and Urigo, itinerant merchant hosts.

>>18964111

Ask if they know any swordsmen. We need gate-guests with muscle.

If they do, we might even get them to be his bodyguards. And let him keep an eye on them for us.

>>18964111
Mood of the city sounds like a good idea to me and we can use them to buy property secretly once we have them in our pockets

>>18964165

When you raise the question, Metigo sits up and mulls over the matter for a bit. 'Well, your lordship, there are quite a few men with swords who do stay over at our inn sometimes. Some of them are even quite distinctive. There is a man, for example, named Sadereg, who wields a long spear and drinks liquor like water without getting drunk.'

That sounds interesting, if only for the party protection possibility. 'Is that so? I would like to meet the man. Perhaps, if he's willing, I'll make him your first bodyguard.'

'That... that would be excellent, sir! I shall get him to come and ask for an audience... perhaps today, or tomorrow, sir?'

You glance at Peony, who says this evening will be fine. 'You've got the maids to look at, sir, and then you're free.'

'This dinner is fine, then.'

And with that, they are dismissed. Peony says the person bringing your new potential maids around will not be for another two or three hours, so you have some free time.

> What do/plan/ask? You can ask Peony to brief you on certain things, if you'd like.

>>18964235

'The city right now seems... rather tense, sir, if you ask me. I'm not sure why. There are people moving into the city, more than before, and that is pushing tension. And of course, the cooperatives are always at each others' throats...'

Hmmm. It seems difficult for you to make headway in the city without siding with one faction or another in this case, then. Unless you are truly subtle and ready to appear non-partisan, it would be difficult not to get sucked into someone's fight...

'They do think quite positively of you, though, sir. There's been a joke poem out... after those daft allegations about your, you know, indiscretions. They say it is an honour to know the virility of the third Earl, though fathers should still watch their daughters!'

>>18964269

What does Peony know about the maids who are coming?

>>18964269
Have Peony tell us anything she knows about the maids that are coming and ask her if she knows anything about Chemeho since we are thinking about working with him.

>>18964406

After they leave, you ask Peony about the maids. She shrugs.

'They're pretty, as you instructed, sir.'

'As pretty as you?'

She gives you a look, but then smiles. 'Prettier, I would think! I know one of them has strange-coloured hair. Like, golden-brown. It's strange.'

'Hmm.' That sounds like an easterner trait; perhaps she's a foreigner. 'And anyone with interesting backgrounds?'

'The golden-brown hair girl says her family serves in Duhiki.' That's the fort near the Royal Fief. You might be able to gather intelligence from there. 'Another one says she's the daughter of an exiled nobleman, and the other two are from Margade. Their backgrounds seem pretty clean. One's father is a mason, and another is a warehouse owner who works for the Reds.'

Peony really thinks of everything...

> What do now?

>>18964474

'Chemeho? He's one of the Councillors in the Red Cooperative, isn't he?'

'Had some drinks with him. You know, that night, with the serving girl.' That is still rather embarrassing - having Peony pluck you out of trouble in Margade, twice in three nights.

'Father has said before that he's a trustworthy man. But that he apparently likes drinking a bit too much for his own good... that's still better than some people of the Cooperative, of course.'

>>18964524

Let's work on our bird. Actually, let's find a nice gemstone and set it on the bird's head or something. Martha deserves a great gift.

>>18964586
Yes!! we must work on our gift for Martha

rolled 16 = 16

Practice archery again! Get our level 1.

Bring Orchid along once more.

>>18964598
also if we have time after we meet the maids we need to work on our archery

>>18964586
>>18964598

> Roll d100 for progress. Do you wish to set a gemstone somewhere on the bird?

You find a nice small sapphire, bright blue, that would do nicely on the head. A bit too big for the eyes. There are also some opals and pearls you think could work for the purpose.

Just then, you hear the door close, and turn to see Orchid come in. Seriously, has she been volunteering to attend you all this time? 'Sir. Good day, sir...'

> What do/say?

rolled 29 = 29

>>18964636

Fix the sapphire on the head.

Dangle pearls at the end of each wing.

rolled 48 = 48

>>18964636

rollan

rolled 30 = 30

Man, dice don't seem favourable today.

rolled 19 = 19

Maybe we can set the gem on the forehead of the bird?

rolled 100 = 100

Come on, come on...

>>18964752
Oh ...oh dear

>>18964752

> Bloody hell, good last roll of 5!

You get cracking, feeling strangely confident about this, and with Orchid on hand to pass you the tools and materials you attack the task eagerly. You decide to place the sapphire on the forehead of the bird, and also to place two pearls on its long tail, as tail feathers.

Halfway through the work, as you fiddle with the mechanism of the legs, you feel a sleeve press gently against your forehead. You look up, and Orchid smiles, blushing.

'You're sweating, sir.'

'You too. It's warm in here after all.'

After a bit more tinkering, you look up and see to your surprise that only an hour has passed, but you've done more than you would normally do in half a day. Now all you need to do is the painstaking work of attaching the feathers, and the bird will be complete!

> Bird completion: 8/9, miraculous progress!

'How does it look, Orchid?'

'It's gorgeous, sir! It's really beautiful. I know there's a jeweller down the road from where my family lives, but even he couldn't make something like that I think.'

> What do/say?

>>18964806

Dab the sweat off her forehead as well.

'Jeweller? Is he good? Tell me more about the people you know in the city, Orchid.'

>>18964844

Stand up and kiss it off. The girl fancies us, after all.

Ask if her family actually has any property of its own as well. Maybe a spare room. For our network.

>>18964806
Say something like "I know something even more beautiful" while looking at her and ask her about this Jeweller

>>18964844
>>18964921
>>18964919

'Beautiful, eh?' You glance at her. 'I know someone who looks even better.'

'Sir?' Then she realises what you mean, and blushes. She starts when you take her shoulders and dab the sweat off her forehead, before leaning in to kiss it. 'Your lordship...'

'So, this jeweller.' You keep your lips against her forehead. 'What's he like? Is he good?'

'I... I'm not sure, sir. But he runs a shop by himself, so he must be fully, you know, accredited. He's a slightly weird man, really. Often has drinking parties all through the night, even we could hear them halfway up the road...'

As she says this you start kissing around her forehead as well, and she fidgets. 'Hmm. Rowdy people. That's interesting. What is your own house like, then, Orchid?'

'Sir? Um... it's just my parents, and my younger sister, and a younger cousin. He's an orphan. There's three rooms, it's a pretty quiet street.'

'Quiet enough that no one might notice it?'

'Quite quiet, yeah, sir.' She pulls her head back, then tilts it up a little. 'Do you intend to... use me, sir? Is this what it is?'

> What do/say?

>>18964974

Take the offer.

'Use is such a bad word, Orchid. I'd like you to aid me. I need a lot of help, now.'

(What exactly did we want with Orchid's place anyway?)

>>18964974
"Insert speech about how we need people we can trust so that we can improve and make the city a better place....and that we feel we can trust her" say the last part while looking into her eyes for added effect

>>18965019
>>18965090

You lean in to accept the offer, and she stands on tiptoe to welcome you. It's a short but intense kiss, and after it ends she leans into you.

'It's not use, Orchid. It's that I trust you and want your help. I'm not sure about these times and what they portend anymore. I need help to make the city better.'

'What would you want of my family?'

'Perhaps lodging, for my gate-guests to come. I will not ask you to receive spies. That might be too dangerous.'

You hug her tightly for a long while before Peony comes in. 'Is this a good time, sir?'

'Is he here?'

'Him and all the beauties, sir.' Peony nods. 'They're out in the courtyard now.'

You tell Orchid to clear up, and then go to your room to prepare. As you walk out and look over the courtyard you can indeed see the man with four young women, one of whom has brown hair and another has rather dark blonde hair. That's intriguing, really.

> What do? What wear?

>>18965180

Just wear something normal. It's no one important.

Remember to look over the girls and look for their possible value as part of our spy network. Actually, even that guy who trades in the maids.

>>18965243

second this.

man, our spy network thing is going to be a proper one.

>>18965243
I third this
Go super spy network!

>>18965180
Turn on all the charm we have, put on some normal clothing, no need to intimidate everyone by going full royal and meet the ladies.

>>18965263
>>18965243

Dressed rather casually, you go down to the courtyard and pause when you see the people arrayed. The trader is a short, small man, with a hideously large boil on the left side of his forehead; once he sees you he gets the girls to bow.

'Your lordship! It is an honour to serve you! It's busy outside, isn't it? The Charioteer's Parade is going to be lovely, I'm sure!'

'I hope it will be, yes.' You pass your eyes over the girls; as Peony says, they are indeed all quite beautiful. The blonde girl, with pale skin and an unusually prominent nose, stands out; but so does one of the other girls, with narrow, smiling eyes, and a certain posture about her. Maybe she's the nobleman's daughter.

'Let me introduce them to you, sir.' The blonde girl is called Lavender; the well-poised one Amaryllis. The other two, who are more conventionally pretty - one of them, Ixora, has a beauty spot under the left corner of her lips, and the other's name is Pea.

> What do/say?

>>18965332

'They are lovely. You have done well.'

Ask Lavender where she's from, she seems intriguing. Also, get Peony or whoever to bring tea. We want to seem relaxed.

>>18965332
Thank the trader, they are all quite lovely. If in the future I need servant girls your name shall be in the front of my mind.

Invite the four girls in for some tea, be very relaxed and try to get them to open up.

>>18965332

Tea for everyone. Talk to the ladies. Ask about their families, whether they'll work for us on a permanent basis.

Not sure if we should hire all of them, though? They're meant to be temporary for now, right?

>>18965426
>>18965413
>>18965385

'They are lovely,' you say, and you mean it. 'I'll come to you first, the next time I need maidservants.'

'Oh, that would be a profound honour, your lordship!' You then get Peony on his case, telling Orchid to bring some food for the trader before leading the four women into the room.

'Interview him. Give him a good once over.'

'Got it, sir.' Peony walks out. You then turn to the girls.

'Go on, sit.'

'Oh... thank you, your lordship!' They sit on the stools, facing you, and Lilac brings them tea before standing next to you.

It is quite clear that the four girls haven't actually met each other before, which seems a little odd. You just tell them to relax, though, and soon they are talking to each other and giggling. After a few questions, you mostly confirm Peony's findings - Lavender's family seem to be from the East, but they've migrated and live near Duhiki, while the others come from the city, with Amaryllis' upbringing being rather the strangest.

'I... my father was a writer, sir, a poet and a maker of liquor. But before that, my grandfather was a nobleman.' She looks up at you from her slightly bowed head; it is quite a marvellous look. Hmm.

> What do/say/ask?

OP, I've no time to join tonight, but will be reading in the archives, so keep on keeping on.

>>18965518

Ask about the permanent employment thing. Say we'll hire two of them on a permanent basis after the Convocation thing.

>>18965559

> Sure thing, thanks. At least it's reasonably not-quiet now.

Ask Lavender what exactly her dad does at Duhiki. What, is he military or something? How'd she get here, does she keep in touch?

>>18965518
Be cordial and charming, let them know that the primary purpose is to have additional maids for the convocation but that we are always looking for loyal competent help and if they distinguish themselves that a permanent hiring is entirely possible.

Man, we need to ask more questions, but I can't think of anything.

Anyone? Maybe if we asked them what experience they've previously had or something?

>>18965631
Gathering general information on what they are capable of seems like a good idea.

>>18965562
>Ask about the permanent employment thing.

not quite that blunt

>>18965612
>the primary purpose is to have additional maids for the convocation but that we are always looking for loyal competent help and if they distinguish themselves that a permanent hiring is entirely possible.

Like this, yes.

>>18965562
>>18965596
>>18965612
>>18965631
>>18965647
>>18965562

'Well, I think you've been told that you are going to work for me until the Convocation meeting is over. But I am always looking for more maids to join our staff - we are having some... aggressive expansion,' you say. 'So I will need at least two maids to stay on a more permanent basis. Do any of you have any issue?'

Ixora nods. 'Sir, I... won't be able to stay on after the Convocation.'

'Why is that?'

'I'm... in fact a house-servant of House Iatar, sir. I've been let go for three months, but I wish to go back and seek work with them again, as soon as is possible.'

'I see...'

You then ask about their abilities and experience. It turns out that Lavender has never been a maid before; previously she was a serving girl in an upscale restaurant in Margade, where the extra payments were probably plentiful. 'But after the boss died, the lady boss drove me out, said I was not needed anymore.'

Amaryllis says she has some skill in singing and dance, as well as embroidery, while Ixora says she knows to play the flute, and Pea has been trained in dance as well. All of them are literate, which is good. Or perhaps bad.

Lavender says that her father is a sergeant in the Duhiki garrison, and that she left home in order to avoid the attentions of an amorous lieutenant there. 'I do keep in touch with father though, sir. We still do write, quite often.'

That could be useful. Duhiki's the first major stop between here and the Royal Lands, so getting hold of news would be easy...

> What do/say? Anything else?

>>18965747

Maybe we could get Lilac to just take them around, then. Show them to the quarters.

We're probably hiring all of them. Ixora... maybe we could offer her employment if she wants? Or send her back to Iatar as an agent?

>>18965747

Take Lavender aside. Tell her in private we'd like to read her letters. She can say no to certain particular letters, but we want her to ask her dad for news more frequently. Make it like a bulletin.

>>18965747
We'll want to keep Lavender's father in mind, but bringing it up in our first meeting may be rude, when we know her a bit better would probably work better.

Ixora going back to Iatar means we might be able to get eyes and ears there if we get her trust and so on.

Tell them all that if they ever have any questions about the household or their duties to see Peony about them, but not to be shy to ask anything of ourself.

Ask them to practice their song and dance together when they can, being able to put on some music for our guests would be nice.

>>18965851
>Ask them to practice their song and dance together when they can
like right now?

I don't think we have anything else to immediately ask them, really, so let's see how they serve, tell them to practice, get some rest, maybe get someone to show them around and answer some questions.

>>18965851
>>18965840
>>18965818

You tell them about Peony, just as Peony comes back. 'I've paid the fee, sir. Tell you about it later.'

> Money: 720 taels (-60)

They say they'll be glad to practice for a song and dance! In fact, looking around, Amaryllis thinks of a tune they could do... if only someone knew how to play a harp.

'I can play a harp, actually,' Lilac volunteers.

'Can you play 'Autumn Frost on the Foothills'?'

'Oh, yes, definitely! I love that tune!'

'We could do that then!' Then a moment later they realise you are still there, and stand to attention, apologetically. Lavender looks a little nervous at their slip of etiquette.

> How react?

>>18965851

Yeah I think letting Ixora go back to Iatar as a mole sounds good.

We should do this with all the houses. And maybe our brothers. I'd hate to send a girl to our second brother, though.

>>18965907
Calmly and gently.

Please don't apologize, I don't stand all that much on ceremony within my home. It's fine.

Just so long as you maintain proper etiquette when guests are about I have no objections.

>>18965907

Also, as you are talking to the people, you hear a roar outside in the courtyard. Everyone looks out, slightly apprehensive.

It's probably a rehearsal for the Parade or something like that, or maybe your fourth brother finally getting around to training his bodyguards. He needs to learn to take his work seriously!

Meanwhile, Amaryllis poses a question. 'Sir, will we be... allowed to go into the city sometimes? I mean, since our families live there... except for Lavender, of course.'

> What reply?

>>18965970

I don't see why not. Is it just to visit family?

We'd like to go into the city sometimes with them too, after all.

>>18965970
Of course, as long as it doesn't take away from their work, there should be no problem with that.

>>18965970
If you wish, as long as it doesn't take you away from your work overly much. You should speak to Peony about scheduling to make sure that not all of you are gone at once, but other than that you are free to go out into the city.

Though if you are heading to the less reputable parts of the city at dark hours I would have to insist you travel in groups or borrow some of my men to ensure your safety.

>>18965970
We might as well let them go into town and ask them to excuse us while we go take a look outside

>>18965970
As long as it does not interfere with the jobs. really, the same rules and guidelines should apply to them as they do to the other servants here.

I assume we're paying them
a) from the treasury
b) after the job is complete
c) maybe with a "signing bonus"

>>18966036
>>18966031
>>18966023
>>18965960
>>18966012

'... what? Don't look so terrified. There's no guests about, and you can relax. I do expect proper behaviour when outsiders are here.'

You can hear the sigh of relief, and also another sigh when you say they are free to leave assuming they've checked with Peony first. And with that you let them go with Lilac, and turn to Peony.

'What've you got?'

'I wasn't being too subtle, sir. He caught on quite quickly, though.' She rubs her face, just as a blast of horns and the roll of drums thunders on from outside. Seriously... 'I told him we could use some information, some sources. He says he'll tell us if he knows anything. And then...'

'We pay for it.'

'Naturally, sir.'

As for the payment of the maids, don't worry about it. No, actually, do worry about it. Peony calculates you've got perhaps just enough from your fiefdom to support those four, but no more.

'Also, sir... I'm just wondering, sir, if you'd like periodic briefings? I mean, just to keep you up to date on things? Sorry if that's intrusive... oh, and also, you might need to go and show your face at the dinner after the Parade rehearsals. You know, just to show your face.'

'Oh. What about the swordsman?'

'Oh yeah...'

> What do/say? You have another two hours or so of the interminable drumming and roaring before heading for dinner.

If we're not going to talk to Lavender straightaway, maybe talk to her privately. Have her assigned as our nighttime attendant.

And then try not to sleep with her. Or try to sleep with her, whichever.

>>18966117

Oh yes, why not briefings? We could have them every other day or something.

>>18966131
We rarely go that far out of our way to seduce women, I'm just guessing that a sword fighting, tinkering, linguist, kind and sexy high noble is just too much for them to resist.
>>18966117
Tell Peony that we'd love briefings, it would hardly do for us to be unaware of the goings on of our household.

Go and finish off Martha's bird and ask Peony to send Lavender to bring us a snack, we can have a talk with her about the letters then.

>>18966117

Yes to the briefings.

We need to keep on task though, I think two of the things we need to focus on now is Katesas's vengeance thingy and the convocation. We've hardly done any reading up on the situation. Maybe get Peony to write something up on that.

>>18966197

second this, have to keep the plot from branching too much as well.

does anyone else feel we've been moving a bit slowly?

>>18966117
briefings are wonderful idea! *insert comment that suggests we like hearing her voice*
Yes we will have to learn more about this swordman and not to forget we will most likely be seeing the reds in a day or so.

>>18966197
>>18966196
>>18966182

You agree to the briefings, but then tell Peony about the two main things you have to work on. The Convocation thing is public, so it's quite easy to research; the Beribo thing is a little more complex. She nods.

'I'll find a way, sir. Oh, also, for that Ula girl who tried to defame you... you mentioned setting her up with a shop? Maybe you could ask the Reds for that. And ask the Reds to protect those merchants.'

'What are we going to give the Reds in return?'

Peony seems a bit stumped by that too. You'll have to figure it out...

Meanwhile, you decide to try and follow up your rush by finishing the bird in one go. That'd free you up to make jewellery with those unset gems. With three lamps to light up the room, you start to work, and soon Lavender is here as per your instructions, carrying a tray of tea. She walks with a certain straightforwardness, a military thing you suppose.

'Sir.'

'Ah, yes.' You sip the tea. 'So you write letters to your father?'

'Yes, every now and then, sir. Just... talking about family and the like. I'm sorry, is there a problem with that, sir?' She looks concerned. She has big eyes, you notice, and a small dainty mouth.

> What do/say?

>>18966197
Big Deal things to get done:
>Katesas's vengeance thingy and the convocation
tied closely together, but not completely.
>meeting with Naimir the merchant at lakeside residence
this ties into the above
>meet with Chemeho, leading member of the reds
>Metigo and Urigo's protection
...
>criminal investigation
>fast as penance for DISOBEYING THE LAW
>tell little bro that DISOBEYING THE LAW is not good and we done goofed when he didn't tell him off the moment he did it. but we will take responsibility

If we can get Imian to tell us what an acceptable penance would be ("imian how should one repent for usurping the law?") that would be choice

>>18966336

Oh yes, speaking of the meeting with Naimir: as you are working (remember to roll d100), Lilac comes in with a message. 'Just came in from the door, sir.'

It's an acceptance letter from Naimir, who also says he will be bringing some of his 'little faction' of merchants to put forward their case. 'We can only suppose, your lordship, that you have heard the other side; we only hope for a fair chance to raise our own concerns.'

Well, this is slightly embarrassing, that you've heard neither side. There's still a few days, though. Meanwhile, you see that there's been a gift within the envelope - what appears to be a small jade ring.

> Get: Jade Ring
> Continue interaction with Lavender. Come think of it, she smells of Lavender.

>>18966296
"No, no problem at all. Duhiki's an important connection to Royal lands. It's good to know what's going on thereabouts."

See if she catches on.

rolled 66 = 66

>>18966387

Right, first roll then!

rolled 44 = 44

>>18966296
Please sit down. I have no objections to keeping in contact with your family, it's admirable. I was wondering however, if anything in the letters that held information about the check point, the Royal lands, any notable developments in that area.
>>18966387
For making the bird.

that complaint against us really doesn't seem like a big deal, just tell the truth about one being shot from a distance and us killing the mortally wounded man already.

don't tell imian we lied to him

>>18966412
the reason it could potentially be a big deal is that we need to talk to Father about reconsidering the sentence for the Constable and the Magistrate.

And then he'll say something like "but you don't care about justice, faggot" and then our goose is cooked.

>>18966412
>>18966407
>>18966405
>>18966389

> COMPLETE!

'Hmm? Oh, no, I wasn't going to stop you from writing. Duhiki's a strategic spot, so I was just interested. It's good to sit right on the road from the Royal Lands, there must be a lot of news along with the people moving in and out.'

Lavender thinks about this for a while, then her eyes brighten with realisation. Her 'ohhh I get it' face is quite adorable, actually, as she cocks her head to one side. 'I... think I know what you are asking of me, sir. Well, if it suits you, I will-'

'YES! DONE! Oh.' You pump your fist in the air, get to your feet, and realise that you've startled Lavender so much she's spilled tea on herself.

'Um... uh, well, as I was saying, sir, I'd write... and ask if, um, sorry about this...' She tugs at her robes. Well it's not a big spill. Anyway who cares, the bird is DONE!

> What do/say, you accomplished person?
> Get: finely crafted mechanical bird for Martha!

>>18966412
>>18966429

We chose not to suppress, right? I guess, yeah, we'll just have to cop to it and listen to the music.

>>18966429
so, the proper response was suggested: "it was my failure, and it was also my failure in not teaching Imian. I have taken responsibility and have fasted in penance, and throw myself at your mercy."

father is big on religion (thanks to imian), so we'd be hitting a few major points with him: appeal to religion, and showing him that we take responsibility for his obviously more favored son's actions as well.

>>18966468
I'm sorry for startling you, let me help you with that.

I've been working on this for a while, it's for my sister. Tell me, how does it look?

>>18966508
that

>>18966508

No apologising. But let's help...

Also, better prepare a nice wooden box to keep it. Don't want it to be smashed just before we give it to Martha or something.

Finally, agree to Lavender's scheme. Say she is to tell us about everything.

>>18966508
I third this

>>18966429
>>18966478
>>18966493

> You'll make a note of this. Well it's a few days before your dad comes back anyway. Worry about that a bit later.

>>18966508
>>18966516
>>18966532
>>18966537

'Ah, I was too excited,' you say, and reach out before seeing where it's spilled. Ah, um. You press the back of your hand to her collarbone, and she flinches a little but does not otherwise move as you wipe your hand across her smooth skin. Her collarbone is quite prominent, you must say. She does not protest, either, but she's clearly gone a little red.

You then turn around. 'Well. This is done. It's for the little Countess. What do you think?'

She leans in to look at it, with a focused gaze. 'It's... beautiful, sir. So detailed! Even the feathers have little stripes on them!'

'Yeah, that took a lot of work.' You see no need to be humble about it.

'I used to do a little metalwork myself, actually, sir,' Lavender says. 'Repairing Dad's stuff, mostly. But nothing as fine as this, of course.' She then goes to one corner and fetches a nice wooden box, simply carved, and about the right size. There we go! Simple.

> What do? There's still rice cakes on the table. You do wonder if you should go for the big dinner, or just meet the swordsman. Or meet no one at all.

>>18966593
invite the swordsman to the big dinner, let him borrow some of our more formal clothing if it calls for it.

then discuss his potential employment.

>>18966593

Who's going to be at the big dinner, though? Is it going to be all noise and drunkenness again, in which case we might's well meet the swordsman.

Also, with Lavender, some restraint for now. See how she reacts.

>>18966593
As much as I dislike going to the dinner, we do occasionally have to show our face at events like that. As annoying as it is. We'll have to show our face at least occasionally so we may as well get it out of the way.

Tell Lavender that should we start on any other projects like this we will call upon her assistance. We would love a tinkering companion.

>>18966620
This sounds pretty reasonable.

And, yeah, don't do anything with Lavender yet.

Adrian needs to be more careful around women.

>>18966659
>>18966649
>>18966620

You try not to look as Lavender dabs at herself with her hankie, only turning to her when she's done. It seems she's noticed that, and smiles at you.

'So you do a bit of tinkering as well? That's nice. Next time I start on something like this I'll get you to join in.'

'That... that would be an honour, sir!' She bows.

Just then, someone peeks in; you turn around and see it's Linden! 'Hey, sir. A man with a long spear is asking an audience. Also, the dinner is in one hour.'

'Prepare the man, take his weapon and keep it, give him some nice clothes if he's not properly dressed. I'm taking him to the dinner.'

'Righto, sir.'

'She seems pretty informal with you, sir,' Lavender remarks.

An hour later, you and Sadereg head into the hall, where the Prince's throne is left empty while the seat to his left is occupied by Gesadag, the Premier Earl. Your brother is on the right of the throne.

'Adrian! Don't stand on ceremony. Were you around at the rehearsals? It's a pity you missed it if you haven't.' Gesadag seems unusually friendly. You then realise that most of the people around here are military, and that there aren't too many nobles. Well, just a few here and there. You take your seat, and Sadereg takes his.

And then the dinner kicks off.

> What do/say? You can look for figures to talk to, like commanders or officers, or just look around - in which case roll d100.

>>18966728

Look around for some junior officers, actually. Let's talk to those, those tend to be more truthful.

Ask them how the rehearsal went, where they're from.

>>18966728
talk to first bro, ask how things are, all that stuff. maybe get in a poetry contest? beyond that, make friends with everyone we can, and try to get swordsmandude to talk about his skill with the commanders.

>>18966728
Chat with Gesadag, return the unusual friendliness. Tell him that while we sadly couldn't watch the rehearsal we couldn't help hearing it. It sounds like they're in good form. Ask if he's been doing well, remark that we really ought to get to know each other better.

rolled 90 = 90

Look around, see who/what is here

>>18966777
>>18966776
>>18966770
>>18966768

That's not your first bro, that's your fourth bro. First bro wouldn't come back to the Palace if someone chased him with dogs.

'Imian, how are you?'

'Directing the rehearsal is pretty hard work, it turns out!' He seems quite proud of himself, and Gesadag smiles.

'He's done well, Adrian. It's been a pretty hectic day.'

'I can definitely hear it, though I didn't see it. Sorry, brother.' Imian waves it off, smiling. 'I'll get to see it tomorrow, properly, though!'

To be honest, you're not really looking forward to seeing it. It's long and rather boring. But it's the military, and you do want the military on your side...

After a bit more talking, when Gesadag agrees to come for dinner some time and Cloudberry appears once again to pour drinks for all of you, you go over to Sadereg. Turns out he's already getting into the groove, talking and laughing with several officers. You quickly pick up that he's ex-military.

'Your lordship, sir!'

'No, no, no ceremony, sit down and drink.' You grab a chair and sit down. It seems the officers do know Sadereg. 'So, any stories about this brave man?'

'He's killed a leopard once, sir!'

'It was a small leopard, sir,' Sadereg seems a bit embarrassed. 'And it was already wounded. Hardly a fair fight.'

'Still impressive!' You ask around - it seems most of the officers here come from the garrisons and garrison villages to the east of the Appanage, near the very borders of civilisation. Many of them can speak Vasawa, an Eastern language which you speak effortlessly as well, and you exchange many ribald jokes.

> Increased acquaintance with junior officers!
> What do/say?

>>18966852

Ask the officers if Sadereg would make a good gate-guest. We are always looking for men of talent!

Maybe that'll send them a subtle message too...

>>18966852
Ask some of the officers about Sadereg, try to get a feel for his personality and if he'd make a good gate guest. Given how well known he is he might attract other good gate guests as well.

>>18966880
>>18966893

Second these, and keep the bonhomie going.

Then maybe look around and see what else is going on. Who's attending us, is it Linden?

Would a visit out to the Eastern provinces be a good idea, fellow questers?

Maybe we can play diplomat over there, being a cunning linguist and all.

Ask them how the political situation is on the borders.

>>18966943
We need to find a foreign princess to seduce with our wit, charm, and clever tongue. Hell out of all the local earls we're the best suited for this given that we're likable and probably speak whatever language she speaks.

>>18966909
>>18966893
>>18966880

The liquor is flowing a little too freely for your taste again - seriously, you think you know these days why so many nobles become drunkards. It just comes with the job.

'So, this man Sadereg,' you pat his shoulder. 'If I were to take him as a gate-guest, what would you people say? Would I be taking a good man in?'

'Your lordship, I recommend you take him before someone else does!' There is roaring laughter. 'Remember that song, in the past, Sade? 'You can count on half the men to run the hell away, but Sadereg and his few mates will stand their ground all day!''

'It's... just a small ditty at the camps, sir,' Sadereg is bright red now. You laugh and pat his shoulder again.

> Will you take him as gate-guest now? You could if you wish.

Meanwhile, around the place, the guests are again cliqueing up. The military is a very hierarchical place, after all. The few nobles - you recognise some of them, but can't be bothered to remember their names - are being their usual jackass selves; one of them wolf whistles at Linden as she comes towards you with a flask of liquor. She then leans close.

'It's tea inside, sir, switched it out.'

Clever girl.

> What do/say?

>>18966971
Ask Saderag if he wishes to become our gate-guest. If half of the stories we've heard about him are true it'd be a honor to have him.

Find some of the higher ranking officers and start chatting them up, we want to be on good terms with all levels of the military.

>>18966968
>>18966943

That's a total possibility. You do know there's at least one countess coming over during the Great Summer Festival who's from Theniron, an eastern city-state that declared itself a Duchy.

There are a few other states as well, and a lot of rather less civilised tribes.

You ask about the military situation, and things get a bit more serious. 'There are raids, sir, ever more raids than before. It seems a lot of tribes are falling apart. I think it was one of the great chieftains died earlier this year, and people are fighting over the carcass. So in the pushing around, people often cross the borders.'

That might explain the steady and increased influx of merchants into Margade as well. In fact, you do need to consider that trend and what to do with it. It sounds like a possible source of support, but also friction...

>>18966971
thank here and continue to bro it up with the military.

and offer the dude a gate-guestship, after he shows his skills ofcourse (move the party to the garden!)

>>18966971

Let's go for it and take him! As for the display of skill, better leave it for when we're all sober.

Ask more about the east - what tribe is that? Isn't trade rather disrupted if this fighting's going on?

Holy shit, wikia search function is sucking dick.

Have we had prior interaction with Sadereg at all?

>>18967069

Never, that's why he's not in the wikia. You've just met him actually.

>>18967077
what are the costs for a gate guest?

>>18967089

Well, you should give him a gift up front - either money, or maybe one of the many things you have in your vault.

After that, he takes a steady salary; it'd be rather insulting to pay him less than 8 taels a day, which is what your servants get. Maybe 10 would be nice.

> Giving info before talking about decision, to allow for more consideration of whether to take Sadereg. Meanwhile...

'The tribes? Oh, it's the White Rams and the Grey Rams, mostly, those two tribes. The Grey Rams' chieftain is the one who died earlier. The White Rams say their chieftain should have a share of the inheritance, and then they fight. They're squandering their inheritance anyway.

'As for trade, yeah, it is quite badly disrupted - especially the overland routes. The Fisewa is still quite secure, so at least trade along the river and ships is possible, but we've been under some pressure from His Highness to think of ideas. I've heard the Royal Court has also been notified of this. Man, we're never short of enemies, your lordship, it's the only thing we're never short of. South, north, east, northwest...'

'The more enemies, the more the glory in defeating them!' You say, and they laugh.

>>18967147
how large are these tribes? perhaps we could lead an "expedition" to help topple one. ask more about it.

>>18967108
A gold ring seems like a bit too much, it signifies a bit too much loyalty and trust at this juncture. Perhaps one of the gem stones that we acquired and an offer to set it in a necklace or something like that when we are able to.

I like this guy, so far he seems competent, trustworthy and a good overall choice.

>>18967057
>>18967031
>>18967007
>>18967179

> It's set then - your first gate-guest!

You turn to Sadereg. 'Well, well. I've heard what I need to hear about you, I suppose! Now, if you will accept my leadership, I will gladly accept your service.'

He looks surprised for a moment, and then quickly gets off his low seat and onto his knees. 'Sir! If you will not think me unworthy, I will serve you to the utmost of my ability!'

'Please get up! This is good, this is great. Let's have a toast. To Sadereg!'

Everyone laughs and you drink the tea, grateful to Linden.

> New Gate-Guest: Sadereg, Spear-Wielder

>>18967173

You ask about those tribes, and they nod. 'Well, we rarely get very large bands of men crossing the border. Maybe 30 or 50 at a go is about as large as they come. But both tribes have thousands of clansmen - they're both pretty big, even the eastern Duchies are scared of them sometimes.

'When they get into a big battle, there could be thousands of people on either side. The last time it happened someone said there were 1,200 bodies on the battlefield, so those are some big armies...'

Man, and the whole garrison along the east of the Appanage, if you remember correctly, is about 2,200. How excellent...

> What do/say? The senior military officers seem to be talking to Gesadag now. You can hear the nobles laughing and smashing cups.

Expenses, expenses.

The brilliant thing about it is that we've only got 720 Taels left, and this is all we have for the next three months.

:V

>>18967258

We can sell some of the stuff in our vault. The gems... maybe not the jewellery, since we need those as gifts. Maybe the liquor?

We need some business opportunities soon, man. Or we need to visit our fief and get things rolling on development. Make a note to tell Peony to keep an eye out.

how about getting that canal guy to irrigate our land?

>>18967325

That'd probably cost a lot initially, though... need to find something easier to invest in.

What's in the city, anyway? We should ask for a profit-share with Metigo and Urigo.

>>18967293
or we could think long-term, and get get some "investments" going.

as in buying businesses to get cashflow and access to products at reduced prices by virtue of buying in bulk.

and we use the reds to take over part of the city.

>>18967346
>>18967338
>>18967293
>>18967258

You sit out for the rest of the drinking and chat session, worrying about your finances and how to improve them, and then Sadereg nudges you gently. 'Sir? Sir?'

'Huh what?'

'Sorry, sir, you seemed distracted.' Sadereg points around. 'It seems people are mostly clearing out, now.'

'Oh, I see. I didn't realise.' You get up, but your legs feel slightly weak from all that sitting in a bent position. Pfft.

'Is something the matter, sir? Is there something I can do to help?' Sadereg sounds genuinely concerned as you lean on Linden's shoulder for balance. Meanwhile you bid your goodbye to Gesadag - Imian's already off, probably to prepare for tomorrow.

> What do/say?

tell him it's nothing, just thinking about the festivities and such.

then sleep time and tomorrow we do stuff.

>>18967346
pretty sure the city is already quite divided.

and remember, you need to have money in order to make money.

If we can't get our finances into the black, we're going to need to start downsizing.

Basically, we've got two months to turn a profit. Less than one if we go at our current rate. Irrigation is going to cost more than we can afford, and will not yield fast enough returns. Trade potentially could, but we need to get on that ASAP. Investing in businesses is the most likely way to turn a quick profit, short of embezzling funds (selling the stuff we got from the treasury).

>>18967392
Just juggling a lot of balls at the same time, politics, expansion, finances, women. Most of it isn't something you should be concerned about. If your aid would alleviate any of it I will not be afraid to ask.

If you want to help simply do your duties as best you're able and that will be more than enough.

>>18967435
>>18967346
>>18967423

Well, buying and selling on the market is not unheard of - you could turn a profit on some commodities this way. Alternatively, yes, you could buy a shop or some other venue.

Ask Peony to keep a lookout? If you do so, roll 3d100. (It seems the girl never sleeps, unless she's drunk.)

'It's nothing much,' you say. 'Don't worry about it.'

But Sadereg still looks worried, and when you get back to your apartment and choose a lovely cut piece of amber as your gift to him, he looks as if understanding and then refuses it.

'Sir... I still have some farmland which I could sell, and turn the funds over to you. If you will not bemoan the slightness of my contribution, I will do what I can to help...'

You look at him, slightly surprised.

> What do?

I wanted to ask the military officers about potentially sending in a diplomatic mission to arrange peace between the tribes...or if they think a conquest is in order. They know more about this than we do, anyway.

Would want to ask Sadereg about things we can do to get a quick return on investment. We don't want to downsize, but we do want to expand. He's head butler, so he's probably got a good head for business.

>>18967480

You're probably better off asking your father about that; the military officers don't make decisions, and thank heavens for that.

You can ask Baseg about it later, sure. You remember him telling you it's basically a matter of information, again - making sure you have prompt information about what people need and then trading it to them.

>>18967477
Isn't it supposed to be the other way around, Saderag. I do have quite a lot going on in my life but I could not in good faith ask you to sell your land for me. I have numerous ideas for making money running and should it come down to it I have access to a good amount of funds.

I must know however what has prompted you to offer to sell your land for me. I don't know of anything I have done yet to earn your trust to such a degree.

>>18967477
Absolutely not, especially if the farmland is within acquisition distance of our current land.

After all, farmland is an investment, and selling it only gives you money once.

We need a consistent income, preferably one that can turn positive in the next month.

The expedition we just led was a huge money sink, and it looks like we're not going to get anything out of it like we had hoped. The whole judging process has gone downhill. And if people find out that we couldn't do anything, our reputation will take a hit.

3d100

thank him but gently decline and express apreciation for finding such a good gate guard thingy

rolled 82, 83, 40 = 205

>>18967543

rolled 54, 14, 30 = 98

Lookout dice.

Also, decline the offer. Say it is good of him to offer, though. Ask about the land.

>>18967550
>>18967523
>>18967520
>>18967480

'No.' You push the amber into his hands. 'This is my obligation to you as your host, don't refuse it. And you are not obliged to sell your estate for me.'

As for why, you do know it is the loyal thing to do. But you don't feel the need to ask for such loyalty right now. Such things are best not tested straightaway. You ask him about his land.

He thinks about it. 'Well, it's... pretty poor land; I guess the only main benefit of it is that it lies alongside the road along the East Lake, towards the border. But it's quite barren, in fact, which is why I thought to make the offer, sir. Please do not be offended or insulted...'

Meanwhile, later on you ask Peony to keep an eye out for business ideas, and she starts giving you a lovely smile. 'What?'

'I know of an opportunity already, sir, from the maid trading guy. I didn't tell you earlier because I needed to check it out. Poor Rose, I've run her rather ragged.'

'What is it?'

'The trader says he would like to transport some slaves from the Hillmen areas down to Margade for trading.' She doesn't seem bothered that he's also a slave trader. 'But he needs a dispensation, or the Hillmen won't turn them over. If you could just write a letter, sir, he says he'll split half the proceeds.'

'How many slaves?'

'He says 80. So I'm guessing 40.' That's still a lot, though...

> What do/say?

>>18967632

.... is that legal? Or rather, how hard will we get kicked by father if we do it?

I don't see problems other than that.

>>18967632
No, we're not offended or insulted, but there's better ways we can get money, be it more constant, or a larger sum. Maybe later on we could buy it from him, but something on it, and sell that. Construction is still profitable, right?

Additionally, we've got the whole magistrate investigation going rather poorly...

>>18967689

We weren't exactly expecting money from that though, were we? The investigation, I mean.

Also, that sounds like a good place to put up a teashop actually. How about we fund him to build it, and then we share the profits? It's still his land but we run the shop.

>>18967704
>>18967689
>>18967670

It isn't illegal; you have the right to give such dispensation. Your father might be iffy about it though. You seriously hate how he's someone who does nothing and does not want anyone else to do anything as well; it's something you do wish to ignore sometimes.

As for a teashop or business, you raise the idea with Sadereg, who blinks. It seems he's never thought of that. 'That's... actually quite true, there isn't a teashop around that bit of the road.' He scratches his head. 'You do have a great idea there, sir, I don't know why I didn't think of it...'

> More planning for teahouse? And what do next?

>>18967742

As for the investigation and the magistrate thing, you're really doing all you can already. You can't sway the verdict yourself, but your appeal has been drafted. Radase sends you affirmation that it will be appended to the recommendations, as you demanded.

As for monetary compensation... you never really were going to get compensated, anyway. Father never gives rewards out like these; he only gives stuff out when he feels like it, which for you is rather rarely.

>>18967742
let's do both. write the letter tomorrow and get some of our staff on the tea house.

as for sadereg, tell him we appreciate his help, and welcome him to our employ.

get him set up and see what else we can do for business opportunities. perhaps buying a ship for shipping on the river? that way we'll get news from further out and get in on some of the trade action.

>>18967742

Maybe we could spare a slave or two for the tea house. We have many slaves of our own, right? Send them out to be staff, they're as good as free.

Then maybe involve ourselves in the docks. We do need to talk to the Reds. Let's invite them tomorrow at the Parade.

>>18967831
>>18967781

You ask Baseg, and he points out three slaves who have given exemplary service over the last five years. They seem quite suitable for that. You could get them to build the teahouse themselves, too.

Sadereg seems quite glad that you have this plan. Peony also thinks it will be good, especially if you hire someone to look after the three staff... and listen in to the merchants on the road. Anything for information.

You then give the orders for the materials to be sourced from within the Palace. Construction can begin tomorrow, if you wish; Baseg and Sadereg will go take a look at the site.

You can indeed invite the Reds to talk tomorrow, if you want.

Meanwhile, it's finally time for bed; Amaryllis draws you a bath and you soak in it for a while before getting out. Tomorrow's going to be quite the day.

> What do/say? Anything else?

>>18967927
wish everyone a good night, and that's all.

but what about a river boat? how expensive would that be, including crew and all.

>>18967927
Well her father was a poet so start reciting some poetry, perhaps some foreign stuff she might not be intimately familiar with.

Ask how her first day was so far, how she likes the rest of the household. Smalltalk.

>meet with Chemeho, leading member of the reds

Well, that's been on our list of things-to-do, so sure.

We'd want to make ourselves available to the other organizations in the city, by the way. To not stir up trouble.

>>18967964

A river boat, for going around the Lake? Several hundred at least, though you don't really need to buy one because the Palace has a few.

A proper trading barge or ship? Thousands and thousands. These are large ships that can go up and down rivers for months in often harsh conditions; there's a reason why the trade is valuable, because it's unfortunately expensive.

Nonetheless, buying a share in a ship or cargo is always possible. It's still slow, though.

>>18968002
>>18967983

You are probably still seen as being widely available by the other organisations; you do expect that once the social season starts, they will start jockeying for your patronage. It's not self-delusion to think they would - you are popular in the city, so you'd be nice to have on a faction's side.

Meanwhile, you lie in bed and talk to Amaryllis about poetry. She is indeed widely read; you ask her to go to the bookshelves and take the scrolls of the Four Masters of the Jade Lake. She opens it, and then starts reading some of its poems to you in a lovely, gentle voice.

You listen, enjoying for a while, until you hear her stop. When you turn to her, she puts the scroll in your lap and wipes her eyes. 'I'm... I'm sorry, sir. I just thought of how... things might have been... that poem is so lovely, about the manor... but I've never been in a manor before. Well, not... not until now...'

You watch her cry quietly as she talks about how her grandfather was chased out of his manor, and died vomiting blood on the road, and how things came to this pass in Margade...

> What do/say?

>>18968106
Turn on the smoothness, move to her and take her in a light embrace, soothe her, mutter soft consoling reassurances. Ask what kind of a man her father was.

>>18968106
Give her a good hug. You're in a manor now and I'm not going to chase you out. I'm sorry this happened to your grandfather, it was not right.

Shift the conversation to what kind of man her father is, he seems like a good guy and it ought to get her mind off of her grandfather's death.

"Well, you're here now. Go and get some rest. What I said before still stands."

Make no promises, but don't rule out the possibility of further employment. Really too bad about her folks, though, but we can't fall for every sob story we hear. No offense, i guess.

Regarding the tea-house, let's do it! Haters can keep hating, but we need money, and maybe this could get lucrative.

ah, well perhaps the trading ship is a more long term thing. perhaps buying a share after we build up our portfolio in the city. then work off of that. damnit we're the head of the Convocation of Merchants. we'll do some merchanting!

as for the maid, ask for details, but don't press if she doesn't want to tell.

>>18968160
>>18968147

You put an arm around her shoulder, and she flinches a little but does not resist as she is pulled to you. You let her cry a little. There's nothing much you can and will do for her - it's not like you're sending an expedition to demand her manor back - but a hug costs nothing.

'My father, sir? Well, he makes a living delivering liquor to people's houses, mostly. And then he sticks around if it's a good celebration, writes some verses praising the occasion, and they often give him gifts. It's not... exactly a stable living. In the winter things can get quite tight.' She sobs and smiles again, your arm still on her shoulder. 'But father and mother are healthy, which is the most important thing of all.'

'That much is very true. So does your father know a lot of poets and scholars?'

'He does, some, and he does get invited now and then to other poets' poetry meets and the like. He's a bit of a busybody, so he knows when big names come into and out of the city. Speaking of which, sir, did you know that there's a scholar of the House of the Egalitarians in the city right now? It's a bit controversial, but he's here...'

> What do/say?

>>18968184

Yeah agree with the teahouse - let's get building quickly. If we can start tomorrow, let's start tomorrow and send them off to inspect the site.

And then we'll write the letter, and then maybe ask Metigo and Urigo if they know anyone needs a hand with business. Maybe the low cost of travelling salesmen suits our budget.

>>18968265
Perhaps you could introduce me to your father some day, he seems to be an interesting man, and I'm always interested in the affairs of poets and scholars.

Keep on hugging her and recite some lighter poetry for her.

>>18968265

That sounds interesting. She should tell us more later. Being patron to a scholar sounds like a good thing.

Meanwhile ask if she's feeling better, be soothing.

>>18968265
Act impressed, tell her that no we did not know. Ask her what the man is like and famous for, then why he came here and if there are any special meetings of scholars to be held soon. Slowly shift the conversation to her by asking if she enjoys writing and poetry like that as well, and if she is perhaps a writer herself?

>>18968349
>>18968326
>>18968322

You continue to hug her as you think that over. 'That's interesting. I honestly didn't know that. Well, now I do.'

She titters, and then you see that she's bent over from her seat. That's not very comfortable, so you get her to move into the bed. She looks at you, wide-eyed, for a moment, then slowly makes her way in beside you.

'You should get your father to come for an audience. He might get more work if it's known that he's been to the Palace, isn't that so?'

'That might be, sir, that's a good point. Father is really protective of me sometimes,' she says, then trails off.

'Did he teach you to write? Also, do these scholars hold meetings like the poets as well?'

'They do... have lectures, and stuff, and debates. Apparently Margade doesn't have many of those, though. Dad always says it's a pity, says he wants to move out of Iru, not much goes on here in learning terms... sorry, I don't mean to insult...' You pull her to you to show it's fine, and she starts whispering in your ear. 'I... do know how to rhyme, and how to make a verse scan. But I'm not much good at writing poetry, personally... how about you, sir?'

> What do/say?

>>18968417

"I've been known as quite a cunning linguist, myself..."

>>18968417
I've always had a gift for languages, and I love poetry from all of them.

But I've never been all that much of a poet myself, a talented amateur at best, I've never measured up to the people whose works I respected and would reread many times.

>>18968417
"Sparrows were feeding in a freezing drizzle
That while you watched turned into pieces of snow
Riding a gradient invisible
From silver aslant to random, white, and slow.
There came a moment that you couldn't tell.
And then they clearly flew instead of fell."

>>18968417

'I... dabble a bit. Nothing good comes out either, I don't think.'

Turn on charm, see what happens.

>>18963717
>Nobility obliges.

I don't know why, but the usage of nobility obliges (as opposed to noblesse oblige) irks me. I know they mean the same thing, but the french way just sounds nicer to the ears.

>>18968417
Tell her the truth, whatever that may be. We /are/ a cunning linguist, after all. Perhaps we've written several poems, maybe even some that became moderately well known? Or maybe not.

Either way, we should talk about our favorite books and poems, and maybe some of hers. Try for some subtle questioning about if there are, perhaps, any books or volumes of poetry she has been wanting to read but not been able to get....

Then after a time spent close, give her a kiss on the cheek and ask her if she is feeling better now. She's pretty close to nobility, having only "fallen off" a couple generations back. Probably best to at least wait until it's past the first night before we stick it in near-noble blood. A small gift and light wooing first, I think. She isn't noble enough to be a concubine, but she hasn't even been here twelve hours yet.

>>18968498
>>18968487
>>18968486
>>18968485

You smile and allow her to lean on your shoulder. 'No, I'm not much for writing. I read a lot, as you can see. In six languages.'

'Six?!'

'Yeah. Sadly I can read in all six, but I can't really write in any one. I've tried, sometimes...'

She turns around in your shoulder and looks up at you with her narrow, dignified eyes. 'Read something, sir?'

You read that little poem (I do like Nemerov, well chosen), and when you're done there's a pause before she sighs. 'That's beautiful, sir.'

'It's adequate.'

'No, it's beautiful.'

'You're beautiful.'

She blushes, and then kisses your cheek, lingering for a moment.

> What do/say?

>>18968557

To be honest I don't know why I wrote it in english. I agree that noblesse oblige sounds way better. It's French, everything sounds better in French.

>>18968558

Actually I think if she's just fallen off the tree she might be concubine material. That'd be nice.

>>18968581
Don't stick it in yet, we both could use some rest, as tomorrow will be a big day.

Tell her it'd be nice to meet her father.

>>18968581
Give her a kiss back, and see how far she takes it. Don't have sex with her just yet, it's been perhaps 12 hours since we met her.

Damn Adrian, you just keep on picking up all of the ladies.

>>18968681
>>18968644
>>18968642

You turn your head around and kiss her. She seems a bit surprised by this, and doesn't really know how to react to it, so you have to guide her a bit, moving this way and that. Linden she definitely isn't.

Then you pull away and look at her, already a little sweaty. 'Comfortable?'

'Yes... yes, sir.'

'Let's have us some rest first then, perhaps?' You lean over and snuff out the candle, then lie on your back. Amaryllis sidles up and presses her face to your shoulder. How do you pick up all these ladies? Or is it the same as for Linden, for she's told you before - it's simply because you're an Earl, and therefore a good person to be with?

Well, try being with the Second Earl then, Linden...

When you open your eyes again, it's past dawn already, and Amaryllis is awake, rather sluggishly preparing your clothes. You stumble to the window and look outside; people are already assembling for the Parade. Argh.

> What do/say?

>>18968581
Give her a light peck and tell her that she should be careful... there are some lecherous men out there who might try to take advantage of a beautiful woman in their bed, regardless of what they might wish.

Then get some rest, big days coming up.

>>18968736
Morning Amaryllis, does anybody actually enjoy this Parade or do they all just think others do and pretend to?

Could you get me some breakfast and draw a bath. Care to join me for the both of them?

Looks like there's a lot to do today...

Let's get to doing them!

>>18968786
>>18968774

'Good morning, your lordship!' She says once she sees you stumbling out. You haven't got your upper robe on, just your long underpants.

'Tell me, Amaryllis, do people really enjoy this? Men marching to war or back, sure, but men marching around the field and leading chariots?'

Amaryllis giggles. 'I'm sure many do, sir. If it helps, I don't either.'

'It helps, yes. Make me a bath.'

As she goes to draw the bath, Rose brings you breakfast. 'Sir, there's been an overnight message from His Highness.'

'Oh?'

'He says he'll be staying in the Tallow Wood until just before the First of Fifth,' she says. 'His Highness probably really enjoys hunting with the Second Earl, after all.'

You're not surprised. You eat the tasty breakfast until you're roughly full, pass the rest to Rose, take two bowls of porridge aside for Amaryllis and then go to the bathroom. She's swishing her hand about in the water, back turned to you, humming a tune.

Judging by the sun, the Parade will start in two hours. Genius, isn't it, starting a parade just before noon?

> What do/say?

>>18968786
>Care to join me for the both of them?
Let's not quite yet. Give the new additions a few days of light flirting at least before we move into the actual sexings.

>>18968849
Thank her and ask her if she slept well, she seemed a bit stiff.

>>18968849
Amaryllis, did you sleep well. What tune are you humming anyways?

Strip and get into the bath.

Make some small talk, light flirting, ask her to wash our back.

Then ask about the possibility of meeting her father.

>>18968849
Remember to bring our awesome hat.

>>18968932
Pretty much this.

>>18968917
>>18968852

'The water's nice and warm?'

'Oh! Um, yes sir. Sorry, sir.'

'No need to apologise. Ease up a little.' You take off your clothes nonchalantly before her, and she shrinks away a little. Well, the water is a bit too hot. 'More cold water.'

'Yes, sir.' She watches as you soak and then looks down at her feet when you glance at her. She has lovely looking hands, pale and long-fingered - artist's hands, scholar's hands.

Well, you've got mainly the Parade on your plate, and then you have to invite people and entertain them. Of course, you can invite who you want; then again, it seems rather obvious if you only invite the Reds. It's probably best not to cultivate too deep a sense of dependence on them.

You then need to write that letter, and look out for more commercial opportunities. One day you need to start striking out and plotting stuff, actually...

You are snapped out of your thoughts by a pair of slender hands massaging your hands. You watch as she wriggles your fingers, then gives them a hard tug, with an audible krok. It hurts for a moment, and then feels much better.

'Parade's probably soon,' Amaryllis looks out. 'It's a nice day for parades.' You hear the drums already starting.

> What do?

>>18968965
>>18968932

'I'm sure he would be truly pleased to meet you too, sir. Maybe... you should choose the date, probably, and I'll tell him straightaway.'

Meanwhile you lean this way and that in the bath so she can scrub you with a loofa. You splash a little water on her, and she yelps before laughing. Then you hear a voice outside the bathroom.

'Sir, I take it you're wearing the pearl hat?' Always impeccable timing, Peony.

'Pearl hat, yes!'

> Incidentally, I've always imagined Peony with a voice like Rosamund Pike. Just saying.

>>18968990
I assume we can take all of our servants with us to the parade? We'll most likely have some sort of dias overlooking it, so we'll be seen up there, dressed nicely and surrounded by beautiful women, and with a strong arm or two at our beck and call... just the kind of person people will know to be powerful. And want to be friends with.

>>18968990

Enjoy attention, get dressed, go out, get bored.

Do we really really have to go, actually? I mean, I think we're on record as not liking this, right?

>>18968990
So it is, though I wonder if they have to be quite as loud as they always are, and thanks for the hand massage as well, it feels much better.

Finish washing up, get out of the bath, and get dressed. First write the letter to get the slaves transported, may as well get that out of the way early.

We should probably have all of our maids dress to the nines for this so when we're at the parade we're surrounded by a crowd of beautiful women, with Sadereg and Baseg in the back looking scary. We need to keep up appearances after all.

Well, there's no rush yet to decide on a date, but we'll put that up on our to-do list.

>>18969079
I like your style.

>>18968990

Actually, we should go ourselves, or with just one attendant, and then let the rest go to their things.

Peony has work to do. Maybe take Linden along, she'd amuse us best.

>>18969071
Let's bring... hmmm.

Peony, Linden, Rose, Lavender, Amaryllis, and Orchid?

That leaves three girls to attend our home quarters, and we will see how competent they are at doing so when we return.

Then obviously we take an entourage of guards, Baseg, and Sadereg.

>>18969106
>let the rest go to their things.

And then there's the voice of reason...

>>18969060
>>18969079
>>18969096

> Operation Impress dem Nobles is a go.

You get out of the bath and Amaryllis helps dry you and dress you up. Then Peony comes in, reading something. 'So, sir, who'll go with you?'

'The lot of you.'

'Sorry, sir?' Peony looks up.

'The lot of you. Including you. Well, choose two to stay behind. Get properly dressed.'

That happens a lot faster for servants than it does for you, so soon your entire entourage of maids, backed up by Baseg, Sadereg and the guards, make your way to the top of the viewing platform. All ten of them stand around you as you settle down in the seat; you can see Imian below, commanding the troops.

You are sitting mostly away from the rest of the nobles and dignitaries, but nonetheless highly visible with your entourage. The parade is just about started when a girl - oh, it's Cloudberry - comes up to you with a tray of tea.

'From the Premier Earl, your lordship,' she smiles. 'with his warmest regards.'

You turn around and nod at Gesadag. Come think of it, you could do this too, you've got the utensils. But is there anyone in particular you'd like to gift...

> If you'd like to search your memory for people you might remember, give a description. Most of the nobles and a lot of the merchants and cooperative leaders are here, so you'll see them if you remember to.

>>18969182

Maybe Chemeho. And then, to balance it, look for a leader of the Blues or something.

>>18969182
I'd rather prefer to use prostitutes we own (eventually) to do the 'gifting' rather than our attendants. These women will be privy to a lot of secrets and sending them out like common whores will doubtless do a number on their morale. I imagine Cloudberry is none too thrilled with the situation either.

Speaking of which, ask her to stay and pour us some tea. Make light conversation with her, letting her eventually broach the subject of meeting Gaesdag. Set a time convenient for him, as a show of us not having a super-huge head. Be nice, polite, and caring toward Cloudberry. Try to get her to talk to Rose, Linden, and Peony... maybe she'll hear some things about us that might enhance her already good opinion of us.

And that might be the first steps in recruiting her to our camp and/or getting a spy into Gaesdag's service. Especially if she doesn't like being used as a party favour.

>>18969247

... wait, what? We're sending them out to pour tea and maybe pass on a message. That's what attendants are for. I don't think Gesadag is actually giving Cloudberry to us for the day, as opposed to the tea...

I say we look for Chemeho. Also, look for any merchants we might recognise. Any leading merchants?

>>18969182
Chemeho, someone from the blues, the foreign merchant Naimir. Two or three of the more important merchants in the Convocation. We've got a large crowd of ladies with us, we may as well make use of them and deliver a few gifts. Use the ones we've known and had for longer for the Reds and the merchant we like more to give a subtle hint as to where we're currently leaning.

Invite Cloudberry to stay and pour us some tea, be polite and charming towards her, and try to get her to strike up conversations with those who've been with us longer to convince her of how kind and good we are to work for.

>>18969247
We don't have to send them as a gift themselves. We could send Peony with instructions that she has our leave to defend herself as needed if our intentions are misconstrued. Or even send Baeseg.

But I think we should give a gift to... hmmm. Chemho, maybe. Perhaps send a gift to that expert swordsman, whatshisname, also along with an invitation to come teach us swordplay. Getting someone with skills like his to train us would be a great investment in my opinion.

Also, perhaps a small gift to Angadis, Baron of Tali. It's an old, powerful house... and two of his family's daughters are being presented soon. One is a great beauty. Can't hurt to get him to like us some.

>>18969304
>Old, powerful house with a long tradition of propriety
>famously beautiful daughter
Fund it! Even despite her lower rank, a fine upbringing and great beauty could be an excellent concubine prospect. Maybe even a wife, depending on what she's like and what the competition is like.

>>18969304
>>18969272
>>18969247
>>18969271
>>18969207

> To clarify, this is definitely within the job description of an attendant, so don't worry. They go around pouring wine for everyone at a feast anyway, this is par for the course.

Cloudberry smiles as you drink the tea. 'Refreshing. Would you like to stay a while?'

'Oh, I'd love to, sir, but I have to attend...' she nods at Gesadag. Well, that figures. 'Also, his lordship would like to tell you that you have great taste in maids. And that if he can offer any help with the merchants, you can always ask him, sir.'

Huh. 'I'll keep that in mind.' With that, and slight reluctance, you led her go.

You then look around and see Chemeho with a cluster of Reds on one side. You send liquor to him, as well as the leader of the Blues, a tough-looking man named Karag, and also to Naimir and Angadis, Baron of Tali. You then sit back and receive one or two more gifts, some from cousins and some from merchants.

One girl, who is clearly a dancing girl from her build - slender and tensed, with a cute, almost feline face - comes to you and kneels. 'My master would like me to give you this, your lordship.' She then draws, from within her robe, a dagger in a sheath, with a jewelled hilt. Blimey, that made you jump for a moment.

> What do/say?

>>18969345
This is a princely gift your master sends. May I ask who he is and for your name?

You do also send a gift to Naimir, how could you forget him? You don't see Tihareg around, though. A butcher won't be at this parade...

Absent-mindedly, you take from your sleeve a copy of Linden's list of ladies, and scan it over. You don't even remember seeing some of the names of those ladies from looking at the family graphs, to be honest. Can't people keep track of their own houses? And yet they're there, indisputably...

'This needs more information,' you glance at Linden, who's just come back from Naimir. She sighs.

'Sorry, sir. I'll keep my eyes and ears out still. Some of these ladies might not even be able to come, depending on whether their fathers let them...'

Seriously.

>>18969345
>Dancing girl
>lithe and muscled, expert control of said muscles
>probably pretty familiar with daggers considering she had it hidden in her robe
Gentlemen, I think we might have found a connection.

>>18969390

... damn, you have a point. But wait, why reveal her to us immediately like this if she means to stab us? And who's trying to kill us?

Accept the gift with thanks. Ask who it's from.

>>18969345
Internal monologue: don't stab me bro!

"And who would your master be, that I may know to whom I send my regards?"

Gesadag is buttering us up. I want to know why. Perhaps send a gift to him as well. Actually, given his financial situation, a gift may be well-received.

Didn't we already request an audience with him? Or is it too soon?

>>18969389
Tell her that she has done well so far, and that we are pleased. There is simply so much to do...

Also, question this dancing girl about her master, and maybe send someone with a sharp mind back with her under the pretense of a return gift. You know, to scope him out and let him know that we know that he knows that we know that he knows.

You know?

>>18969418
It would almost certainly have to be Peony.


Lesin.

Is he here?

>>18969414
>>18969409
>>18969376

Gesadag has been treating you nicely for a long time, while remaining impervious to requests for audiences. You have been asking, but... nothing. Someone's playing a quiet game.

Meanwhile, you can't help but wonder who this dancing girl is. She bows. 'I am a dancing girl of the White Cooperative, your lordship. The Council has decided collectively to give you this gift... and also this missive.' Again she reaches into her robe, and takes out a small piece of paper.

You take it and open it, and raise an eyebrow.

'Please watch the Convocation closely; something seems afoot.'

Huh. You look up at the girl. She gives you an enticing, but also intense, look.

> What do/say?

>>18969418

So, send Peony to go to the Whites and poke around? Peony's seen the message too, standing behind you. You glance at her; she looks carefully nonchalant.

>>18969456

Yes, send Peony to go and have a look.

Ask the girl what sort of dance she dances, exactly. Show her we're on to her.

>>18969456
Isn't that interesting, something being afoot at the convocation, that's almost as strange as there being backstabbing in politics or water being wet. Don't say this out loud.

Thank her for the gift and ask if she would care to join us for a cup of tea. Nod to Peony for her to bring some liquor to the Whites and pick up what she can while we converse with the dancing girl. Ask her name.

Note, we are not sleeping with this woman, her loyalties lie in the complete other direction from us.

What do we know about the Whites other than they aren't dockworkers and they focus on masons and weavers.

>>18969456

thank the girl and offer some refreshments before she leaves. suggest we'd be interested in meeting her masters.

meanwhile, see if we can meet some major players in the convocation, and gauge their attitudes about the coming session.

>>18969494
Nod to the girl and say that we are interested in the proceedings, and, should the white corporation want, we could arrange to meet.

Send her back with a gift as well. She's smart enough to know what to do (poke around).

>The White Cooperative is one of the Cooperatives of Margade. Of the four, it is the only one whose main membership does not comprise dockworkers; rather it draws its main strength from the masons and weavers in the west of Margade.
>draws its main strength from the masons and weavers
>weavers

Remind Peony that we still need to set Ula up somewhere. That might be pushing it, though.

On what terms are the Reds and Whites? We're not going to be able to court them all.

>>18969553
>>18969583
>>18969579
>>18969562

Yeah, something's afoot at the Convocation. You could have figured that from just thinking about the Convocation. 'It's a short missive,' you say.

'It's all I was given, your lordship.'

Meanwhile you dispatch Peony with a return gift, and then ask her to take a seat and have some tea. The girl blinks, then agrees. 'What's your name?'

'Malachite, sir.'

'Hmm. And what sort of dance do you do?' You put the dagger down on the table quite openly, and she looks down. 'That sort of dance?'

'All sorts of dance, sir.'

You know the Whites are quite wealthy, and that they are on reasonable terms with the Reds. Certainly the two of them have a common enemy in the Blues; neither can match the Blues by themselves so they band together.

> More incoming.

>>18969579

Meanwhile your girls are coming back from the merchants. Naimir and two of his friends are grateful for your attention. Then Orchid produces a slip of paper from her sleeve. You see who it's from and blink; it's Lumuras, the leader of one of the largest merchant families in Margade.

'Sir, the Convocation is badly split these days. Partisanship would only drive it into ruin and partition. Please consider the greater situation, your lordship, and decide wisely.'

You don't even know what the conflict is, to be honest. You know it's between the foreigners and the established families, but... what?

> What do/say?

Malachite, after a drink, takes her leave. You look at the dagger. It is very nice. And then you notice something, a chip, near the tip of the blade. That's a signal, that - that violence appears to be impending.

Meanwhile the cheering reaches a climax as the charioteers finally start parading in. You can't really care less, and you're definitely not about to get to your feet for some bloody chariot drivers...

Orchid leans in beside you. 'Bored, sir?' You turn and see that her hair is properly done up, and she's sweating all over, poor dear.

Finally, in terms of meeting her masters, you can invite them to your house for a reception. That makes the Reds and the Whites - which is a good sized reception, really.

Gesadag knows what's up. He knows and he's not telling us.

We need to know.

Yes, we're bored, there are other things that need doing that we are not doing by being here.

Although this does present a great opportunity for setting us up to do things.

A reception with the Red/Whites may be a little too partisan.

Basically, I want to know what's up.

>>18969672
The chariot racing itself isn't all that interesting, but the politics behind the scenes are always quite interesting. All the secrets, people vying for favor and people trying to hint at how much they know without reveal what to actually know, far more fun than any chariot race possibly could be.

Given that the Red/Whites are friendly we should hold a reception for them both sometime real soon, I'm betting that the Blues are already supported by a number of other important people as well.

Tell Orchid that she looks lovely and we appreciate the pains she is going through in order to look her best for us.

>>18969707

Maybe we're going about this the wrong way. Instead of finding out, we should make things happen somehow.

I think we should invite the Reds instead of the Whites. It'd send a signal to the Whites that we don't care for the message. That might ruffle them a bit.

As for the Convocation, we simply have to wait till the lodge meeting tomorrow to learn, I guess. I'm sure something will be pushed at us then.

Gesadag suggested us for the convocation so that we start doing things, and so that he can get rich off of what we do.

Calling it now.

>>18969672

Turn round, wipe her sweat. 'A little. But interesting things are going on.'

We probably should invite both Reds and Whites. Then ask the White to elaborate in private.

The Convocation is divided in certain ways. Do they have any interest in the Prince's survival or something, if there's going to be a sign of violence?

We need to know things. The Whites are probably in one of the best places to tell us these things. And we are on decent terms with the Reds.

I think if we side with the Reds/Whites it would be better than with the Blues. We'll not be Blue enemies as such, we'll just favor the others. With our patronage they could prosper, and there's always more power in raising up underdogs than joining with an established power.

I think we desperately need to find out what the deal is with the merchants. Do we have ANY sources in the established guilds?

>>18969707
>>18969737
>>18969738
>>18969754
>>18969770
>>18969777

After everyone comes back, some with return gifts, you hear the cheering dying down. It's now when the singing and the entertainment starts.

You sigh and send everyone out to look at the merchants and scout out their mood, again leaving just Orchid to attend to you. This is weird. Peony's told you already that the merchants are clearly divided into two factions now - it's clear even from where they're sitting. But what would that have to do with violence? Surely they aren't going to kill each other to get their way?

Or maybe they mean violence towards someone else? You, your family? That'd be suicidal. Who, then...?

As you consider all this, you feel Orchid gently move your hand so she can pour tea for you. She's sitting in front of you now, focused on her task, and then she looks up at you. 'You all right, sir?'

You reach out to wipe her sweat, and she smiles and leans her face into your palm.

> What do/say?

>>18969777
but deciding too heavily in the red/white favor could make the blues/other guys strike. if they think all is lost, they won't hesitate to use violence.

no, i think we should try to transcend partisanship, or at worst mildly favor the whites/reds. and i mean mildly, not "here's the keys to the city, have fun" mildly.

then again, it could be inevitable, so perhaps supporting the reds/whites is best. either way, see Sadereg about some merc friends who won't mind being extra bodyguards or somesuch.

>>18969839
You act as if our siding with the Reds/Whites will suddenly tip the balance of power and send the Blues plunging into oblivion.

Hardly. We aren't that big a chip in the game, son. We won't send the Blues tumbling into oblivion simply by siding with their opponents. At least not immediately.

>>18969827
make conversation with both sides, both pleasantries and try to subtly dig to the bottom of the problem.

>>18969827
I'm doing just fine, just thinking about politics. There are things I don't know and that is not a good thing.

The convocation is split down the middle and I'm going to have to avoid partisanship, keep them from each other's throats and there is clearly something nasty brewing that I'm going to have to head off.

Don't worry about me Orchid, I chose to get involved in this. It's great fun once you get used to it. You look tired, please sit down for a bit, you deserve a rest.

>>18969827
Ask Orchid if she overheard anything about the merchants while in Martha's service. Perhaps from one of our brothers...?

>>18969904
Let's not so clearly state our plans in the middle of a crowded place where there could be spies listening... to a girl whom we have only known for a few days. If it were Peony, Rose, or Linden things would be different. But Orchid is not even technically in our service for more than a bit!

We trust Martha, but she might have had spies planted among her servants by others who don't. And Orchid could, technically, be one of those.

>>18969924
I clearly need some more sleep, I got Orchid and Linden mixed up. Yeah, tell her that it's just been a long day and nix telling her everything, still make sure she's feeling ok.

>>18969906
>>18969904
>>18969886
>>18969881
>>18969839

> Okay, this is the last post for today. It's 4am here now.

You smile and pat Orchid's head carefully, so you don't mess up her hair. 'You've done well. Go relax. It's really hot.'

She retreats behind you, and you think this over. You are going to invite the Reds and the Whites to your reception, and then see what they have to say. Just then, though, Rose comes back from Chemeho with a bamboo chit, saying simply 'Access'.

'He says it's a special pass, sir. You may eat and drink free at any establishment owned by the Reds.' That is... quite the privilege, you figure.

You think through everything you know about again. The Convocation, split, neither side having talked to you yet. Katesas and his merchant target, clamouring to join the Convocation, willing to do anything for the protection. The cooperatives, never friends with merchants, wary and at each other's throats. You ask Orchid about the merchants, and she thinks for a while.

'I remember the Second Earl always talking about how the foreigners swindle him, and how he'd have them out of the city.' She scratches her head. 'Nothing else, sir. Oh no, there's something else. The Fourth Earl was talking about something... building something.'

'Building? Building what?'

'I don't know, sir, sorry. Just heard about building, and how it's a big project.'

You have no damned clue. Looks like you'll have to go about this the way you went about things in the south, slowly and carefully...

> What do? I'm off to bed but will note suggestions. Next session is probably on Sunday. Thanks guys for playing, you're awesome.

>>18969973

That Beribo person seems like the key to this conflict for some reason. Shit.

>>18969973
No, you're awesome.

We'll want to direct more resources towards finding out what in hell 4th is up to, honestly he seems like more trouble than 2nd.

2nd is in opposition to the foreigners and probably has his support behind that part of merchants and convocation. Not all that big a deal we don't get along anyway and we have more direct control over the convocation being the monitor, we can hopefully get something non-partisan going.

We're going to have to hunt people down and talk to them, the Convocation doesn't seem to realize we're in charge of this mess and Gesadag is very politely avoid meeting us. He's probably the most dangerous person we have to deal with.

For the Cooperatives we'll be making good friends with the Reds and Whites, but trying not to piss off the Blues.

Given how much the Whites are into masonry they ought to know more about what #4 is up to with building something.

This seems like a good time to get started on Beribo, he might be connected to more than we though and we have to take him down anyway. Find a nice courtesan through Ula and fob her off on him as a widow or something like that, we'll deal with his entrance to the convocation, get the truth out about his marriage and at that point we might even be able to kill him and make it look like a believable suicide.

how about we start training our maids to fight?

>>18970123
Some amount of self defense, makes sense. We should be able to do that easily, there are a number of sword fighter teachers in the Palace.

If you're thinking of making an assassin maid hit squad that seems outside the expertise of pretty much all of our maids and seems a bit silly.

If we need someone stabbed then we'll use Katesas, his men and Sadereg.

not a hit squad

well, maybe train them hard but not use them for fighting.
train them very vigorously in different things. martial arts, archery, knife wielding , whatever so they can last together if they wind up in a battle

>>18970123
Largely pointless, in my opinion. A few basic moves wouldn't hurt in case they get into a tight spot, but maids have a role and combat isn't part of it. We have non-maid servitors for fighting, or should. Further, they have numerous duties which require their time in order to productively expand our influence, and learning to be good at fighting is a full-time profession.

Women and China means assassinations (and backdoor manipulation). Poisons, knives, throats. You know, stuff a rogue would do. Seriously, fellow questers, think a little bit more subtly!

Building? Probably a temple. Maybe a dock, but probably not. A wall? Symbolic, but that's stretching it.

The separation... probably "foreigners" and "non-foreigners." Blues siding with the non-foreigners, and the Second Earl (along with possibly Father) siding with them too. The others siding with the foreigners, or, at least, against the blues (and against exlusionism).

As far as economic policies go, more trade is good (since that's what Margade and the East Lake are about, in large part), but we want it to be in our favor.

Some time ago (like, the first thread), there was a mention about merchants not paying taxes. We should look into that. If the Blues and non-foreigners are dodging taxes, this makes it easy. If the foreigners are dodging taxes, that forces our hand against the Anti-Blues.

>it has come to the attention of the Court that several men - small-time itinerant merchants - have been arrested for refusing to pay the tolls to enter the town's gates, and use the town's roads, and set up in the town's market, and sell stuff in the town, and this and that.
>itinerant merchants

If I recall correctly, the matter was investigated, and some people were publicly flogged.

I want to know more about this matter, since it seems very relevant all of a sudden.

>>18971280

Maybe building is some project someone has? Also, I'm for siding with the outsiders as well, but we have to be careful. Our father probably comes down on the side of the locals.