>>489435
>>"Yes, send all the invitations out. I'd like one more meeting."

File: BeleaguredMap (WIP)0004.jpg..jpg (262 KB, 1825x1332)

262 KB JPG

>>489435
>"Yes, send all the invitations out. I'd like one more meeting."

Also I noticed you refereed to Delyth, Eleri, and Esyllt as consorts instead of concubines.

Reposting map as well.

>>489435
>"Yes, send all the invitations out. I'd like one more meeting."

>>489435
>>"Yes, send all the invitations out. I'd like one more meeting."

File: Nesta4.jpg (187 KB, 1280x1024)

187 KB JPG

>>489435
"Yes, send all the invitations out," you say. "I'd like to have one more conversation before making things final."

"I'll find you a private room away from whichever revellers come by for a second round," Myrddin says. "I'd assume the worst ones still haven't recovered from yesterday's feast, but you never know."

"I expect we'll have a second meeting in my study afterward," you say. "There's still the matter of the principality to consider as well as… other things."

Other things which you will not mention at the moment, because they're your brother's problems for now.

"Of course, your highness," Myrddin says. "I'll see to it."

"Thank you, Myrddin," you say. "As always."

With that out of the way, it's time for you to greet your brother. You don't like leaving your concubines alone so soon, but Olwen and Reagan are spending time with them, and you do need to congratulate your brother.

The guests are trickling in at a faster paste now that it's slightly later in the day, and you try to sidestep as many as you can in the interest of time. Those you can't ignore are easily distracted by some polite towards and a glass of wine.

Your family is in the main hall, with Prince Haul and his wife Mair now sitting in the spot usually reserved for your parents. You have no idea whether or not it's proper, but it hardly matters on their wedding days.

"I am moved, brother," your sister Nesta says while clenching her fist to properly express just how deeply moved she is. "I can already see the dignity of your new responsibilities upon your features. Know that I will exert myself to the outmost so as to not fail you! So long as I draw breath, our armies shall not be allowed to fall!"

That's a tough performance to follow. You probably won't bother.

>[Dilettante/Autosucess] "Hello, brother. Did you enjoy the wedding night?"
>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Greetings, your highness. Congratulations are in order for your wedding."

>>489529
>>[Dilettante/Autosucess] "Hello, brother. Did you enjoy the wedding night?"

>>489529

>[Dilettante/Autosucess] "Hello, brother. Did you enjoy the wedding night?"

>>489529
>"Hello, brother. Did you enjoy the wedding night?"

>>489529
>paste
woah, must've been quite a lot of drinking they did before they got here

>>489529
>>[Dilettante/Autosucess] "Hello, brother. Did you enjoy the wedding night?"

>>489529
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Greetings, your highness. Congratulations are in order for your wedding."

File: Haul3.jpg (90 KB, 250x308)

90 KB JPG

>>489529
"Hello, brother. Did you enjoy your wedding night?"

Prince Haul frowns slightly, while Mair blushes bright red.

"Procreation is a sacred act Meirion, especially for those in our position," Haul says. "You shouldn't make light of it."

Huh. You and Olwen have definitely been doing something wrong then.

"However, I suppose it was… enjoyable."

Mair is now getting even redder. You wonder if she even has blood going through the rest of her body. She averts her eyes and nods, mumbling something under her breath. Agreeing with him, presumably.

"I look forward to meeting all my nieces and nephews, brother," Nesta says, "so please work hard!"

And now Mair looks like she's about to pass out, and even Haul is looking a little hot around the collar.

>"I agree with our sister. You'll need an heir soon."
>"There's no rush for children. Father is still hale and hearty."
>"Mother will want grandchildren."

>>489651
>>"There's no rush for children. Father is still hale and hearty."

>>489651
>>"I agree with our sister. You'll need an heir soon."
>"Mother will want grandchildren."
>Lot of them, likely from all three of us.

>>489651
>>"Mother will want grandchildren."

>>489651
>>"Mother will want grandchildren."
"Probably from all three of us."

>>489651
>>"Mother will want grandchildren."

File: Margrete6.png (464 KB, 2274x1894)

464 KB PNG

>>489651
"Mother will want grandchildren, after all."

"Spoiling babies is so much fun," Queen Margrete says, "especially when they're not your own."

You have an absolutely terrible feeling about this. Come to think of it, you'll have to discuss this later as well.

That's getting ahead of yourself though.

"In that case, I'll try hard to meet your expectations, mother," Prince Haul says. "So long as I don't have some pressing issue to deal with. The kingdom is never truly at peace."

It gets pretty damn close though, especially when you're in the mood to kill something.

You linger to talk a little and hear rumours of some of the guests. Nesta hasn't been courted by anyone, although she may simply have been oblivious to it, and your mother makes no implications that someone needs to be dealt with, so that's one burden off your mind. You may need to put some effort into setting Nesta up in the relatively close future, but your current thoughts are dominated by your own prospects. Nesta can have her armies a little while longer.

Speaking of prospects, you need to decide who you're going to invite to the meeting. There won't be enough seats for all your concubines, unfortunately, but you might invite Reagan, since you've chosen her as your legal wife. You could invite Olwen as well, although it might imply that you're placing her above your concubines.

>Go to the meeting alone. You can handle this yourself.
>Bring Reagan.
>Bring Olwen.
>Bring Olwen and Reagan.

>>489779
>It gets pretty damn close though, especially when you're in the mood to kill something
Truth, nothing is scarier than Merion in the mood to scorch the earth, burn the seas and scorch the skies.

>>489779
>Go to the meeting alone. You can handle this yourself.

>>489779
>Go to the meeting alone. You can handle this yourself.

>>489779
>>Go to the meeting alone. You can handle this yourself.

>>489779
>Bring Reagan
She's actually super helpful in these situations

>>489779
>Bring Reagan

Lets bring her along.

changing to

>Bring Reagan

>>489779
>Bring Reagan
She's taking our name, let's be nice to her and include her.

We should allow Regan to choose. She will be the wife. So she needs to get to know then and she is also good at scheaming.

File: Reagan10.jpg (66 KB, 1280x720)

66 KB JPG

>>489779
You decide to bring Reagan. It could be construed as improper to invite Olwen and not your concubines, but Reagan is to be your legal wife and her position as Princess of Olstren comes with… complications that need to be considered. Delyth, Esyllt and Eleri shouldn't feel slighted.

It's unlikely they'd feel slighted either way, but you'd rather not take any chances with this.

It takes some searching, but you eventually come across the ladies in Olwen's chambers. You can't hear what they're talking about through the door, but paranoia - and probability - dictates it has something to do with you. You knock on the door and Olwen lets you in.

"Hello, your highness," she says. "Come to ruin us for marriage? Again, I mean?"

"Actually, I just came to borrow Reagan," you say. "I decided to choose a second consort as soon as possible, and I'd like her to accompany me."

"That would be proper, your highness," Reagan says. "Although I'm sure the rest of your lovers will be suitably jealous."

"If such excites your highness." Olwen smiles and curtsies to Reagan.

"I don't really mind," Esyllt says. "I suppose I would prefer Ceri but since we already do business together, it might be unnecessary."

"Actually, I've been wondering how your highness would like to handle to… rooming arrangements," Eleri says. "It feels odd to ask, but will we have our own chambers, or…"

"I can find some guest rooms for you, if you'd like," you say. "I don't expect to stay in Aurwain much longer."

"Looking for a principality already?" Olwen asks. "You're moving quite quickly."

>"Reagan's situation is a bit pressing."
>"I'd like to expand my base as quickly as possible."
>"You all deserve the best home I can manage, at least."

>>489917
>"Reagan's situation is a bit pressing."
>"You all deserve the best home I can manage, at least."

Lead with first part and then note we just want them to have to move once and they can be involved in the process of selecting/arranging the residence.

>>489917
>>"You all deserve the best home I can manage, at least."

>>489917
Seconding this >>489932. It's a nice sentiment.

>>489932
this

>>489917
>>489932
this works

File: Olwen1.jpg (647 KB, 1011x1318)

647 KB JPG

>>489917
"Reagan's situation is a bit pressing."

"I've heard a little about it," Eleri says. "Do you really intend to go to war with Olstren? I must admit, the thought is quite romantic, but there's a sad difference between life and stories."

"I've waged wars of varying sizes against Olstren, Svekka and Rosea," you say. "One more won't make much of a difference, so long as I prepare. Besides, even without Olstren, you all deserve the best home I can manage."

"Yes, I always wanted a home that could repel an army of thousands," Olwen snarks, "and a staff recruited from spies and assassins."

"I'd like a shrine to tend to," Delyth says, "if you can manage it."

"I'm glad to take requests, but we may need to take stock of the lands first, see what's needed," you say. "All of which is for later. If you would accompany me, Princess Reagan?"

"I would be happy to, your highness."

You take you're time so you don't get there too early; no point in wasting time in an empty room.

Myrddin has prepared a small reception somewhere out of the way. You raise your hand to stall your guests before they can stand.

"No need to stand on ceremony," you say. "We're all likely to embarrass ourselves before the night is over, if the wine is as good as it was yesterday."

Mererid, Seren, Ceri and Rhonwen are all there, sitting at the table.

"I still feel obliged to thank your highness for your interest," Ceri says. "It's made things much - and more profitable - for my family these last few days."

"I'm glad to be of help." You pull a chair for Reagan. "Now, let's see what the chef has prepared."

>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their House's plans.
>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their desires for the kingdom.
>[Dilettante/1d8] Ask about their own dreams.

>>490021
>>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their House's plans.

>>490021
>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their House's plans.
>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their desires for the kingdom.

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>490021
>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their House's plans.

I hope everyone is gearing up to do a perfect 50/50 vote split.

>>490021
>>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their House's plans.

>>490021
>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their desires for the kingdom.

>>490057
At least it will be exciting.

>>490021
>>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask about their House's plans.

Who Team Ceri here?

>>490057
List both then anon

File: Meirion2.png (163 KB, 500x281)

163 KB PNG

>>490021
You decide to start with their Houses' plans. That's the most likely sort of conflict, if there is any, so it seems like a good start.

"The King plans to rule a while longer," you say, "but the Crown Prince will be receiving more and more authority in the near future. I was wondering if your Houses were making plans."

>Roll 1d10, best of three.

Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>490084

Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>490084

Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>490084

>>490076
Rhonwen here because I think we should have someone covering for our major weak points. Also her family is one we have the least relation with, so I think we get the most political power from the relationship, while we don't stand to lose a lot with the other girls if we don't pick them.

Ceri is already massively indebted to us and the reverse against our uncle. We also have additional pull on her through Esyllt and her political power is by far the weakest. I don't dislike her, but I don't think she provides us a significant advantage past what we can already get from her. She needs us.

If we could 50/50 and tick off Myrddin again, I'd go with Seren as a third for her territorial location alone. She is well-disposed to us, but it'd be a plus. Mererid is a vassal of Olwen's family if I remember correctly, so like Ceri I think we already can get a fair amount out of her.

>>490082
I mean for when we pick the consort.

File: Ceri2.jpg (54 KB, 320x480)

54 KB JPG

>>490084
"Moneylending, mostly," Ceri says. "Just so we can increase our funds little by little. If we can manage it, my father would like to buy some better lands, but we've stopped taking loans for the foreseeable future. We don't want to get caught again."

It would take generations for them to re-establish themselves at that rate, but it isn't impossible to accelerate things, if they get a few lucky breaks.

"We just want to keep working on our experiments." Rhonwen covers up a yet and slowly nibs at her plate. "We do need coin, but we're not that interested in alliances or land. It isn't like we have much to offer anyway."

That does fit your previous impression of Rhonwen and House Cysgod. They'll rise to prominence if their work pays off, but they don't have much in terms of immediate resources or long-term ambitions. Still, a scholar's work is respectable.

"We're always looking to expand," Seren says. "More alchemical reagents, more clients, more money, more everything. We're hoping to expand our trade with Parlan, perhaps even expand into Olstren."

Either of which you could facilitate, if it suits you, though Olstren would obviously require more work.

"House Hirbraich simply wishes to continue its service to House Vaughan," Mererid says. "Since Vaughan reduced our taxes, we're thinking of using the extra coin to produce more weapons and defenses for our reserves, just in case something happens, or we need something to sell in an emergency. We haven't made any final decisions though."

It seems Olwen's father passed down the tax break you gave him. It probably doesn't amount to much for his vassal Houses, but every little bit helps. As for House Hirbraich's reserves, you could probably put them to good use.

>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about going to war.
>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about Olstren specifically.
>[Sovereign/1d10] Ask more about what they would do with spare land.

>>490139
>>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about Olstren specifically.

>>490139
>>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about Olstren specifically.

>>490139
>>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about Olstren specifically.

>>490139
>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about Olstren specifically.

In particular, who is even near Olstren specifically besides Seren? (I'm also curious as to where Olwen's lands are on the topic of consort territories)

>>490139
>[Intrigue/1d10] See how they feel about Olstren specifically.

File: Meirion8.jpg (64 KB, 500x479)

64 KB JPG

>>490139
You have a little more to go on, but your future lies with Olstren now, one way or another - probably another - and you should check on that. Seren's answer goes without saying, but not the others.

"I'm sure you'll manage fine," you say. "My brother's ascension will create new opportunities for all of us. Myself, I'm turning an eye towards Olstren. It seems underutilized, especially for naval trade through the coast."

>Roll 1d10, best of three.

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>490236

Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>490236

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>490236

>>490239
nice

File: Rhonwen6.jpg (50 KB, 1280x720)

50 KB JPG

>>490236
"My family's holdings - such as they are - are in the East," Rhonwen says. "And we don't bother much with Rosea, to be honest. Most of our trade is with Parlan."

Which would put her on the very large island of Eastern Gwyrddarfordir. Not ideal, perhaps, but you do have some options in the region.

"Forgive me, your highness," Seren says, speaking to Reagan rather than you, "but we've had numerous conflicts of varying intensity with Olstren in the past. However, I know my father would dearly like a steadier relationship between our territories. It would be profitable for both of us, I think."

Reagan smiles behind her wine glass. "Of course, Lady Seren," she says. "I've often spoken with Prince Meirion to end hostilities between our peoples."

"I do have a few personal investments going through Olstren," Ceri says. "It isn't much, but I'm a merchant. I'm always looking for more."

"We've fought Svekka more than Olstren, since we're almost directly north of Aurwain," Mererid says, "but Olstren's not so far from our territories that we can't keep an eye on it. We simply never needed to."

>That's everything you need to know.
>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

>You have an active crit on your next roll.

>>490266
>>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

>>490266
>>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

>>490266
>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

>>490266
>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

Somewhat hesitant, but don't want to ignore her.

>>490266
>>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

>>490266
>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

>>490266
>>[Intrigue/1d12] See if you can find out who Reagan prefers.

File: Reagan5.jpg (7 KB, 299x169)

7 KB JPG

>>490266
You look at Reagan out of the corner of your eye. You can't ask for her opinion at the moment without seeming rude, but you should still be able to tell who she's most interested in.

>Roll 1d12, best of three.

Rolled 10 (1d12)

>>490310

Rolled 7 (1d12)

>>490310

Rolled 8 (1d12)

>>490310

Rolled 10 (1d12)

>>490310

File: Reagan8.jpg (59 KB, 1280x720)

59 KB JPG

>>490310
Reagan catches your gaze. Her eyes briefly flicker to Seren, Rhonwen and Ceri, in that order. It doesn't really narrow things down much, but it at least lets you know her preference. Seren's territory is already close to Olstren, Rhonwen has two skills you lack, and Ceri has connections and a head for money. Mererid, on the other hand, is a little too far away, she's already Olwen's vassals, and you already have Olwen and Delyth as military advisors.

Still, Mererid does have some advantages going for her.

File: Mererid 9.png (103 KB, 640x1220)

103 KB PNG

>>490341
Mererid auk Hirbraich is a vassal of your current consort Olwen, and an expert in military enchantments. Her family's holdings are north of Aurwain, just a short distance away from the Svekkan border. You have military advisors aplenty, but you are lacking when it comes to arcane knowledge, and her more innovative work may prove useful to you, if you can fund it.

File: Rhonwen1.jpg (45 KB, 500x281)

45 KB JPG

>>490349
Rhonwen auk Cysgod seems to dislike affairs of court, but she is a master of arcane alchemy and enchantment. She has expressed a desire to develop more reliable methods of transportation, which would likely revolutionize trade across the kingdom… if her experiments bear fruit, which would require a great deal of time, effort and, as always, money.

File: Seren3.png (189 KB, 671x382)

189 KB PNG

>>490356
Seren auk Caunys is a respected merchant of alchemy. Her family holds lands close to the Olstren border, not too far from Mynydffern. More money for your coffer wouldn't go amiss, no matter how much you can get your hands on thanks to your relationship with Esyllt, and her knowledge of alchemy would shore up one of your weaknesses.

File: Ceri4.png (1.09 MB, 1680x945)

1.09 MB PNG

>>490359
Ceri auk Haearnty's family was nearly abolished, although you were able to recover their seal and provide some token lands for them in order to maintain appearances of nobility. Despite how tenuous her status is, she is familiar with the culture and gossip of the kingdom, and her skills as a merchant have allowed her to gather a respectable amount of coin.

File: Meirion7.jpg (45 KB, 640x360)

45 KB JPG

>>490367
Those are your choices. According to your discussions with Myrddin, you can devote time and effort to one more consort. The choice is yours.

>Ceri
>Mererid
>Rhonwen
>Seren

>>490375
>Rhonwen

>>490375
>Rhonwen

>>490375
>>Seren

>>490375
>Seren

>>490375
>>Mererid

>>490375
>>Rhonwen

>>490375
>Seren

>>490375
>Seren

>>490375
>Rhonwen

>>490375
>Seren
changing my vote

>>490375
Rhonwen

>>490375
>Seren

>>490375
>Seren

>>490375
Rhonwen

Cutting off the vote to count now.

>>490384
>>490385
>>490392
>>490399
>>490403
>>490442
Rhonwen

>>490386
>>490387
>>490393
>>490394
>>490400
>>490407
>>490433
Seren

Looks like Seren wins by 1. I'll recheck the votes just in case after posting.

File: Seren1.jpg (37 KB, 225x350)

37 KB JPG

>>490375
You'll make the offer to Seren and see if she accepts. You doubt she'll refuse but you have no intention of forcing her.

Dinner continues rather quickly; your guests are in a hurry to join the still-going celebrations. After the servants clear the plates, you and Reagan stay behind to talk.

"Who did you choose?"

"Seren," you answer. "I need an alchemist, and I need money. Besides, I thought you would appreciate the gesture."

"It would be convenient," Reagan says, "to have someone so close to home. You'll speak with her then?"

"As soon as I can," you say. "Then we can all get together and finalize some of the details."

The principality, as well as a few other matters you know will be important. You'll need Reagan, your consorts, and your concubines there, as well as Myrddin, since he's your advisor. The only question is whether or not you'll invite your mother as well.

>Bring Queen Margrete to the meeting.
>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

>>490464
>>This isn't something she needs to worry about.
Someone needs to handle dad while we're busy.

>>490464
>>Bring Queen Margrete to the meeting.
as is she not going to rock up somewhow

>>490464
>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

>>490464
>>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

>>490464
>>Bring Queen Margrete to the meeting

>>490464
>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

>>490464
>>Bring Queen Margrete to the meeting.

>>490464
>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

>>490464
>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

We can talk to her later, but don't want to give too much impression of her being the power behind us.

>>490491
but she is
and so is the spy master

>>490464
>This isn't something she needs to worry about.

File: Seren6.png (55 KB, 203x248)

55 KB PNG

>>490464
This isn't something the Queen needs to be bothered with. Getting your father to agree to whatever you plan is, but this isn't.

"I need to speak with Seren now," you say. "Would you like to join me?"

"As tempted as I am to show myself off hanging from your arm," Reagan says, "a few more days of subtlety would be better. Besides, I still need to acquaint myself with some of Myrddin's notes."

You nod and let her go on her way while you head to the celebrations.

Revellers are drinking and dancing - sometimes both - under the gaze of your brother and his wife, while your parents are speaking with some of their old acquaintances. You move through the crowd, exchanging greetings with people you know and people you barely remember. It's a careful balancing act, so that you can stumble across Seren while she's alone.

"Lady Seren," you accost her, "I was hoping we could speak again in private, if you don't mind."

"It would be my pleasure, your highness."

You take her arm and bring out of the palace and into the gardens until you finally find a quiet spot.

>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."
>"I would like you to become my second consort."

>>490519
>>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."

>>490519
>>"I would like you to become my second consort."

>>490519
>Kiss her

>>490519
>>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."

>>490519
>>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."

>>490519
>>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."

>>490519
>"I would like you to become my second consort."

>>490519
>>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."

>>490519
>"I have a plan that will benefit your house, if you'll agree."

File: Meirion.jpg (111 KB, 1280x720)

111 KB JPG

>>490519
"I have a plan that will benefit your House," you say, "if you'll agree."

"Oh?" Seren looks up brightly. "Did you discuss a treaty with Princess Reagan?"

"Of a sort," you say. "We've decided to get married. If you're willing to become my second consort, I can ensure that your family will be richly rewarded for any assistance it might provide."

"Eh?" Seren stares at you blankly, and her face slowly turns bright red. "That's - Yes! - I mean." She takes a moment to compose herself and clear her throat. "That is to say, I gladly accept your offer, your highness. I believe we should discuss the matter of tribute next?"

"You recovered from that quickly."

"I am a daughter of nobility, your highness," Seren says, "and my family deals in quite a bit of negotiation. It would be unbecoming if I embarrassed myself… much."

As Seren says, her House now pays taxes to you instead of the Crown. You allowed House Vaughan to pay half their usual rate, but they're significantly wealthier than House Caunys, which is an argument both for and against waiving Caunys' tribute, depending on how you look at it.

>[Sovereign/1d12] "I'm afraid I'll need your full tax rate for the time being."
>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."
>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "I have no need for tribute. Your family can put it to better use than I."

>>490570
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

>>490570
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

>>490570
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "I have no need for tribute. Your family can put it to better use than I."

>>490570
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

>>490570
>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

>>490570
>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "I have no need for tribute. Your family can put it to better use than I."

>>490570
>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

>>490570
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

>>490570
>>[Sovereign/Autosuccess] "Fair is fair. You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

File: Meirion6.png (541 KB, 600x800)

541 KB PNG

>>490570
"Fair is fair," you say. "You can halve your taxes, same as House Vaughan."

"My father will be quite pleased to learn that," Seren says. "Should we, ah, start now? I mean, back at your chambers. I'm ready if you want."

"There are still some things we need to discuss," you say. "I'm having a bit of an informal meeting to discuss the matter of my principality, now that the Crown Prince is married. As my consort, you obviously have the right to attend."

"Of course, your highness."

You take Seren's hand this time - it's a little more personal - and bring her to your study.

The room is a mess. Books, scrolls and ledgers are piled haphazardly on top of a map of the kingdom. Esyllt and Olwen are pouring over it, explaining some of the finer points of trade and politics to Eleri, while Delyth and Reagan are discussing the border with Olstren. The conversations stop when you arrive, and you take a seat between Myrddin and Reagan.

"Thank you for choosing to support me on this endeavour," you say. "I assume you're aware that I've chosen to claim a city as my principality. I'd like to go over our options."

Each city can generate XP for all your skills at the end of each thread. This works in reverse of levels; if a city's focus on an ability is undeveloped, you'll roll 1d12, but if it is developed, you can roll up to 1d4 to get more XP. This doesn't generate crits, and you can choose to roll bigger die to increase your chances of getting any amount of XP. Delyth doesn't give a bonus to your skills, but her presence increases by one rank the die you can roll in Military and Dilettante.

File: Cyfoethmor.jpg (166 KB, 1280x720)

166 KB JPG

>>490622
Cyfoethmor is the third largest city in Gwyrddarfordir with a population just below 25 000, and is the unofficial capital of "Eastern Gwyrddarfordir," the part of the kingdom that's cut off by the North Sea. It benefits from naval trade with Parlan and Gael, as well as land routes to Rosea and Ailgiat. The royal family has historically ruled it with a light touch because of its isolation from the rest of the kingdom, but the threat of Rosean conquest keeps the city loyal. It is far from both the intrigues of your uncle and the armies of Olstren, which is both and advantage and a disadvantage, depending on how much safety you want and how involved you want to be with current affairs.

Sovereign 1d8, Military 1d10, Intrigue 1d12, Merchant, 1d10, Dilettante 1d12, Enchantment 1d12, Alchemy 1d12.

File: Mynydffern.jpg (192 KB, 1280x720)

192 KB JPG

>>490633
Mynydffern is a port city on the west coast, not far from the border with Olstren. Its population numbers slightly less than 20 000. Most of your trade with Vitland goes through there, and there are roads connecting it to the heart of the kingdom. Its position close to Olstren is most relevant to you from a military perspective; you can use it to invade Olstren and keep your armies supplied.

Sovereign 1d10, Military 1d10, Intrigue 1d12, Merchant, 1d10, Dilettante 1d12, Enchantment 1d12, Alchemy 1d12.

File: Unfedgiat.jpg (183 KB, 1280x720)

183 KB JPG

>>490635
Unfedgiat, the First Gate, is a major port city on the western shore of the North River, near the Svekkan border. Its population is a little under 15 000 people. It levies taxes from Svekkan merchant ships and conducts some Gwyrrden trade as well, as it is connected to the bulk of the kingdom. If the current conflict in Svekka goes well in favour of the merchant class, the city is certain to become even more prosperous. That is beyond your control, however.

Sovereign 1d12, Military 1d10, Intrigue 1d12, Merchant, 1d10, Dilettante 1d12, Enchantment 1d12, Alchemy 1d12.

File: Ailgiat.png (1.99 MB, 1167x810)

1.99 MB PNG

>>490638
Ailgiat, the Second Gate, is Unfedgiat's twin, located on the eastern shore of the North River and has a population slightly greater than 13 000. It sees traffic from Rosea and connects to Cyfoethmor, but because it is part of Eastern Gwyrddarfordir, its markets are smaller. The city is garrisoned to defend itself against Rosea, although that doesn't seem like an issue at the moment. The city is prosperous, but its only use to you, given your ties to Olstren, are its distance and isolation. In that regard, it is much like Cyfoethmor.

Sovereign 1d12, Military 1d10, Intrigue 1d12, Merchant, 1d10, Dilettante 1d12, Enchantment 1d12, Alchemy 1d12.

File: Degfford.jpg (147 KB, 1280x720)

147 KB JPG

>>490638
Degfford barely qualifies as a city; its population is a little over 9 000, and it is only noteworthy because of its vineyards. It was a bit of a hobby of Queen Margrete, although she had to return to Vitland before much came of it. Degfford's central location could make it an important crossroad of trade between Aurwain, Duwcan, Cyfoethmor, Olstren and Svekka, but the amount of work required would be significant, and the city would be vulnerable until it was done. Still, it is the best option if you wish to leave your mark somewhere.

Sovereign 1d12, Military 1d12, Intrigue 1d12, Merchant, 1d12, Dilettante 1d12, Enchantment 1d12, Alchemy 1d12.

>>490622
>Degfford
i pick you
alot easyer to mold to what we want but its going to need some sweet tlc
Cyfoethmor sounds like a good choice right away but i dont know how muhc we could do to change much of it to suite us

>>490646
>Degfford

Oh, are we voting now? I was still waiting for something lol

>>490635
>Mynydffern
Sounds good to me.

>>490622
>Mynydffern

File: Myrddin7.jpg (34 KB, 1280x720)

34 KB JPG

>>490644
There are no cities to match Aurwain, obviously, although with time, the benefits and resources they offer will undoubtedly improve. You just need to put the right amount of effort into it.

"I can see arguments for Mynydffern, Degfford or Unfedgiat," Olwen says. "Eastern Gwyrddarfordir is simply too isolated."

"Cyfoethmor or Ailgiat would grant his highness more independence, though," Delyth says. "And Olstren wouldn't be able to retaliate against him."

"I must admit," Reagan says, "I would be disappointed if the Victorious Prince ran away to the other side of the continent to avoid Olstren."

"Mynydffern and Degfford are closest to my family's lands," Seren says. "That might make things easier."

"Every choice has advantages and disadvantages," Myrddin says. "Really, it's a question of which challenge his highness would prefer."

>"Cyfoethmor. It's too big a prize to pass up."
>"Mynydffern. The position is perfect."
>"Unfedgiat. It's wealthy enough."
>"Ailgiat. It's wealthy and far."
>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

>>490646
>Degofford
It's a nice central location and staging point for campaigns into Olstren and potentially Svekka, should we desire to.

>>490622
>Mynydffern
seems good

>>490661
>>"Degfford. I can make it my own."
woops did we vote a bit too early?

>>490661
>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

>>490661
>>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

>>490661
>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

>>490665
Tad bit, yeah. I didn't get around to prewriting the actual choice post, so I had to finish it up.

>>490661
>"Mynydffern. The position is perfect."

>>490661
>>"Degfford. I can make it my own."
Because mom likes it there.

>>490669
ok i was waiting a bit wasn't too sure
but hay i made it for the actual voting
>>490675
not just that but the partys and wine
a5lso the girls want alot of house planing

>>490661
>>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

>>490661
>>"Mynydffern. The position is perfect."

>>490661
>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

>>490661
>>"Degfford. I can make it my own."

File: Olwen6.jpg (8 KB, 300x168)

8 KB JPG

>>490661
"Degfford," you say. "I can make it my own."

The location isn't bad, and you can develop it to your - and your consorts' and concubines' - liking. Sure, it'll be a challenge, but it's not like you've ever backed away from one of those."

"Very well, your highness," Myrddin says. "I'll prepare any relevant documents before our departure."

"And I'll speak with my father tomorrow or the day after," you say. "With that settled, let's move on to the next topic."

"Was there something else, your highness?" Eleri asks.

You ponder for a moment how you're going to go about this. Bluntness seems like the best approach; it's not like hesitating will make it easier.

"I'm going to need an heir," you say. "Possibly several, depending on what needs to be done to Olstren's nobles to protect Princess Reagan's claim to the throne."

Reagan and Olwen aren't surprised, having expected something like this, Eleri is still uncomfortable at the prospect of physical intimacy, Seren and Delyth are blushing and Esyllt doesn't seem to care one bit either way.

"I can't afford to stay in a bed for nine months," Olwen says, "so someone else will have to go first."

"I can provide some assistance, if you need help," Seren says. "It can be difficult to get the timing right."

>Choose as many ladies as you'd like for your first attempt at reproduction:
>Reagan
>Seren
>Delyth
>Esyllt
>"You know what? This can wait."

>>490719
>Reagan
>Seren
>Esyllt

>>490719
>>Reagan

>>490725
>Reagan

Scrtath that, go with >>490725

>>490719
>>Reagan

>>490719
are we voting for the whole order or just the frist one?
Reagan then Delyth cose back up heir

>>490719
>Reagan
Definitely her first. It nips one potential problem if the eldest is also the legitimate one.
>Seren
>Delyth
>Esyllt

>>490739
>>490740
Remember Delyth is a war priestess too.

>>490743
i know she is and we are going to go into a war soon
but as a priestess having an heir with her makes a back up and if things would happen to get bad the line will be saved though her also kid probs grown up bening a war priest or priestess.
not wanting to have you baby born durning a battle to become battle born

>>490740
>>490743
After Reagan has a mild head start, I mean "any or all of the others in no particular order." I think there's something a little wrong politically with not having the legal wife go first, but after that - we have five women out of the gate, we can't dig ourselves any deeper as a potential scandal. Might as well have a good set of descendants.

File: 1463211187134.jpg (40 KB, 499x281)

40 KB JPG

and we are going to have to get some of thise girls used to sex and all that
but beening a bit shy is good

>>490743
>>490753
>>490757
CKII tactics anons. Enough heirs for insurance but not enough to cause a problem further down

File: Reagan3.jpg (6 KB, 300x168)

6 KB JPG

>>490719
"The throne of Olstren will need an heir as soon as a wedding can be held," you say. "Aside from that… Esyllt, Seren, would you mind the… imposition?"

Their cheeks flush, Seren moreso. She remains calm this time, however.

"I was already prepared for such a thing," Esyllt says. "We can begin whenever you like."

"Likewise," Seren says. "After all, I also have lands of my own. I'll need children as well."

"Thank you for your cooperation," Myrddin says. "Olwen, please make sure it's done properly."

"I'll watch very closely," Olwen says. "It might be a little more exciting."

Now you just need to convince your father to go along with this.

>>490753
ok first, spell check, USE it.

Second her getting preggers takes her out of the fight, we're not going to make her try and do that battleborn shit, it ends badly.

Thirdly several of our noncombatant consorts/concubines can have kdis, we don't need her to have one.

>>490757
Rather not take an officer and priestess we will likely need in battle off the field.

>>490763
Exactly.

>>490766
>Now you just need to convince your father to go along with this.
Mom might even have trouble swinging this one guys.

>>490763
My understanding is that unless we upgrade a consort or concubine to a legal wife, which realistically is going to happen only if Reagan is dead, Reagan's children are the only ones who can inherit. I think the rest are more apt to make their own way or follow their mother's family (though I could be wrong on this). We just want a backup in case Reagan does die without heirs so we could legitimize them. Also, our non legitimate heirs, particularly Olwen's and Seren's, have a good likelihood of becoming noble house heads in new Olstren. Nothing secures loyalty like blood.

>>490766
That's all for today's thread. Wish I had more time for the last vote, but this looks good enough.

The next thread of Beleaguered Prince Quest will be Friday August 26th at 7PM EDT. I will also be running Relic Quest on Sunday August 1st, also at 7PM.

Good night and thanks for playing.

>>490771
idk man that sounds a bit ike witch craft
we can get her with child atfer the war then
>>490775
thats what i was thinking and i rember the priestess telling us how kids born with them can inherit thats y i wanted a back up

>>490776
ok thanks

>>490776
Thanks for the thread.

Anyone else hoping we get to set up political marriages for our future kids?

>>490776
Thanks for running.

>>490787
Woah there anon, the kids don't even exist yet.

>>490787
Need to get Nesta married to a prince first.

>>490802
Where's this universe's Shirou or MC from Fate:Extra

>>490451
damn, I'm pretty late to vote for Rhonwen.

>>490771
I'm thinking Delyth should have a child, but much later. After the war with Olstren, Delyth is "blessed" with a child who might one day be a hero, etc.

I didn't have a hard favourite for second consort or for principality, so I'm fine with how this thread turned out.
I just hope we can further Rhonwen's railway plans even though we didn't chose her. Perhaps start with the line Aurwain-Degfford? Degfford doesn't have a port so we can't trade with overseas, but funneling lots of the continent trade through it by means of the railway would make up for that.
With our fingers in everything happening there (facilitating profit both for us and for the town; spies everywhere; perhaps get industry, art and other competent people from all over the country to come), we can/will make Degfford the second city in the empire.

>>491089
Yeah, Rhonwen's railway in addition to her skillset was why I preferred her.

>>491089
Its central location makes up for its lack of sea access, since if we build the main transport hub of the country there then it'll be childsplay to tax and grow rich off of it. Let alone the manufacturing and production aspects easy resource access will grant. Just hope it has some decent rivers.

It'd make the city the second city of the country and a damn hub for spys though.