What shall you do?

>Confide your ambition in Regina and Falco and request their counsel, for their knowledge greatly outstrips yours in such matters.
>You’ll never accomplish anything from this decrepit tower. Have your retainers make arrangements for the repair and renovation of the keep, taking a personal hand in the matter.
>Perhaps you should start small. Visit the fortress-town of Augusty to hear news and determine what the local situation is.

>>4548540
>starts off interesting
>underdog prince, just my kind of quest
>anime female bodyguard knight
It's all so tiresome.

>>4548548
I don't intend to delve into any sort of waifu subplot, if that's what you're concerned about.

>>4548552
It's not you I'm concerned about OP, but then having such an unrealistic, animeish trope to start with is a red flag for me. Good luck.

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>>4548543
>Perhaps you should start small. Visit the fortress-town of Augusty to hear news and determine what the local situation is.
Today we start with the peasants all for our plan of assuming power through a glorious workers revolution.

>>4548543
>Perhaps you should start small. Visit the fortress-town of Augusty to hear news and determine what the local situation is.
>>4548548
what's the problem with femoid knights ?

>>4548543
>>Perhaps you should start small. Visit the fortress-town of Augusty to hear news and determine what the local situation is.

>>4548543
>>Perhaps you should start small. Visit the fortress-town of Augusty to hear news and determine what the local situation is.

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>>4548571
>>4548586
>>4548595
>>4548626

“Master Gaspard, I shall be leaving the keep to pay a visit to our citizens in the town of Augusty.” You say bluntly.

The man claps his hands together, his features brightening the moment he hears this. “Young Master, it pleases me beyond words to hear that you have at last taken an interest in the affairs of the nation. I shall send word to the town's maire at once while you prepare. Will Dame Wilbaum be accompanying you?” He asks, subtly biting at his lip as he awaits your reply. The two have never been particularly fond of one another, though in your years together they have yet to display their enmity openly.

“That shall not be necessary. Just a handful of fighting men shall be sufficient. Regina means well, but I would prefer it if Regina weren’t hovering over me for the duration of my trip.” The men and women of House Wilbaum are famed for their reputation as guardians, but the additional protection is hardly what you require at the moment.

You reminisce on Falco’s lessons on geography as you start on your trip. Gral is a country of mild weather and gentle plains, the perfect environment to raise the horses for which it is famed. The simple, agrarian lifestyle has been the tradition of your countrymen for generations, cultivating a population of which is both conservative in thought and hesitant to move away from the lands on which they were born. Indeed, you see several commoners raising livestock during your brief excursion through the countryside.

By midday, you arrive at the outskirts of Augusty without incident to be greeted by a rotund man in colorful garb, accompanied by an armed escort of similar size to your own. He throws his arms into the air and rushes to greet you, stopping to catch his breath midway. “Your Grace!” He takes a deep breath, wiping sweat from his forehead. “It is an honor to receive you. I was told that you would be arriving here at any minute. I am Benoit Barnier, maire of the humble fortress-town of Augusty. My friends call me Benny. Would you like the tour? Shall we throw a feast in your honor?”

What to do, Prince Auguste?

>Ask Benoit about local news. Anything regarding happenings in other regions, the temperament of the locals, or events of note.
>Take Benoit up on his offer and become acquainted with him. It pays to make allies, and at the moment, you have precious few.
>Truthfully, you would rather speak with his ministers. To know of taxes, the population, and the day-to-day management of the region would be an ideal place to start.

>>4548630
>Take him up on his offer- somewhat. "I'd appreciate a tour, and a meal would not go amiss, but I need no true feast at this time- I have much to do and little time to do it in."

>>4548635
Hmm supporting.

Also OP I'm stealing all your character art :^)

>>4548635
+1
Comrade Benny will make a fine ally for the future

>>4548630


>Truthfully, you would rather speak with his ministers. To know of taxes, the population, and the day-to-day management of the region would be an ideal place to start.

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I will try to integrate less popular votes in some way unless they're simply incompatible with the other options.

>>4548662
Benoit's ministers attend to other matters, at present. They shall compile recent records and submit them to Falco for you to discuss another time.

>>4548635
>>4548642
Monster.
>>4548659
Taking a moment to consider your options, you settle on what you believe to be the most rational course of action. "I'd appreciate a tour, and a meal would not go amiss, but I need no true feast at this time- I have much to do and little time to do it in," you say, studying him as you await his response. Benoit lets out a sigh of relief, gesturing for you to follow after him as he leads your group into the town proper.. “Yes, yes of course! Right this way, Your Grace!”

Augusty is a fine town, its walls are high and its infrastructure is surprisingly well-maintained. Whilst you would hesitate to describe it as “bustling,” given your hazy memories of the capital, it is certainly successful and growing. As you tour a quaint, developing market street, Benny takes the time to elaborate on the town’s history. The fortress-town of Augusty was founded roughly seventeen years ago by the mandate of King Oswald Argentein, to celebrate the birth of Auguste, his third son. At the time, the king’s intent was for you to govern the region on his behalf once you were of age, though he has since said nothing on the matter. Currently, the region is nominally governed by Franz, your eldest brother, from the capital through his ministers.

Your tour ends at the maire’s estate, a structure which would be considered ‘humble’ by the standards of luxury, though it is still in a better way than your keep, where you continue your discussion over steaks. “... Wh-which is why I must make a request of you, Your Grace.” Benoit compulsively wipes sweat from his forehead.

“As of late, unrest has begun to grow within our region. The war continues with Amur to the west, and King Oswald has been quiet in recent years. I fear that something is amiss in the court, but any inquiry I send to the royal ministers goes unanswered. Lawlessness and banditry are not prevalent - praise the One - but gangs grow bold, and now raid small farmsteads. Maires such as myself petition for fighting men to garrison the roads, and receive empty promises in return for our taxes.” Benoit looks to your general direction, afraid to meet your gaze directly. “Your Grace, surely there is something that a man of your status can do. We don't- we don't need more soldiers, merely an assurance that law and order still prevail in this corner of the land!” Cough.

(cont'd)

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>>4548738
Decisions, decisions.

>You have few fighting men, but crushing a few unorganized dissidents should not prove too much for them. Doing so could grant you a foothold in reclaiming your birthright.
>Confront the royal courtiers. Dealing with your brother’s ministers will not be easy, but success would definitely grant you a measure of legitimacy that simple strength of arms would not.
>Perhaps a subtle approach is what’s best. If these criminals will hear reason, then your charisma could turn them from the path of lawlessness and deputize them as protectors under your command.

>>4548742
>You have few fighting men, but crushing a few unorganized dissidents should not prove too much for them. Doing so could grant you a foothold in reclaiming your birthright

>>4548738
Hmmm. That's a problem regardless, yes. Were it me, I would smash them utterly to make an example of them. Lead with a closed fist, then offer an open hand. Use that to argue against the courtiers. If they try to interfere, we'll have to think on our feet.

Gonna go with

>You have few fighting men, but crushing a few unorganized dissidents should not prove too much for them. Doing so could grant you a foothold in reclaiming your birthright.

Maybe have more of their fighting men if possible join us.

>>4548742
>You have few fighting men, but crushing a few unorganized dissidents should not prove too much for them. Doing so could grant you a foothold in reclaiming your birthright.

>>4548742
>Perhaps a subtle approach is what’s best. If these criminals will hear reason, then your charisma could turn them from the path of lawlessness and deputize them as protectors under your command.
Once these bandits are on our payroll they may become invaluable comrades for the safety of the Gral Revolution.

>>4548758
>>4548759
>>4548772
>>4548780
Very good. I'll be making one more update before I go to work, but to clarify, will you have the prince take a personal hand in dealing with the bandits? Auguste has received training befitting his status and is a competent, if inexperienced combatant with room to improve. Otherwise, you could simply send Regina as your agent while working on other things with Falco.

>>4548742
>You have few fighting men, but crushing a few unorganized dissidents should not prove too much for them. Doing so could grant you a foothold in reclaiming your birthright.

Crush a gang or two, then >>4548780, not just because we need then men, but I love the meme.

>>4548788
Auguste should take a personal hand, and not only for the PR, but also to show the rest of the gangs clemency and who they're lord is.

>>4548788
Follow and learn from Regina

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>>4548788
Yes have the prince go personally he might have training befitting of his disgusting hereditary status but he needs the actual battle/charisma experience of leading men and convincing people to join his cause.

>>4548788
Join personally. Try to get a few of the competent fighters/guardsmen from the city to join you (we're helping them after all)

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>>4548799
>>4548800
>>4548813
>>4548853
“If what you need are fighting men, then you shall have them, Maire Barnier. I shall see to it that these bandits are dispatched, else reformed into virtuous Gralan citizens, and remind all that there is still order in these lands,” you say with confidence, putting the man’s fear to rest. Benoit deflates visibly, relieved beyond words to hear the good news. “Yes, of course, Your Grace. I shall inform the other maires and make sure that your reward is ready when you return.”

The return trip to your keep is quiet as you survey the countryside, mulling over what is and what may be. Ushered inside by your servants, you are greeted by an elated Falco, who straightens his clothes and clears his throat before addressing you. “You return, Young Master. I take it Maire Benoit was agreeable? I requested that he do everything in his ability to accommodate you,” he says, quite pleased with himself by the sound of it.

“You coddle me, Master Gaspard. Royal that I may be, I am no spoilt child that must be catered to - you have seen to that. Indeed, there is much work to be done, and I would have your assistance...” You gather Regina and Falco in what you suspect was once an office, now empty from disuse, and inform them of the state of the region as well as the maire’s predicament, though refrain from mentioning your long-term plans.

Regina is, as you expected, not very pleased by the prospect of you being out and about, willingly facing danger. “Auguste, won’t you reconsider?! My men and I are perfectly capable of dispensing justice on your behalf, you need only give the order and we shall gladly-” You interrupt her, raising an index finger in objection. “Gladly do everything as I wait patiently for my vassals to fulfill my every whim? Regina, I will never become a great leader of men unless I understand battle and learn to win others to my cause. My status only means so much without actions to lend credit to it. Compliance is no replacement for respect, and respect is to be earned.”

Fighting back the urge to dispute, she huffs and nods sternly, regaining her composure. “Yes, of course, August. I shall have the men armed and the horses made ready. Just… please, no acts of bravado when we are in the field.” Bowing slightly, she departs, leaving you with Falco, who rolls his eyes once Regina is out of sight. “And me, Young Master? What would you have me do?”

What shall Falco do in your absence?

>Have Falco review the information sent by Benoit’s ministers and draft a long-term plan to keep money flowing into your coffers.
>Fortifying the keep would be a good start. Having a headquarters that can withstand more than a stiff breeze would be a boon.
>Have him hunt down news from other districts of Gral, learn if there’s anything interesting happening in the nation that you are unaware of.

Meanwhile, roll 4d10, 6d10, and 8d10 separately to see how your venture with Regina turns out.

Rolled 9, 6, 8, 6 = 29 (4d10)

>>4548900
>>Fortifying the keep would be a good start. Having a headquarters that can withstand more than a stiff breeze would be a boon.

Rolled 9, 7, 9, 9 = 34 (4d10)

>>4548900
>Have Falco review the information sent by Benoit’s ministers and draft a long-term plan to keep money flowing into your coffers.

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Rolled 7, 2, 7, 7 = 23 (4d10)

>>4548900
>Fortifying the keep would be a good start. Having a headquarters that can withstand more than a stiff breeze would be a boon.
We must fortify Communist!MotherBase to be a bastion for our ideology

Rolled 9, 10, 8, 1, 4, 3 = 35 (6d10)

Hmm we're doing Bo1? If yes, rolling for 6d10 although I hate to let go of such a good roll.

Rolled 1, 3, 10, 4, 2, 1, 10, 7 = 38 (8d10)

>>4548900
Assuming this is Bo1 I’ll just roll 8d10 instead

Rolled 8, 1, 10, 1, 7, 5, 2, 3 = 37 (8d10)

>>4548900
go!

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>>4548920
>>4548921
>>4548923
>>4548924
>>4548938
>>4549172
Yes, it is best of one roll, for three separate events to add some dynamism. A roll is a success if the pool contains an 8, 9, or 10, but the number of dice can be reduced or increased depending on the difficulty and circumstances. I’ll be making breakfast after this update.

Were you to describe the relationship between Regina and yourself, it would be something akin to the bond shared by extended family. The two of you even address one another by first name outside of formal settings. Every man and woman of House Wilbaum becomes acquainted with their charge at a young age, and is to spend a decade as their guardian once their training is complete. At the age of twenty, she has roughly five years of service remaining before she may choose to return to her family. This practice, acting as defenders to royals and important vassals, has earned them an abundance of wealth and prestige.

Following Regina’s lead, you set off on horseback into the evening, along with twenty of your fighting men, charging Falco with making some repairs to Keep Mathias-Baxter. Unlike most nations, Gral has a rich martial tradition, and relies entirely on professional volunteer fighters in its armies. Here there is no shame in fighting for fame or coin, and even a woman may better her status through service if she is bold and athletic.

Over the course of the next two weeks, you patrol the roads and gentle hills of the Bellen District, brutalizing the first few gangs of brigands that you happen across. They are no match for your fighting men, all experienced cavalrymen, and you manage to cut down a few men yourself, albeit with some difficulty at first. War is not an easy trade to master, but this experience shall serve you well in days to come. Regina, on the other hand, has never struck you as much of an erudite, and finally seeing her in battle reaffirms that she is something of a brute, leaving behind a trail of carnage in her wake. Soldiers are good, but knights stand head and shoulders above them. Something to keep in mind as you continue to build your power.

Your attempts to deputize the criminals go more smoothly than anticipated. Many of them are young men, feeling disenfranchised and falling victim to the rhetoric of older, more ambitious bandits. Bellen is one of the least developed districts in Gral, and it is easy to see why its people have been feeling neglected in recent years. The promise of a steady career is enough to win over the younger ones, and the older men have a polite discussion with Regina’s axe before falling silent. Overall, they are optimistic about the opportunity to leave the farm and adopt an honorable trade.

(cont'd)

>>4549769
You return to a slightly-less-bad looking Keep Mathias-Baxter, surrounded by building materials and swarmed with construction workers. Falco greets you with a beaming smile and informs you that the maires have already caught wind of your deeds and sent their gift, a part of it diverted to the renovation of your hold. While that is good news, it serves to remind how fast word travels in the countryside where there is little entertainment outside of gossip.

Falco puts your new recruits, two hundred in all, to work, having them haul material for construction workers, while the fighting men get some rest. You discuss expenses with your retainers and determine that equipping your new fighters is no issue with your current funds. “Although, Auguste,” Regina folds her arms. “Those men won’t be fighting anything without training. My family’s trade is war, and we know every way of it, but these men don’t have a lifetime to devote themselves to combat. We’ll need to focus on a regimen and drill them appropriately. Did you have a vision in mind for these men?”

>Light infantry. This is the open countryside, scouts and skirmishers are invaluable.
>Light cavalry. The staple of the nation, no Gralan army lacks for cavalry. Your countrymen have learned to raise and befriend horses with relative ease.
>Heavy infantry. The perfect unit for any pitched battle, best at taking positions or holding them.
>Marksmen. Excellent at defense or supporting your other units.

>>4549770
>Light cavalry. The staple of the nation, no Gralan army lacks for cavalry. Your countrymen have learned to raise and befriend horses with relative ease.

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>>4549770
>Marksmen. Excellent at defense or supporting your other units.
If we hope to have a Gral revolution we will also need to revolutionize combat so the two best choices I see are either creating an English style longbowman unit (which were OP as fuck during their time) or choose light infantry to employ guerrilla warfare against professional armies

>>4549782
Longbows take a lifetime to master, you can't just hand a longbow to a greenhorn and expect him to deliver. Otherwise everyone would have longbowmen. The saying in England is, "If you want to train a longbowman, start with his grandfather."

You'd be better off training crossbowmen, cheap equipment and doesn't take much training. Hand any peasant a crossbow and in six months' training you have a professional crossbowman.

>Light cavalry. The staple of the nation, no Gralan army lacks for cavalry. Your countrymen have learned to raise and befriend horses with relative ease.

I was assuming that the 40 troops we had were mainly light infantry, although now that I think about it there's nothing to really indicate that.
Without further info on that I guess
>Heavy infantry. The perfect unit for any pitched battle, best at taking positions or holding them.
I like the idea of having some human tanks with us.

>>4549770
>Light cavalry. The staple of the nation, no Gralan army lacks for cavalry. Your countrymen have learned to raise and befriend horses with relative ease.
Light cavalery dismounted basically becomes light infantry right?

>>4549791
Tank Regina not enough for you?

>>4549819
Why would you wish to dismount your calvary?

>Light cavalry. The staple of the nation, no Gralan army lacks for cavalry. Your countrymen have learned to raise and befriend horses with relative ease.

Mobility won't be as big a problem, though we do need the Gral equivalent of Spetsnaz later for the actual fighting.

>>4549775
>>4549782
>>4549788
>>4549791
>>4549819
>>4549822
>>4549834
Turning a civilian into a professional soldier is no mean feat, but thankfully, the process is eased somewhat. Out here, every man and his mother knows how to ride a horse, and a cultural reverence for the creatures ensures that the trainees treat them with respect and take to their training with diligence. Neighboring nations often joke that in Gral, the horse has more rights than the common man, but the utility of the creatures makes them a great asset in all facets of life.

The Gralan horse is a noble animal, commonly appearing in two varieties. The first is small, agile, and calm, ideal for travelers, traders, and the famed light cavalry, though keeping them as pets is not uncommon either. The second is tall, muscular, and energetic, and bred almost exclusively for hard labor. Only the royal family fields and maintains a division of heavy cavalry using this breed, as their zestful temperaments forbid all but the most gifted riders from keeping them obedient them in the frenzy of war.

Their training will be supplemented by daily instruction in the use of crossbows for missile support and the fundamentals of armor use should you ever need to storm a gate. You mention to Regina that you intend to diversify your forces in the future, that she might prepare accordingly. Cavalry is flexible, but it is not everything, and you’ll have need of more dedicated infantry in the future, especially if you aim to build an elite army for yourself.

Things are beginning to look up. You’ll have a well-rounded vanguard within a little over a year, you’ve gained some experience in both war and diplomacy, and the people’s overall opinion of you is somewhat positive. No doubt, news of your activity has reached the capital by now. Thankfully, it could be weeks or even months before they respond, due to the speed of bureaucracy. Your long-term goal is clear, but the short term seems a bit hazy now that you’ve taken the first step.

What is your will, Prince Auguste?

>Find a reliable source of funds. The stipend sent from the capital is hardly enough to grow from, and more currency will make any action you take much easier.
>Attempt to gain a foothold in the royal court. The sooner that you get your foot in the door, the sooner you can start pulling strings in your favor.
>What you need is a public relations campaign in Bellen District. Many doors will open for you by virtue of simply being popular.

>>4549849
>Find a reliable source of funds. The stipend sent from the capital is hardly enough to grow from, and more currency will make any action you take much easier.

>>4549849
>Find a reliable source of funds. The stipend sent from the capital is hardly enough to grow from, and more currency will make any action you take much easier.

>>4549849
>Find a reliable source of funds. The stipend sent from the capital is hardly enough to grow from, and more currency will make any action you take much easier.
If we do not have reliable funds then the nobility is bound to crush the revolution

>>4549849
>What you need is a public relations campaign in Bellen District. Many doors will open for you by virtue of simply being popular.

We can boost our Popularity as long as we keep honoring our people's wishes and concerns. Though we should swing the local bureaucracy in our favor, at least.

>>4549849
>Find a reliable source of funds. The stipend sent from the capital is hardly enough to grow from, and more currency will make any action you take much easier.
cold hard cash.

>>4549834
Why to mount it later of course!

>>4549850
>>4549854
>>4549863
>>4549868
>>4549873
A week passes as you settle into your new routine. Regina’s trainees start the day with a march around the keep, practice their marksmanship for an hour, take turns doing some light sparring in heavy armor, and spend the better part of the day learning to fight and live on horseback. It’s a challenging schedule to keep, but Regina’s mood seems to have improved considerably in a short time, and she hasn’t hovered over your shoulder to guarantee your safety in days. The regimented military life must be doing her some good.

The keep is looking better as well. Solid walls replace collapsing fortifications, and you no longer trip over loose stones in an embarrassing fashion when navigating the interior. Construction continues, but between your retainers and the experienced construction crew, it’s hardly a hindrance. Your fighting men make no mention of it to your face, but they’re incredibly grateful that they have a proper barracks now.

Meeting Falco in the office, which is beginning to resemble a proper war room with its new furnishings, the two of you begin discussing probable ways of generating revenue going forward. “Master Gaspard, you were an officer of the court prior to becoming my retainer. I seek your expertise on matters of finance. Particularly, we must keep our treasury full if we are to continue expanding our influence. What would you suggest?”

Falco rests his hand on his chin, furrowing his brow as the two of you sit in silence for a moment. “Young Master, the Bellen District is one of the least developed districts in our nation. The largest settlements are the fortress-towns of Besan and Augusty, both of which boast populations in the low thousands, with most of Bellen’s people living in villages or farmsteads. Overall, this is not conducive to turning our slice of Gral into an economic powerhouse.”

(cont'd)

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>>4549948
You fold your hands. The possibility that your ambitions could be halted by mere geography hadn’t occurred to you until now. “For our sakes, Master Gaspard, I hope that your next sentence begins with ‘however.’”

He raises a finger and smirks, indicating that you are correct. “However, there are a handful of options available to us. All of them require an initial investment, but between the two of us, we should be reaping the long-term gains in short order. Allow me to elaborate on our options…”

>Foreign trade. Other nations are hungry for Gral’s abundant produce and covet its domestic animals. It would fall to you to broker an agreement with foreign merchants, but with enough savvy you can make this work in your favor and benefit Bellen greatly.
>Moneylending. Invest in local ventures by lending money, and collect interest at a reasonable rate. If you play your cards right, local traders could become quite wealthy and you’ll make a tidy profit. The court will likely be incensed by your decision to empower the merchant class, but this course of action is perfectly legal.
>Develop infrastructure. The safe approach. Bellen’s roads are few and could use improvement. A coordinated effort to build roads to Mirbel and Warzenfeld, both major trade cities, would increase currency flow.

>>4549950
>Foreign trade. Other nations are hungry for Gral’s abundant produce and covet its domestic animals. It would fall to you to broker an agreement with foreign merchants, but with enough savvy you can make this work in your favor and benefit Bellen greatly.
Foreign connections can help secure our attempt to seize power too

>>4549950
>Foreign trade. Other nations are hungry for Gral’s abundant produce and covet its domestic animals. It would fall to you to broker an agreement with foreign merchants, but with enough savvy you can make this work in your favor and benefit Bellen greatly.
building infrastructure is well and good and should be done when we have more money but this seems more immediately beneficial to us

>>4549950
>Foreign trade. Other nations are hungry for Gral’s abundant produce and covet its domestic animals. It would fall to you to broker an agreement with foreign merchants, but with enough savvy you can make this work in your favor and benefit Bellen greatly.

>>4549950
>Moneylending. Invest in local ventures by lending money, and collect interest at a reasonable rate. If you play your cards right, local traders could become quite wealthy and you’ll make a tidy profit. The court will likely be incensed by your decision to empower the merchant class, but this course of action is perfectly legal.
Do this before any other group gains a advantage in this area.

>>4549950
>Foreign trade. Other nations are hungry for Gral’s abundant produce and covet its domestic animals. It would fall to you to broker an agreement with foreign merchants, but with enough savvy you can make this work in your favor and benefit Bellen greatly.

Better to not have problems with the court (for now)

>>4549950
>Foreign trade. Other nations are hungry for Gral’s abundant produce and covet its domestic animals. It would fall to you to broker an agreement with foreign merchants, but with enough savvy you can make this work in your favor and benefit Bellen greatly.

>>4549950
>Develop infrastructure. The safe approach. Bellen’s roads are few and could use improvement. A coordinated effort to build roads to Mirbel and Warzenfeld, both major trade cities, would increase currency flow.

We'll need it for the upcoming struggle.

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>>4549986
>>4550024
You consider the possibilities. Building up the region and possessing a measure of control over its currency are tempting, but eventually decide that what you need is immediate capital, and possibly a helping hand from outside of your borders. These will go on the "to-do" list meaning remind me again if I don't mention them later

>>4549958
>>4549968
>>4549979
>>4549993
>>4550014

You unfurl a map of western Eurys, studying it for the moment. “Tell me, Master Gaspard, how are relations with neighboring states?”

>The Archduchy of Amur is Gral’s western neighbor. Sailor lads and lasses at heart, a person is considered to have come of age when they return home from their first voyage at sea. Ruled by a council of dukes who never agree with one another, Amur is technically at war with Gral, though a number of the dukes are open to trying to mend the rift and open trade again.

>The Vstanyan Empire stretches across the tundra, taiga, and mountains of the north, a place made frosty by its high altitude. Taking shelter from the colder months in grand mountain fortresses, they spend their days mastering the secrets of metallurgy, laboring over forges to produce the best iron in Eurys. Ruled by the “Iron” Empress Konstantinovna from the unassailable capital of Ratovei, they maintain a quiet but uneasy peace with Gral.

>The Hallowed Theocracy of Vellene is to the immediate east of Gral, across the water. Currently committed to a brutal conventional war against Vstanya over differences in religious doctrine, Velleniards espouse that they are the conduits of the One’s will. Their temperament toward other nations depends on the moods of the Seven Grand Cardinals, who allege that they speak with the divine authority of the One.

>Last is Kasharva, further east. More of an alliance of city-states than a unified nation, the Kasharvans are nominally ruled by a king calling himself Szan. They are content to spend their days studying obscure lore in their self-sufficient cities, with only the most adventurous leaving to pursue careers as dancers, wandering scholars, or assassins (or at times combinations of the three) and openly trade with all.

Which nation would you like to get into contact with?

>>4550067
>The Hallowed Theocracy of Vellene is to the immediate east of Gral, across the water. Currently committed to a brutal conventional war against Vstanya over differences in religious doctrine, Velleniards espouse that they are the conduits of the One’s will. Their temperament toward other nations depends on the moods of the Seven Grand Cardinals, who allege that they speak with the divine authority of the One.
They're relatively close by, if we engage in sea trade we don't need to pass through other distracts as long as there's a decent port nearby, and we're not at war with them, they seem like a good choice.
Not too eager on the whole theocracy thing but eh.

>>4550067
>The Archduchy of Amur

>>4550067
>The Vstanyan Empire stretches across the tundra, taiga, and mountains of the north, a place made frosty by its high altitude. Taking shelter from the colder months in grand mountain fortresses, they spend their days mastering the secrets of metallurgy, laboring over forges to produce the best iron in Eurys. Ruled by the “Iron” Empress Konstantinovna from the unassailable capital of Ratovei, they maintain a quiet but uneasy peace with Gral.
Empress sounds based. Is she single?

>>4550067
>The Vstanyan Empire stretches across the tundra, taiga, and mountains of the north, a place made frosty by its high altitude. Taking shelter from the colder months in grand mountain fortresses, they spend their days mastering the secrets of metallurgy, laboring over forges to produce the best iron in Eurys. Ruled by the “Iron” Empress Konstantinovna from the unassailable capital of Ratovei, they maintain a quiet but uneasy peace with Gral.

>>4550067
>The Vstanyan Empire
Metal is a very valuable resource

>>4550067
>The Archduchy of Amur is Gral’s western neighbor. Sailor lads and lasses at heart, a person is considered to have come of age when they return home from their first voyage at sea. Ruled by a council of dukes who never agree with one another, Amur is technically at war with Gral, though a number of the dukes are open to trying to mend the rift and open trade again.

>>4550067
>The Archduchy of Amur is Gral’s western neighbor. Sailor lads and lasses at heart, a person is considered to have come of age when they return home from their first voyage at sea. Ruled by a council of dukes who never agree with one another, Amur is technically at war with Gral, though a number of the dukes are open to trying to mend the rift and open trade again.

If we make connections with a couple of the dukes, it'll help with our own hold on the crown and trade opportunities, as well as have an inroad for our campaign against them. If we gain a stranglehold on the seas, it'll help our ambitions immensely.

>Amur is technically at war with Gral
I skipped this part, won't talking to Amur get us in trouble worse than loaning money to the merchants? Like this could be treason for us and might cause trouble down the line for us in curt if we fail or anything.

>Ksharva
Having good relations with an area known for its assassins can open many doors for us in the future.

>>4550067
>>The Vstanyan Empire stretches across the tundra, taiga, and mountains of the north, a place made frosty by its high altitude. Taking shelter from the colder months in grand mountain fortresses, they spend their days mastering the secrets of metallurgy, laboring over forges to produce the best iron in Eurys. Ruled by the “Iron” Empress Konstantinovna from the unassailable capital of Ratovei, they maintain a quiet but uneasy peace with Gral.
We're going to to need the best iron and lots of em

>>4550123
Not if we make peace with a couple of the dukes. We'd be seen as a peacemaker in the short term. Keep in mind, it seems like Amur is divided into factions. We should use that to our advantage.

>>4550134
You make a good point there. We should get some in our sphere of influence.

>>4550172
More worried about how our siblings would find a way to use it or twist it into something bad, or sabotage it to ruin peace or start up a war, just to hurt us.

>>4550195
Ah. That's a decent concern. We should try and keep a low profile in the court, let our siblings tire each other out first.

>>4550226
Mainly I want to convince, or pressure our dad to give total legal and written decree or documentation that we are the proper governor of the lands we got banished to and not our brother.

>>4550067
>>Last is Kasharva, further east. More of an alliance of city-states than a unified nation, the Kasharvans are nominally ruled by a king calling himself Szan. They are content to spend their days studying obscure lore in their self-sufficient cities, with only the most adventurous leaving to pursue careers as dancers, wandering scholars, or assassins (or at times combinations of the three) and openly trade with all.

Relations with assassins? I likey

>>4550067
>The Vstanyan Empire

>>4550067
>>The Hallowed Theocracy of Vellene is to the immediate east of Gral, across the water. Currently committed to a brutal conventional war against Vstanya over differences in religious doctrine, Velleniards espouse that they are the conduits of the One’s will. Their temperament toward other nations depends on the moods of the Seven Grand Cardinals, who allege that they speak with the divine authority of the One.

Lots of discussion here, hopefully I didn't miss any votes.

>>4550072
>>4550073
>>4550090
>>4550096
>>4550097
>>4550118
>>4550119
>>4550134
>>4550149
>>4550288
>>4550423
>>4550545
“What of the Velleniards? We have gotten on well enough with them in the past, have we not?” Asks Falco, pointing to Vellene’s capital. “Surely there is profit to be had trading with Granarolo, the City of Wine?” You raise an eyebrow, giving the suggestion some thought. “It is promising, but I would hear more about our immediate neighbors first. What of the Amurish, to the west?”

“The Amurish are divided on the war, as with every issue. Ideally, we could negotiate an agreement through the more amiable of the dukes and gain access to their fleets in return for a stable supply of Bellen’s goods. It would initially be a clandestine venture, but if all goes well, we would be in a good position to pressure the court into accepting a truce - as well as a few other reasonable demands.”

“And the Vstanyans?” You ask, trying to recall the last time the northerners came up in conversation. “Quiet, as usual, Young Master. Your grandfather negotiated an end to the war with them roughly fifty years ago, and all was well until the previous empress famously shattered her pelvis during a friendly horse race against your mother before you were born. They bear no grudge against us, but have been reluctant to send emissaries ever since.”

“And the current empress, is she romantically available?” It takes a moment for your words to register with Falco, but soon enough the two of you are sharing a sensible chuckle. He jokingly slaps your shoulder. “You can’t be serious!”

“Perhaps, perhaps not, Master Gaspard. I believe that it is high time that we rebuilt our relations with our northern comrades.” He strokes his mustache thoughtfully, reclining in his seat. “Very good, Young Master. Shall we send for an emissary, or would you instead send me to broker an agreement on your behalf?”

>Invite Vstanyan courtiers to Bellen, your presence required here, and you could show them what they'll be trading for.
>Just as Regina is your diligent hammer, Falco is your loyal quill. Send him to Vstanya’s court as your agent.
>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.

>>4550683
>>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.

>>4550683
>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.
Huh, didn't think we'd have enough of a position to make this possible, but I guess we are a prince.

>>4550683
>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.

>>4550683
>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.
It’s probably a good idea to build up a rapport with a foreign leader so not every country on the continent won’t immediately back the nobility because they see the communist revolution as a threat to their power.

>>4550758
No one but you wants a communist revolution.

>>4550683
>>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.

>>4550804
Actually, I appreciate the meme and the spin he puts on things. Keep at it, Comrade.

>>4550683
>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.
Let's get it

>>4550683
>>Actually, you’ll seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna personally. You need to guarantee that the empire will have your back.

>>4550816
as long as it doesn't turn serious

File: ratovei.jpg (1.02 MB, 2400x1590)

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https://youtu.be/NvS351QKFV4

>>4550690
>>4550730
>>4550738
>>4550758
>>4550808
>>4550831
>>4550864
“That will not be necessary, Master Gaspard, for I shall be leaving to seek an audience with Empress Konstantinovna herself,” you say bluntly. It was not the answer that Falco was anticipating, but you can tell that he’s happy that you’re taking a proactive approach toward achieving your goals. “As you say. I shall make arrangements and manage affairs around the keep until your return. Please, consider returning before Regina senses your absence.”

The journey north is a short one. The Amurish navy does not dare sail the waters between Gral, Vstanya, and Vellene, and its daring pirates prefer the softer targets in warmer waters further south. Once you disembark, you are greeted by the soldiers who are to be escorting you, as well as their yaks, the only beasts of burden capable of living and working through the north’s harsh clime.

Unlike your homeland, Vstanya is a bleak nation of stone and rime. Only the southernmost portions possess arable land, and even then, most farming is done during the spring and summer months. As a consequence, the population has remained fairly constant for the past few centuries. It is a difficult life, but Vstanyan national pride does not falter even in times of famine or poverty.

After a little over three weeks of travel, you arrive at the city of Ratovei. Though it is now late spring, the capital is covered with snow and absolutely frigid. Navigating the wintry mountains and misty vales has left you aching and exhausted, however, in the long-term your body should be more resilient once you’ve recovered. Your escort guides you through the streets, making straight for the imperial palace without a moment’s delay. Once there, you’re informed that the empress will be seeing you tomorrow afternoon, and that you are free to do as you see fit until then. All of the palace’s facilities will be open to you, should you feel inclined to take advantage of them, and a detachment of the royal guard shall be charged with ensuring your safety.

More than likely, you’ll be spending at least a week here. What shall you do?

>Explore the city, to learn what the general state of local affairs is, and familiarize yourself with Vstanyan culture.
>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.
>Seek tutoring from soldiers and generals on matters of war. This could be your only chance to learn from high-ranking military officials for a long time.

>>4550883
>>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.

>>4550883
>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.
if they have anything on etiquette we may want to take a quick glance at that, would rather not commit a faux pas because of cultural differences

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>>4550883
>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.
What better place to find the communist manifesto than the not!russian library?

Even though I am hyping up the meme a bit much I did start it seriously because
1. Though maybe not the most efficient way to become kin- I mean supreme leader I think a communist revolution is one of the most creative

2. I think that medieval communism is a really badass setting and I’d love to see how it would effect the world at large

>>4550816
Glory to the peasant revolution comrade!

>>4550883
>Seek tutoring from soldiers and generals on matters of war. This could be your only chance to learn from high-ranking military officials for a long time.

>>4550883
>Seek tutoring from soldiers and generals on matters of war. This could be your only chance to learn from high-ranking military officials for a long time.
I don't see how the generals could teach a foreigner about war just like that but if it happens then it would be really useful for our prince

>>4550883
>Explore the city, to learn what the general state of local affairs is, and familiarize yourself with Vstanyan culture.
>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.

We must take full advantage of our hostess' hospitality.

>>4550883
>Seek tutoring from soldiers and generals on matters of war. This could be your only chance to learn from high-ranking military officials for a long time.

Having a differing approach to war will be an illuminating experience to us, and may result in a few unexpected tricks up our sleeve as a result.

>>4550883
>>Explore the city, to learn what the general state of local affairs is, and familiarize yourself with Vstanyan culture.
Don't want to embarrass ourselves and ruin any chances of co-operation by accidentally deeply disrespecting their customs and/or traditions.

>>4550883
>>Explore the city, to learn what the general state of local affairs is, and familiarize yourself with Vstanyan culture.
>>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.

>>4550883
>Seek tutoring from soldiers and generals on matters of war. This could be your only chance to learn from high-ranking military officials for a long time.

>>4550883
>>Explore the city, to learn what the general state of local affairs is, and familiarize yourself with Vstanyan culture.

>>4550883
>Scour the imperial library for information. There are no repositories of knowledge in Bellen at the moment, which will prove to be a detriment to your efforts.

Familarizing ourselves with the layout and stuff is cool and all, but we only have a day before we meet the empress.

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>>4550886
>>4550890
>>4550906
>>4550909
>>4550920
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>>4551096
>>4551147
>>4551460
>>4551462
>>4551680
You make for the bastion of knowledge that is the Ratovei Imperial Library and search diligently for anything that might aid you in your quest to take the Gralan throne, starting with a crash course on the history of Vstanya. As you wander the shelves in search of notable works, one of the librarians lets it slip that the empress issued very explicit instructions to everyone in the palace, to see to it that you are made comfortable and to meet your demands to the best of their ability. Evidently you’re valuable enough to be treated with more than mere friendly hospitality.

Unlike their neighbors in Gral and Amur, whose belief in the spiritual typically ends at the family patriarch saying a prayer over the evening meal, the Vstanyans are a deeply superstitious people with a rich theology. Studies on its culture note that it is permeated by allusions to saints, destiny, spirits, and at times, magic, which are prevalent even to this day. Even the rule of Vstanya’s matriarch dynasties is derived from the veneration of pagan shamenesses prior to the founding of the Church of One rather than any legal precedent, and the title of ‘empress’ still bears a measure of mystique in the eyes of the people. You would be wise to appeal to their traditions, or at least avoid referencing them in a negative light.

On that note, whereas the Velleniards assert that the One is the be-all end-all of divine matters, the Vstanyans maintain that there are ‘guardian spirits,’ and ascribe a measure of divinity to those who have achieved sainthood. This difference of opinion has caused friction on more than one occasion in the past, ranging from trade embargos to border skirmishes. In recent years, the rhetoric of a new, charismatic Grand Cardinal has convinced the populace that the only way to remedy the unfortunate misinterpretation of the One’s will is to enforce a bloody vendetta against the northern heathens.

But, it’s getting late, and you must retire. Perhaps you shall return again another time to further immerse yourself in the secrets of Eurys. For now, you feel secure knowing that your general intelligence and understanding of academics have both increased.

(cont'd)

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>>4551891
Today, you will finally meet with the empress to discuss matters of trade, and more than likely, plans for the immediate future. Though it’s easy to forget, given the ease by which you’ve secured an audience, you’ll be speaking with a world leader, one whom you hope to gain the support of, no less, and you take your morning to prepare yourself accordingly. By noon, you are guided through the spartan halls of the imperial palace to a more richly furnished private study, where a woman with a regal mien eagerly greets you with an embrace, which you deduce to be norm in these lands.

To describe the empress as stately is appropriate, but does not quite do her character justice. Her dress is rather utilitarian, lending her an aura of austerity. “Welcome, Young Lion of Bellen, welcome!” She guides you over to an armchair several magnitudes too large and seats you, sitting herself on a similarly oversized chair adjacent to it. Nearby, a fireplace roars, fighting off the nigh-omnipotent chill of the region. “The shadow darkening your kingdom grows long, but it pleases us beyond words to hear from our allies once again. What news do you bring from lands further south?”

I’ll try making this part a little more open-ended.

>Discuss the exact terms of your agreement, see if you can negotiate a favorable deal.
>You’re curious as to what she means by a shadow darkening Gral.
>Small talk. (Write-in)

>>4551902

>Small talk. (Write-in): Compliment her kingdom, beauty, and power

Flattery will get you everywhere

>>4551919
Roll 6d10.

>>4551919
+1
But also
>Discuss the exact terms of your agreement, see if you can negotiate a favorable deal.

It is a good idea to build a good relationship with comrade Konstantinovna but also don’t forget to get down to business

>>4551919
>>4551943
These.

Rolled 8, 5, 6, 10, 7, 8 = 44 (6d10)

>>4551923
Request a secret alliance between the two of us with our generals trained by their generals.

>>4551948
Eh.. it might be too early for that. We have nothing to offer right now, she could just turn us in to our brothers and get an opinion boost from the one who'll actually succeed our father. Best keep it to trade and keeping the option for an alliance in the future open.

>>4551902
Just do a trade deal first and an exchange of knowledge.

>>4551919
>>4551943
>>4551946
>>4551948
>>4552043
You make your gambit, hoping to curry some favor with Konstantinovna before negotiations begin. “Your Imperial Majesty, I am truly awed by the splendor of your lands and the resilience of its people. Forgive my insolence, but I would dare say that Vstanya’s beauty is second only to your own.” The empress laughs, her cheeks becoming ever-so-slightly flush. A good reaction.

“Saints help me! Were this a calmer, wiser time, my thoughts would wander. Regrettably, we must first weather these turbulent years. Shall we begin by warming relations between our empires?” You adjust your posture, the chair’s cushion threatening to suck you in. “Absolutely. We would be willing to exchange Bellen’s food and livestock for currency and iron crafts, at a reasonable rate.”

The empress folds her hands, reconsidering the offer now that it has been presented to her in person. “That would be most beneficial to us, and within our means as well. However, I must impose an additional condition before agreeing to your terms.” You nod sternly, ready to receive her counterproposal.

She continues. “The dogs of Vellene wage their so-called ‘holy’ war against my citizens, slaughtering and displacing thousands in the southern reaches of my borders. We cannot support all of them in the cities, and your nation has been eerily silent toward us as of late. Would you do me the kindness of taking a portion of my people under your aegis?”

It seems that the empress is asking you to take in war refugees in return for accepting your agreement. How do you reply?

>Decline, attempt to convince her of the merit of your original proposal. Your plate is full, and your attention is needed for matters outside of Bellen.
>Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? It would demand your supervision, but the extra hands can be put to work, should you have a task in mind.
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552067
>Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? It would demand your supervision, but the extra hands can be put to work, should you have a task in mind.
Free pops and soldiers, what's not to like

>>4552067
>Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? It would demand your supervision, but the extra hands can be put to work, should you have a task in mind.
It appears we have food in plenty, and we are in need of more hands. Seems like a win-win to me. We should clarify though, these people will become our subjects permanently? Or is this just a temporary fix?

>>4552067
>Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? It would demand your supervision, but the extra hands can be put to work, should you have a task in mind.
It’s free population

>>4552067
>Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? It would demand your supervision, but the extra hands can be put to work, should you have a task in mind.
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.
Can be a low level minister to teach us about her people and more about the conflict.

>>4552109
+1. Also I agree with what was said before about asking if its permanent, and if not, how long will they stay.

>>4552067
>Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? It would demand your supervision, but the extra hands can be put to work, should you have a task in mind.
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

There are cultural differences we'll have to learn, but this is a good boost to our power base. Such a good deed will be remembered for a long time.

>>4552067
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552067
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552067
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552067
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552067
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552067
>>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552143
I wouldn't mind if it was, we can use the manpower and the skills such people would bring in mining and smithing.

>>4552067
>Agree, on the condition that she sends a liaison to assist you. A foreign minister would put their interests before your own, but it is the easiest compromise.

>>4552081
>>4552143
>>4552678
War, including civil war, is the great uncertainty of Eurys. A conflict can be anything from a few heated weeks of atrocities to a cold war lasting the better part of a century. In the case of Vellene, a Grand Cardinal, once elected, holds their rank for life, and they are not known to change their stances on matters of religion often. More than likely, the struggle between the two sects will alternate between open aggression and quiet antagonism for as long as a group of stubborn old men can cling to life, if not longer. The people under your protection may obviously return to their homeland once relations have cooled, but by that time, it's likely that they'll have already integrated completely into Gralan society.

>>4552077
>>4552090
>>4552109
>>4552163
>>4552179
>>4552235
>>4552238
>>4552281
>>4552340
>>4552517
>>4552728
“If that is your desire, then the Bellen District shall make every effort to accommodate Vsytanya’s displaced peoples,” you say resolutely. To demonstrate growth and enterprise in Bellen will provide a strong argument for direct governance. It’s not as if Gral could refuse the additional resources when most of the nation is committed to the fight with Amur, in any case. “I only request that you send one of your ministers assist me, as there are other matters which demand my attention.”

The empress, visibly relieved, nods sagely. “It is done. I shall send one of my chancellors to Gral and make preparations.”

The next week is spent discussing the specifics of your trade agreement, logistics, quantities, consulting courtiers. Luckily, the data you requested from Benoit earlier comes in handy, and you’re able strike a favorable deal without much issue. The first goods and asylum seekers should be arriving in waves starting in just over month and a half, ample time to make ready. On that note, the court has likely tried to make contact with you by now, meaning that to delay your return would be most unwise. Exchanging farewells with Konstantinovna, you prepare to depart.

“Safe travels, and may the One guide your steps. Take care, Young Lion. Your father no longer responds to my missives, and the regent claims to be predisposed and unable to meet with my emissaries. You must know better than I what goes on in Gral, but I must caution you to remain vigilant nevertheless.”

(cont'd)

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>>4553277
The return trip to Keep Mathias-Baxter is several magnitudes more enjoyable than the journey to Ratovei. Braving frigid mountain slopes leading deep into inhospitable lands has made you stronger, but it’s not an experience that you’d like to repeat, at least not often. Never did you believe that you would miss the gentle midsummer of Gral, but the mild weather and kind terrain welcome you, and you could not be more pleased.

Your retainers offer you their individual reports. Your fighting force continues their training and occasionally sets out on patrol through the district for a week at a time to grow accustomed to campaigns on horseback. Meanwhile, Falco has taken the liberty of informing the maires of Augusty and Besan of the changes that are coming. The atmosphere is, overall, cautiously optimistic.

You’ve also received a letter from the court, requesting that you make an appearance as soon as you’re available. Technically, you should be able to delay your visit for quite some time given the nature of travel and communication in Eurys, but you’ll need to make for the capital sooner or later. Once again, your long-term goal is clear, but you are pursuing no short-term project in particular.

What to do, Prince Auguste?

>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.
>The court can wait. You need to tour Bellen and ensure that everything is ready for what’s to come.
>Why go to them? Invite the royal courtiers to Bellen and try to convince them to turn over governance to you.

>>4553279
>>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.
>>4553279

>>4553279
>Why go to them? Invite the royal courtiers to Bellen and try to convince them to turn over governance to you.

>>4553279
>>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.

>>4553279
>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.

>>4553279
>The court can wait. You need to tour Bellen and ensure that everything is ready for what’s to come.

>>4553279
>>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.
If we ignore this, would the court see this as an offence and excuse to stir up trouble? Or am I just overthinking.

>>4553279
>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.
We take our bodyguards and retainers with us.
I'm worried and concerned, this is to imprison us to remove us as a threat or its our dear old dad on his last heels.

>>4553279
>>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.

>>4553736
Depends on who summoned us, it should say....
If it was dear old dad, or sounds like dad, we should be good, if in for a scolding.

If its a minister or a retainer of our siblings we can expect some Fratricide.

>>4550804
>Communist
>When we can be Napoleon with full Russian support instead

>>4553279
>>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.

Regardless of our brothers and sisters deeds or the possible demise of our father we have to make an appearance just to be sure if our father is still around so we can make our claim to Bellen legitimate.
We will present our self as a Prince that merely wants to inherit the far of Bellen District that our father promised us and to turn it prosperous and peaceful while we nominally support the strongest sibling/named heir currently contending for the throne or maybe even proclaim our selves fully neutral.

>>4553990
I actually wouldn't mind a revolutionary/Napoleonic theme

>>4553279
>It’s time you paid the capital a visit. You need to find out what’s happening in Gral regardless.

>>4554001
Throw in some polish hussars into the mix and I'm game.

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>>4553736
Communication is slow and unreliable in Eurys. You could reasonably be busy when you receive a message, or sometimes never receive the message at all, so a long delay before a response is not in any way suspect.

>>4553332
>>4553349
>>4553498
>>4553504
>>4553549
>>4553885
>>4553948
>>4553996
>>4554017
“Master Gaspard, summon Regina, and make ready. We’re to leave for the capital immediately. And tell her to assemble a few of the more experienced fighting men,” you say, preparing yourself for a second trip the moment you’ve had a moment to catch your breath. “Forgive me, Young Master, ‘we?’”

“Did I stutter?”

Thankfully, the journey from Augusty to the capital of Warzenfeld is only a few days by horse, and the terrain of southern Gral is easy to navigate. Partway through your ride, Regina strikes up a conversation. “Auguste, if you want to continue expanding your fighting force, you should think about looking for an experienced commander in the future. I can lead your vanguard into any battle, but logistics is a geezer’s trade.”

Falco, face beaming, chimes in. “Perhaps we persuade Miss Wilbaum’s father! Not only is Sir Wilbaum a seasoned Knight Commander, but he’s fought in two wars. In fact, I would very much recommend-” Regina cuts in, glowering at him. “Accidents happen on horseback, old man.”

“Old man? I am thirty-eight years young!”

To call Warzenfeld a city upon a hill would be to do it justice. Constructed as a fortress to defend against the innumerable mounted warbands of early Gral, it was from here that the first sovereign launched his campaigns to bring the other districts under compliance. In many respects, it has become a cultural symbol of both victory and protection, standing undaunted ever since the Age of Bronze nearly a millennium ago.

Security here is heavy, and it takes time for the guardsmen manning the front gate to assess the veracity of your letter before ushering you inside. The streets bustle with color and activity, as wealth changes hands and goods of all makes are given in return. It serves as evidence that Warzenfeld prospers, regardless of how things may be in districts further out.

(cont'd)

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>>4554382
You journey through the inclined roads leading to the palace at the hill’s apex, welcomed inside by a man flanked on both sides by royal guards. You recognize this man as Rowan Strauss, Royal Treasurer. Though your recollection of your time at the palace is hazy nowadays, you distinctly recall that Rowan was never more than a few paces behind your father whenever the two were going about their business.

Falco breaks the ice, approaching Rowan with open arms and an exaggerated saccharine smile. “Treasurer Strauss! It’s been nearly a decade now. How have you been?” Rowan smirks coolly, addressing the man with a wintry, dulcet voice. “‘Regent Strauss’ these days, old friend.” He gestures in your direction. “Welcome, welcome, young Prince Auguste, and a welcome to his little sweetheart as well!” The man makes no effort to conceal the venom in the second part of his statement, pivoting away from your group as he beckons for you to follow. “There is much to discuss, and I have precious little time. This way, please.”

Regina bites her lip and glares, doing her best to hold back her poorly-concealed anger.

“Let us forgo the formalities. The court has heard rumors of your deeds, and acknowledged them.” The regent sighs melodramatically, leading your group through a vibrantly decorated antechamber. “I suppose you are at the age where you can capably manage your own affairs. As such, I’ll be turning direct governance over to you immediately.”

Surely, it could not be so easy? “You have my thanks, Lord Strauss. It should go without saying that I will make every effort to turn the Bellen District into a prosperous-” before you can finish, Strauss raises a finger, as if to correct you, and speaks. “And I shall be sending a member of the court to assist you in an advisory capacity as a gesture of good faith.” The emphasis he places on the last two words is followed by an awkward silence.

Falco anxiously curls his mustache.

>If that is the condition, then so be it. This way, you may keep them under your watch.
>Is he mad? Stress that you’re perfectly capable of governing on your own.
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554400
>If that is the condition, then so be it. This way, you may keep them under your watch.
Although I am worried that the advisor could be used as a spy by those who would rather have the throne to themselves. We would have to keep a very close watch on them.

>>4554400
>If that is the condition, then so be it. This way, you may keep them under your watch.
If they plan to use the advisor as a spy we will just have to build a spy network to counteract the spy network!

>>4554400
I wonder if Rowan is making the choice or if it is someone else, and hes just adding the extra condition.

What is this madness? In one breathe apart you complement me recognize my statesmanship, and in the next you insult me by telling me I am not good enough to manage the district while turning it over to my administration? This is unacceptable, I will speak to my father!

Either way we speak to the king, and try to get out of putting a spy in our court, or trying to get more concessions out of him.

Then we settle with "By the Gods, FINE! But I will choose the royal minister, I do need a better quartermaster of sorts."

>>4554436
>>4554445
Obviously a spy, but I wonder if we'd get the governance anyways, and if any of our siblings are pulling strings.

We do need a proper spy network, a very good spy master.

Even if they decide not to turn over official control over to us, we'd be able to gain control over that area anyways. The people will likely side with us who care about the place and improving it over distant royalty that never visits. They probably realize this, and don't want a succession, break away province, or worse, A civil war a battle for the throne causing a potential succession crisis for the throne. Them giving the district over to us is prudent and probably they hope it will satisfy us from trying to make a claim for ruler ship of the kingdom.

>>4554400
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

Don't just take this going down, we roll with it. Power politics is mostly about controlling the situation, and if we choose our 'adviser' it may not be as big of a deal as it seems.

>>4554465
Heh. If anything, we could use the adviser to make it seem like he's doing our bidding, instead of the opposite. Not only that, we can keep him very busy, tire him with work.

>>4554517
>“Accidents happen on horseback, old man.”
Tragic horsing accident.

>>4554400
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554400
>Is he mad? Stress that you’re perfectly capable of governing on your own.

>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554400
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554400
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554400
>>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.
what great gifts they're giving us. let's make sure to pick someone who'd favored us before and after we were sent to the countryside

>>4554400
>Is he mad? Stress that you’re perfectly capable of governing on your own.

>>4554400
>>If that is the condition, then so be it. This way, you may keep them under your watch.

(By setting them to do endless bureaucratic work)

>How is my fathers condition? If possible i wish to see him once again at least. (show some filial piety to either leave a better impression for the normal folk or remove any sense of danger to the courtiers lulling them into believing you have zero ambitions)

>>4554400
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554400
>Tell him that this is a splendid idea, and you’ll be personally selecting one of the royal ministers to advise you.

>>4554436
>>4554445
>>4554465
>>4554508
>>4554594
>>4554744
>>4554757
>>4554856
>>4554996
>>4554998
>>4555122
>>4555152
>>4555175
>>4555255
You debate the possibilities in your head and decide to play along for the time being. Who knows? Perhaps you could leverage this to your advantage. “You are a generous man, Lord Strauss. I’ll take you up on your gracious offer, and select one of the royal ministers that I am already acquainted with to join me in Bellen.”

For the briefest of moments, it appears as though you’ve managed to catch Strauss by surprise. His expression of shock contorts into a sly grin, and he tilts his head in your direction knowingly. “I would have it no other way. Unfortunately, as I am sure you are aware, there are many essential ministers whose presence is required in the capital. I will have a word with a few of the ones whom I strongly feel have too much…” he absentmindedly rubs the thumb and index finger of his right hand together. “... far too much recreational time on their hands, and allow you your pick.”

You’re led through a grand hall housing a large window overlooking the rest of the city. The sound of trudging feet reverberates throughout the palace, steadily growing louder as you stop. “Wait here a moment,” says Rowan dryly, “I must have a little chat with a few peers of mine.” Falco raises an eyebrow, but says nothing. You clear your throat, and take a single step toward the regent. “Truthfully, Lord Strauss, I would like to use this time to speak with my father. It has been quite some time since I have heard from him, and longer since I have seen him in person. Would you kindly direct me to him?”

Strauss rubs his hands together, squinting dubiously. “I apologize, young prince. Your father has been busy, and his agenda is all filled out for the foreseeable future.” Sighing histrionically, the regent feigns despondency as though it were second nature. “What a shame, what a shame. I will personally inform him that his son wishes him well. Mayhaps, in a month or two or three, he will be available again, and-”

(cont'd)

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>>4555524
“Enough, Strauss. Of all the people who should know, my brother is among the most deserving. You have a responsibility to fulfill, and you shall do so without argument or delay.” Marching up to your group is your eldest sibling, Franz Freidrich Argentein. Of the four of you, you remember Franz being the most imperious, though many allege that he takes after your mother more than he does your father. Not that you have many memories of your mother, considering that she passed when you were still an infant.

Rowan scowls at Franz for a good long moment before nonchalantly reassuming his casual, serene persona. "No arguments, and no delays! I shall return presently with members of the royal court who would simply die for the chance to work with the good Prince Auguste here." Bowing politely, the regent makes a hasty exit.

Standing a head over you, Franz sizes you up before resting a hand on your shoulder, meeting your gaze with weary eyes. The bags under his eyes suggest that he hasn’t been sleeping often or well, but that does nothing to diminish the force in his gait. “There is something that you must see for yourself. Your entourage waits here.”

Regina protests verbally, as you might expect by now. “Our loyalty is not in question! Anything which can be shown to Auguste can be shown to me!” The more even-tempered Falco interposes himself between you, waving his hands dismissively. “Forgive us, Your Grace. Dame Wilbaum here was dropped on her head as a babe, and never fully recovered. Please, take your time! We’ll eagerly await your return.” She scowls. “One more word and you’re in for a long drop yourself, Falco Gaspard.”

Your brother’s reaction conveys something between fear and confusion. Clearing his throat, he releases you and begins marching for the end of the hall. “We must hurry.” The two of you travel through the palace’s innards, eventually ascending spiral staircase winding through the tallest spire in the capital. Wherever you’re going, your brother is eerily quiet for the duration of your walk. This could be a good chance to question him.

>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.
>What news from other districts? Franz must be better informed than you.
>Ask about Rowan Strauss and the other courtiers.
>Small talk. (Write-in)

>>4555536
>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.

You know, I care about my family and I would like to not kill them if I don't have to... assuming, of course, this isn't an assassination plot itself.

>>4555536
>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.

>>4555536
>>Ask about Rowan Strauss and the other courtiers.
bet the bureaucrats are up to some shit

>>4555536
>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.

>>4555568
I agree if given the chance I would rather not have to kill our family especially if MC actually cares for them.

>>4555536
>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.
>Ask about Rowan Strauss and the other courtiers.
>Small talk. (Write-in)
How are you brother, I can see you've not had a good nights rest recently. Thank you for letting bringing me to see father.

>>4555536
>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.
Thanks for the help Franz, can you give us the family infodump real quick?

>>4555536
>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.

>>4555536
>>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.
>Ask about Rowan Strauss and the other courtiers.

>>4555536
>>Ask about your siblings and the state of the family as a whole.

''Is everyone fine? I haven't heard from the others in a while let alone father. Only these cocky courtiers who love prancing about in front of the princes. Eldest brother if you have any worries feel free to share them with me if i may ease your burdens.''

Also ask if Rowan is a cuck.

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>>4555568
>>4555580
>>4555709
>>4555723
>>4555901
>>4555914
>>4556005
>>4556226
>>4556655
>>4556667
“You haven’t been sleeping, Franz. What troubles you? And what of our kin? It has been quite some time since the four of us have so much as been in the same room,” you state, attempting to break the silence. Your brother does not slow as you continue your ascent, but seems receptive to your questions, despite opting to avoid talking about himself.

“Our brother, Wilhelm, now governs the Zweimenn District, and leads an army against the Amurish on land. Years ago he embarked on a pilgrimage to the city of Paladon to become a holy knight, and returned a full-fledged man of the cloth. As of late, he’s been receiving reinforcements from Vellene - paladins, they are, and rumors circulate that he’s been ‘chosen by the One’ - interpret that as you will.” He shakes his head disapprovingly.

“As for our sister, Clericia… she has married the governor of Ribault District, though it is an open secret that she runs their family now. Mirbel is the heart of Gralan trade, but what she has been doing with the wealth that she has inherited is anyone’s guess. She certainly hasn’t been spending it on luxuries.”

In an attempt to add some levity to the situation, you even try at making a bawdy joke at the regent’s expense. “And what of Rowan, and the rest of the court? He was hardly overjoyed to see my compatriots and I after so many years. Did having his lover stolen away by one of his peers ruin the occasion?” No response.

At the tower’s zenith is a utilitarian door, protected by two members of the king’s honor guard. They salute the two of you, and Franz salutes them in turn, placing a hand on the doorknob. Turning to face you, he inhales sharply. “Brace yourself. You must not breathe a word of what you’re about to witness.”

The two of you enter a chamber crowded by stacks of paper and strange implements, the likes of which you’ve never seen, operated by men and women in strange garb with olive or bronze-colored skin. Kasharvans, of the scholarly sort, by your reckoning. In the center is your aged father, confined to a bed with a number of foreign instruments snaking their way into his body. The invincible monarch that you remember from boyhood is no more, now a decrepit shell of his former self. Franz guides you through the mess and presents you to him. “This is Auguste, your son.”

“Auguste?!" He shouts, followed by a string of incredibly colorful expletives directed at you. He begins struggling to his feet, lashing out in your direction until he is restrained by the Kasharvans. Silently, your brother escorts you away, gently closing the door behind him, and starts his descent immediately.

(cont'd)

>>4556814
“The Kasharvan doctors claim that he is suffering from an affliction known as ‘dementia,’ now in its advanced stages. The court and I agreed to confine him to his quarters in the spire when he forgot his own name four years ago, and ‘Lord’ Strauss has been the de facto ruler of Gral ever since. The public knows nothing of this, of course - our father named no successor before his mind was taken from him, and we teeter on the brink of chaos in his absence as-is.”

You attempt to keep pace with Franz, racking your brain for the correct words. “And what of you, Franz? Where do you stand on… on all of this?” To think that a nation could risk internal strife because of the infirmity of a single man... “We may talk at length another time, Auguste. You have your affairs to sort, and I, mine. I will visit Bellen and the other districts in the near future. Until then, give some thought to what you’ve learned here.”

You return to the grand hall, where Rowan is glaring at a timepiece. Along with your entourage, there are two new arrivals, a lumbering redheaded man you recognize as Marcel Zima, the Grand Curator (a minister charged with maintaining and advancing culture), and an exasperated Kasharvan woman whom you’ve never met. Marcel waves at you, taking a step forward, before he’s halted by Rowan’s hand.

The regent clears his throat, sluggishly tapping his timepiece a few times before storing it in his pocket. “You return, Prince Auguste. I have here good Master Zima, with whom I’m sure you are familiar - and Miss Nanu, Chief Provost of our education ministry. Though I would love to sit here and let you interrogate my good friends, I would hate to delay your return to Bellen.” Franz looks over Rowan, and the two ooze vitriol before regaining their composure.

>Marcel will join you. He is an incredibly naive man, but he is competent in his role and loves the people.
>The Chief Provost can be saddled with the immense burden of your clerical work without a second thought. Nanu will do just fine
>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

>>4556816
>>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance

Franz is being a dunderhead here by withholding his cards and not telling us anything. Go somewhere private, take a hold of him by his shoulders and shake him a little. We're brothers, why is he being so cagey with us? There's obviously something going on between him and the Regent. What's the situation at the court? Why isn't he in charge, being the eldest son? Is there anything we can do to help?

>Actually including the write-in about the Regent being cucked
Madman

>>4556816
What a disappoint, I had already selected candidates for a position in my ministery, but none of them are amongst the ones you present before me.

I will have to take both of them to compensate.
>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

He will let let us, because what better than one spy, but TWO?
>Marcel will join you. He is an incredibly naive man, but he is competent in his role and loves the people.

>>4556862
Madman
Mad I tell you, MAD!

We shouldn't offer support so quickly until we know more about the situation. What of some old friends we've had from years before?

>>4556869
The offer for help was more to show good intention than actual help. Maybe he'll tell us where he's weak.

>>4556816
>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

Both can be useful, especially Nanu as we'll need to teach the migrants proper Gralian language and manners, as well as training the rest of the district for more specialized work. And also the clerical work.

>>4556876
This man deserves a medal!

>>4556876
Ah okay.

Also, do we want to jump in so soon, and inherit so many problems?

>>4556884
It doesn't matter the amount of problems we gain, what matters is our ability to fix them in a timely manner.

>>4556889
Easier said than done. We don't even know half of them, and it seems the more senior and experienced court and family members have failed to do so.... They probably aren't easy fixes.

Perhaps a few deaths here and there can fix the succession crisis, poor dear old dad and the regent dies... Probably create more short term problems but fixable.

>Marcel will join you. He is an incredibly naive man, but he is competent in his role and loves the people.
I'd rather not press my luck.

>>4556905
It's always easier said than done, but I wasn't looking for a Band-Aid to to fix a gushing wound either. We'll manage it.

>>4556816
>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

>>4556816
>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

>>4556816
>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

Also:
>>4556876
Love this idea +1

>>4556816
>>Risk attempting to convince Rowan to turn both of them over to you. After all, how could you ever build up an entire district without their assistance?

''Lord Strauss i fear making too many errors due to my inexperience as such i'd like to request the both of them to aid me.''

After this we need to write some letters to our siblings. Asking our sister for assistance in gathering intelligence (to protect our family). Our brother Paladin would be pleased if we mention the matter with mediating between the church and the Empress since she owes us a favor for taking in the poor people drawn into this war (also warn him against unidentified backstabbing heretics hiding in the church as well as to be wary of the courtiers of the capitol). Make sure to honor the ''One'' in our writing to him and write in some phrases about filial piety among siblings so we can protect each other from evil.
In addition we should maintain regular correspondence with our eldest brother (pushing him to the forefront as the crown Prince while we do so).

>>4556862
>>4556869
>>4556882
>>4556933
>>4557030
>>4557105
>>4557177
>>4557423
I'll need two rolls of 3d10 for this one.

Rolled 7, 3, 4 = 14 (3d10)

>>4557613

Rolled 8, 10, 8 = 26 (3d10)

>>4557613
roll

Rolled 8, 10, 3 = 21 (3d10)

>>4557613

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>>4557619
>>4557623
Choosing to gamble on the possibility that Rowan will relinquish both of them, you make your best attempt at persuading him. “This is not quite what I had in mind, Lord Strauss. Still, I cannot afford to err on account of my inexperience, and as such, humbly request that both of these two join me in governing Bellen.” The regent puckers his lips and squints, humming quietly to himself. For whatever reason, he decides to acquiesce to your demand.

“Yes, very good, Prince Auguste! I’ll have these two clear out their offices and send them on their merry way down to the good old Bellen District with you. Come along, you two, I am giving you fifteen minutes to pack your bags, and no more.” He places his hands on the backs of both Marcel and Nanu and forcefully shoves them down the hall, leaving you with your brother and your retainers. Marcel glances back at you and waves, shooting you a kool-aid smile. “I-It’s good to see you again, by the way…!”

Falco and Regina resume what you assume to be an animated debate on what exactly constitutes a ‘long drop’ as you and Franz step away from your group. Placing your hands on his shoulders, you give him a good shake, and try your hand at coaxing some information out of him. “Brother, when was it that you became so reticent? We are siblings, you and I, and it does not take a scholar to figure out that things are not right here in the palace. What troubles you? Perchance, I might even be able to assist.”

He gently brushes your hands aside, sending a skeptical look your way. “From now onwards, Auguste, you would do well to temper your actions with prudence. With your return to the public eye, your every act will be both scrutinized and remembered. This applies to myself, as well. Consider this a warning - I urge you to remain cautious, for your sake.”

Your return trip to Keep Mathias-Baxter is intriguing, to say the least. Regina and Falco’s usual bickering has been drowned out by Marcel, who sings folk songs the entire way. He is surprisingly talented, though Regina is visibly annoyed by his antics. On the other hand, Nanu, who never learned to ride herself, shares a horse with the knight, trying in vain to fall asleep while mounted.

Direct governance of Bellen has been turned over to you, meaning that you may finally begin to solidify your position in Gral. The diplomat and first migrants from Vstanya should be arriving sometime next month, and you now possess the authority to collect taxes and uphold your laws, provided they don’t conflict with the mandates coming from the capital.

What’s first on the agenda?

>Now that the Bellen District yours, you should tour the region and fully establish your presence here.
>First thing’s first. Gather your ministers, old and new, and hold daily council to delegate work and come up with a tangible plan for the future.
>The long-term can wait. Begin allocating resources to improve infrastructure and build up your district in general.

>>4557814
>>First thing’s first. Gather your ministers, old and new, and hold daily council to delegate work and come up with a tangible plan for the future.

>>4557814
>Now that the Bellen District yours, you should tour the region and fully establish your presence here.
>First thing’s first. Gather your ministers, old and new, and hold daily council to delegate work and come up with a tangible plan for the future.

Both can be accomplished in conjunction, as a tour will make intelligence gathering and recourse allocation more efficient, though we should begin improving infrastructure and build up our district before the influx of migrates overwhelm our territory.

I would like to add, I appreciate Franz's honesty. I do wish him the best in his endeavors, at least where our interests don't collide.

>>4557814
>Now that the Bellen District yours, you should tour the region and fully establish your presence here.

We need to know what needs fixing first.

>>4557814
>First thing’s first. Gather your ministers, old and new, and hold daily council to delegate work and come up with a tangible plan for the future.

>>4557814
>>Now that the Bellen District yours, you should tour the region and fully establish your presence here.

>>4557814
>First thing’s first. Gather your ministers, old and new, and hold daily council to delegate work and come up with a tangible plan for the future.

>>4557814
>First thing’s first. Gather your ministers, old and new, and hold daily council to delegate work and come up with a tangible plan for the future.

>>4557814
>>Now that the Bellen District yours, you should tour the region and fully establish your presence here.

We need to know the situation around the area with our own eyes and maybe scout some capable individuals.
Most notably we need 3 sepparate information networks at the very least.

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My new keyboard has arrived. My typing may be sluggish as I grow accustomed to it.

It looks like the general consensus is to come up with a plan of action first. The tour came up second and can happen, although it’ll be a quick round-trip through the region as opposed to a PR stunt where you go around shaking hands with the locals.

Weighing your priorities, you are aware that laying out machinations for the future and delegating work are at the top of the list, but learning about your new domain is not a step which can be bypassed. You set out with your ministers to speak with the locals, with Nanu turning green at the thought of riding a horse for another extended period.

It is hardly a secret that Bellen is populated by the bumpkins of Gral. Existing in a state of comfortable ignorance, the citizens of Bellen live simple country lives, working the same land that their ancestors have for generations, or fishing to subsist in small seaside villages, only dimly aware that there is a world outside of the neighboring farms and villages. To all but a few, you are the first new person that they’ve spoken with in years, and the mere presence of royalty is enough to merit celebrations. It seems that the only ones to leave Bellen regularly are the daring youngsters willing to strike out as soldiers, and these people almost never return.

The land is largely uncultivated wilderness, sans the towns of Besan and Augusty, both of which struggle to develop. The maires do the best with what they are able, and maintain small centers of trade which regularly send Bellen’s goods to the cities to bring in new money and crafts. Overall, they are stable, and stagnant. Maire Benoit Barnier is an educated man with a good mind for money, and subtly implies that he would appreciate an investment into Augusty in the near future.

Convening in the war room of Keep Mathias-Baxter, you sit your subordinates at the round table in the room’s center and lock the door. The dreadful discussion over what happens next has commenced. Seating yourself at the table’s head, the five of you share an awkward silence as you each wait for one among your number to make a suggestion.

(cont'd)

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>>4558789
Nanu speaks, sitting up in her chair and fighting off the perpetual lethargy that seems to torment her without end. “Prince Argentein, I don’t mean to start questioning your leadership so soon, but… well, what’s the plan?” She scans the room pensively. “Of course we have the means to build up Bellen. But what’s first?”

Clearing his throat, Falco leans in, offering his stance on the issue. “I, for one, believe that we must cement ourselves as the new administrators of the district before we commit to any long-term project. Getting involved in the day-to-day of running Bellen would give us the foothold we need to advance our interests.”

You nod. “I concur, Master Gaspard. It is our basest responsibility, and I would like to begin delegating tasks immediately, that I might direct my attention elsewhere. Corresponding with my kin, for one, and establishing reliable channels of information to better inform my decisions.”

Marcel slaps his palms together, grinning. “Lovely! I, for one, cannot wait until we are working with the people. In fact, I would like to propose a festival, to commemorate the occasion. The amount we have in the treasury should be enough to buy cakes for the whole of Bellen, and if we all pooled out funds, we could even-”

“With all due respect, Master Zima, maybe we should let Auguste decide who spends our money,” says Regina dryly, shooting everyone a concerned look. “Isn’t that right, Miss Nanu?” She asks, petitioning the only uninvolved party who isn’t Falco for support.

“Quite so, young lady. Marcel is a good man, but he is easy to excite.” Laying out a pile of documents, she dips a quill in ink and looks over to you. “Now then, I have the papers here, I just need to get it in print. Your administration is still young, so you only require a few ministers. We’ll stick to the essentials for now, no generals or grand diplomats…”

This choice will be a bit open-ended. Who is to be your…

>Treasurer, responsible for collecting taxes and managing your funds wisely?
>Counselor, who will attend to the needs of the common man?
>Warden, who will uphold your laws and train the local militias?

>Falco
>Marcel
>Regina
Marcel seems naive, but he could be useful if it's something relating to the citizenry.

>>4558796
>Treasurer
Falco

>Counselor
Marcel

>Warden
Regina

Seems optimal

>>4558884
+ 1

>>4558884
+1

>>4558884
+1

>>4558796
Treasurer
Falco

Counsler
Nuna

Warden Regina

>>4558820
>>4558884
>>4558931
>>4558942
>>4558985
>>4559045
“Well, you heard him, Nanu,” chirps Falco, contentedly grooming his mustache. “It seems that you’ll be assisting the rest of us until more offices become available.” She sneers at him. “Are you serious? Couldn’t we put this to a vote? I’ll be nominating myself for the office of Counselor. For one, my experience as an educator-”

“My decision is final. I believe that I’ve made the optimal choice, and will entertain no arguments. On to the next topic of discussion, regarding the pavement of roads to the Argentein and Ribault districts…” The five of you spend each day laying out plans to improve infrastructure, fill the treasury, and accommodate the migrants from Vstanya. Taking the extra hands into account, you decide to expand Augusty to house the foreigners, and use the additional labor for construction once they’re settled. Between the liaison sent by Konstantnovna and your advisors, there is little that requires you to be directly involved outside of settling disputes or approving the measures that your ministers wish to implement.

The months ahead will be quiet, and you will have the privilege of free time as your plans steadily come into fruition. How do you choose to spend this time?

>Seek lessons on the art of the blade from Regina. In this era, there are times when a leader must fight their own battles, and you will be prepared to rise to the occasion.
>A “Make Bellen Great” campaign. Spend these months traveling your lands and constantly interacting with your people. Establish yourself as an inspiration to them.
>Ingratiate yourself to the merchants and maires. It is they who fill your coffers and arm your fighting men, and you will make every effort to win their loyalty.

To go off on a tangent, there seems to be a desire to build an intelligence network and to establish contact with Auguste’s other siblings, both of which will be put on the potential “to-do” list.

>>4559144
>A “Make Bellen Great” campaign. Spend these months traveling your lands and constantly interacting with your people. Establish yourself as an inspiration to them.
They'll give us money and donations if they love us enough.

>>4559144
>>Ingratiate yourself to the merchants and maires. It is they who fill your coffers and arm your fighting men, and you will make every effort to win their loyalty.

>>4559144
>Ingratiate yourself to the merchants and maires. It is they who fill your coffers and arm your fighting men, and you will make every effort to win their loyalty.
Winning the people's love is nice but gold wins wars

>>4559144
>Seek lessons on the art of the blade from Regina. In this era, there are times when a leader must fight their own battles, and you will be prepared to rise to the occasion.

>>4559144
>A “Make Bellen Great” campaign. Spend these months traveling your lands and constantly interacting with your people. Establish yourself as an inspiration to them.
Gold is good but I don’t think it will be a problem for quite sometime seeing as we are royalty. A very fanatical and loyal population though would ensure that our word is law in Bellen and the populace woud not dare oppose the man they see as their supreme leader.

>>4559144
>>Ingratiate yourself to the merchants and maires. It is they who fill your coffers and arm your fighting men, and you will make every effort to win their loyalty.

>>4559144
>A “Make Bellen Great” campaign. Spend these months traveling your lands and constantly interacting with your people. Establish yourself as an inspiration to them.

>>4559144
>Ingratiate yourself to the merchants and maires. It is they who fill your coffers and arm your fighting men, and you will make every effort to win their loyalty.

>>4559144
>Seek lessons on the art of the blade from Regina. In this era, there are times when a leader must fight their own battles, and you will be prepared to rise to the occasion.
Gotta learn how to defend ourselves

>>4559144
>>Seek lessons on the art of the blade from Regina. In this era, there are times when a leader must fight their own battles, and you will be prepared to rise to the occasion.

>>4559144
>A “Make Bellen Great” campaign. Spend these months traveling your lands and constantly interacting with your people. Establish yourself as an inspiration to them.

Hello, I'm still here. The votes seem divided, to say the least, but I'll be locking them in here as I work on the next update. I'd also like to thank everyone who's participated so far.

>>4560050
It's a tie isn't it?

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4560284
It would seem so and I've miscounted. I'll decide by a roll and put whichever option doesn't turn up at the top of the list for the next lull in happenings.

>>4559160
>>4559474
>>4559545
>>4560034
Make Bellen Great

>>4559236
>>4559394
>>4559499
>>4559697

>>4559459
>>4559759
>>4559873
Sword lessons

File: stan.jpg (120 KB, 800x1200)

120 KB JPG

>>4559160
>>4559236
>>4559394
>>4559459
>>4559474
>>4559499
>>4559545
>>4559697
>>4559759
>>4559873
>>4560034
>>4560050
>>4560284
>>4560294
>>4560299

“Make Bellen Great.” That is the slogan of your initiative to modernize the backwater of your homeland and unite its people under your banner. Over the next few months, migrants pour in hundreds at a time, displaced by the war raging to the east, bringing with them their trades and exotic culture. Operating under the authority of the empress, your liaison, introducing himself as Eshman Stanislas Grigorivich (though he encourages you to refer to him as ‘Stan’ to make speaking with him more palatable in your language) explains that he’ll be working to ease his people’s transition into their new lives in Bellen and will serve as your contact to Vstanya, should you ever require one. Setting up his office in your keep, the man tends to keep to himself when not performing his functions as an ambassador.

Among the Vstanyans are a number of talented masons and seasoned miners, who immediately set to work mining into Bellen’s more rocky hills and carving out the blocks of stone required to expand Augusty, artfully constructing the new homes and fortifications which they are to make use of. Initially afraid of Gral’s horses, it is only through the aid of the locals that the migrants are able to make use of the creatures to greatly expedite their efforts, setting a good precedent for cooperation between the two groups.

Your appointed ministers perform admirably. Falco has already planned out the logistics of trading with the Vstanyans, set aside money to construct roads and turn one of Bellen’s fishing villages into a proper port, and worked to keep deficit spending nonexistent. No one has complained about your taxes, or at least, not more than normally. As this happens, Regina increases the frequency of her patrols, making an effort to keep your fighting men incredibly visible to the public. In a large city, such displays would be considered a sign of open tyranny, but out here it is an unsubtle assurance that law and order will be upheld, and she knows this. In this corner of the world, all is peaceful and orderly.

(cont'd)

>>4561245
As for yourself, you take the time to consider the choices now available to you. Strengthening your connections with the influential class responsible for funding your endeavors is tempting, but it is a time of plenty at the moment, and you do not need to fall back on their support… yet. As for receiving lessons in combat, though the day will likely come that you must lead your people in battle, you don’t see yourself involved in any major battles in the immediate future. That leaves winning the adoration of your citizens.

Working with Marcel, the two of you spend months visiting the countless farmsteads, villages, and cabins in your domain, assuaging the locals’ fears of their new rulers and warming them to the idea of accepting the Vstanyans friends and neighbors, inspiring them to support the nebulous cause of making Bellen “great.” Marcel in particular seems to have a way with the common man, possessing an encyclopedic knowledge of every obscure tale, song, and odd idiom that the Gralan people use, proving to be a boon companion despite his eccentricities. You still wouldn’t trust the man with a penny from your coffers, but that’s a discussion for another time.

Once again, you convene with your inner-circle to receive reports and lay the foundation for your next major undertaking. It has been roughly half a year since you first began your attempt to claim the throne of the Gralan empire, an end which you’ve made significant progress toward. Presently, Augusty is projected to become a city someday given the rate it is expanding, the Vstanyans are settling in nicely despite minor cultural differences between your peoples, and this year’s harvest should net your newborn administration a substantial sum of currency and iron thanks to your trade agreement. In addition, the construction of new roads is scheduled to begin next month, made possible by the additional labor trickling into your territory. All you can do now is wait to reap the benefits of your investments.

What shall you do next?

>Visit your sister Clericia in the Ribault District, to learn of what goes on in the trade city of Mirbel.
>Visit your brother Wilhelm in the Zweimenn District to see how his role in the war with Amur is going and make a show of filial piety.
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.

“Brush up on martial arts” and “strengthen your relations with the wealthy” will come up as future endeavors.

>>4561246
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.
So we can keep better tabs on what's going on and need to act in person less often

>>4561246
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.
Good intelligence can win wars before they even begin

>>4561246
>Visit your sister Clericia in the Ribault District, to learn of what goes on in the trade city of Mirbel.

>>4561246
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.

As much as I would love to visit our family if only to learn of their skills and compatriots, intelligence gathering is going to be important. After all, how can you fix problems if you don't know what the problems are?

Family will have to wait another day.

>>4561246
>>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.

>>4561246
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.

>>4561246
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.
Sorry senpai, but this is not a option i could resist.

>>4561246
>Discuss the possibility of establishing an intelligence network with your ministers.

Maybe we should only tell the original two people?

>>4561254
>>4561259
>>4561338
>>4561477
>>4561544
>>4561648
>>4561691
>>4562118
The word “spy” typically evokes images of handsome libertines cloaked in black, dashing from rooftop to rooftop, absconding into the night with the secrets of an enemy caught unawares. Spycraft in Eurys is nothing at all like this. The quintessential spy is a literate everyman who has committed numerous ciphers to memory, typically posing as a pauper, trader, or servant. In an age where education is the privilege of a select few, those who possess the ability to read and write are allowed a unique degree of information control. In the event that a more direct approach is required, the spy will almost always employ a mercenary or criminal element to serve in their stead as a deniable asset.

Once the day’s council is concluded, you remain in the war room, ordering Regina and Falco to do the same. Regina locks the door, crossing her arms as she leans against it. “So what’s this about, then?” She asks, her impatience as clear as crystal. Folding your hands on the table, you lean back, scanning the scattered maps and stacks of parchment for the correct words.

“The district of Bellen no longer exists in isolation, and as governor, I strongly feel that it is imperative that we establish a reliable information network. Arming ourselves with knowledge of what happens elsewhere is in our best interest.” You look at both of them expectantly. Regina is the first to vocalize her opinion on the matter.

(cont'd)

>>4562455
“Do you mean spies? I can throw some black cloaks on the men and teach them about stealth and knives,” she says boldly. “I’m not too bad with poisons, either.” Falco pinches the bridge of his nose, squinting at her. “Dame Wilbaum, the Young Master speaks of espionage, not forming a covert law enforcement ministry. Where would a knight even learn of such crafts?” She shrugs, divulging no answer.

Composing himself, Falco scratches at his mustache and clears his throat. “In any case, Young Master, this risky prospect, as all others, and requires an initial investment. Having experience in all matters of state myself, I happen to know of a few methods by which we could construct an intelligence agency in this day and age…”

It would be good to diversify, but your focus your efforts somewhere to the start.

>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.
>Corrupt bureaucrats. Both foreign and domestic bureaucrats at low levels are vulnerable to bribery, and corruption will allow you to coerce them. Allows instant access to sensitive information, but they will always be more loyal to your money than to you.
>Legitimize criminals. Less risky than buying off clerks and scribes, many organized criminals will happily cooperate with you in exchange for money and legitimacy, and likely possess the infrastructure to do your bidding immediately. No matter how favorable your relationship, they will loathe your oversight.

>>4562461
>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.
Build the core of the organization and let it filter down to the lower ranks before we "contract outside with Officials and freelance labor".

>>4562461
>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.

Though if you put the options in reverse order, it's basically how Communism progresses.

>>4562461
>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.
Xf

>>4562461
>>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.

>>4562461
>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.

For something so long term sooner is better.

>>4562461
>>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.
this, as >>4562749 said. we could then legitimize criminals and have organized crime

>>4562461
>Train your own spies. The most basic spy requires only a few months of education and in this way you can guarantee their loyalty. Good for having eyes and ears in many places, but they could take years to penetrate high society should you need them to.

>>4562538
>>4562550
>>4562677
>>4562695
>>4562749
>>4562804
>>4563027
Farm fresh organic spies are the order of the day, it seems.


“We do not yet require contracts with outside officials or ‘freelance labor’ quite yet Master Gaspard. What I desire is a strong core for this new ministry, created and managed by this administration. Have we the means to train the agents which we require?”

Falco scratches his mustache, furrowing his brow. “To be frank, Young Master, the level of education in the Bellen District is simply abhorrent, even by Gralan standards. We haven’t the facilities to instruct our enterprising young agents, nor do we have anyone with the erudition to create a cipher.”

“What of Nanu?” You ask, recalling that the woman was the nation’s Chief Provost until being hastily reassigned to you. “Would we be able to trust her in this matter? I haven’t the slightest as to why the regent was so eager to turn her over to us, but this should be her forte.” The three of you wordlessly contemplate the idea, still unsure what to make of the woman. Regina steps forward.

“I will assign a few of my men to monitor her at all hours. I don’t think her loyalty will fail as long as her new bodyguards are around to encourage her.” The young woman pops her neck, grinning devilishly. Falco throws his head back, sighing. “Could you be any less subtle? That is a suitable compromise… unfortunately.”

Upon learning of her latest charge, the Kasharvan woman is positively elated to be doing something besides transcribing the treasurer’s endless records of taxes and expenditures, and doesn’t even seem to mind that she’s been spontaneously assigned two entire squads of wonderful bodyguards who will be seeing to her protection at all times. Setting up a makeshift classroom in one of Keep Mathias-Baxters many vacant halls, she begins preparing a curriculum.

Finding adventurous youths wanting for an education and the opportunity to see the world is an easy task following your public relations campaign. With any luck, you’ll have your first agents ready by the winter, and can send them out to gather information by the spring of next year. Regina claims that she can handle their indoctrination and teach them how to communicate over long distances, though you’ll need a proper spymaster in the future.

(cont'd)

>>4563455
The end of summer heralds the beginning of the Gralan harvest, resulting in an abundance of vegetables and grain that is ordinarily clumsily carted away to Mirbel to be sold at a fraction of its true value. Now it is being shipped off to be put on Vstanyan plates, and your northern neighbors are much more appreciative of Bellen’s bounty. In many respects, it could be said Bellen merely required a leader's touch to prosper.

And with prosperity comes unwanted attention. Regina storms into the war room as your other ministers sleepily shuffle in for this week’s morning meeting. “Pirates,” she says, stopping to catch her breath. “We have marauders sailing our waters. The salty bastards smelled money and swam here as fast as they could.”

Even the most foolhardy Amurish buccaneer would not dare raid the seas shared jointly by Vstanya, Vellene, and Gral, and the three nations maintain a sizable naval presence in the area in the event that the neighbors declare war. Currently, the former two are preoccupied by the numerous naval battles near the cities of Czersk and Paladon. Still, this could only mean one thing.

“Privateers, Dame Wilbaum,” spits Falco. “Pirates could only comfortably sail our waters if they were under the protection of a flag. Young Master, we have stepped onto the world’s stage, and made our first enemies. No matter your decision, we must act immediately if we are to maintain our favorable trade agreement with Vstanya.”

You mull over the potential suspects. Vstanya gains nothing from harassing its own merchants, especially considering they benefit greatly from your current arrangement. Vellene is at peace with Gral, though they have a strong motive for wanting to disrupt Vstanya’s supply of food and livestock, and privateers could easily seek refuge in friendly waters given the close proximity of your two nations, making it the prime suspect.

On the other hand, you can’t dismiss the possibility that a Gralan party is employing freebooters against you. There are ships stationed in the waters surrounding both the Ribault and Argentein districts, and you would not be paranoid to assume that someone would like to cripple your economy before you grow too influential.

Your order, Auguste?

>Pay the merchants to hire on mercenaries. It will not get rid of the privateers, but the goods and traders are guaranteed to be safe despite the additional cost.
>Petition for your countrymen in nearby districts to step up their response. A persuasive argument can twist their arms into making a show of stopping these crooks.
>This is intolerable. Have your warden attempt to apprehend some of these pirates and bring them to the keep for interrogation.

>>4563457
>>Petition for your countrymen in nearby districts to step up their response. A persuasive argument can twist their arms into making a show of stopping these crooks.
>>This is intolerable. Have your warden attempt to apprehend some of these pirates and bring them to the keep for interrogation
I fail to see why we cannot do both at the same time

>>4563457
>Petition for your countrymen in nearby districts to step up their response. A persuasive argument can twist their arms into making a show of stopping these crooks.
>This is intolerable. Have your warden attempt to apprehend some of these pirates and bring them to the keep for interrogation.

>>4563457
>Petition for your countrymen in nearby districts to step up their response. A persuasive argument can twist their arms into making a show of stopping these crooks.
>This is intolerable. Have your warden attempt to apprehend some of these pirates and bring them to the keep for interrogation.

Both does sound good.
My theory on why this is happening is that the Vellene hired mercs from Amur (whom we are currently at war with) to raid the food ships to their current enemy, Vstanya.
So long as we keep shipping food this will prolly keep happening, unless we can get peace with the Dukes.

>>4563457
>Petition for your countrymen in nearby districts to step up their response. A persuasive argument can twist their arms into making a show of stopping these crooks.
>This is intolerable. Have your warden attempt to apprehend some of these pirates and bring them to the keep for interrogation.

You'd think our fellow countrymen would be capable of defending our seas and people from such piracy. Oh well, I guess we'll step up to the plate.

>>4563457
>Petition for your countrymen in nearby districts to step up their response. A persuasive argument can twist their arms into making a show of stopping these crooks.
>This is intolerable. Have your warden attempt to apprehend some of these pirates and bring them to the keep for interrogation.

>>4563466
>>4563664
>>4563665
>>4563747
>>4564085
One roll of 5d10 and one roll of 4d10, please.

Rolled 3, 10, 7, 8, 3 = 31 (5d10)

>>4564232
Dice time

Rolled 6, 4, 10, 9 = 29 (4d10)

>>4564232

I return. Thank you for waiting.

You pen missives to both Mirbel and Warzenfeld, stressing that the navy serves no purpose if not to defend Gral and its interests at sea. You even go as far as to question the competency of those responsible for its maritime operations. All that your district requires is the basic protection afforded the others, something which the traders operating in your region are entitled to.

This demand does not go unanswered, and within days you receive a message penned by one of the regent’s secretaries sheepishly apologizing for the navy’s inefficacy, as they ‘regretfully overlooked Bellen as their attentions were elsewhere’ and ‘will discuss the possibility of increasing their presence in the area soon.’ On the other hand, your sister sends you a cask of strawberry wine and a cloying promise to protect you, assuring you that help is on the way.

Meanwhile, you dispatch Regina, instructing her to capture one of these knaves, intent on interrogating them to better equip yourself to deal with the pirate threat in a more permanent fashion. She and a handful of the more experienced fighters under her direction are to board some of the more vulnerable merchant vessels headed north and surprise any pillagers who would be so bold and foolish as to waylay them.

(cont’d)

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>>4565373
Hook, line, and sinker. Tantalized by dreams of easy money, a sloop manned by waterborne bandits assaults one of the ships while flying a Gralan flag until the very last moment, only to discover professional soldiers awaiting their arrival. It should go without saying that the miscreants were woefully unprepared for what happened next.

With most of the crew now sleeping away eternity in watery graves, the sloop and its loot have been confiscated. The leader of the gang is brought before you in the keep’s great hall, cuffed and shackled, dragged by a pair of disgruntled veterans led by Regina. She presents a scruffy man who reeks of accumulated salt and filth to you as though he were some sort of prize animal on display. “This man calls himself the captain of the little dinghy we brought in, Auguste. We found charts of Gralan naval routes laying right next to his pile of false flags.”

He smiles, possessing more gaps than teeth, and what few he does are yellow and rotted. “Strange fing, innit, yer lordliness? Don’t s’pose you’ll be lettin’ me go if I says sorry?” An Amurish accent, in a dialect shared by many of the west’s common folk. You step closer, skipping the platitudes as you address him. “You steal the earnings of honest men and women under my protection, and I would like to know why. You needn’t make this more difficult than it must be - tell me everything.”

“No ‘fense, yer majister, but do I look loike some kinda nark?” Regina balls a fist, prepared to strike him.

>Allow Regina to do her thing, the woman has a way with gentle persuasion.
>An olive branch is more convincing than a bludgeoning. Tempt him gold and a pardon on the condition that he turns on his masters.
>You may be merciful. The north will not. Threaten to turn him over to the Empire unless he divulges everything immediately.