Furiel smiles and says: "In my mind, statements towards large goals with lots of emotion and no specific measures of how to accomplish those goals is a speech. But we can discuss this at the fort."
As they reach the fort, Furiel shows Senex the construction underway and introduces him to the gnomes and dwarves.
At Furiel's insistence, out of the chaos an improvised table and chairs are made out of construction materials that are obviously pieces of their future castle. It just seems appropriate that Senex have a seat at the table.
As soon as they are seated, Furiel explains:
"Now that we are back away from prying eyes, we can convene a meeting of the ruling COUNCIL. We have a proposal to issue an EDICT, to all who will listen, banning slavery immediately. Personally I am against slavery, but is the status quo. Green, would you like to explain why the ruling COUNCIL should consider this?"
Furiel is obviously trying to ensure that large decisions are not made arbitrarily in the heat of the moment.
The Green Man smirks a little at Furies good-natured teasing.
"I got my hammer don't I? And my will, I'd stack those two up against any mountain needing climbing.
Besides, I'm not alone, am I?"
Back at the fort, The Green Man considers, he had not really thought he would have the need to intellectually argue against slavery, but he resolved to give it his best.
"Well, freedom is the right of every sentient creature, but that is just my opinion.
More important is that it sets precedence; we're taking over a lawless area here, which was ruled by a bandit lord until very recently.
We might not be able to undo all the damage this neglect and corruption caused in just one day, but it is important that start somewhere.
As it is, there ARE no laws at all, murder anywhere is against the law, but here, there are none."
"If we begin to implement laws that are firm but fair, and that shows a high level of morality, then some of the more basic concepts will also fall in place naturally.
If you don't have the right to enslave someone, then you obviously do not have the right to murder someone either."
"Many kingdoms are built on the back of workers, and in many cases, slaves.
I suggest we start right off showing that we are different.
History books will show that our kingdom, long-lasting or not, will have been built by free men and women of all races, that were paid for their efforts, and who had an influence on what the kingdom became."
"Another thing to consider is what kind of people we want to attract here, because once Stagfall is a proper city, we will build more, and people will come from all over.
Our laws should be strong as iron, but weigh lightly on the shoulders of the people, so lightly that they forget they are there.
But when someone goes against the law, they will find them firm and fair, strong as iron and steel."
"I have more to say, but I...I think I should allow other people to speak too.
I yield the floor for now."
Furiel quickly casts a simple spell (detect magic) and scans for any untoward magical auras before resuming. He seems to be trying to detect for any magical eavesdropping.
Furiel decides to sum things up for their new guest.
"We arrive at the farms to find kobolds enslaved and worked quite hard. Furthermore, the breeding of them is encouraged to get them more slaves. The lord produces papers from Brevoy giving him title to the farm lands of most of the area we explored yesterday. Our chief diplomat, Sir Norton, cleverly dances around the subject of slavery, even dropping hints about seeing slavery with halflings--but unimpressed with their work ethic. I mentioned that we were not Brevan and would like to avoid Brevoy interfering too much in our affairs. Norton and I both agreed with the lord that an accommodation would work much better than confrontation."
He takes a breath.
"A further meeting with Boolna, the kobold slave, shows she would like to see the children freed from the mistakes of their elders. I agreed to help, but was impressed that this kobold was able to see the long-term big picture."
With a sigh: "So as we leave I clearly state this subject should be discussed as soon as we return to our fort. When Green begins discussing a drastic course action with another farmer shortly thereafter without consulting anyone else, I tried to stop him. He would not stop short of outlining his plans to end slavery. I was concerned as a smart lord would have sent spies to follow us and see what we do and what we say."
Turning to Senex: "So this is what you got yourself into. What do you think, head magister?"
Well slavery is a tricky issue, you must decide how your rule will be decided, as a failed attempt because of a lack of infrastructure and unrest. Your coffers emptied by paying for labor and dealing with insurrections from unsatisfied lords and barons and large houses that depend on them and force you to raise levies to fight...
If you decide to enforce slavery you'll have a hard issue if that's the current rule, if you modify slavery laws however, that's harder to fight... and you can find the lives of your slaves better than a serf or bondsman in any other country!
You return to the fort, and see a fair amount of progress. There also are a few new arrivals who are chatting with Brarim Broadhammer as you dismount by the gate.
Norton immediately goes to greet Brarim. They step aside from the newcomers. Brarim looks over toward Green and Furiel... nodding as he listens to Norton. He strokes his beard and nods, then walks over to the rest of the group.
"Master Senis." He bows "Norton has told me about your interest in assisting our venture here. Good to have you on board. Care to join us on a stroll around the grounds? I believe we have a few things to hammer out."
He looks to Green and Furiel, and then starts walking... clearly expecting to be followed. Once he has the two of them on either side...
"You are parents to the new kingdom. Remember what is important in that relationship... both to each other, and to the new realm you are birthing here. Conviction in rule comes with communication, and speaking to your subjects with one voice."
He turns back to gaze upon the build site. "Your future is there. If that is the future you both seek, do not build grudges over the path you choose."
Naturally if you don't mind taking it a little slower than most, I can keep up but I'm easily fatigued these days
Furiel nods, "I am often too stubborn. Maybe like my cousins?"
He adds: "Healthy debate to decide the one voice is probably a good thing. Anyway, let us agree to be good leaders."
"You are stubborn, and I am hot headed, but I think we can get past MOST of our flaws together.
But, I got to ask, do you REALLY think that any of these farmers are spies? They seem to truly despise the lord, and I suspect that even if he had tried to turn one or two of them to his cause, they hate him so much they'd keep mum hoping we'd trip him up."
"Can we agree that we need allies to succeed here?
And we need money too.
If we can free the kobolds, we can hand them over to MikMek, he'll keep them in line, we would have a strong tribe to call upon in time of need, and we can probably have them mine and trade for us."
"After listening to what you have to say, I realize we are not really debating IF we are to free them, only HOW to go about it.
I think we should hold off that debate until we return from the Lurleton estate.
That sister in law might have some insight into the lord and what he wants, and the more we know, the better chance we have of seeing through his plans and hoodwinking HIM instead."
After the meeting with Kinsilvi Norton kept quiet. The friends' thoughts were his own. Having lived where slavery and life disregard are common practice he knows that the problem is not easy to tackle. Most slaves are afraid of freedom itself, an unknown specter that they try to avoid. Others find that freedom from bondage means only slavery to work, taxes, or even worse things.
The problem itself is not an easy one, and a person like Kinsilvi makes it only harder to approach it.
When the group comes back to the fort, before jumping into the discussion with his mate the man looks for Kesten. "Any news from Errol and the others? Thy should be back from Oleg's any day now."
"No word yet, sir. I asked the settlers who arrived today, but they were not among those gathering at Oleg's. I'd expect them tomorrow or the next day."
The early arrivals have finished putting up temporary shelter, and are now mingling. As a whole they appear to be in good spirits. A few wave, and Kesten returns the greeting.
The dwarves are still working, and have stone blocks and other supplies set up in staging areas.
"Good, another thing, I need to send a letter to Stetven, could you find somebody headed there? Or maybe willing to make the trip for a fair price? I will have the letter for you tomorrow morning before we leave."
Furiel prepares a message for Mikmek. If the regular messenger can't do it, he will send two gnomes. Enclosed is a gift of one of the lesser magic items.
'Dear Mikmek, we have defeated the Bandit King and now rule these lands. Please come to our new capital, map included. Bring a company of warriors as I wish to conduct some military maneuvres with your warriors and show we are still friends. You will soon understand why.'
It is signed 'Furiel, Commanding General'
"I am arranging for some joint military maneuvres with our kobold friends."
"Do you think he has managed to gain any new recruits? More to the point, have we enough men for such a thing?
I was thinking of going down to help the settlers until it is time to turn in, why don't I keep an eye out for any talent we can recruit into a militia or the guards?"
As it is not all that late, The Green Man then proceeds to the various camps, making sure to help out with any injuries, heavy lifting and such.
Merrick was beloved, and I don't think it hurts to make sure people know you are benevolent.
He will also keep an eye out for troublemakers, giving them a stern but fair talking to.
Steel gauntlet in a velvet glove, we should be just. Fair but firm.
Kesten nods to Norton "Consider it done, sir."
The new arrivals greet Green, and seem appreciative of his visit. They all seem to be self-sufficient... which makes sense since they came by themselves, and traveled quickly.
There are a dozen from the settlement near Gielgud farms who all seem pretty capable, and are willing - for the short term at least.
One of them, a man named Dagwort happens to mention Merrick "Was sorry to hear Merrick isn't staying here, but I feel better about the safety of those left behind knowing he's there for them."
Not bad, these are hardy people. Perfect for a new settlement.
I was worried we might have some snobs coming here, completely unprepared for the hard times ahead.
"Do not worry master Dagwort, we will simply have to pick up the slack no? In fact, you yourself might be able to help with that."
The Green Man will work like a Trojan to help out, these people would be the core of Stagfall, and if they trusted the rulers, then anyone who came later would be infected with that spirit.
Dagwort beams "I'd be honored. It was not long ago we first heard word of your arrival at Oleg's. To think of what you have accomplished in such little time is inspiring.
Standing here today takes me back to the boyhood dreams of adventure. The Magpies, Firebiter and Jackdaw Prince were local legends. The split of the Green Faith factions decades ago was just as devastating to my family... there were many druids among my ancestors.
I hope in time we will be able to restore the Walk of the Accord."
Of the twelve who are interested, only one is questionable. One of the others asks who they will be answering to, and there is a bit of snark in his response that "the gnome is our general"
With the immediate tension after his comment, he does seem to genuinely regret speaking. His manner following his comment suggests there is no deep bitterness...
Four of them - including Dagwort, seem particularly interested and built for soldiering.
smiles warmly Can you tell me more of this "walk of the Accord? I'm always interested in the local legends and traditions, and this will go great in my memoire
"Certainly. For generations the local followers of Erastil and the Green Faith have been at odds. The various factions of the Green Faith had many differences which they viewed as irreconcilable. For one.. these lands have always had problems with malevolent fey. Some factions welcomed the more benevolent... some were vehemently against all fey. They also had differing views on the attempts of northerners to tame the wild."
"The Accord was struck to set aside differences, and fight the increasing number of malevolent fey side by side.
The Walk of the Accord is a path through the Narlmarches... from one shrine to another. Followers of Erastil, and the many factions of the Green Faith would walk the path as one.
When the Jackdaw Prince Nugrah turned evil, the Accord fell apart. The path and shrines were lost... the very foliage resists the searching of men."
Furiel looks at what he has to work with for a militia. "We may have to wait for the weapons load to be transferred here before we get them fully outfitted."
He casually passes balls of flame from hand to hand as he looks at the group as they muster.
"I have fought giant ticks, small evil fairies, evil kobolds, and the best the Stag Lord had to offer. Anyone here doubt my courage?"
"This Walk of the Accord is quite interesting, as are you and your family Dagwort. I would be quite interested in hearing more about both if you have time. Would all these shrines have been lost or are their rumors of any of them still with us?"
"The shrines are lost as well... I know the general area if you have a map. They straddle the Skunk River... somewhere around here and here. Walking the Accord would bring about a boon which bolstered the bond between those who would travel it together."
"There is a settlement or two of orcs and half-orcs - also hidden, which protect it from being discovered by man. Quite a few druids have gone... fueled by dreams that the shrines both suffer under curses. I've heard no word of success."
"Hmmm, that is very interesting, we encountered a spirit of water, and managed to appease it.
That must have been part of this accord that you speak off.
We should attempt to find the other spirits, put them all at ease, and if possible, heal the accord itself."
nods at the half orcs assessment
You should make all attempts at restoring old ways that the locals find important, quests like this also will bolster the peoples hope and faith in you. Also this will make an excellent story in the end to repeat in the halls. A word of caution though, we should research the tribes first and find out what they believe so we can avoid treading on their belief and avoid any undo harm
"Green here is at least partially orcish. They should be happy to see him!"
you might would be surprised our my little Napolean... sometimes and often they are shunned... they end up fighting twice as hard for half the respect... but we'll see
"I would indeed like to investigate. Though I have concerns of these malevolent fey you speak of. We should be prepared to deal with such creatures if they threaten us. And even those of a more benevolent nature may still yet be opposed to us in their own way. Of course, if we can win them to our side it could well strengthen our position here."
Once he gets the opportunity, Kesten takes Senex to a temporary quarters.
The room consists of a two stacked bedrolls on a simple bedframe of unfinished wood, a bookshelf/endtable, and a footlocker.
"I hope this will do for now. We should have something a little more suitable within two weeks. I'll get a small table and chair in here for you tomorrow."
Kesten lingers... he seems uncomfortable; a fear of misspeaking.
"I apologize for our rugged accommodations. I was not made aware you would be joining us.
By what honorific should I instruct the men to address you?"
Considering my age, Sir seems more than adequate, do not worry too much on formality yet, we have plenty of time to sort that out later. While rugged this should do nicely
pauses
So how do you feel about these new leaders of yours, ours?
"Well, we have a lot of work to do tomorrow.
But things are coming together nicely.
The start of a small militia to keep the peace, builders fortifying Stagfall, and allies that can help.
If we can just settle the surrounding areas so farms can be established, then we can feed our people as well."
The Green Man is doing his best to accept that not everything can happen at once, trying to see the larger picture and pace himself.
But he still very much wants to find out just exactly what the "lord" wants, so that they can put one over on him.
He doesn't style himself "lord" yet, but it is funny that both lords we have encountered seem to be bandits of a sort.
"So, a dozen stout people to form the core. We should see about equipping them then, it will be a bit piecemeal at first I guess, but once we have a regular caravan route going, that will change.
In time, we can make our own tools here."
Kesten's response to Senex sounds like he had already given the question some thought.
"I continue to be impressed. I believe they are uncommonly suited for both expansion and rule.
Master Green's heart is the size of an ogre fist, and is there to defend before you realize you are in danger.
Ta'de-win wields the power of a raging storm while maintaining the steady calm of stone. From what I've been told, few have held such a connection with nature at so early in age.
Furiel turns the tides of battle and challenges the others to consider other points of view. He is a powder keg of ambition.. unsullied and unjaded in the spite of a reality unkind to him.
Ser Ambrosi is the personification of patience and the process of understanding. He is what I strive to be. I have never felt such conviction in my heart to serve my superiors."
nods This is excellent to hear! It sounds like these are good folk worthy of my time and service. Thank you for your help to these quarters, I hope that we can serve them well and shape this area into something amazing.
gets up and begins stowing his meager possessions
Furiel meets with Kressle:
"I hope you are doing well. I have need of your help."
Furiel explains the problem with the wily noble with the kobold slaves.
"We need to get an intelligence network together. Cunning agents that know how to collect information. Would you know of any like that?"
The Green Man will lead the impromptu militia on a scavenger run throughout the fort for armour and basic weaponry.
"Now don't be alarmed, as I said, this is only a temporary solution, until we can procure more suitable arms and armour.
But this will be sufficient to begin some basic training, no time like the present for that."
"You will take your orders from the general, but until such time as you get any, you will focus on training and establishing a patrol around Stagfall to keep the inhabitants safe."
Furiel finds Kressle flirting with a new arrival. "Alright take a walk, love. Official business."
"Evening General. I was feeling a little useless, but doing fine now. How can I help?"
After Furiel explains the basics of the situation...
"The Stag Lord used a group called the Magpies. I've never met any myself.
Sorry... I haven't been blessed with cunning company too often.
I'd ask Errol when he returns. I think he still has some worthwhile Mivoni connections."
Norton's Letter for the Lureton's heirs
This to inform you that the bandit threat in the lands of your estate has been vanquished. The spoils accompanying are what remains of, I think, the last of you leaving these lands. We have the reason to believe they were betrayed and crudely assaulted. Please, receive them as a token of our condolences, we believe they merit to be properly accommodated.
The estate that has left behind is still standing, and in pressing need of a caretaker, if you wish to restore the family here, we invite you to do so in the shortest of times.
With regards
Morning comes.
You find Errol has returned from his trip with Alice to Oleg's. He is eating breakfast at a pavilion tent near the gates which has become a "2nd tier VIP" spot. A cook by the name of Spitch Fowler has taken command of the food served there.
Errol nods and pauses his meal as each of you happen by. He asks for Norton. When Norton arrives he opens his satchel and delivers envelopes.
"Couple letters here for you Ser Ambrosi. Lord Mayor gifted us a few young studs, as well... good lookin horses. Couple chestnut brothers and a grey beast named... " He looks at a note written on his forearm in charcoal. "... Rogslaegt. Whatever language that is."
"So you bumming around here today, or riding out?"
Excellent to hear of your successes! By the amount of people traveling through here, I would have to agree. An inn would do well. I cannot thank you enough for the grubstake.
I have posted your notice regarding the festival. Good thinkin. Shows a bit of what kind of people you folks are. That's sure to ease somes concern about moving out in the middle of nowhere.
Hope Good Days Continue.
Yr Frnd Oleg"
I thank you, and am honored by the significant token from the fallen bandit leader. Your handling of the tasks set before you, and your abilities to act without council is no small feat.
May our mutual respect thrive in the days to come.
Lord Mayor of Restov Ioseph Sellemius"
"Thank you" Norton thanks Errol for the letters "I think the plan is to keep on exploring today, but first I wanted to talk to you"
Then he leads the man to the same room they used as office when Chawdar came.
In the room he reaches for a fine longsword that he previously selected from the loot and a leather armor, and hands them both to the man.
"First of all, I wanted to give you these, it's a fine blade although is not an Aldori one, and I think it could suit better than the one you have."
Then he keeps on.
"When we first met, we were on opposite sides, but you proved to be a man of your word since you dueled with Rogar. You sworn your blade to him, for a year and one day, but he is gone, and judging by the way he left, he doesn't hold you to it anymore. You are a free man, you can go wherever you like. If you want to stay you are welcome. I hope you decide to stay, we will need people that know what a promise is."
Norton pauses for a moment then adds "Think about it. Those..." he points to the gear he just handed over "...are yours either way."
Furiel decides to bring up his talk with the others.
"It appears the Staglord had a group he called the Magpies to gather intelligence. A militia is all good, but I want to develop an intelligence network as a higher priority. Forewarned in forearmed."
Furiel presses Errol about the Magpies:
"We need to get some eyes and ears to find out things before they become problems. Can you get me a meeting with these Magpies?"
He remembers the meeting with the hung goblin at night so long ago. Were there birds around?
"My heart is here, Ser Ambrosi." He accepts the offered armaments with a bow. "No it is a fine sword. Thank you. Deueron-forged. He was a student of many masters." He points to the embossed symbol on the blade near the hilt. "It suits my style well."
"There have been many groups who have taken the name Magpies in Mivon over the past several generations. Association with the fey was used as a cloak of fear, and mystery... though originally that may have been the case. The first was said to have been led by a fey-touched half-elf witch Rovanna Haasen, who trained runaway and orphaned young girls to become thieves, spies, assassins, and enough witchcraft to serve as a coven for their rituals.
There are a few varied stories of her fall decades ago, but they all include old debts catching up to her. Not an uncommon demise. Her most well-known children are a small, but influential trio of hags known as the Festering Lilies. They mostly deal with trade of illegal and rare arcane material ingredients, and self preservation."
He acts a little reticent, but offers... "I can set up a meeting with the Magpie I've had contact with.... Please don't consider it a breach of our trust if I don't name a name."
The Green Man is about to voice his strong objections to getting involved with anyone associated with hags, but just as his mouth is about to open, he pauses.
Hang on, let me think first and speak later...
After considering for a moment, he decides that it might be better to voice his opinion in another way.
"So, what about the modern Magpies, are they no longer associated with such dread creatures, merely continuing the legacy as a way to increase their reputation?"
Crossing his arms over his chest, The Green Man begins to think again, drumming his finger along his biceps, chewing slowly on his lower lip as he concentrates.
I should not be too quick to judge...the bandits had a dread reputation for cruelty, but some of them have proven to be quite a different breed of creature once away from that toxic environment.
I'm going to go along with it AND keep an open mind, wary, but willing to let actions speak over words.
"Do you know anything else about this...Rovanna Haasen? What kind of person was she in life? And is it KNOWN that she was brought low, or did she simply...dissapear?"
"Alright Errol, I'm glad to hear you are with us, you can go and get ready, we will be heading out soon. Do you mind to tell Kressle I would like to talk to her?
Furiel nods.
"Arrange the meeting. I will bring Kressle, our new mage and Norton too. Meanwhile, we have more exploring of our immediate vicinity to do."
Errol gives a gold piece to one of the new arrivals, and asks him to find Kressle and fetch his horse.
In his discussion including Furiel and Green, Errol nods "I will. Though I'd advise all of you meeting with her. I think she has a good heart, but their allegiance may have already been bought..."
"Rovanna Haasen's death was before I was born.. fifty, sixty years ago?... so it is all hearsay, but if she hasn't been heard from for that long....
She was known for military leader assassination, and political manipulation through disguise and enchantment. The Magpies who worked for the Stag Lord follow her teachings, and I really cannot say how many of them I would trust."
Furiel nods. "Errol, I can see bringing others, but I am concerned about giving away too much during negotiations or having prejudices color our actions. The strategic value of a good intelligence network is not to be underestimated."
"This is kind of a situation perfect for Norton. If we can have bandits on our side, why not hags?"
The Green Man smirks a little at that.
"Because MOST bandits wouldn't consider us a light snack?"
You heard the Festering Lilies mentioned when you were in Restov when you were perusing magic shops. A customer was trying to sell a kris-bladed dagger, and the shopkeeper told him to get lost "This is clearly the trappings of a Festering Lily... I'll have nothing to do with it."
You were curious at the time. The shopkeeper said he'd speak no more of it. "They've eyes on arcane peddlers all across the lands..."
Kressle shows up as your mounts are readied for your day's exploration.
"Just finished securing the transferred prisoners... Sirs, Lady Ta'de-win." She bows her head slightly with a bit of a hungover pained look.
"I'm sure Oleg's sweet thing will sleep better now."
Norton receives Kresten in the same room as Errol and hands her one of the hammers the party found underground.
"Kresten, you have been with us for a while now, and we appreciate you helping us. This is a small token to show you how much. I hope you are planning to stick around here for the time being. I haven't tried it myself, but if you believe Furiel, once thrown it will fly back to your hands"
"That'd be quite a handy little trick in a fight, something I wouldn't mind seeing for myself."