"Whether you decide to dispose of your previous assets or not really isn't my business, but it seems like a waste of effort to me." He shrugs. "Regardless, the priestesses little speech put a fire under some of the people. Not enough to really get them in the 'rebellious' mindset, but enough that they'll probably be willing to be dragged along if the Glorious Reclamation actually picks up steam. You might want to be wary of that."
"Better to take care of a weed before it spreads in the whole garden," Corven remarks simply. "It is cleaner and faster and takes less resources."
"And it would take a fight for my uses to show themselves, I think," he turns to Pelleas with a smile. "I did say that my skillset was not really suited to being a priest."
We should, then, do something about them, shouldn't we?
"Patience", Razelago states. "Even if this Reclamation would never work here we do not want to Martyr this Tileavia and galvanize this movement in other places within the Empire or give a sympathetic ear to those who would see an assault on the Church as a heavy handed overstep".
The rest of the day and evening go by uneventfully as you all split up (or stay together). You pick up your reward for the day (200 gold each).
In the morning Cimri gathers you all to once again make a journey to the Ash House. "It seems we have become invaluable assets..." She grins.
As you all arrive in Razelago's office you see he is indeed a man of habits. The screen is up and the Krenshar lays about lazily on its bed it yawns as you all enter.
Razelago begins, "Nothing more than an errand today, but one well suited to your skills. I met with the Archbaron last night". Razelago’s silhouette inclines a hand toward a stack of rolled parchments on the table. “He has issued several new decrees that he’d like posted across town to inform the citizenry.”
By Order of His Lordship Darellus Fex, Archbaron of Longacre, and in
accordance with the wishes of Her Infernal Majestrix, Queen Abrogail II of the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune, the following decrees are now in effect:
Longacre’s western gate, known as the Castle Gate, is closed until
further notice. All travel into and out of Longacre must employ the
north or south gates and be officially sanctioned. Only the archbaron’s
agents, sanctioned local businesses, or those displaying a writ of passage bearing the seal of House Fex, will be granted passage. All others must obtain a writ from the Longacre notary or do business elsewhere.
Longacre citizens shall not congregate in groups numbering greater than six in private, or in numbers greater than twelve in public. Exceptions will be made only for families with more than six members or for individuals undertaking the natural course of their business. Gatherings for the purposes of celebration, education, or religion are not exempt from this order.
A curfew is now in effect. From the hour after dusk to the hour before
dawn, no citizen of Longacre is allowed upon the town’s streets without a writ of exception bearing the seal of House Fex. The archbaron’s agents and sanctioned local businesses are exempt from this order. Those seeking a writ of exception may apply at the Longacre Notary.
Any persons found in violation of these mandates or any other laws
and sanctions of Longacre will be considered seditious agents and are
subject to questioning, imprisonment, and summary judgment by the Archbaron of Longacre and officials of the town government.
For the prosperity of Longacre, the protection of the Empire, and the glory of House Thrune,
Darellus Fex,
Archbaron of Longacre
"We've become useful assets," Cole says dryly. "We'll see if we've really become invaluable in time."
As their next job is explained, Cole picks up one of the scrolls and reads it over once. "Seems straight forward enough. Is there somewhere specific we should place these, or will any street corner do?"
Hel does the same, though she reads it more carefully, and then does so again. "The Castle Gate, clearly. Places of gathering - the taverns and inn. Hm. Isn't there a message post in the square upon which the Church of Iomedae fronts?"
"I would imagine so, yes." Pelleas shifts uncomfortably for a moment, a sour look on his face. "Not to be rude, but... why send us on such menial errands? I understand these are important nonetheless, but I'm surprised you don't have others for these less dangerous tasks. I don't presume to understand your full plan here, I'm just a tad confused. It just doesn't seem normal to me."
It may be wise that we do this... unseen. We would not wish to become famous, I would think.
"I expect we are already becoming well-known," replies the short archer to Castiel, and then she glances sideways at Pelleas. "And what makes you think there won't be danger involved? I can think of at least three people whom this will upset - the Iomedaean, the sheriff, and the innkeeper. And at least two of them may well make their displeasure known in physical terms."
All the more reason to do this with some tact and discretion. If we do things right, they'll never know we did anything st all.
"Besides, there were quite a few people listening to that speech," Corven points out. "Just because everything ended peacefully enough does not necessarily mean it will be so every time." He smiles. "So it may not be just those three who will be upset or show their displeasure."
"As for sneaking about, it should be simple enough. And if we are seen, well... Most if not all of you have been seen already along with where your allegiances lie. Being you -well, and I- who put up these decrees will probably not surprise all that many people."
"He's not wrong. Yesterday we essentially publicly declared our allegiance to House Fex. Being sent to announce his new laws is hardly unexpected after that." He scoops up the parchment. "But they're not going to get any more declared while we stand here. If there's nothing else that requires our attention here, I suggest we get going. If we must, we can continue this discussion on the way."
“Post these decrees at the notice post in the church square, the jail, the Last Stand Tavern, and the Castle Gate.
And while you’re at the jail, stop by the sheriff’s office. The Archbaron has a second decree for you to deliver.”
Razelago’s shadow tilts toward Cimri, who picks up another folded page from the table.
“One that dismisses Rhona Staelish as the sheriff of Longacre. You have until noon today. Perform as reliably as you have in your last two tasks, and I’ll pay what we agreed upon for your first task. If this assignment goes smoothly, the Archbaron would like to meet with you. It sounds as though he might soon have some civil positions to fill.” Razelago chuckles.
"As for why you are being asked to perform this task Pelleas, the townsfolk should get to know all of your faces very well. This prevents you from performing this task in a subtle manner Castiel.
The Archbaron and those who represent him need not sneak about and need not worry overmuch who they upset. Citizens who are loyal shall obey, those who are not should be identified as quickly as possible..."
Cimri asks, "Why replace the Sheriff?"
"I hope this 'civil position' won't interfere with the rest of our agreement," Cole says dryly. "If you recall, you hired me to deal with our common problem, not simply keep townfolk in line."
"I'd assume we're replacing the sheriff because of some conflicts of loyalty. I'd think that may be one of the aforementioned 'civil positions' that will be made available." Pelleas does nod his head at their benefactor's explanation, seemingly content with it. "Do you except the townsfolk will take this lying down? Should we be prepared for a fight, is what I mean to say. In particular... should the sheriff cause us any worry?"
Alic listens in patiently, but quietly for once, his mind already going through the motions that will come to follow. The townsfolk likely won't like this, no, they never do when freedom is first tested or taken, even if it's for the best in the long run. And the sheriff won't be happy with being dismissed, if his bet is right. There may be trouble at hand in Longacre, and even if it doesn't come to a boil today, it's certainly brewing.
Replacing the sheriff could be.. interesting. Is there any way the sheriff could be convinced to look the other way?
Razelago replies, "The Sheriff would still be in her position if she were more cooperative, she has not been thus her dismissal.
I would not worry overmuch about her just yet. If she proves to be a problem then we shall revisit this subject".
Cole notices how the man ignores his concern, but he decides not to make an issue of it just yet. "Very well. I suppose we should take care of that last then, just in case we have to deal with any... resistance to the Duke's orders. We can post the decrees at the square and tavern, then seal the gates and deal with the sheriff once everything else is done."
"That seems as fine a plan as any. Is there anything else, or should we be off?"
"I expect that the sooner we do this, the less irritated the Archbaron will be. So let's be off. Razelago," Hel says, giving a head-bow to the screen, then another one to the krenshar. "Gaurig."
Castiel nods Yes, as fine a plan as any.
"We do have to start somewhere," Corven agrees. "Should we split up? It would mean we would be finished sooner rather than later if we go to more than one place at the same time."
"We could split up, but if we're worried about... riling up the populace, moving as a group might be more beneficial in the long run. Our numbers might dissuade others from making a scene, as it were. That's something my father would do; make a show of force to cow others into obedience."
Splitting up would make things faster... But we'd be easier targets. We'd be smaller targets and harder to spot, true.. but we'd also be easier to take down. Perhaps some of us could make a distraction while the others are posting the adds? some of us could entertain the crowds, facing them away from what we're doing..
Longacre - Notice Post -
The group makes its way through the town without gathering much attention. Some people do nod to Cimri and many children wave to Alicarus but none others seem to pay a great deal of attention to any of you.
Finally you come upon the Notice Post in the Church Square the scene of yesterdays interaction with the zealot of Iomedae. A fifteen-foot-tall wooden post, scarred by nails and plastered with faded pronouncements, rises from a bed of posies in the church square. A verdigris-stained copper archer swivels atop a squeaky weather vane at the post’s summit.
Several locals are gathered in the square in various groups
Still carrying the decrees, Cole heads up to the Notice Post. He raises an eyebrow at the number of decrees already present, but doesn't make an issue of it. If the Archbaron likes to make rules, it's hardly his business to complain about it. He has other things to worry about. He finds a spare peg and pounds it through the parchment, hanging to new decree for everyone to see.
"I see the Archbaron likes his taxes, both old and new," Corven remarks offhandedly. His tone is neutral, evident of his simply making an observation rather than passing any sort of judgment on the man.
"There is an apothecary near here, a Doctor Gerya Rohalendi," he adds then after looking around and getting his bearings before his gaze returns back on the locals lingering about, "in case any of you need to purchase any medicinal or herbal supplies."
Castiel wanders about the area, trying to look like he's just out for a regular stroll about town. He says hello to the apothecary and then wanders back towards the notice board and being close to the others but far enough away that he might not be noticed in the same bunch.
Longacre - Notice Post -
The apothecary smiles back at Castiel but as your group leaves she and some of the other locals approach the post to see what you pinned up.
Many of those with her begin to decry the post. "This is an injustice!" "Why should a curfew be set, no one had done anything wrong!" "Damn Iomedaens! This is all their fault". "Is this what I pay taxes for? To be treated like a child".
Before you get more than 20' the apothecary calls after you all coming in your direction, "Excuse me. Excuse me. Can any of you answer a few questions regarding these decrees?"
Alicarus moves with the others to set up the posts--this time with his chain draped about his body, his vestments proudly proclaiming him as a Kuthite--and therefore at least an ally of the Chelish government, in some ways. He lets the others try to look menacing or nondescript, simply strolling on his way to post the new tenets. When the crowd begins to call out in anger and upset, he tuts, although the mention of "damn Iomedaeans" raises a smile. The apothecary's call, however, causes him to turn with a questioning look, and then he smiles at the others. "You can move on, if you like. I'll stay and chat awhile."
The inquisitor steps forward and clasps his hands, giving a slight bow to the woman. "Of course, Doctor Rohalendi. I'd be happy to explain the importance and justice of these new laws."
Castiel grins and slips away into the crowd. Let others get the attention.
"I'm just being paid to stick paper on a post. Whoever wants to explain, go ahead. I'll be over here waiting." He absently shifts his cloak around him and steps back under a shady tree so he can watch and listen to the conversation.
Castiel grins and slips away into the crowd. Let others get the attention.
Longacre - Notice Post -
Doctor Rohalendi smiles and nods at Alicarus, "Thank you I appreciate that.
Will those who break curfew to see to a medical emergency be arrested? Half of Longacre is related—what does “family” mean in this context? Is a group gathering at the tavern assisting the establishment in “the natural course of its business?” How can those from outside town obtain a writ of passage if they’re not allowed in to visit the notary?
Finally, it seems you know who I am but who are you?"
Her demeanor is calm and her calmness seems to ease the crowd as she asks her questions loud enough for all in the vicinity to hear her.
Leaning against a wall nearby, Corven cannot help but smile a little. He appreciates the woman's calmness and the effect it has on the other people standing about, as it helps make things simpler, more peaceful. And he has to admit, her questions are logical, not unexpected.
'Your move,' he thinks simply to himself as his eyes turn to Alicarus. He does not keep them on him though, preferring to observe the people in case any of them decide to take matters into their own hands, foolish though it would be.
Castiel grins and slips away into the crowd. Let others get the attention.
"Well..." Alicarus seems to take a moment to gather his thoughts, and then responds, speaking quickly and confidently. His tone suggests this is far from the first time he's spoken at length on the details of the law.
"Don't take my word as binding, you'd need to speak with the Archbaron to confirm the exacts of the law, but I should assume there would be no exception for medical emergencies--although I would strongly recommend you yourself acquire a sanction to allow your movement, allowing you to make house calls as needed or expected past the curfew. A "family" would refer less to lineage and more to the family unit--a single household, thus allowing those who live together to congregate, in case of, say, a husband and wife living with their three children and the parents of the woman. The exception for 'natural course of business' is for individuals rather than establishments, but I'd expect those at the tavern simply to eat and drink would be allowed. That said, should more than twelve people gather in a single cluster, talking among themselves in the common room, I would expect that to break the tenet. And I would consider letters or previously sanctioned messengers to be the best mode for attaining a writ of passage."
He smiles as he comes to a close, and bows with a rattle of his chains. "As for myself, my name is Alicarus, and you may know me from my time in town. These days I'm serving as somewhat a de facto servant of the Archbaron, helping to promote peace and prosperity through order in this fine town I've come to call home."
"I'd venture to guess specific sanctions could be obtained in the case of larger groups being a necessity; something such as a funeral could, I would assume, obtain permission from the Archbaron to allow a larger group to congregate for the service." Realizing how morbid it sounds, Pelleas quickly moves to add to the statement. "Or, perhaps... something like a birthday? If much of the town is related in some fashion, a gathering such as that could obtain written permission--I can't assure that, as I'm merely an agent of the Archbaron here in Longacre, but I would assume the man would be reasonable in such circumstances."
"My name, by the way, is Pelleas Markov; third-born son of Baron Alexander Markov of Egorian, in service to House Thrune."
Longacre - Notice Post -
Doctor Rohalendi sighs but appears to appreciate the explanation, "We are all servants of the Thrune Master Markov whether directly or indirectly.
As you both seem to have the Archbaron's ear, perhaps I can submit my questions in writing to him and you can deliver them for me? In fact, I should like to meet with him personally if possible to plead my case".
She steps closer to you both lowering her voice, "Most of the people of Longacre are loyal to the Thruns and the ArchBaron. But... his heavy handedness will only force these good citizens into the arms of na'er do wells perhaps mention that to him as well".
Castiel you manage to slip around and into the back of the crowd as they focus more on the Doctor speaking with Pelleas and Alicarus. You still hear muttering from the back of the group of citizens about how "unfair" these new laws are.
"The correct title would be--" Pelleas starts, beginning the line drilled into his head by his father from a young age. He stops with a sour look on his face, then sighs. "Pardon me, we would be happy to deliver your questions, although I cannot ensure that he would meet with you; not only do I not have that kind of clout with the man, I don't know him well enough to say." He nods when the woman steps closer, understanding her point. "We must, well... there are more places in town that where we've been told to hang these decrees; we can hardly wait around for you to write them out. Of course, we can return later if you wish to write your missive while we finish our task."
"If you care to inform me of your place of business - or place of residence, I don't know how you conduct your business - I would not be adverse to stopping by later in order to pick up your request for delivery to the Archbaron," courteously offers the petite bob-cut young woman with the bow (unstrung) who has been standing diffidently to one side. She does not, in fact, introduce herself; she doesn't see the need.
Castiel keeps quiet in the crowd, listening for talk from the people. Is what the good doctor says true?
"Alternatively, give the request to one of the children in town, and they'll see it finds its way to my hands." Alicarus gives one more smile and bows, his chains clinking together once more. "It's been a pleasure speaking with you, and I truly hope you're able to acquire licensing to continue your work. Every town needs a good doctor or two." He winks, probably confusing the poor woman, and then jaunts off with a spring in his step to continue passing out the ordinances.
Longacre
Notice Post -
Doctor Rohalendi provides Hel with her address and thanks them for their forthrightness.
Castle Gate -
The group makes their way to Castle Gate. Longacre’s western gate looks almost as if some great giant picked up the stone gate from a rugged frontier fort and dropped it across the road leading into town. A set of weathered wooden doors stands open in the fortified stone.
As your group approaches the Gate a female resident greets you from a chair beneath a rigged up awning atop the tower beside the gate, "Good morn' citizens, what can I help you with today?"
Cole smiles slightly. It seems that his new comrades have a talent for keeping things stable. Good to know. He follows behind as they head off to post their next decree. "We've been instructed to deliver this decree from the Archbaron," Col says as they arrive at the gate, holding out one of the pieces of parchment so she can see it.
"Also, perhaps more importantly, one of the decrees is to shut the Castle gate... effective immediately." Pelleas shrugs, gestuing to the parchment Cole carries. "The Archbaron has decided to institute several new decrees, and that's one of them. I'm afraid we're going to have to ask you to close the gate before we go."
Castiel, still keeping to the back listens to the crowd. He does, however, prepare a few short jokes and stories to relieve tensions and make the crowd more.. amenable.
Not expecting that this particular decree will sit well with the woman, seeing as how not only does she and her husband live nearby but are also the gate's keepers, albeit unofficial, Corven waits to see how this will go. That and he stands ready to perhaps gently restrain Bolouisia in case she takes it particularly badly indeed.