Krokar raises an eyebrow. "You seem to have quite the problem with Heff. I know he can come off as slippery, but he was one of the founders of our organization and does more to help than any one of us individually-well maybe not Älia, but it's pretty hard to comprehend what she's doing most of the time."
"You're not the first or the last paladin to be offered this opportunity, as you know Toramin is working for us. We try to keep you away from some of the more difficult decisions, but it isn't always perfect. Sometimes you might be forced to make a greater good decision."
"As long as withholding these secrets do not put any lives in danger, you only need share what you wish to. Oh don't worry, we're not entirely sure about accepting you yet, only considering the idea of recruitment. Things should be quieting down so we should have plenty of time."
"I respect Heff and trust him to a degree, but I think he's personally been trying to teach me to be a bit less... Whats the word... Paladin-ish. My first encounter with him here had me convinced that he was responsible for killing at least a dozen innocent people, and it was his design that lead me to that conclusion. I've since learned it was a ruse to manipulate me into fighting harder today."
Gabriel smiles, deciding to speak as openly as Krokar was. It felt good honestly, almost like speaking with Geoffrey and the other paladins and trainee's he had been a part of. Or the clerics in Shelyn's temple, most of whom didn't have a dishonest bone in their body. "I don't have a problem with him. If he were calling the shots, I'd listen to him. But I'd also try and use what he seems to be trying to teach me to keep an eye on him anyway. I'm not sure he'd have it any other way either but it's really hard to tell with him."
Gabriel's words were honest. He wasn't sure how much he trusted Heff, but he definitely respected the man and his goals. Gabe was open about both these feelings in how he spoke and in his expression.
Bjorkus sighs. He was too damn tired and sore to deal with a mother hen at that moment.
”The girl’s a grown woman. It’s good you’re lookin’ after her – you’re better than most of the slave owners around here - but things are changin’ and you can’t protect her forever. If you really do care ‘bout her you’ll let me talk to her. She’s gunna want to hear what I have to say.”
"Well I hate to tell you this, but our organization is not "Paladin-ish". I believe Heff's manipulation of you tells you generally how we work. You can tell truths through lies, and better the world through subterfuge. We do what lawful organizations cannot or will not do. We make the hard choices."
Krokar chuckles, patting Gabriel on the shoulder. "Yes, he's a slippery one. It's easier to derive the motives of a tree than him. It took many years for me to truly trust him, and I did it through experience for seeing how his end games turn out. It takes a great deal of faith to work with Heff, but I trust the man with my life. I know it can be hard though."
Gabriel nods slowly, finding that Krokar's bluntness was a bit easier to swallow then Heff's manipulation. It was how he had been taught after all. "Seeing the results for myself it's hard to argue. But my oaths... They're more then just the letter of a law I must follow Korkar. I am never going to stop trying to save them all. I may accept that it won't happen in certain instances, that doing so will put those already under my charge at risk, or even that another path is better long term. But I won't stop trying. And I'll happily accept the title 'Fool' for it."
Gabriel speaks earnestly, and there's something about his words that seem a little less naive then they had been before. Not devoid of that naivety, but all the same... He knew the price of failure, the price of being too weak or too slow, now. He knew what it meant when you didn't save them all and worse yet he knew the cost that trying would probably hold for him personally. It wasn't going to stop him. If anything, it was a scar that would likely push him harder then ever before. For a brief moment Gabriel seems to falter as the memory of what he saw flashes before his eyes again, but he quickly recovers himself. Krokar, if he was looking closely, couldn't have missed the look across his face.
"Anyway, I'll follow him, but it might take time for me to trust him as inherently as you do. For now, I hope it will suffice that I am taking many of his lessons, intentional or not, to heart. If striking down a tyrant with these manipulations preserves more lives then straight on battle, then I will learn."
Ninnec nods enthusiastically. "I want to be able to make this place better, I know I can make a change to really help the people here and make a thriving economy."
"If you didn't try to save every innocent life you could, we wouldn't consider recruiting you. We do the best we can and accept things the way they are. We don't want anybody to die if we can help it, but we would sacrifice a hundred lives to save a thousand if we had no other choice."
Krokar looks seriously at Gabriel. "I heard about what happened down in Acera's lair. Heff may have spoken harshly, but he meant to teach a lesson. You didn't know there were people down there and you had much evidence to think there wasn't any, but you also knew of the high likelihood of prisoners. I won't lecture you any more on the matter, I can tell you understand the gravity of the situation, and I can tell that since you're driven instead of broken that you intend to do better in the future. That's a good mindset to have. Honor the dead but fight for the living."
"What happened down there... It happened because I wasn't strong enough Krokar. Or smart enough. I realize it won't be the last time either, even if it's not always directly because of my actions." For a moment it looks like Gabriel might say more and go deeper into it, but then he shakes himself free of those thoughts. "I intend to change that. One day, I'll be strong enough to save the thousand and the hundred."
Gabriel meets Krokar's eyes, determined to let the man know that this was Gabriel's truth. It still hurt to think about it but the tiefling suspected it always would. He was determined not to let that stop him.
Giving the stubborn dwarf one last glance, Bjorkus turns his attention to Coralla.
”Maybe they will and maybe they won’t”, the bull rumbles after a long pause. ”She was there with me when I was in Targ’s dungeons but I hadn’t given it much thought. Up until a few minutes ago I wasn’t thinkin’ about much other than how to stay alive”, Bjorkus explains while rubbing one of the scars in his side where the skeletal gunman’s bullets had torn through his thickly muscled torso.
”Do you remember the first time we met? I asked you if you wanted to see the sea – what you’d do with a life outside these walls – and you told me you couldn’t imagine anything like that. Well it’s happened. You’re free now. I know this old bird cares about you but she can’t stop you from leaving Akropash anymore”, he adds with a nod at her former owner.
”I’m gunna be leavin’ soon", Bjorkus admits. "Akropash doesn’t need me anymore – maybe she never did – but you can come with. You don't have to work in a bathhouse anymore. You can live that impossible life. Now, I’d be lyin’ if I said I was a one-woman bull but you know that and that’s not gunna change. If you can accept that, and you've got some adventure in you, I can show you the world.”
Coralla looks at Bjorkus for a beat before nodding. "I see...yes. I'll come with you, at least out of Yenrick. I intend to find life outside the sand, partner or not."
Bjorkus turns to leave.
"I don't know if it's gunna happen tonight or tomorrow but there's gunna be a big celebration. I wouldn't mind seein' you there. Today's victory is yours too. You should enjoy it."
Having said enough, Bjorkus exits the bathhouse (and gets the message from Heff).
He stares at the missive in disbelief, struggling with the conflict between the opportunity he'd been waiting for and his rapidly growing self-doubt.
At the boy's question, Bjorkus only shakes his shaggy bovine head. "Don't believe everything ya hear", he says darkly.
"Good! That's what I like to hear, now go on and celebrate, you have endured enough talking and hardships for today."
"Unless that's your first order, I'll have to decline. There are still injured to see too and I want to make sure that the Shade I spoke of understands that tomorrow he'll be free so he doesn't cause trouble." Gabriel gives a tired, but still somewhat cheerful, smile. "Who do I speak to about getting outfitted, by the way? Tomorrow I'll be facing a powerful undead and I don't intend to do it unprepared this time. Not to mention, if you decide to accept me I'll be taking you up on your offer to get properly equipped."
He also had other things to do. For instance, write letters. He owed one to Geoffrey and Joshua for certain and Arlene... "Holy crap, she probably thinks I'm dead." Gabriel blurted out, then immediately blushed when he realized he had said that aloud. His face red, Gabriel takes a deep breath and then looks up to Krokar, realizing he might very well have interrupted the man. Arlene definitely got a letter to, though his heart sunk a little as he realized what it would say.
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Despite Krokar's overtures of altruism, Dalton wasn't buying it. While it was a fact Akropash was released from the shackles of Acera and Targ, there was nothing preventing a new set of manacles - seen or unseen - from being slapped on the city by the Aestherics.
Their ilk talks of freedom from power but does not see themselves as controlling others with it.
For all his crudeness, Bjorkus was probably the person the wizard trusted most to have an understanding of the concept. He had part of his life in chains and understand what it is to actually have choices to make. Toramin and Gabriel meant well, but they were bound to their own ethical walls. Rilka had a professional tie to the organization, and it seemed bent on playing king(un)maker. Even Dalton himself wasn't one to care for the aristocracy, he had become bitter and jaded in his years. The only way things will really change is if people can truly fend for themselves, support themselves. Akropash, with its skeletal food supply, did not allow for that. These people will always be dependent on whomever controls the foodsource.
Krokar's indirect admission the equals were not equals in the council was a gem Dalton would not forget though. Alia and Heff, hmm? There was a game to be played here, but the wizard didn't know all the rules yet.
He dismissed himself from the meeting without much fanfare. So tired. Yet before he could rest, he was greeted by two individuals. Ninnec brought a smile to his face. Now there is a common person who could make it. Toramin seemed pleased to see him as well. Perhaps the diligence of the dwarves would go well with the ratfolk's knowledge of the city. Yet the other visitor boded ill.
Seimen.
It wasn't necessarily the case news of his father's nature was a bad thing, but all the signs pointed to it. He was no longer just some elf of a particular stripe, but a particular elf of that variety, per Acera. If he was renowned for his good works, it was unlikely he would've been kept secret from Dalton. No, likely a convict of some infamy.
Dalton looked back at the messenger. "Tell him the hero of the city and I will see him. He is capable of finding us."
Bjorkus with his less-than-pristine history may know of him if he is someone who belongs in the stockades, and even if not, he may be able to help me assess the risk in going after his identity.
In any event, the dark forces having particular knowledge of Dalton's family made them vulnerable. I must look into more direct practical magic for defense. The incident with the mindswap had already given him an idea, though he doubted it was one of which the paladins would approve...
"I'll get it taken care of. Can't have a recruit dying on me in a day." Krokar gives a smile at his outburst but says nothing.
Gabriel nods and gives the man a bow, resisting the urge to use the Andril salute instead. A bow was a bit more universal when it came to showing respect. With his own matters resolved, the tiefling excuses himself politely from the room and the meeting. The first person he was to visit was his new found friend, the winged horse. He immediately began to seek her out after leaving the room feeling good about the good news he was about to deliver.
Heff waves Bjorkus in. "Come, sit in the shade and let's talk over a drink. Boys, the guard is no longer needed. This meeting is a little less sensitive than the last. See if Krokar has anything for you." The six Aestherics nod then head in the direction of the Colosseum. Heff shows Bjorkus inside and pours two drinks for them, a dark ale for Bjorkus and a lighter ale for himself. He sets down the drinks, then sits and takes a sip before looking at Bjorkus. "So. What are your thoughts on the retrieval of your ship?"
Dalton nods to the elder. "Agreed, but the excitement is well-founded. Please proceed."
Bjorkus grunts in surprise when Seimah makes an entrance. He's surprised to find out the old elf was even alive and even more confused as to why Dalton would be arranging a meeting with him.
After the pudgy elf explains his piece, Bjorkus snorts unhappily but nods reluctantly. "I don't like it one bit. This bastard should be as dead as Targ but if you need him I'll play along. I'm listnin'."
"What's there to think", he finally rumbles. "The Storm's been in that sod Blakros's hands for too long. Who knows how much of my crew's even alive. I've gotta get her back."
"I'm too tired for festivities, Ninnec. Would you care to discuss a few ideas before I fall asleep? Perhaps my bed at the villa survived."
As they walk through the city, Toramin admires the builds, the sand, the stone, and the sky. There was a beauty to this city whose luster shone once the grime of tyranny had been removed.
"I'm sure you realize, Ninnec, that there is a power vacuum now that Targ has been killed and Acera defeated. For the moment the organization that sent me here is filling that vacuum as liberators, but they should not, and most likely will not stay as rulers. If they leave before there is a legitimate authority in Akropash our dreams for the city will come to nothing. But those who have the power to enforce order are the least worthy to rule presently. It is an unfortunate reality that whatever legitimate order comes from this revolution will have its basis in people who do not call Akropash their home. I have a proposal that I would like to share with you. You are the first person whom I am telling this idea and I want your input from the beginning."
"First, Akropash needs fair and egalitarian laws. The basis of which are the abolishment of slavery, universal education, and the equality of all citizens regardless of race, class, or any other distinguishing feature. Brave Ratfolk are the same beneath the law as any human. I propose that we along with my scholars from my organization and the masked healers right a new codex of laws protecting the people of Akropash."
Second, we should establish a constitutional monarchy in Akropash. The monarch's duties are to govern the city according to its collective good. His or her authority will be limited by two things. First, the laws. Second, the will of the governed. I propose that there by assemblies of all citizens that gather together to discuss the good of the city state. In turn the monarch shall be bound to execute the will of the assemblies limited by the laws. This will prevent a slide into barbarism or new slavery. The first monarch would be chosen by divinations and auguries cast by many of the masked healers. One omen can be false, but with many, truth can be found. This monarch shall govern until he or she sees fit to allow his or her appointed successor to rule. If a super majority of the citizens sees fit to recall a monarch the auguries and divinations will be performed again."
"Third, there are a great many public works and institutions that could improve and beautify the city, but these cannot be built until order is secure. Do you have any thoughts? Should I bring this to the masked healers and my organization? What do you think, my friend?"
"I have...done some digging...and have discovered...an old friend who may know...something of this else...that was in your vision...He is in Gesthil...an elven armorer...in Wasco..."
"Yes, there will be powerful slavers trying to take over now. They will wait until your allies leave, but they will certainly make a bid for power."
"Egalitarianism is something that will be hard to teach the people in these lands. But with the proper teachers it can be done. I think that's an excellent idea, and can really get to the roots of some of the problems."
"A constitutional monarchy? It sounds good in theory, but I doubt it would ever work. It would be too easy to manipulate the masses into getting certain people in power. I know this sounds like it could be bad, but we need a strong, unopposed leader. In a harsh land like this you need such a thing."
"The masked healers should be spearheading that aspect of the revival of Akropash. It is where they excel at, and I think they would be glad to lend a hand there. It would earn you big points with their entire organization as well."
"The masses would not be choosing the monarch. The gods would be choosing the first monarch, and the first monarch chosen by the gods to be the best and strongest ruler would pass rule down to a chosen and trained successor. The people's input would be limited to a super majority no confidence vote. But, I hear you. You say this lands needs a strong leader. How should this leader be selected, if not by my proposed method?"
"The slavers are a problem, but they shall be attended by the same thing that will break the white cloaks. Once there is a ruler, there will be trials where the power of the old regime will be broken down by the laws of the new. I doubt many powerful slavers will remain citizens of this city."
"Yes. Agreed, the healers will be key to educating and improving the quality of life in this city."
"I honestly don't know how to choose the best ruler. Whoever it is needs to really have a spine, it takes a lot of grit to rule Akropash and the surrounding lands. But they also need to have egalitarian ideas."
At the mention of consulting Krokar, Bjorkus snorts in surprise. "The Aestherics are gunna send men to help me take back the Storm?" he rumbles in disbelief.
"The thing is, and don't take this the wrong way, but to place a leader like that is to force your own faith onto them. That's a form of oppression in it of itself. Many in this land already have low opinions of the gods."
Ninnec gathers up his things. "I'll be back in a few hours, a day at the latest with some names and information for you."
After Ninnec leaves Toramin will go to bed. After all it has been a very long day.
Bjorkus recognizes the name instantly. A real tough elf who's starting to get older. Stories say he used to be quite a fighter back in his prime, and he can still cross blades with most. But the real stories are of his impressive creations, magical blades and armor that are of the best quality.
Other than looking to Dalton for recognition on the name, Bjorkus remains silent.
"Four or five weeks. I'll need time", the bull says with very little of his old confidence. "You think Krokar can work with that?"
The pegasus looks up, then finishes her mouthful and walks over to Gabe, licking him on the cheek again. She circles around once and Gabriel can see there's no more wounds on her, then she steps forward again and lowers her head to look right into Gabriel's eyes.
Gabriel is once again taken aback by the creatures intelligence and the kind affection she was showing him. It didn't take him as long to recover as before but he still managed a smile and a small laugh. "I have never met a creature quite like you, you know that? Well, the Aestheric's are going to be here for a while, righting a lot of the wrongs that the Tyrant and the witch that had you imprisoned caused. But I asked as part of my reward for helping them to see if they can help you find your way home."
Gabriel paused, hoping to let the good news sink in, but found he was unable to contain himself. "I realize it won't exactly be as easy as pointing at the map... Or maybe it will be? But all the same, they're quite resourceful. They'll find a way."
Gabriel says, wondering if he had stepped across some kind of line with this creature. "Did you... not want help getting home?"
Gabriel was feeling a little confused but he wasn't going to argue with the winged horse. If she didn't want the help she didn't want the help. Still, he felt like he was missing something in this conversation. "Alright, is there something you do want?"
She nudges Gabriel's hand, then rears up and comes within an inch of striking the gate holding her in. She bites at the lock, then looks at Gabriel.
Gabriel was a little surprised that there was a lock on the gate for an intelligent creature, but he thought he got it at least a little. He raises a finger, gesturing for a minute, and goes to the stable hand that would have the key. Once he convinced the young lad to come over and unlock it, thanking him as he leaves, Gabriel looks to the Pegasus again. "Alright, locks undone. I'll make sure they don't put another one on. Do you want me to take you somewhere?"
When Toramin awoke the next morning he felt good, he felt rested. Yesterday seemed like a labor of months.
But that's silly. It was a long day, but just a day.
He busies himself cleaning his armor and weapon. Talev's Legacy still had bits of necromancer stuck to it, but with determination and a bit of elbow grease armor and weapon were as good as new. There was so much to do. Weapon cleaning was followed by prayers which were, in turn, followed by a description of the new armor he wanted.
My old armor served me well. No doubt the Aestherics will find some use for it.
With these tasks done, Toramin's thoughts turned back to the city. The paladin took up his quill.
Freedom, equality, and education -- these are the principles upon which all further laws of Akropash are founded. There can be no law, no edict, nor authority that may strip any citizen of this city of these rights.
Freedom has both a negative and a positive element. The citizens of Akropash and any who are within its borders are free from the tyranny of slavery. No person can own another nor force another to labor on their behalf without reasonable recompense. Those who attempt to abnegate this freedom, in any fashion, will be met with exile or death. Freedom is also a positive right for the citizens of Akropash. It is a freedom to do, to be, and to think in whatever way they deem best that brings no harm to their fellow citizens, no danger to Akropash, no violates any law of the city-state. From this positive freedom springs both equality and education.
All citizens of Akropash are equal under the law. The law will not respect some persons but not others. No law may be established that is not universally binding to all citizens, regardless of identifying characteristics. Being equal, all citizens have a vested interest in the good of Akropash as a whole. Due to this shared interest, all citizens may freely gather peacefully, and under the law, to express their views on the universal good of Akropash.
Being both free and equal, all citizens of Akropash may pursue their own flourishing. To choose the best, one must be able to evaluate the options. Such evaluation is impossible without knowledge. Therefore, all citizens have the right to education so that they might better themselves, and in so doing flourish, beneath the aegis of the laws of Akropash.
These principles and the laws that are derived from them are upheld and defend by all citizens of Akropash. In order to defend these principles and their derivative laws, this constitution establishes a monarch to guide and enact the laws of Akropash, the guardians to defend Akropash and these principles from threats internal and external, and an independent judiciary whose duty is to not only render judgment based on these derived laws but to also review the laws themselves so that they remain consistent with the foundational principles of Akropash . . .
Toramin examines his proposed constitution. It's not perfect, but it's a good start.
His mind still churning with ideas, Toramin begins sketching plans for artificial windbreaks for the city.