Abera offers a cursory look over the book but seems to treat it more as token amusement more than anything. At Rahl's words however she bows her head, Do not mistake me for being unimpressed by your work here in the wilds. It takes a very special kind of discipline to tame the untameable and I wish you the best in your efforts. I will take my leave and coordinate with your man. If there is anything I can do for you, I am at your disposal.
The woman's gold fleck eyes survey the room once more before she rises, bows, and then takes her leave.
Osk returns a few moments later, Is there anything else I can do for you tonight?
Matt shrugs his shoulders still trying to figure out all of this talk, slightly more comfortable than he had been. "I do not personally, if Lord Ra'hl seems satisfied, and the rest of the council seems satisfied, then I am satisfied."
As Abera leaves Duška looks to the others, then hisses;
"Fsshh. Tame the untameable. Stupid. Wild not tamed... We live with wild. Gilded eyes needs to understand this yes?"
The fey-touched ranger shakes her head at Osk's question, then rises from her chair petitioning Ra'hl with a hard smile;
"Drakblood. Let that one walk with me or Mattrim's tygr... Let her spy on that yes?"
"You and Matt are well suited to the wilds. I would hesitate to risk a noblewoman to the dangers of the wild. It is common tradition that her safety is our responsibility so long as she is within our borders. I would hate to lose her father as an ally due to an unfortunate incident." Ra'hl says simply before continuing on.
"I have nothing else. Thank you all lords and ladies for your time and diligent work." Even as he speaks, Ra'hl's mind grows distant pondering on the woman. Her eyes linger in his mind, a strange feature that bears hints of magic.
Duška pouts;
"Yes. Unfortunate. I could take her beyond the border if that is the issue..?"
Sensing Ra'hl potential displeasure the ranger shrugs her shoulders, then gathers up her helm and bow.
In the weeks that follow there is a sudden escalation of activity. Matt and Duska roam south, sending their groups to find a forward position and assess plans for a robust exploration mission to the south.
The groups find a passable point some 80 miles south of the capital which seems to make sense as a forward operating post. Convinced that the site is sound, Duska and Matt leave their folks in charge of the construction so that they can see to other duties.
Cuddles continues his work with various groups in the capital, taking time to train soldiers and guards, break up a pair of bar fights that involved some racist overtones and beginning a burgeoning wrestling league which sees little attendance in its first session but slowly seems to grow with each passing meeting numbering some dozen children ranging from 6 to 14. The most ambitious of which is a little girl named Kaya who may be channeling Falyana on some level as she sees marked improvement in her abilities even within the first few sessions.
Anton continues to work on his own projects and meets often with the small council, perhaps more so than any other member of the high council, as magic continues to become a complicating and freeing force on many fronts in the city. The wizard does also seem to be fascinated by the newcomers efforts to build a tower and can be seen coming and going from the the site.
Fergus finds himself surprisingly busy, asked to attend a number of smaller gatherings of various faithful and other divinely inspired sorts. A large group of Erastil worshippers continue to question of there is a chance at an "official" religion with so many of the m flocking to the area, a notion direclty refuted by other who seek a nation of some religious freedom.
Ra'hl makes Abera Orlovsky his primary mission and thus comes into perhaps the most complicated political situation of his new life as a ruler. In the year and a half since the fall of the Stag, Aleria has been at time both warm and cold to Ra'hl's intentions. Clearly put on guard by the earnest pursuit, the cleric oscillates between entertaining the notion of romance and feeling like her commitments to country and god demand her heart and command her attention in a way that makes Ra'hl less of a priority.
The arrival of Abera at first, plays little role but in the weeks that follow Ra'hl finds that Abera is almost everything that Aleria is not. Abera is cool and strategic, counter to Aleria's firey disposition. Abera is politically minded and noble where Aleria is more prone to dislike politics and is not of noble stock.
Perhaps the single most complicating factor is the revelation that Abera is dragon blooded, and can trace her ancestry to a Rogarvian marriage on her mother's line. Her appearance not one of artifical help but her power as a sorceress. Where Aleria is avoidant of a relationship or speaking of such in certain terms Abera is exceptionally adept in saying without saying that a marriage between her and Ra'hl would not only be politically expedient but certainly helpful for long term issues about the Rogarvian line. She even makesa passing joke that their children would be certainly as close to dragons as any humanoid could be.
After almost twom months the high council is ste to reconvene as a number of new items, including the first report from the south is set to be shared.
Cuddles will continue to focus his efforts on security, construction, policing, and the training of both young and old in the ways of wrestling (and thus Falyana). As a consequence he would oppose the faction cashing for an official religion if that meant excluding other faiths.
Duška will reach out to the fey and non-hostile "monstrous" communities of the lands and convey the court's welcoming of the Brevic ambassador.
She will encourage any of the tribes and groups to send envoys should they too have parleys and requests upon the nobility of the land - even going as far as to personally guarantee their safety whilst in the human halls (citing Cuddles' position as an indication of the Kingdom's intent for inclusion).
She will also continue to meet with the groups/tribes/individuals to assist in their own affairs where prudent, and to gain rumours and information if possible.
Matt will spend his time on the trip, to and from, trying to help produce better maps of the area that they explore, paying attention to notable wildlife, hazards, landmarks, and "beasties". Marking such things down to give to Anton later on for proper conversion from his rough sketches into more "elegant" maps.
Ra'hl is absolutely fascinated at the revelation of Abera's draconic heritage. Hoping to learn more from her resources and knowledge as a sorceress, he will ask many questions. While he is unlikely to admit how far out of control the dragon's blood can drive him, Ra'hl is fascinated at learning how the blood affects a human, What can be done to control it, etc.
At her hints of marriage, Ra'hl is quick to shift her thinking without outright refusing her. Subtly hinting what a shame it would be to be forced into a marriage with a man she doubts even has noble blood, and if her father was the man Ra'hl hoped he was, that her father would allow such a strong woman to discern a husband of her choosing herself, rather than use her as a gift to a family that requires no proof of loyalty.
During this time, Ra'hl will also pen a letter to Lord Orlovsky. In the letter, he praises the wisdom and grace of the Lord's daughter. Notably singing her praises and on several occasions stating that such a prize of a woman could only be brought about by noble stock and well disciplined parenting. Ra'hl will thank the Lord for his continued years of service and in such will happily defend Abera as one of his own so long as she remains in these lands. Ra'hl will end the letter speaking about uniting Brevoy once more and praising Lord Orlovsky for everything he is doing to keep Brevoy united and not provoking any disenfranchised with the current political landscape into a civil war that will cause the pointless bloodshed of many loyal to these lands.
He signs the letter without hesitation, Ra'hl Rogarvia, first of his name. Blood of the Conqueror and the true and rightful Heir to the Dragonscale Throne. King of All Brevoy, in the Name of Choral, Lord of Issia and Prince of Rostland, Suzerain of New Stetven, Overlord of Restov, and Defender of the Lake of Mists and Veils.
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Ra'hl is not sure what to make of Abera in that her words speak with thoughtful coolness but she certainly seems repressed. While she first noted that she had skepticism her continuing concentrated time with Ra'hl seems to have quickly moved to her to reassess her negative assessment of things. Ra'hl can sense that her calculated suggesting of political motives belie a burgeoning interest in the bloodrager that is definitely not about countries of families.
Brought together once more that group is approached by Osk who nods graciously to the group, Given the initial forays and under oversight from Matt and Duska a southern base has be established in the KAmelands south of the great Tuskwater lake that marks our southern shore and past the Godrim river which feeds it from the east. We know of more rivers to the south and we have a ranger from Matt's contingent to provide a report on what they have found.
[b]We also have Kressle outside who has reports she feels are worthy of your attention on the subject of her works as Spymaster and, I believe, a request about such things/
I also have uhm, a petitioner of sorts in the form of the grig Tyg-Tigger-Tut who has left the woods and asks for an audience.
Osk looks up from his notes and offers the group a look to see what item they might want to approach first...
Cuddles is wearing his customary expression of slightly confused curiosity. One of these days he'll get the hang of this fancy speech, he swears to himself.
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Ra'hl hesitates to ask for only a moment, but does ask. "Forgive my ignorance, but what is a grig? I've never heard of such a creature."
"As far as my personal thoughts, I would like to hear from Kressel first, if no one has any objections."
Osk seems to be working hard to temper a more, direct way of desription and his syntax suffers for it, A grig is well, that is to say, it is a fey bearing the characteristics of a bug, I mean, a grasshopper's lower half and a more human like top form. Madam Duska has had experience with him and his arrival in civilized...er...urban lands is significant. Typically.
The older man keeps glancing to Duska clearly working to be more inclusive in how he describe the fey and their relationship to the world of the humans and demihumans.
Duška nonchalantly nods in agreement, then provides her succinct take on the matter;
"Tyg-Tigger-Tut is grig. Grig is fey. Yes? Fey can talk. Hear him out... Two legs or six it is words that matter yes?"
Matt ticks his finger, disappointed in the lack of focus on the reporting Ranger. He shrugs inwardly. Patience is best, perhaps it is best to leave for last.
Hearing the news of the Grig Matt perks up as well.
I too would be interested in hearing what the Grig has to say... Though I have no objections to Kressle speaking first."
Duška nods with a sly smile, her relationship with Kressle remaining still frosty despite them taking very similar paths to the positions they now hold;
"Let us hear what our little Vyzvědač has to say yes?"
Osk nods and leaves only to return a moment later with Kressle in tow.
In the intervening months the woman has let her hair grow and keeps it in a tight braid and has traded in much of her leather bandit gear for black fabrics and black leather armor. Her signature handaxes have ben upgraded but remain firmly affixed to her person.
The woman's confidence and brazen nature was initially a concern given the more subtle nature of spycraft but Kressle has proven to be a keen judge of character and an active member of her own forces, proving to the men and women under her command that she will do all the things she would ever ask of them.
Sitting before you she offers her characterstic smirk and nods slightly as she begins, Under the authority granted to me and the low council by your council I have been engaged in a variety of activities. As establsih by the low councils deeds and grants of governance, which you have vested them with authority to create and oversee, I am required to present you with timely and regular reports of my groups activities, for your ears and eyes only with the exception of Osk here whose role serves to inform you and guide the lower council...
Kressle pauses almost as a formality and then begins again,
I have successfully recruited a variety of agents and contacts that span the breadth and depth of our emerging country. The first point of order I must discuss with you is the amount of authority I have to use these agents in the service of other matters relating to the kingdom's security. Kasten and Akiros have both indicated that they see potential value in the information my group can provide but there are concerns about spies leading to domestic actions primarily on the part of Osk, Svetlana and Oleg. I can see both sides of the argument.
Sensing it would be better to say everything she continues again, The second point of order relates to forein affairs. I have made many willing contacts in Brevoy and as we speak I am making connections farther afield, including our neighbors elsewhere throughout the region. There were other charters issued to other sections of the area and so I am working to start keeping an eye on what other potential allies and threats may be forming...however Svetlana is concerned with how my activities impact potential diplomatic relations, particularly in Brevoy. She has asked that I curtail my activities while also asking that I look more into our current guest...she is concerned that houses acting behind the Regent will complicate things but still wants me to look into it.
Kressle nods as though satisfied that she has said what she needed to say...
Ra'hl leans back in his chair crossing his arms thinking deeply on the subject. "While information is certainly a valuable resource. Our mission is to unite the noble houses of Brevoy. I share Svetlana's concerns that we may hamper our diplomatic relations if they misinterpret our watchful eye. Still, the Regent will not give up the power he stole easily, and he will begin to gather allies against my rightful claim."
"Still, we have seen that even our allies will put spies against us. I am not naive enough to think that Abara is the only spy sent by Lord Orlovsky."
"Still, our first duty is to protect those loyal to us. I have no qualms about you gathering any information that may lead to the harm of our citizenry. I do urge you to exercise caution. I would rather not give the Reagent any weapon he could use against us."
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Kressle nods thoughtfully, Actually my lord Abera Orlovsky is something I would like to look into deeper if you will allow. I hear both in public and private settings the great Duke is angry at his daughters actions. In public, he denounces her to maintain face. In private he rails that she would put herself in danger and steals his authority of the houe to contact you as he would intend. She seems to be a wildcard in the great political game.
Osk also chimes in, Lords the issue of domestic spying. Against our own people? I know that our nation is new but I worry that allowing Kressle free reign will only naturally lead to increased paranoia...
Cuddles is still super confused, but is doing his best. But until something gets dumbed way down he's probably going to stay that way.
Translating for Cuddles, Anton mutters out of the corner of his mouth, "Axe-lady wants to spy on our friends as well as our enemies."
Despite her misgivings on Kressle's character Duška nods at her report. looking to the others to gauge their reactions.
With a wry smile at Cuddles' furrowed look of confusion, the lithe ranger chimes in an agreement at Anton's assessment, and to temper Osk's concern:
"We may find enemies where there should be friends... and vice versa yes? It is wise to have watch and listen not just beyond a castle's walls, but within them too..."
Fluidly shuffling her Harrow Deck, Duška continues;
"Svetlana worries too much... Oleg's gout, next week's weather... It is only bad diplomacy if Kressle and her spies are noticed. Surely good spies do not get noticed yes? And we have no use for bad spies..."
Fergus speaks up as the discussion goes on in the massive room. Although I fear that you are correct Osk, however it is a necessary evil. It's hard to fight an enemiy if they are masquerading as friend. there will need to be limits placed on the spying. No one person should have the free reign to harm those loyal to us in the attempt to gather information.
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Kressly nods at the words of Duska and Fergus, I believe we can craft a system that sees the desire for information tempered with a notion of safety if you agree that my activities do indeed serve a legitimate domestic service. In time we might see the domestic and foreign efforts split into seperate leadership, I know that is how it is done in larger countries but I do not believe we are ready for that...
Kressle waits a moment and then urges again, And what of Abera Orlovsky? May I look into her affairs? Perhaps even talk to her? The ex-bandit smirks but she seems to know that she asking a sensitive question and its clear the smirk is as much a defensive device than it is a suggestion of mischief.
Duška flashes a hard smile at Kressle's request;
Our Vyzvědač grows on me. She is brazen, but has point.
She looks to the others, then to Ra'hl - eyebrow arched in curiosity as she expects a potentially negative response...
Matt listens quietly, grunting his agreement with the middle grounded plan of handling the local agents. He had little interest in seeing undue violence done, yet it was best to be smart, life could be hard at times.
Clearing his throat, groaning inward at, Matt shrugs. "Personally, I would like to know more about her affairs myself." He then closes his mouth to wait and see.
Waiting and seeing was what Matt liked to do.
Cuddles shrugs. PEOPLE BE GOOD MOST OF TIME. ARGUMENTS EASY TO WORK OUT WITH TRUE BOUT (His name for a judicial duel). CUDDLES NOT SEE WHY PEEKY SNEAKY SNEAKER. IF ANYONE CHALLENGE, LET THEM COME. STRENGTH PROVES AGAINST STRENGTH.
Ra'hl crosses his arms, "I am not fool enough to believe my judgement is unclouded on this subject. I trust your council, as I trust each of you with my life."
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Lifting himself out of his chair Fergus speaks in a booming voice, I think it would be foolish to not investigate into her affairs. How is our kingdom to stand if we allow foreigners to witness the inner workings of our system and spy on us without gathering information on them in return. It is my opinion in our best interest to allow Kressle to investigate Abera Orlovsky. His piece said, he returns to his aloof posture to listen to others.
Duška smirks at Cuddles' simplistic view of the matter.
Ai Maminka! Should I tell our Kolosální that in The Wild stealth is a greater asset than strength of arm? The foe you do not see is the most dangerous one yes? Perhaps a lesson for another day I think...
The lithe ranger bites her tongue from further comment.
SEeming satisfied that she has latitude Kressle nods and rises, I will work with the low council to see after a system of checks and balances. I mself should probably subjected to some form of magical review from time to time. I will talk with Jhod, Aleria, and Anton on the matter. I will report our actions soon. As for the other matter, I will report to you when I know more...
The woman hovers a moment to see if she is still needed. Assuming not Osk moves forward then asks, The ranger or the grig lords?
Ra'hl casts an eye to Duska and gives a slight nod, "Send the grig in next, sir."
Osk nods and returns with no one until the small grig bounds up to the table and stands upon it, looking back to Osk and saying, Like this then? and then offers a Ah! curious! as Osk nods that it where the grig should be.
The grig, true to form seems almost like half elf, half crcket but really almost the size of a large cat. The almond like fey eyes survey the room with some mirth and settle primarily on Duska. Lady Duska. Pervilash regrets that he cannot come and play this fine month but he has decided that flutterby chases on river clearing are the preferred distraction. He suspected you would understand.
Taking a moment to sort of "smarten" himself up. By standing taller the grig's voice carries a sing song quality as he addresses the larger group, Honored council of er...I can't seem to recall what you have chose to call this place...oh dear...well um...great council. I come on the behalf of the dryad Tiressia I have come to ask for help! She has...um...ahh...trouble. A problem? The grig seems to become a little flustered as he rubs his chin, Well the damn bird said something was wrong but I was playing my fiddle at the time and it was being quite rude. I remember Pervilash and I discussed the issue and we decided you might be better able to help than us but...I...well my stars I cannot seem to remember what the problem is...
The grig throws his hands up in sort of a capricious "Oh well!".
Duška smiles wryly at news of Pervilash's pursuits.
She leans forward, listening intently as the grig mentions potential trouble for the dryad. At the conclusion of the "report" the lithe ranger address the grig in a melodic tone;
"Help we can good Tyg-Tigger-Tut. Perhaps it is prudent to investigate Tiressia's problem for ourselves. I would hate to have another of your fiddle sessions spoiled yes?"
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Cuddles takes great joy in meeting Duska's odd friends. They aren't seen too often, but their visits are always cause for his huge, crooked teeth to make an appearance.
This doesn't seem to terrify the fey nearly as much as humans, thankfully.