"No, Bridgette. It's just a few of us so far," He assures her
Raxus enters the room in rare form. He smells like a dog and bits of hay are stuck to his rough clothing. His wide mouth is split into a huge grin that exposes the rows of sharp teeth that he usually tries to keep hidden. It would normally be frightening, but the big man practically radiates joy.
"Pups!"
Krenrath turns his masked face towards Raxus, saying nothing for a moment then speaks.
"Congratulations, I was unaware you with a litter or female. I suppose they are healthy if your are here. How many did you birth?"
There is no hint of amusement in his tone only idle curiosity.
Raxus just gives the masked elf a confused look.
"What?"
"That IS good news, Raxus. I hope they grow to be strong and healthy like their parents," Bydar is truly pleased for his friend
"In two months they will be ready to bond with someone and begin training. If you want one, the first pick of the litter is yours."
"I'd be honored," Bydar says with delight.
Taking a moment he nods.
"Aw you meant the dogs. That makes sense."
When Arianna arrives, Bydar nods to her and once everyone has had a chance to greet each other anew and congratulate Raxus on the puppies, he calls the meeting to order.
"No doubt, many of you have noticed the heightened security. Now that we're all together, I feel I can explain the reasons for it," He nods to Lanner before proceeding, "A month ago, Lanner brought to my attention that a group of criminals, associated with the Black Guild, had begin to scope out our fair country. Having just removed the bandit Leader not that long ago, I asked him to learn which people were members of this Black Guild so we might find a way to remove them. Were we to move against them directly, we could end up involved in a shadow war that could threaten a lot of innocents. Were we to ignore them, they would dig their roots deep into the very fabric of this budding young society. So I've come up with a third solution and Ariana approved it..."
He takes a deep breath, "We're sending a missive and tribute to Barons Tyg and Perlivash requesting their aid in having fay forces torment the twelve specific individual and driving them out. While there are dangers involved, if it works, we should be able to stop the Black Guild before it even gets started, discourage them from trying this in our lands again, and let our two fae friends and their allies have a good time."
Bridgette replies
"The Black Guild, if they plan on criminal activities I support to chase them out.
And if the fae have fun at the same time, I'm all for it.
Though I would request that they execute the pranks in a way that won't involve the innocent.
I do have a few ideas for pranks they could pull."
Bridgette replies
"The Black Guild, if they plan on criminal activities I support to chase them out.
And if the fae have fun at the same time, I'm all for it.
Though I would request that they execute the pranks in a way that won't involve the innocent.
I do have a few ideas for pranks they could pull."
Bydar is glad to see Bridgette is of a similar mind, "Absolutely. That's why Lanner made very sure to get the specific people and we'll be stressing that only those twelve are fair game to the barons." he smiles, "As for ideas, I can certainly send any of your suggestions in with our request. They may yet refuse us, of course. But I think the offer will tempt them."
Raxus didn't know much about the fae beyond the few that he'd met, but he understood that the Barons were good, though mischievous, and Mites were bad. He assumed the Barons' friends would be more like them than the Mites, and trusted Bydar to know what he was doing, so for now, Raxus just nodded and kept quiet.
Krenrath was looking at the kyonin wine again. Studying the bottle as he spoke.
"You became aware of this a month ago and chose not to inform the council. Why?"
Despite the directness of the question his gaze did not waver from the bottle, now being swished slightly to gauge the reaction of the liquid through the glass container.
"Lanner did a good job when he came to me but..." Bydar answers honestly, "I wanted more information to present to the council, names and numbers chief among them. Lanner needed a month to gather that information, and there you have it."
"True, knowing your enemy before you fight the enemy is wise" Bridgette adds as well as a number of possible pranks.
"Though I think for the fae to have more fun, we could give them a number of materials they could use."
Bydar smiles. He is grateful she understands his reasons, but is surprised by something else. He hadn't expected Bridgette to have such a mischievous side. Learn something new every day "We could deliver some along with the tribute, or simply have some stored here for the fae that arrive I suppose."
Krenrath put the bottle away once more. This time looking at Bydar.
"Being unaware of a threat is dangerous. If you are not vigilant or guarded then you give your enemy advantage. They have had a month to move about without concern or suspicion. To gather information on our people, us, and our resources. As well as allies such as the Sootscale whom they are now aware of to be in conflict with the gray dwarves who in turn could be possible allies to them. As well as the source of the silver with little work. They know of Oleg's post and the temple, far easier targets then us I would add. Informing the council would have done no harm, allowing the council to remain in ignorance may cost us."
He picks up a piece from the chess set, turning it over in his fingers as his eyes shift over to it.
"If it threatens Corbenic, it deserves the attention of the council. The decision to withhold that information is no one's to make. Otherwise what is the point of the council to begin with if we operate autonomously. We each play our part and hold influence in our chosen field but it is as a part of a whole. Or have I been misinformed?"
Suddenly he removes a slim tome from his robe, placing it on the table before him.
"That reminds me, I have newly discovered something that could alter the entire region."
He picks up the tome once more placing it half way back into his robe. Leaving only a corner sticking out from the folds of his robes.
"Then again I may choose to report back in a month's time when I have more information. It may be better if I take upon myself if such is the way of things."
His tone is contemplative not provocative in the least. He picks up another piece while placing the other back, running a long finger down it's polished figure and grooves.
Krenrath put the bottle away once more. This time looking at Bydar.
"Being unaware of a threat is dangerous. If you are not vigilant or guarded then you give your enemy advantage. They have had a month to move about without concern or suspicion. To gather information on our people, us, and our resources. As well as allies such as the Sootscale whom they are now aware of to be in conflict with the gray dwarves who in turn could be possible allies to them. As well as the source of the silver with little work. They know of Oleg's post and the temple, far easier targets then us I would add. Informing the council would have done no harm, allowing the council to remain in ignorance may cost us."
"Krenrath, they have had a month under Lanner's scrutiny. The changes they've made have been observed, that's HOW we know their names and numbers. The information you think they have were not great secrets even before this. We've learned far more about their true secrets than they have about ours, and we have Lanner's hard work to thank for it." He nods his appreciation to their spymaster.
He picks up a piece from the chess set, turning it over in his fingers as his eyes shift over to it.
"If it threatens Corbenic, it deserves the attention of the council. The decision to withhold that information is no one's to make. Otherwise what is the point of the council to begin with if we operate autonomously. We each play our part and hold influence in our chosen field but it is as a part of a whole. Or have I been misinformed?"
Bydar raises a brow."The council is BEING informed, Krenrath. That, among other reasons, is why we're here. The information was NOT withheld, it was pursued so it could be shared with more detail that would be of greater use. I can't whistle up the council so often that I end up interfering with their own duties and good hard work. Your opinion may differ, and if enough agree with it, I will consider handling similar actions in a different way in the future, but we must also TRUST each other if this council is to work. That is my view on it, anyway."
Suddenly he removes a slim tome from his robe, placing it on the table before him.
"That reminds me, I have newly discovered something that could alter the entire region."
"Oh?"
He picks up the tome once more placing it half way back into his robe. Leaving only a corner sticking out from the folds of his robes.
"Then again I may choose to report back in a month's time when I have more information. It may be better if I take upon myself if such is the way of things."
His tone is contemplative not provocative in the least. He picks up another piece while placing the other back, running a long finger down it's polished figure and grooves.
"While I am curious, if you feel you need more time to gather more details truly, then I will show you the same trust I hope you will learn to show me.. The council is here now though, and the area is secure if you wish to give us the rudiments. Otherwise we might move on to the subject of where to send our volunteer explorers."
Krenrath seems not to pay attention until the part of where to send the explorers.
"South-South West."
He starts setting the board with all it's pieces before him.
Raxus scowled. "I don't want to do this again." he growled before standing up to speak.
"Krenrath, you haven't been around long enough to learn how we do things. A big part of our success comes from trust and respect. If Bydar didn't have enough information, and Lanner wanted him to keep things to himself until he knew more, that is fine. I have never known Bydar's decisions to be foolish. Lanner has proved that he can be trusted with delicate situations. They have both earned the positions they hold."
"We have already had problems dealing with someone who didn't like the way we do things. We all argue sometimes. Discussion is fine. Disrespect is not. We've had enough of that. We aren't going to do it again."
"So you can either give us your full attention, and discuss your problems with how we do things without implying that we don't know what we're doing, or you can go back to your forest."
"We all get what we give. So right now, you'd better decide what you're going to be giving."
Krenrath bows his head, then looks at Raxus. "You are correct." He quickly places the pieces back into a pouch, then sits up straight.
Glancing around the room, he finally looks at Bydar, "My apologies, my presence in such councils in other lands has eroded some of my manners, but I do not make an excuse. I did not mean any offense."
He pulls out the small book, "I have discovered something that might be of interest to the Council. Hundreds of years ago, when the elves claimed these lands, they established a great tower dedicated to knowledge. They collected books, manuscripts, and scrolls, and created a mentoring system in which younger elves learned from their elders."
"I believe I have found a reference to that tower, and if my conclusions are correct, it is located to the south of our current location."
"I did not find any information about why the tower was abandoned, or if the library remained after the elves left. But if even a portion of the library exists, there is no telling what it could contain."
"In considering that, I must also reveal that the elves were wary of intruders stealing from their tower, so they protected their knowledge with both magic and steel. While the elven guards are no longer around, some of the arcane defenses may still exist."
He spreads his hands apart, "Ultimately, it is a potential treasure of lost knowledge, but it may be dangerous, perhaps even fatal."
Krenrath folds his hands back together. "I shall continue trying to discover more about the tower, and will let the Council know if I make any more progress."
"That's very intriguing news," Bydar confesses, "There maybe more immediate need in the other area however."
After Ari explains how another of her party may have survived from the same time she was kidnapped, only may have been taken to the south east area.
Bydar nods, "So what do the rest of you think? I would vote for seeing if we can uncover evidence about the current where abouts of Ari's peer over the tower, however tempting."
Raxus nods.
"While we consider that, General Raxus, do you have anything you want to report?" Bydar asks
"A woman named Sara came to find me. She wants to be my shieldmaiden. I don't have a shield, but she seems nice."
"She sounds like an interesting woman," Bydar isn't sure what to make of this. I mustn't let my concerns over the Black Guild make me paranoid. Besides, Raxus is a good judge of character. "Gods know these land can use all the good hearted warriors it can get to help defend it."
To Bridgette, he asks, "And how are things for you, Councilor. Any news you wish to report?"
Bridgette replies
"Not much to report Soloman wants to help out here and is asking Warden Kesten if he could get a job."
"And I'm planning on starting a self-defense course with Warden Kesten and General Raxus' input and permission.
The course will be aimed more at women, than men. Since most women have a very hard time fighting back.
And if an attack occurs it would be good to know that every citizen can defend themselves from the attackers."
"I'd be glad to help. I'm not a very good trainer, but I would be good at testing what you've taught them. If they can defend themselves against someone like me, they probably won't have much to fear from any other man."
Bydar muses thoughtfully, "I admit, my faith is not a violent one by nature, and I don't encourage life by the sword, but I'd be a hypocrite not to realize this land is still very rough and dangerous and I owe you and Raxus, both skilled warriors, my life more than once. Should the worst happen, being prepared might save some lives. It sounds very ambitious though. Do you think you'll have many takers? If demand gets high enough, we might want to build some sort of training facility for it one day."
***********
Turn 2: Autumn – Lamashan
***********
Seasonal Event: Gloom
Effect: -1 to all d20 rolls
Phase 1 – Upkeep
*Stability*
Bydar’s d20 roll = 11
Realm bonus = 15
11 + 15 -1 = 25 vs. Control DC 22 (Success!)
The people are happy this month! (no Unrest increase)
Total Consumption Cost: 1 BP
Phase 2 – Edict
*Council changes*
No changes to the Council
Current Council
---------------
Ruler: Bydar
Councilor: Bridgette
Grand Diplomat: Arianna
General: Raxus
Treasurer: Oleg
Magister: Krenrath
High Priest: Teremith
High Pastor: Jhod
Warden: Kesten
Marshal: Happs
Spymaster: Lanner
Justicar: Miles
Chief Architect: Vacant
*Claim Provinces*
Claim Goldwarren
Total Claim Province Cost: 1 BP
*Province Improvements*
Road (Goldwarren) [-1 BP]
Farm (Woodbridge) [-3 BP; -1 BP for site preparation, -2 for Farm construction]
Total Province Improvement Cost: 4 BP
*Settlement Improvements*
Granary [0 BP] (Build 2 / 2 turns)
Total Settlement Improvement Cost: 0 BP
*Other Improvements*
Maintain Town Guard (Warden) [-1 BP]
Total Cost: 1 BP
Phase 3 – Income
Received gift from Sootscale Tribe: [+2 BP]
Received profits from silver ore trade: [+1 BP]
*Economy*
Treasurer’s d20 roll = 8
Realm bonus = 10
8 + 10 - 1 - 5 = 12 vs Control DC 22 (Failure!)
Unfortunately, your realm’s economy did not generate significant tax income this turn.
-----
Treasury
Beginning Balance: 31
Consumption: -1
Claim Provinces: -1
Province Improvements: -4
Settlement Improvements: -0
Other Expenses: -1
Income: +3
Net Gain/Loss: -4
Ending Balance: 27
-----
Other Events
Black Guild Members
Lanner and one scout leave to meet with the Barons Tyg and Pervalish. They intend to ask the Barons for help in getting rid of the Black Guild members who have infiltrated the settlers moving to Corbenic.
Exploration
Happs and Yiv make plans to head west from Corbenic as they explore new provinces. They are to exercise caution, which should allow them to avoid potentially dangerous situations. The downside is that it will take longer to explore the provinces.
Individual Events
All events resolved.
Arianna thanks her fellow council members for agreeing to send Happs and Yiv to explore the region where the other survivor from her erstwhile caravan was supposedly taken.
Arianna thanks her fellow council members for agreeing to send Happs and Yiv to explore the region where the other survivor from her erstwhile caravan was supposedly taken.
"I'll pray for their success..." He states sincerely.
Realm Turn 3: Autumn – Neth
**Summary**
The overcast skies and general gloom which have been present for the past few months over the Stolen Lands continues this month. Luckily, there are indications that the weather patterns are set to shift in the coming weeks. Hopefully this gloom will burn off and the land will see some sunlight to relieve the land from the brutal chill of winter.
Nights are significantly colder than when you first settled Corbenic, and all of the settlers seem to be happy that they are living inside the stout houses that mark what is being called The First Quarter by the people who live there. At the suggestion of some of the more civic-minded neighbors, the citizens have erected street signs painted with a number “1” which has the upper half painted blue and the lower half painted red. A larger sign has been built in the center of the largest square, which many of the locals refer to Hope’s Corner. A new game for the children involves designating one corner of the square “Hope” then playing an elaborate game of tag in which “orcs” try to prevent people from reaching it. All in all, a real sense of community seems to be developing among the people.
The completion of the town granary has also gone a long way to soothe any concern the populace may have about their decision to settle here. More than one conversation has been overheard in which the common folk praise the Council for building homes for everyone and a granary to protect the town’s food supply before repairing their own castle.
Apparently, The Liberators are also gaining individual popularity. Children have taken to following Raxus around during their free time, with many watching in astonishment as he easily lifts loads that would take four normal men. Boys are heard to exclaim that they want to “be as strong as Raxus!” with girls in turn making fun of them. Of course, the canny mothers have noticed the trend and turned it to their advantage, with many using “The red eyes of Raxus are watching you!” as an admonishment for any unruly children.
Several other sayings have become popular that involve Bridgette… though they tend to be somewhat off-color in that they typically involve her demonstrating “ancient exotic wrestling techniques” upon some poor young man who must then struggle in vain to escape her “milky white” thighs. It seems the fair Bridgette has become something of a crush to more than a few lonely men in the city. But she has also become something of a heroine for the young women, many of whom shirk other duties to attend her training sessions. And as Bridgette has become an idol for the men, the young women in turn view Soloman with batting eyes and dreamy stares. “Oh, if only he had a younger brother!” many exclaim to their friends.
The provincial construction crews have continued to stay busy, laying their road pavers through Goldwarren and marking the boundaries of the territory. The farm and its small hamlet were easy to build on the level plains of Woodbridge, and the access to both the river and the road should ensure an uninterrupted chain of supply to Corbenic, even in the worst conditions. Overall, the crews are happy to be busy, though some voice concerns about working much farther away from their homes when the full of winter descends on Tir Rhyddid.
**Council Member Updates**
NPC Event Roll: Nothing special happens this month.
The Ravens have nothing special to report this month. There have been a few crimes, but nothing that cooler – and sober – heads couldn’t handle.
Miles requests leave to speak for a few minutes at the next Council meeting.
Lanner returns to Corbenic and reports that his meeting went well, indicating the Barons agreed to the plan. He plans to inform the Council about the details of the meeting, as well as bringing up another matter for discussion.
Happs and Yiv spent about twenty days in the field exploring new provinces. They made a few interesting discoveries, two of great importance: 1. there is a small human settlement at the mouth of the Shrike River where it enters The Tuskwater, and 2. far to the east, they found tracks made by at least twenty normal-sized humanoids wearing iron-shod boots, marching north in formation. Happs plans to brief everyone at the Council.
Finally, about halfway through the month, people started noticing Krenrath’s absence. Putting the pieces together, it becomes clear that the wizard decided to seek out the Librarium on his own.
-----
Individual Events
No individual events this turn.
-----
General Information
1. Some immigrants have started to trickle into the city. Housing may be adequate this turn, but in a month or so, there will not be enough houses and people will be forced to live in the elements – not an exciting proposition with winter on your doorstep. (No action required)
2. Oleg has let you know that the Silver Ore trade continues to keep all parties happy. (No action required)
3. Kesten approaches the Council and informs them that a new traveler out of Restov appeared in town and has been asking to meet with The Liberators by name. She seems to be searching for somebody in the region. (Speak with Belka)
-----
I've got all the rolls I need for this turn.
You can claim one province this turn.
You can build two province improvements this turn.
You can build one house this turn as your residential option, and since the granary was completed, you can construct one more building.
Realm Turn 3: Autumn – Neth
The overcast skies and general gloom which have been present for the past few months over the Stolen Lands continues this month. Luckily, there are indications that the weather patterns are set to shift in the coming weeks. Hopefully this gloom will burn off and the land will see some sunlight to relieve the land from the brutal chill of winter.
Bydar sometimes wonders at the gloom, if there might be a supernatural aspect to it. But others who know weather patterns better than he talk of how it seems to be ready to shift, and that sets him somewhat at ease.
Nights are significantly colder than when you first settled Corbenic, and all of the settlers seem to be happy that they are living inside the stout houses that mark what is being called The First Quarter by the people who live there. At the suggestion of some of the more civic-minded neighbors, the citizens have erected street signs painted with a number “1” which has the upper half painted blue and the lower half painted red. A larger sign has been built in the center of the largest square, which many of the locals refer to Hope’s Corner. A new game for the children involves designating one corner of the square “Hope” then playing an elaborate game of tag in which “orcs” try to prevent people from reaching it. All in all, a real sense of community seems to be developing among the people.
Bydar smiles to see the children play. He worries some orc blooded child might find their feelings hurt, but unless he sees anything like that, he doesn't ruin the fun. Should any half orc find themselves stuck as the 'bad guy', he'll remind the children gently that many of his friends are not fully human and he admires them for their heroism.
"The roots are not the whole of the tree," He says kindly. Some will not understand what he means exactly, but it will help them stop and think.
Apparently, The Liberators are also gaining individual popularity...
Bydar is firmly of the belief that his friend Raxus is a fine role model for the youth. He's not so sure of the tactics the mothers are taking, however understandable their intent. I hope Raxus doesn't take what they say negatively. I can see how he might
Bridgette's influence on the men and women of the town is certainly note worthy also. Bydar wonders how the older generations will react to young women wanting to learn the ways of battle. Hopefully they'll understand that their daughters will be the safer for it eventually, though I hope we learn gentle arts as well.
The romantic sighs over Bridgette and Soloman help reassure him that springs blooms eternal in young hearts even on cold nights. He wonders if any of his friends have found a romance yet, but then, given their busy schedules, likely not yet. Still, if I were the matchmaking sort...
The provincial construction crews have continued to stay busy, laying their road pavers through Goldwarren and marking the boundaries of the territory. The farm and its small hamlet were easy to build on the level plains of Woodbridge, and the access to both the river and the road should ensure an uninterrupted chain of supply to Corbenic, even in the worst conditions. Overall, the crews are happy to be busy, though some voice concerns about working much farther away from their homes when the full of winter descends on Tir Rhyddid.
This does trouble Bydar. He had hoped to get a mine going, but it's clear there might be added dangers for ANY undertaking in winter. Yet men will work for their fair share of such treasure, so no doubt many would start to it if they learn of the chance. I think I'll still propose it and see what the others think.
Some immigrants have started to trickle into the city. Housing may be adequate this turn, but in a month or so, there will not be enough houses and people will be forced to live in the elements – not an exciting proposition with winter on your doorstep. (No action required)
Bydar greets some of the newcomers in person, wanting to learn more about them and to get to know them. Should any be from VERY far afield, he'll definitely be curious as to the architecture and style of their old nations and he might incorporate some of it. New houses will be needed, but there's no reason that it will have to be dull.
Kesten approaches the Council and informs them that a new traveler out of Restov appeared in town and has been asking to meet with The Liberators by name. She seems to be searching for somebody in the region. (Speak with Belka)
While curious, and borderline suspicious at first, Bydar will arrange for her to meet with the council.
The security is a BIT more lax this time around as another council meeting is called. Bydar greets each member of the council in turn, "Thank you one and all...before we get into the usual matters, it would appear we've been asked for an audience of sorts. If everyone is amendable to this, let's let our guest in before we start things in full."
Instead of just one person, two people are admitted into the Council chamber. The first to enter, and apparently the leader between the two, is a young girl with auburn hair and heterochromatic eyes; one russet, one gold. You can see the start of a tattoo peeking out from under her high collar, on the left side of her neck. It looks a bit like the start of a flowering vine.
Her companion appears to be a tall man, although it might as well be a tall woman; this fellow has wrapped himself up in a wide cloak with a hood. He or she walks with a bit of a stoop and lowered head. He or she follows at exactly one pace behind the girl, and if anyone draws close enough to catch his scent, they may be surprised to detect an odour of spices and hot dust wafting from the folds of his cloak.
You may note that both these strangers appear to be ready for battle; unless they have been disarmed at the door, the girl has a powerful crossbow strapped to her back and a morningstar dangles from her belt; her companion is armed with a longbow, a greatclub and a greatsword... Clearly, they are expecting some tough times.
"Hrm... Chancellors, is that the right title? Chancellors," the girl says, a clear Hallit* accent to her Taldan. "I am Belka, late of clan Blackpaw, near the Irrisen border. My companion is Hoi Polloi. He doesn't talk much, but it's not from wanting to be rude, so I'd appreciate it if you don't order anything chopped off because he remains silent."
She bows stiffly, from the waist. One step behind her, her companion does the same, rather more smoothly.
"I am looking for a man who I hear was last heard from when he was mapping the Tuskwater region. His name is Mazrim Rhol; he is a swordsmaster and teacher of the blade who used to work for the Rogarvia, before they up and vanished."
Belka glowers.
"Thought he might have wandered over here when your city went up. If he hasn't, that means I have to go to the Tuskwaters and look for him there."
"Hrm... Chancellors, is that the right title? Chancellors," the girl says, a clear Hallit* accent to her Taldan.
"Chancellors should do fine," the Baron states when she asks. He also makes introductions into the names and positions of each one.
"I am Belka, late of clan Blackpaw, near the Irrisen border. My companion is Hoi Polloi. He doesn't talk much, but it's not from wanting to be rude, so I'd appreciate it if you don't order anything chopped off because he remains silent."
Bydar fights a smile at that, "Set your mind at ease. We're not that kind of council."
"I am looking for a man who I hear was last heard from when he was mapping the Tuskwater region. His name is Mazrim Rhol; he is a swordsmaster and teacher of the blade who used to work for the Rogarvia, before they up and vanished."Belka glowers.
"Thought he might have wandered over here when your city went up. If he hasn't, that means I have to go to the Tuskwaters and look for him there."
The Tuskwater. Happs and Yiv reported a human settlement there. He ponders, "The name does not ring a bell to me, though we do have new immigrants and he COULD be among them. May I ask why you seek this man?" And a man tied to House Rogarvia no less. She doesn't look like the political type.
Belka scowls and mutters something under her breath. She briefly shakes her head, but answers all the same:
"My mother. She was cast out of her home clan, I think; I can't be sure. Can't go and ask her. My home clan cast me out, see? In any case, mother's home clan used to live around this area, I know that much for certain. I hear that man, Mazrim Rhol, may know the truth of the matter, so I want to find him and ask him questions. He is going to answer those questions."
The large man -- it seems he must be a man, judging by his deep and, admittedly, hollow voice -- stirs himself slightly and speaks: "He will answer." And that seems to be that, for now...
The young baron feels sympathy for Belka's loss, "The search for truth strikes me as a noble one." He looks to the others
"Why were you cast out" The giant of a man sitting near the Baron rumbled.
Belka shrugs, completely unapologetic.
"Got knocked up by a traveller. My pa didn't approve and he kicked me out of the family once the li'l one'd had his first drink. The elders kicked me out of the clan after that. If you were thinking I'm a murderer or a thief, you can rest easy."
Bydar looks concerned, "Is your child with you, does he or she need care?"
Belka looks nonplussed.
"With me? Naw, he ain't with me. See?"
The girl spreads her arms and makes a full turn.
"He's with me Mum, back at my home clan. Getting all the care he needs, I reckon. Pa was pleased enough to get himself a male heir, so the li'l one should be fine."
It would appear her old clan doesn't value daughters as they do sons. I try to be understanding of other cultures, but there are days I struggle with some. "Well, I'm glad to hear your son is well,at least."
"Yeah, it's a worry less," Belka says, shrugging. "So. Can you find out whether Mazrim Rhol is with your immigrants? That'd be another worry less."
Bydar looks at the others to see what they think of this request.
Several other sayings have become popular that involve Bridgette… though they tend to be somewhat off-color in that they typically involve her demonstrating “ancient exotic wrestling techniques” upon some poor young man who must then struggle in vain to escape her “milky white” thighs. It seems the fair Bridgette has become something of a crush to more than a few lonely men in the city. But she has also become something of a heroine for the young women, many of whom shirk other duties to attend her training sessions. And as Bridgette has become an idol for the men, the young women in turn view Soloman with batting eyes and dreamy stares. “Oh, if only he had a younger brother!” many exclaim to their friends.
While Bridgette dislikes the off-color remarks she dismisses it as part of the immature minds and glad her project has support from other women and in some way hopes it'll close some of the gap in physical strength between the genders.
Lanner returns to Corbenic and reports that his meeting went well, indicating the Barons agreed to the plan. He plans to inform the Council about the details of the meeting, as well as bringing up another matter for discussion.
Bridgette is glad the barons agreed to the plan, and in some small way hopes the barons like and use some of her suggested pranks
Happs and Yiv spent about twenty days in the field exploring new provinces. They made a few interesting discoveries, two of great importance: 1. there is a small human settlement at the mouth of the Shrike River where it enters The Tuskwater, and 2. far to the east, they found tracks made by at least twenty normal-sized humanoids wearing iron-shod boots, marching north in formation. Happs plans to brief everyone at the Council.
She thinks
A human settlement near the mouth of the tuskwater, let's just hope they are not aggressive.and she wonders what a possible military group is up to?
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At Belka's words on her clan's gender gap value, makes Bridgette recall her father mentioning his clan's gender gap in value when she was young,
and that her father's clan is westward from the stolen lands.