Kingmaker: Stolen Lands of the Shining

Game Master BloodWolven

"Well Selena explained that gaining control was required to replace the former master. Who is . . .: Quince turns to look at Selena, "Who is your current master?"

"My guess, that bracelet is her true master." Cleo said as she tapped her chin thoughtfully. "The item is intelligent but it is still an item. To act out it's will, it needs a host." She added as she closed her eyes and thought more deeply. "Selena was it yes? Tell me, what does this item have you do?"

"She spoke of a monolith. It might be a connection to the monolith which also may be the master."

"That would be increasingly rare. An intelligent magical item that gets it's intelligence from a third place is highly unlikely. The intelligence is contained within the item itself. Though if it was made by this monolith, or assuming there are or where others there by them, it could have a connection. Just I doubt it gets it's intelligence from there. More likely the monolith acts as a hub, a pull of power." Cleonora theorized. "But without inspecting the item, I cannot say for sure."

At her own introduction he rises and eyebrow at you. Then at the sarcasm he scrutinized you more with a scowl. He just watches as everyone talks.

Responding to the offer of healing she lightly shakes her head as small tingles from her jewelry can be heard, politely she says, "No healing is needed, as you can tell the damage is already gone."

She puts the bracelet down on a surface nearby, likely the table. A bit frustrated she says again, "I don't have a master now. Valisia was my last master and she was killed. The bracelet works as a conduit between my master and myself. I guess you could say the Monolith is... no, not my master. I am a vessel for it but it does not truly control me. Fizz Metal, as was its name from Fizzy a previous master, does not have me do much other than finding a master. Yes my name is Selena, too bad we couldn't meet under better circumstances."

He puts his weapon away. "Let's get this looked at then."

He looks to Selena, "Wow. Um I am sorry. Regardless of any beauty or charm you have I should not nor normally would not behave so. It was rather disgraceful. For a man, even more as one who walks a path set by Erastil and worse a leader should not behave so. I am sorry. With the knowing that we all were targeted by an enchantment or spell I hope we can move past this." His face tightens, trying to wrap his head around things, "So you currently have no master."

Cleonora moved around to stand before the bracelet. "I agree, maybe I can buy you dinner as an apology." Cleo said before she took out her spell book. "Lets see if it will reveal it's secrets to me. Intelligent items are... tricky to deal with." She explained, then her eyes flashed a very pale blue as magic flowed from her and the pages of her now hovering spellbook began to flip radically. Then it slammed shut and returned to her hand.

With a single word and a snap of her fingers, the bracelet raised into the air, being held by ghostly hand that Cleonora directed with a finger to turn the item around.

She used a Arcanist point to redo her prepared spells for the day, get mage hand because you actually have to look the item over to figure it out. But she isn't stupid enough to touch it!

Then her eyes glowed with a bright rainbow like gleam.

Knowledge Arcana (To get the school it is most connected to): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (5) + 12 = 17
Spellcraft(What this do?!): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30

"Quince don't be ashamed or feel weird about it. I am very used to reactions like that plus I encouraged it. Of course we can move past it. Yes, no master, if I had a master he or she could have easily prevented that scene. In the next week if I dont have a master I would start losing my mind to my feral side." She responds and backs off giving him space.

"I would like that Cleonora, she politely responds to the dinner invitation, "It would be good to get to know someone with such a level head, fierce drive to protect, and knowledge of the arcane."

"Well, thank you." Cleonora said as she worked. "And if I can, I will try and release you from this so that you can be your own person without fear." She promised. "Though that may take time... tell me Selena have you ever tried to bond with this item yourself?" She asked.

Almost urgently she requests, "No, please don't. This is the way that I am and want to be. I am my own person. Yes when several of my masters met dismal ends and there were no suitable replacements I would bond with it and use the bracelet. In those days I was a force to be feared, my lusts were never quenched and I reveled in being a feral beast. I also took on the mantle of guardian of the monolith during those days." Thinking back about those days she looks off into the distance with a strange grin on her face.

Tristan just looks on as everything unfolds.

"So it is you Cleo. I half suspected an evil agent. One that took notice of you getting close to us and disguising themselves to attack. You worry way too much. If I didn't know better perhaps you are a bit taken with our baron and were jealous of Selena. She and the Monolith that created that are not from this world. She and Krazok came through a rift some time ago. They are friends and allies. If I were not as in love with Larina as I am I too would have willingly fallen to her charms for the night. Regardless perhaps you did save Quince, perhaps you didn't. Either way, it's settled for now."

"After this Tristan we're going to have a long talk about what being a Warden means, and being a friend." Cleonora said as she just shook her head at his statement. However she sarcastically laughed at part of Tristan's statement that she was jealous. "Nah, if I was jealous you'd of never seen me and Selena wouldn't be standing. Though to be fair I don't think I've ever been that jealous. There are only a few things that set me off, the spell I spoke of earlier is one of them though... So yeah I can lose it sometimes. But that is rare." She said.

"Back on the important topic." Cleonora said as she pointed to the bracelet, her eyes now a sheet pink color instead of the rainbow. "This, at the base, is a charm bracelet. The magical one. The charms actually do things if you take them off and use them. There is a faint connection to a distant place, I assume that is the monolith. However I sense no connection to Selena from it, that could be because it isn't active at the moment however. Oh and it can grant a shield to it's wearer or another a few times a day. Its ego is powerful enough to be felt but I've seen one with more power than this. The spell it cast before was an alteration of the enticing-adultion spell which is uses to force itself upon a new master. I have a suspension that it may only work on those who can actually be attracted to Selena. But that is neither here nor there at the moment. Also, it has a covetous aura. Which for those not magically inclined mean any harmless spell you cast within the range it can duplicate to use upon itself." She explained as she slowly lowered it back to the table. "My suggestions is find someone who is okay with have a slave, and yes that is what this is no matter if Selena is willing or not, and give it to them. They should be a third party who you know and trust but isn't a member of the council. We don't know what happens if you fail against the ego of this thing and it could end up being something terrible. I can't say for sure. But it is never good to mess around with magical intelligent items that use magic the way it did. You have my suggestion, but I cannot force you to do anything." Cleonora shrugged as she let her spells end. "But there you go, that is all that can be gotten out of it in this state."

"I would take the responsibility but I'm don't know how Larina would feel about it. Also, I don't want to get punched in the face for asking. If Selena is to sit on the council she should serve the baron. It may be risky but Quince has dealt with worse. Besides the monolith, this thing is tied to is in a different plane of existence. Surely that has weekend it or made it safer. Whatever you decide your Excellency you have my support." Tristan bows toward Quince.

"Believe it or not being on a different plane of existence wouldn't hurt or help it in the slightest. For example a genie is still a genie no matter if it is on this plane or their home plane. So no. It wouldn't weaken it or make it safer. The attachment to the place I felt was faint but it was there. Like an ember burning in a dying fire. Feed it, and it will ignite into a burning flame." Cleonora explained as she looked for an empty seat to take. This may take longer than she thought. "Again, I highly suggest not putting it on a council member. You know, intelligent magic item and all. Also one shouldn't task risks such as these so willy nilly, Quince has an entire populous to watch over." Cleonora reminded them.

"Sitting on the council would mean she serves the Baron no matter what. That is kind of the point of sitting on the council. But this isn't serving, it's slavery. Not to mention if it gets out that the Baron has a slave, in the River Kingdoms? Which is know for rising against that. I mean one of the very laws all here can agree on is, "Say what you will, I live free". Oh yeah...that would be great PR. Not to mention it degrades his character." She went on to say, "Oh I apologise Quince I'm speaking about you like you're not in the room, that is rude of me." Cleonora said with a sigh. "My point is, Quince you really should not do this. As an impartial third party, you take the greatest risk for the least amount of reword. Your moral character as a ruler will forever be tarnished, if you lose to the bracelet's ego only once you could cause mass suffering to your people because we don't know what it wants or how it will puppet you, a continuous battle against the bracelet's ego, and your god will likely hate you. The last part I don't really care about but I find those who have faith sometimes do, so I threw it in there. My suggestion still stands, find someone you trust who isn't in a position of power and give it to them. Selena gets her master, for whatever reason she wants it, the intelligent magical item is far enough away from power it can be safely studied, and you get to feel nice because you helped someone not risk turning into a feral monster." Cleonora said as she finally sat down. "Those are the risks. The reword for you would literally be a magic bracelet and a slave bed-warmer... So, yeah. There ya go."

Then she looked at Selena and asked "Can you teach? They want me to be the headmistress of the academy which means I'm gonna have to get more teachers. Those of a magical nature would be nicer to get."

Quince thinks "Slavery, the trafficking, sale, imprisonment and exploitation of others won't be going on here. Whoever does this could be said to volunteering to help a woman who fears evil that has befallen her and as such risked themselves to help this woman manage her feral urges and keeping both this woman and other's safe. Labeling that slavery or mastery I don't think describe what is going on here." He shakes his head, "I balked at her request no wishing to be a 'master' but listening to her situation. Left without a controlling influence worse things will happen."

"It doesn't have to be me. But I don't think we need to think of it as slavery, we certainly don't need to talk about as such and pretending that this issue fits the simple idea of slavery I think doesn't match the nuance."

"You are aware there is a thing called indentured servitude yes?" Cleonora asked with a raised eyebrow. "That is what this is. It is slavery by a nicer name." She added simply. "You will have control over her power, to withhold or give what she needs at you whim, and there is nothing she can do to stop you. What would you call that?" She asked while crossing her arms.

"Slavery isn't simple! Nothing we construct is!" Cleonora stated very bluntly. "It is a cruelty that mars the civilized area to this day and will continue to do so long after all within this room are long gone." She informed them. "To believe otherwise is ignorant and childish."

"This bond will force a master and slave relation. There is no doubt in my mind of this fact. From what Selena said and the way I read this intelligent item, it will be formed from this monolith. From the way Selena said, it is binding till death." With a sighing shrug, obviously annoyed at the ignorance in the room both from Quince and Tristan, she settled deeper into her chair. This was going to be a long talk. "The situation is regrettable, but that is what it is." Cleonora said as she simply folded her hands in her lap. "You cannot change that fact. You either accept that this is fact, or you continue to try and ignore it and dress it up so that it is easier for you to deal with. In the end, you cannot deny the very truth. Because truth doesn't care if you're uncomfortable, it just is." She stated in a very matter of fact tone. "The sooner you accept this fact, the faster we'll be able to deal with this. The one who makes this bond will control Selena even to the point of it being against her will, if they so choose. A benevolent dictator, is still a dictator. They're just a good person. So a good person who wears this bracelet, will be a slaver, just a good master. The only reason I haven't tried to destroy this item, is because Selena asked me not to. I respect her request no matter how much I despise it. Because it is hers to make. Just like I wouldn't stop someone from selling themselves willingly into slavery because their family needed the money. Or because not doing so would be worse options. But it doesn't change what it is."

Quince sighs, "Indentured Servitude?" He looks stern, "Look I value your passion on this. Nor am I currently volunteering myself yet. This is not some sort of legal system. Its magic. And its not about debt or slavery. Its about in her own words managing feral and monstrous urges. That will harm others. Its not about a debt. Its not about taking a slave. It is about taking a course of action that yields the most good. Now rather than argue semantics of this situation and the injustice of slavery. Lets talk about helping this woman. Is there another way to break the bond that won't leave her to be a monster in a few days? Is there away to get her free without a master. Otherwise we need to accept that its a choice that saves her and others." He looks at Cleo, "For shaking me from the spell you have my thanks. For your expertise in matters magical you have my thanks. But you are pontificating rather uselessly condemning this as some sort of Chell Slave practice rather than seeing a fracking person who is in need. And failing to meet that need is not what she wants, places her at the mercy of a curse, and sets her out to harm others. Lets not pretend that only evil here is that it uses the terms associated with a vile and evil practice."

Quince sighs, "It sounds like your solution is exactly what we are proposing. So lets silence the semantics and see if we can help this person. Your insistence on condemning those who seek to help as immoral doesn't apply."

"I'm am not going to school you on so call semantics or the fact that debt isn't measured in just coin. You wouldn't listen right now nor is it the time or place." Cleonora stated. 'He doesn't get the different types of debt... And did he just say fracking?... Not right now Cleo..' She thought to herself.

"The question that needs answered is what makes her lose control. If it is the fact she is a lycanthrope then the act of removing that from play would be the answer. However if one is born a lycan nothing short of a wish will cure it. There is a magical item that will force her back into her human form should she hear it. It is call a werewhistle and I'm sure you could find one in the River Kingdoms. This place has a large amount of werewolves after all. Every time she tries to change, blow the whistle and force her into her human form. It will lock her out of her lycan form completely for a whole day and night however. It is made from silver, mixed with lycan blood and the ground flowers of the wolf's bane plant. Mixed together over the flames of some magical or planner source. Often genie fire is use, that from the fire nature of course. But Hellfire works as well I've heard. Then many enchantments are overlayed while it cools."

"If removing the lycan blood isn't able and the fact that the whistle can fail if the lycan's Will is strong enough, then we have less options before us. But we still run into the fact that Selena doesn't want to be free from this burden. I see no way out of this current predicament if she doesn't want out of it." Cleonora pointed out with a slight shrug from her shoulders. "I could rip the magic from the item, effectively killing it in the process, and try to put that into her effectively connecting her directly to the monolith. Yet that is risky. To hold that much raw magical power and forcing it into a person can go horribly wrong. It could kill both her and myself if the magic backlashes." She explained. "But that doesn't change the fact that this is what Selena wants, Quince. She wants a master to serve under. She wants someone else to keep her in check. We may not like it but she wants it. Now that could be the bracelet or monolith she is attached to taking, it is magical connected to both her and it after all and it would know setting Selena free would mean the bracelet's death." Cleonora said as she looked down at the trinket. "But it could just as well not be. There are only a hand full of ways to tell."

"Great lets work the actual problem."

Quince turns back to Selena, "Sorry that was a lot of talking about you in front of you. I hope you understand even the disagreement is part of us trying to reach a good solution for you. A lot was said. Did you hear anything among our solutions that would help."

Catching Up and Two or More Days Ago

Currently

Kev was away making sure training of new and current soldiers was going smoothly and picking out a site for the future Garrison, he arrives at the Meeting Room.

Kev walks into the room and sees the different signs of emotion and sees Cleo with the Wardens. "Sorry I am late, I was overseeing training at the Arena and picking a location for the future Garrison. By the looks of it, I see have been missing some important conversations or debates? Kev then looks at Cleo, "And well met Miss, good to see you again!" He then quickly proceed to take a seat and on the way to seat, he give Stalker the Elven sign of "Well met, Brother!"

He sits back and begins to listen intently to see if he can catch up to what he missed.

Quince looks around a little embarrassed but greets Kevros, "You didn't miss much." He clearly can't hide that he is feeling awkward. "There was some concerning discussions but we are focusing on ways to solve problems. Selena has shared with us that some of her powers stem from lycanthropy." He holds up a hand to stem any concern the word raises. "She wears a collar to suppress her urges. However it is linked to a bracelet. The bracelet makes who wears it Selena's master. We are discussing how to break the curse, contend with the enchantments of the collar, bracelet and a monolith that is involved somehow. The debate mostly dealt with issues of magic compulsions and how they are like slavery and whether the need to keep her feral nature suppressed and her willingly seeking a master out changed what was normally a morally repugnant choice. NOTHING ELSE happened. Nothing much. There was some magic that the bracelet which is apparently alive put out that was a charm to entice a master." He tries to play off the shame he is feeling but mumbles, "And boy was it enticing."

"As a summoner I can teach a focused form of magic. I should be able to teach." she relays with little emotion.

"I did ask Krazok first but with so much on his plate with the lizardfolk he suggested other leadership... oh I didn't tell you about that did I. The magic is tied to the land, so only those of leadership and capability, would the bracelet accept. He might accept a noble, most likely and Warden. Though they must be a spell caster..." She says a bit awkwardly as she knows this throws another wrench into what they were thinking.

"But Cleo has a point, you as the ruling member of this kingdom should not be seen as a slave holder. As king you have to be aware of how others will see it. At least from what I have heard so far from your subjects and other leadership." She strongly voices knowing she wants to support this kingdom as much as her own before.

"I am well used to such discussions, I have heard them before in the other land. But before that it was about every 10 to 20 years." Simply said.

Kevros we are actually in Stalker's study.

With all that said she suggests, "If the bracelet is broken I promise you the repercussions would be death and destruction. So I need a master that is a Warden and spellcaster. As there are no other leadership really in your lands. That leaves Quince, Katrina, Sota, Jhod, Bearik, and... no that is it right?"

"That makes sense. I saw no reason such matters needed to be public, I would hope none of this is public. And while I think you do need a master and would consider it. It would be better for someone other than myself. That is wise. Stalker offered. He is our Warden of Secrets his magic is that of a ranger. Would that work? Unless he would withdraw his offer." Quince shrugs, "Now that the spell does prove as luridly compelling. Sota is not one of focus, Jhod will be stepping down, Katrina might be willing, Bearik, Sulvanii . . .well he might be able to use his magic to attempt to permanently fix the situation."

"By my will being a master would not compel her unless it would be by threat to herself, others, or to state. I would be willing to take upon myself another pupil. I have grown since my vengence and hope to impart my wisdom upon her. As there seems to be no viable choices, I will take this duty for the Wardens. Should you have me Selena?" He offers up, then kneels and raises his hand to her.

She was about to respond but then Stalker presented himself. "We shall see," she offers and takes his offered hand.

At that moment the braclet zipped off the table and attaches to his wrist.

-----

After Stalker points out Quince should be at the speech she winks at Stalker, puts an arm around Quinces and takes him out of the room.

Stalker stays kneeling as his eyes seem to flicker. Blue magical electricity begins to shoot out of the braclet, then forms a sort of chain to Selena's platinum collar which sizzles with the same magic. Then it all stops and Stalker stands saying, "The bond is forged. Thank you everyone. Now Quince you have a speech to crash, Selena if you wouldn't mind escorting him. Cleo thank you for your perspectives, they have been very helpful. Tristan, thank you for being here. Kev, if you have a few minutes I would like to have a friendly word with you."

"Oh hey! You're the guy I ran into that day." Cleonora said with a polite wave. "I met three of the ruling class in one day... What are the odds?" She asked mostly to herself.

When Quince became all flustered and didn't got into detail, Cleonora laughed and looked at Kev. "There was way more than that but he's embarrassed. I think their pride is a little bruised." She added as she pointed between Quince and Tristan. "If you want all the details can tell you them later." She offered.

"How about we talk more about that over dinner? See if it is something you'd want to do." Cleonora suggested to Selena

Cleonora looked at Quince, meeting his eyes when Selena said it was slavery. She didn't say anything more but the look was unmistakable, very much a 'See, she can admit it.'

Cleonora almost jumped out of her seat when the bracelet went flying. Dangerous magical items on the loose made her nervous, go figure.

When it attached to Stalker Cleonora watched the bonding process with a critical and curious eye.

Then when Selena and Quince moved to leave the room she called after them teasingly "Don't be a perv Quince." Then chuckled to herself. "Welp, this has been a day." She stated as she got up and righted herself after almost jumping out of her chair. "But there are things that must be done, like changing clothes and go to some speech by someone. Didn't know people just gave speeches here." Cleonora shrugged simply, "Maybe it'll be enlightening. Who knows." with that she waved goodbye and left the room to go change, half way out however she stopped.

"Right! I had a question or two to ask about the Headmistress thing. Do I need to find all the teachers myself? And if so what are you all willing to pay for them? And myself?"

"So they must be an arcane caster? Oh nevermind. Stalker watch over her. Our new Mistress of the Coin. I will work the transfer this month with Jhod and you Selena."

He nods to Kevros.

"Glad to see you. I expected you and Katrina were taking time to be alone... Well if there is nothing else I should be off. Dinner with Larina. Much to do this month. Cleo I think your passion will be a good addition. Thank you for voicing your concerns. Goodnight all."

Hey all. We are visiting the wife's parents. Doing a stay-cation with them. So my posting from now until next week will be limited. I will have my computer but likely only on at night. So I will try and get a post a day in still this next week.

Oops my bad, I did not see we were in Stalker's Study. I was trying to insert myself back in as fast as I could without getting way far behind

STALKER's STUDY

Perception: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (18) + 16 = 34

Kev nods to Quince's quick update, "Well, I am not going to be the cause for another round of strong emotions regarding Selena. So I take it, everyone is in agreement or somewhat agreement to what is the right thing to do with Selena's special gift or curse? And I will support that agreement and help out in any way I can."

Then Kev smirks a little at Quince's comment at the end but will not ask about it until later.

Kev replies to Selena, "Selena, is spell caster a general term because Quince, Katrina, Stalker, and I are divine conduits and not arcane casters."

Knowledge-Religion: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

What's up with all these good dice rolls during Role playing?! ... lol

Kev is actually entertained by the bonding process and nods in agreement, "Actually Selena and Stalker will probably make a fine bonding because of Selena's stealth abilities and natural powers of a lycanthrope will complement's Stalker skills and abilities. Both working together as a pack will benefit them both nicely. And I know they will take care of each other. And I will remain after the meeting to speak with you, My Brother."

With a warm non-flirtatious smile, Good to see you again Miss! So you are setting up shop in Elkheart and need some assistance. I am glad to help with that as well."

He chuckles at Cleo's embarrassed and pride comment and smiles, "I will definitely have to catch up later.

And forgive my manners, "I am Kevros Droverson, Warden of the Sword or Defense Minister for translation." Although he already knows Cleo's name from the letter, out of respect, he wait for Cleo to respond.

Kev smiles to Tristan's comments, "Although I like alone time better, I still have a job to do." Then chuckles.

"Talk to you later Warden Tristan"

Sorry if there are any rhythm and grammar problems, trying to get back into the swing of things ... :-)

Quince notices Cleo's glare and knows she feels vindicated in the argument. He looks at her with a smirk, "Argument aside. You do realize we ended up proposing nearly the same course of action. Once the spell was broken."

He moved to leave with Selena and heard Cleo's call about being a perv. He looked back playfully and added in jest, "You saved and rebuked me in the same moment at the tale end of job interview. Are you really going to mess with that balance now." His jest ended with a wink and a bow.

He listened to Selena's words and grew somewhat red-faced. "Hmm Well protecting an ally and friend is natural in such moments. As for the spell and the aurous effects. My view of such matters normally falls in the context of considering marriage as any follower of Erastil would say. I am not usually so open or crude in matters of wanting. I am glad that you were not offended by it." He smiles, "Yes I am a kitsune. You have smelled my like before? I must admit I did not even know what to call what I was until recently. For many years I just assumed I was human with some sort of gift until I learned different." He sighs wistfully. "You are a beautiful woman Selena. None would say otherwise no spell is needed to see that. But even before my position and its baggage of duty and expectation, I am bound by my faith. I did not show that today." He trails off not wanting to complicate things. He smiles weakly.

"Well I have an unpleasant speech to attend. I am glad that we were able to put your talents to use Warden of Coin. I will speak with Jhod and tell him to make arrangements to meet with you. Go easy on him. I think his working this position was ill suited for him."

"I thought its purpose was to protect arcane spellcasters, but that was before. Perhaps here it has changed." She says with uncertainty.

No worries Kev, just letting you know where we are. It happens. We are just glad you are back Kev. I didnt see much rhythm or grammar problems.

"The point isn't about what we came to, but you ignoring the truth. Tis a poor look." Cleonora told Quince but said nothing more on that.

"Psh, how else would you be kept on your toes." She teased while crossing her arms.

When Quince was gone she smiled to Kevros and introduced herself properly. "I am Cleonora Petalouda, and while I wanted to open a shop your friends asked me to take over as the Headmistress of the Academy that is being built. They also asked me to be their new magister but I turned that down because, well they've known me for less than a day... I believe it quiet foolish to off such to someone unknown and not trusted." She explained with a shrug. "After what happened here, and the conversation I had with both Quince and Tristan I am starting to believe this place is ran by fools... Please tell me you're different."

When Tristan said her passion would be a good edition she smirked and said "I think my sense will be a greater edition."

She looked back to Kevros and explained, "That bracelet is a intelligent magical item. It tried to entrance all the men, save you, in this room as well as Quince. Selena was also effected. I broke in and, I'll admit, rather violently reacted. Hit Selena with a spell, apologized for that, but I was able to get Quince and soon enough Stalker here out of the spell. Tristan was never under it, yet he didn't try to get Quince out of the spell or the room when things where going poorly. I think he may need a chat about his job and being a good friend. Seemed he just tried to cheer his mind-comtroled friend on... Any ways, after that we had a long talk about what to do with Selena's slavery. Then got into an argument because Quince seemed to squirm at the word. Finally it got settled upon Stalker here. Though I'm sure Selena is still trying to go after Quince..." Clenora chuckled a bit "She'll eat him alive."

"Anything else? Oh and does anyone know the answer to my question? Because I'd really like to know how much time I've got if I need to find teachers, and how much I have to pay them with so I can let them know."

Kevros nods, "Well met Cleonora. So you are going to think about being Headmistress of the Academy? Perhaps if you find yourself not wanting to be Headmistress any longer, you can still build a wizard's tower? I agree with your assessment of not being Magister quite yet and I definitely hope no one voted for you to be a Warden? And while it looks and sounds like you are off to a good start, I feel you still need to prove yourself."

Kev continues, "Wow, I missed a lot while tending to kingdom defense needs!" Kev laughs at Selena being too much for Quince, "Maybe that's what he needs and why he was almost enticed? And being King, or holds that status, he does need a body guard but does not need the bad prestige if it appears that Selena is a slave and Quince is a master?"

Regarding how much time you have, it sounds like we need another council meeting to discuss how much time you have and logistics but if there is any preparation you can do now, I would start. That way, it may save you some time from scrambling madly about?

Before Quince leaves, "What speech is this, your majesty?"

Before Quince leaves, "What speech is this, your majesty?"

Quince looks slightly amused and annoyed at the title. "Gregory big pompous rabble rouser. He is speaking again. Its in a little while. I hope to see you there. except Stalker I like not seeing him but knowing that he is always on watch."

"Oh thank you." Cleonora breathed out when Kev said that she needed to prove herself. "This one wanted to put me in Magister, Quince just wants me to be the Academy's headmistress and help Sota out." She explained, "And likely take over for Sota when he eventually leave because fae don't stay long..."

"Selena is a slave, Stalker's slave now. In the end still a slave. Probably not the... Best idea to have a consort who is a slave to someone else... That uha, that might backfire hard." Cleonora told Kev with a slight smirk. "But it would appear that way yeah, if they got together. Then Quince would have to tell everyone that Selena is Stalker's slave. Thus not only admitting a council member keeps a slave, but also calling into question any child Selena would have. It's just a mess honestly. This was stupid. Should have sent Selena back home the moment we found out there had to be a person in power to control her, and she didn't want to change that fact. It is nothing but a mess for this place as now you've brought slavery into the River Kingdoms... Anyone finds out you all are really in for it... Starting to think you guys really messed up here. But nothing can be done about this now." She pointed out as she thought threw things even further.

"I know how much time I have till the academy is built, what I don't know is if I have to get teachers for it! I can't go interviewing only to later say, sorry the council chose differently. That is just a horrible thing to do. Though maybe I could stop by and get some coin so that I can make spellbooks for the students. I'd run it at cost to the kingdom so we'd get more for the coin spent. But man my hand is going to hurt like hell for a bit... I don't know I'll find Sulvanii after and talk it over with him." Cleonora said.

Before Quince Departed

Kev becomes angry and replies to Quince, "I would love to punch that frakking ahole Gregory in the nose but that would NOT be very courtly of me, wouldn't it? And of course, probably bring ill repute to us with the citizens?" Kev says with a smile. Then continues, "I will be there and see if Katrina can be there too but I first need to speak with Stalker and Cleonora. Yes, it is great to have Warden Stalker in our Court." He looks over to Stalker and neck bows to him.

After Quince Departed

Kev nods, "You are welcome, I am sure the King was having a bad day and we are here to support him and the rest of Court which will include you as Headmistress or if you prove yourself to earn the position and title of Warden?

Yeah, it does not sound like Selena's slavery is that simple in comparison of traditional slavery? It sounds more complicated than that? I am not saying it is wrong or right, just an observation. Slaves don't go around asking for people to become masters. If Selena finds herself not wanting to be bonded and it is safe, we can research about ending it? Or if you are up to the challenge, you can start researching it in your idle time before and after the Academy is established? But do not end it without final Court Approval? As for Stalker, I trust him very much to do what is right and if we need to end it, we will make the best attempt to end it without loss of life or cataclysm as Selena was hinting to? It will not be the first time since we have arrived in the River Kingdoms."

Kev replies calmly, "Cleonora, can you start putting a portfolio together of who you would like to be an instructor or professor at the Academy and we can discuss at the very next former or impromptu Court? How about this, how much time do you think you need to form your staff and get things in order? If you are talking about budgets, then this is why we need to make a decision with everyone sitting at the table because I am not the Warden of the Coin and I like spending money for training current and future troops, and Defense Projects." Kev smiles, then ends with, "I will speak with Sulvanii to set up Court either tomorrow or the next best time, especially the Warden of Coin. The King will not be angry for setting this up since it needs to get done and to me, the Academy is an asset to the Kingdom's defense and prosperity."

Kev looks over at Stalker then back to Cleonora, "Not to be rude Cleonora, I need to speak with Warden Stalker privately. If I do not speak to you at the speech or the rest of the evening, have a very pleasant evening Cleonora!"

After Everyone had Departed

Kev speaks privately with Stalker and then departs to speak with Sulvanii.

Sulvanii's Location

"Hail Councilor Sulvanii, Warden of Seers, please set up a Court Date for either tomorrow or the next available date and invite all available Wardens. Advise them we need to discuss time line for the establishment of the Academy and the cost to establish staff and supplies for Cleonora Petalouda. She has a concern with timelines and budget and rightly so. Thank you and do you have anything for me before I go find Lady Katrina?"

"We'll see." Cleonora said with a shrug.

"There is a difference between what is commonly know as slavery and the slavery Selena has. That is true. But in some ways it is worse. Magical slavery is much harder to break than normal slavery, and often is for life." She explained. "Stalker can decide what he wants her to do and she can't say no. This is what cause the argument of semantics. As to slaves asking well, you must have never been poor enough to think about selling yourself into slavery for your family to eat. It happens... But that's for another time. Also it wouldn't matter if I found a way to break it, Selena doesn't want that. To do otherwise is an insult to her choice. Her choice has consequences just like all choices do. So she has to live with that as now do we all." Cleonora said, then she nodded to Kev.

"I'll work on a portfolio for teachers then and we'll go from there." Cleonora said. "Goodday Kevros. Thank you for the help, and I'll be waiting for an answer." with that Cleonora left Stalker's office.

Stalker speaks up after Cleo talks about making all the spellbooks herself, "Yes, speak with Sulvanii. He has a better grasp on the workings of our kingdom than most. I would say find as many teachers as you deem appropriate, if needed I can pull from my private funds to match any funds you are missing up to 100 gp a month. Also have your teachers help make the books and hire a few scholars too."

Cleonora seemed very surprised at Stalker's offer, but then nodded and simply said "Than you. Let us hope it doesn't come to that but it is good to know that we have the option."

With that she went to meet with Sulvanii and see what she had the work with. She'll try his office first

"Welcome Cleo Nora. But where are your escorts? I hope you are not here with ill intentions, it will not bode well for you.
" He says with little emotion.

Then at her likely request he says, "I believe you have 90 gold for this month and then 65 each month after for salaries and upkeep of the Academy. It would also be wise to come up with some names for it."

----

The fires that make him up flare a bit, his voice actually has a pleasant tone, "Kevros why do I have the pleasure of your company? Ah, I will have messengers sent out shortly, nothing is set but tomorrow should be fine. You sir have an extra 11 gold not being spent each month, so know that you have credit building for your department. Also Katrina has 34 gold extra at the moment, just let her know."

----

Flying paper airplanes make it to each of you later telling of a council meeting of the Wardens is to be tomorrow at noon, lunch will be provided, the main topics are Selena working with Jhod, Cleonora working with Sota, Cleonora taking the headmistress position, funds, reading of the budgets, trade with Krazok and the apostles of Bearik.

"No no, if I had ill intentions towards you, you wouldn't see me." Cleonora joked a bit at Sulvanii words. "I am simply here to ask questions so that I know what I have to work with for the Academy. I am to be the Headmistress, so I do need to know."

When Sulvanii explained she nodded. It seemed a bit low but she'll have to make it work. "It will be very tight. Opening and the few following months are the hardest time. Are we charging for entry or is it free?" She asked. It was also true that it would need a name... She'd have a month to think on it however.

"As Headmistress of the Academy we would leave it in your hands, though I would suggest that a fee would be best as that will be your secondary income. Since you have dormitories to provide room and board. Scholarships are always available. I can always allocate you more funds should you need them and at council we can consider forgiving the loan. As you will be looking for teachers I would suggest you talk with the Wardens to see if they know anyone that could help. I know Quince's tutor is in the kingdom and would be an excellent teacher. You should probably go to Restov or the other cities of Brevoy and see if you can poach some good candidates. I believe there are planned to be 12 classrooms. I would suggest leaving one open and as you probably intend to teach at least the first month try to get nine or ten prospects." He goes on talking about logistics.

Stalker's Study

Sulvanii's Office

Kev nods his head and smiles, "Thank you Sir for the budget status and I will relay the budget to the Highpriestess!"

If Sulvanii does not have anything else for Kevros, he goes to locate Katrina starting with her office.

Gregori had started his speech early, only a small crowd had gathered. He was talking upon a cart. This time it seemed that he approach was different, asking questions of the crowd. "What have your Wardens done for you? Yes they helped you build your homes but when was the last festival that you had? Ah see they come to make me silent King Quince and his merry band!"

A few of the people scoff but most just watch him and then turn to see what Quince will say.