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Kamari glides up to Onora Piscum, nods her head swan-like, and offers her hand.
"The festival is coming to an end, but I believe Stachys will reap many benefits from our visit. Thank you for your assistance and we look forward to working with you on many projects upon our return."
Kamari and Onora will battle well, but eventually be knocked off the dancing chess board. Once that happens, Kamari will take to offering a grand narration of the remaining combatants with particular appreciation and praise for Dame Crabbe's performance.
"With a one, two, three, Dame Crabbe has boxed another couple into the corner and off the floor! The bear and fox couple should be wary now. Dame Crabbe seems to have her eye on them as she promenades around them. Oh! A misstep there by the fox, and off the floor that pair from the forest go."
Happy to speak of his vision for Stachys, Anselm answers Lady Marthane's question.
"Well, our farmers have just begun another harvest. I am still learning about the range of our crops. I hear tell we had fine vintners in the past, before the canal bogged and flooded some of our fields. We'll be investing in repair and infrastructure, so that our people may thrive once again. How long will you be staying?"
Elen slides in to dance with Dame Crabbe.
”Splendid performance with Qadiran Khaleegi! That piece is quite demanding physically. Not everyone is as they appear -- one must never be too swift to judge.”
She starts performing the Mantis Trot, complete with splits-to-standing and dizzying pirouettes punctuated by the occasional snapping of the fan as she flips it open and shut.
M’Della makes it a point to attend to her cousin, the Count. ”The pyrotechnics were a delight, Cousin. Did I detect an alternative use of silver and copper with the manganese in your components? The Dragons work was remarkable!”
Kamari glides up to Onora Piscum, nods her head swan-like, and offers her hand.
"The festival is coming to an end, but I believe Stachys will reap many benefits from our visit. Thank you for your assistance and we look forward to working with you on many projects upon our return.”
”One can hope that the largess of the nobles trickles down to the people. I am always available for your questions my Lord.” she keeps it short, perhaps afraid to dare to think that things may change. Stachys has been a village without representation for so long, it has shrunk in size and stature so much as to be nearly invisible.
Will new lords bring it from the brink of extinction back to something of a thriving community? Time will tell… but Onora Piscum is all in.
Kamari and Onora will battle well, but eventually be knocked off the dancing chess board. Once that happens, Kamari will take to offering a grand narration of the remaining combatants with particular appreciation and praise for Dame Crabbe's performance.
"With a one, two, three, Dame Crabbe has boxed another couple into the corner and off the floor! The bear and fox couple should be wary now. Dame Crabbe seems to have her eye on them as she promenades around them. Oh! A misstep there by the fox, and off the floor that pair from the forest go."
Dame Crabbe laughs, as she and her spinning partner drift past Kamari and her play-by-play. She does indeed win the dance contest, as apparently she often does. The competitive spirit certainly lives in Parthena!
Happy to speak of his vision for Stachys, Anselm answers Lady Marthane's question.
"Well, our farmers have just begun another harvest. I am still learning about the range of our crops. I hear tell we had fine vintners in the past, before the canal bogged and flooded some of our fields. We'll be investing in repair and infrastructure, so that our people may thrive once again. How long will you be staying?"
”Oh, I’m just here for the Jubilee. I return to Cassomir tomorrow. I enjoy a little country visit, but I do prefer the cities, don’t you?” You chat idly with the Lady a little while longer, before she breaks off to head to her rooms for the night. She has an early departure and wants to be ready for it.
Elen slides in to dance with Dame Crabbe.
”Splendid performance with Qadiran Khaleegi! That piece is quite demanding physically. Not everyone is as they appear -- one must never be too swift to judge.”
She starts performing the Mantis Trot, complete with splits-to-standing and dizzying pirouettes punctuated by the occasional snapping of the fan as she flips it open and shut.
Elen chats with Dame Crabbe a bit as they dance the warriors dance. Dame Crabbe works hard to keep up with Elen. She’s an accomplished dancer, but Elen puts on the moves. The Dame mostly comiserates with Elen, wishing her Sepsinia could be as dashing on the dance floor, ”Perhaps you can teach her a little when you visit!” she suggests.
M’Della makes it a point to attend to her cousin, the Count. ”The pyrotechnics were a delight, Cousin. Did I detect an alternative use of silver and copper with the manganese in your components? The Dragons work was remarkable!”
”Oh, it’s fine to be appreciated, especially by one who can see through the veil and to the subtleties of the magic beyond!” exclaims the Count as his favorite chatting partner once again joins him. He goes on, in some laborious detail, to describe how he fashioned the various explosions and visual effects.He certainly has an ego, and it is clear to Mama D - it’s backed up by some measure of skill.
The dancing has passed, the music is mellowing, the entertainment a pleasant memory - the night is over - and in fact the entire Jubilee. Some, who live in Lotheedar, stumble home to their beds, while most spend one more night at the Palace of Birdsong.
Breakfast the next day (Pharast 22, an Oathday) is provided by the ever bright-eyed Purple Finch, and consists of soft boiled eggs, toast, and delicate local white wine as well as coffee of course. She helps you pack your things, and a small army of servants carries them to your waiting coach - not far from the cottage you’ve been staying in.
The Count himself stops by as he makes his rounds, saying good bye to the more prominent guests. The remaining nobles say their good byes as well, inviting you to visit their estates in the future. Of course Dame Crabbe has already secured tea with the party, just as soon as you’ve fixed up your house - in one week. She won’t take no for an answer, especially as, I think, Anselm already accepted.
And with that, you climb back into your expansive and expensive carriage, Myrna cracks the whip lightly - just so the horses see it - and you’re off!
The ride home is a six hour journey, but you should reach home by mid-afternoon if you make a direct trip of it.
Anselm expresses warm gratitude to the Purple Finch in the morning. "I thank you for your excellent care these last few days. Can we expect you at Stachys soon? You would be most welcome. I don't want to be too presumptuous, but suspect my companions would be happy to join me in sponsoring your artistic pursuits."
He asks Myrna and his fellow Tribunes to make good on his promise, transporting Moffis back to his home. "Perhaps we ought to pack an extra large basket of provisions. Perhaps enough for a few days? It would be lovely to leave some treats with his family."
Kort tries to enjoy the rest of the dancing, the music, and the entertainment. He will stay until he is somewhat tired, then return to his rooms to rest, but not before checking on Mama D.
In the morning, he will be anxious to return to his new home, and thinking about what project to tackle first.
"What's that, Anselm?" Kort asks over his first cup of coffee. "What should we tackle first upon our return? As I recall, we're supposed to pick rutabagas soon, yes? Or was it rhubarb?" Kort sips is coffee and ponders more.
"And what about the canals? And that structure, we need to find someone in charge of that no less." Kort's mind has already left the manor and is back to planning what to do next.
"So many things to do! But as I recall, the harvest should be our first priority. Ah, perhaps we should offer Mayor Piscum a ride back. If we have room, of course. Hm. And I wonder if our treasure trove would be able to reach..."
Anselm expresses warm gratitude to the Purple Finch in the morning. "I thank you for your excellent care these last few days. Can we expect you at Stachys soon? You would be most welcome. I don't want to be too presumptuous, but suspect my companions would be happy to join me in sponsoring your artistic pursuits.”
She curtseys deeply, ”It’s been a pleasure working for you these last days. My Lord the Count usually keeps me pretty busy, so I doubt I’ll be by Stachys anytime soon, but I very much appreciate the offer. I think, ah, I should allow the Count to continue my, ah, artistic pursuits.”
She doesn’t say it, but you suspect that doing too much for her, aside from a tip for the two days of work, would irritate the Count. Not saying you shouldn’t do it, just saying there might be consequences. And again, there might not. The Count is somewhat fickle when it comes to those in his employ.
He asks Myrna and his fellow Tribunes to make good on his promise, transporting Moffis back to his home. "Perhaps we ought to pack an extra large basket of provisions. Perhaps enough for a few days? It would be lovely to leave some treats with his family."
The Purple Finch arranges for a large basket of goods, in your name, from the kitchen. Moffis, normally, would ride up with the coach driver, but as Virgil stays there, and I doubt you’d let Moffis ride with the luggage on top (which he offers to do), he rides the short journey into town with you inside the carriage (which hold six, if a little tightly).
You take Moffis back to Lotheedar, and just outside to a small dairy-farm. He owns just a few cows, and a handful of goats, and is most heartily welcomed home by his wife and three lanky children. They can’t believe it when your carriage rolls up to his home, and he gets out! Not only is he home sooner than expected, and burdened with gifts, but he got to ride with the nobles!
You press on to Stachys, taking the highways (I presume) to shorten the trip and make it a little more bearable. You look forward to the days when the canals are fully open and functional so as to avoid the bone-crunching jostle of overland trips on these generally poor roads.
You reach Stachys, and the Betony Estate, around 3pm, accounting for some delays for Moffis.
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Certainly you might want to do some long range planning, though you have a few commitments right away. You promised to help with the reaping, which starts tomorrow county wide, and especially in Stachys. Helping with the harvest will take three days of hard labor for those who can do such work - but there are still jobs for everyone (the full harvest will take longer, but there’s a peak period that you’re helping with).
After that, you’ll want to get your house in order. That will take a week - time spent on hiring help (more on that later), shoring up the northwest corner a bit, some basic gardening to start in on the years of accumulated cruft, supply runs, etc. You’ll all be actively helping during this time as well, so you can’t start other projects or visit other nobles.
After that, you’ve promised to go and visit Dame Crabbe for tea. As is routine, due to the travel required, you’ll be expected to stay the night, and then leave the next morning. So relatively quick visits.
Once your house is in order, you can begin spending your infrastructure money (you’ve got 7,500gp currently). Some options are listed in the county notes (link) on the fifth and sixth pages. Most improvements take a week or so to accomplish, but you’re not actually involved unless you’re casting spells and the like to try and reduce the cost or speed it up.
You can, naturally, do more than one thing at a time (after the Betony Estate Repair is complete), though a few things are predicated on something else being done, and there are advantages to doing some things before others.
While all this is going on, you’ll want to visit your neighbors (pushing everyone to helpful if you wish, and to keep anyone from backsliding) and investigate the county so you’re more familiar with it. But we’ll get to all that in due time.
For now, let me know if you plan to bring anything special to bear while helping with the harvest over the next few days.
Kort again thanks Moffis for his service and help, encouraging the man to stay out of trouble, and also to call upon Kort if he needs anything.
* * *Afternoon:* * *
Kort will return and explore his home again. He has spent very little time there (just two overnights) and feels like it is new to him again. And after exploring, he will re-provision himself to bed in the library until he can arrange to have his proper quarters prepared, yet another thing for the list.
He will find time to visit Mama D.
”M’Della, are there any magical preparations that I can help with for tomorrow’s reaping? I’m not sure what I’ll be able to do to help. I had thought my days of dragging and hauling were over when I left the army, but apparently not.” Kort will offer his assistance for any scrollery or the like.
* * *Next morning:* * *
Kort will be up early to prepare for the reaping, uncertain how long he will last, but willing to do what he can.
”Kamari, how will you be thinking to assist today?” Kort asks over coffee.
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Anselm happily chats with Moffis during the carriage ride, asking him about agricultural practices. "I remember visiting my uncle’s vineyards as a lad. I greatly enjoyed tromping on the grapes. He was perhaps a bit too permissive about letting a young lad taste the vintages. They also made fantastic cheese there. Uncle used to say, ‘Smelly cheese and funkful wine make a meal sublime."
Upon return to Betony, he finds a book in the library that discusses the terroir of the region. After a short rest, he strolls down into the town. ”"Excuse me, Mister, um...? Ah yes. Very well met. Mayor Piscum speaks well of you. I wonder: Could you direct me to someone who’s leading the harvest? I am a novice, but would be pleased to help on the morrow.”"
"We're home," Kamari says to no one in particular as they roll up to Betony estate.
How long will this be home? How long will it take for the kingdom to settle? I doubt Papa would be happy here and I'm not sure I would either.
"Please excuse me everyone, but I'm looking forward to a quiet night and some rest before tomorrow." She retreats to her bedroom and enjoys a night without commitments.
--
In the morning, Kamari dresses for a day in the fields, which she suspects can't be dirtier than a day helping her father with the canals.
"Major, 'assist' is the key word. I will assist in whatever way I am directed. This work will be new to me, but it seems that a fresh young set of hands is always appreciated no matter the task."
Unsure of any meal schedule for the day, Kamari eats a large breakfast of eggs and bread and coffee and anything else that might be placed out.
Kort again thanks Moffis for his service and help, encouraging the man to stay out of trouble, and also to call upon Kort if he needs anything.
* * *Afternoon:*
He will find time to visit Mama D.
”M’Della, are there any magical preparations that I can help with for tomorrow’s reaping? I’m not sure what I’ll be able to do to help. I had thought my days of dragging and hauling were over when I left the army, but apparently not.” Kort will offer his assistance for any scrollery or the like.
* * *Next morning:* * *
M’Della smiles, ” Oh goodness, yes! I have serial scrolls I want to prepare for our return home. I was thinking this one, that increases someone’s strength to carry things, and this one here,” she says, flipping through pages, “this brings forth a disk that floats, allowing us to ferry items easily. Do you know these?” she offers her spell book to The Very Good Major her spell book, should there be anything he might want to peruse.
Anselm approaches a random townsperson, who suggests, if he wants to help with the harvest, he speak to the Mayor who, as Mayor, is coordinating the harvest of course. The Mayor, naturally, slots each of you in - and is happy and grateful for the extra help.
The harvest is hard work! From sunup to sundown the entire town goes from one farm to another brining in the rye. There are lots of jobs to do though, everything from actually cutting the rye, to carting it off to be milled in Pensaris, paperwork to keep track of how much rye is coming off each farm, etc., etc. Considering the loads coming off the farms, it’s not a great year. Better than some perhaps, but still thin.
Problems include a lack of good farmland (fixed when you get the pumps operating again), a lack of central storage (bring in more rye, and this will sort itself out), and a lack of a mill (fixed by repairing the old one). But the town does what it can to scratch out a living with what they have. It’s no wonder population is down.
Still, you all pitch in and help bring in the spring harvest. Many in the village and surround are surprised you’re there, getting your hands dirty and bodies sweaty. For helping with the harvest, you ingratiate yourselves with the locals further and gain two loyalty points!
On the afternoon of the third day, a string of guarded wagons rolls into town. At the helm is a squirrelly little man, with a bald head covered by a few strands of greasy hair combed over. He makes his way over to you, the new nobles of Stachys, and introduces himself as Giado Eta, ”I’m one of Count Lotheed’s licensed tax collectors. It looks like you’ve done well this year! I heard there were new nobles pouring resources into the village, but I had no idea you were so… energetic.”
He laughs cruelly at your filthy clothes, covered in work-dirt and work-sweat. He demands half of the harvest in taxes - some 2,500gp - for your horribly late ”Back taxes.” and the current cycle. This presents a problem, as losing that much will certainly cause starvation, further poverty, and who knows what else - it could be the end of Stachys as a community.
You could also cover the village’s taxes from your own coffers (from the infrastructure fund), though it’s a lot of money. Giado has the paperwork to back up his claim as tax collector of course - and it all looks in order.
To be a licensed tax collector, you buy the privilege from County Lotheed. You must pay an annual fee to obtain the license - which is an amount of tax ‘owed’ by the region you’re ‘buying’, like Stachys. The tax collector then goes to that region and collects what they can from the populous. Whatever they collect is theirs.
In theory, a tax collector should only collect as much as the license, plus a little extra for guards, other expenses, and profit. In practice though, the tax collectors can claim anything they want - backed by the Count. The Count is also your only ‘legal’ recourse to complain about taxes being too high. You doubt that meeting would go well...
- - -
Mayor Piscum swears under her breath, ”The little rat bleeds us dry every year…” She looks to you, the new nobles, to resolve the situation.
Know (Local)
"I don't mind paying taxes. They pay for the army. And that has always been a good thing in my mind," Kort replies stiffly as he moves to address Giado.
"Of course, just let me see the relevant paperwork, along with the backhistory and if my reading matches yours, we'll see how best to pay," Kort takes his leave of the grueling rye harvesting to repair to a shady spot to review the finances.
He takes his time, occasionally peppering Giado with questions about finer points of accounting, and to be sure that depreciation of the canals and waterways is taken into account.
Intelligence check -
"Mister Eta. You are most welcome in Stachys. I trust you've had no troubles on the road? I've heard tell of bandits in the region. As Lord Kort suggested, let us review the paperwork together. Can we offer you tea at Betony?"
He gives Mayor Piscum a look that conveys we'll deal with this snake.
Kamari bites her tongue for now and lets others deal with the tax collector. When there is time to speak in private with others in the party she will state her position.
"I'm willing to cover some of the taxes, but I think we also need to establish some bit of superiority with this well-dressed thief."
Anselm nods his head at Kamari's words. "If we are successful, his days as tax collector are numbered. Before then, it would be a shame if he encountered bandits en route to his next destination. I don't like the idea of giving one more ounce of these good folks' funds to this corrupt regime. Though I hope we can avoid outright violence. Perhaps, instead, we can tempt him into a more honest arrangement."
”Perhaps you can teach [Sepsenia to dance] a little when you visit!” she suggests.
”I would be happy to, after all you yourself are quite a talented dancer and she is your daughter.” Elen always looks forward to bright pupils.
~~~
"What should we tackle first upon our return? As I recall, we're supposed to pick rutabagas soon, yes? Or was it rhubarb?"
”’Rhubarb”?!” Elen exclaims in honest astonishment. ”It was rye!” That’s like confusing rosemarys with fuschias! She side eyes Major Kort. Is he serious?
”Afterwards, we should also consider tidying up Betony’s appearance. I can start on the outside, just cleaning up the lot. We can paint the outside too, and start renovating/decorating the inside. Any ideas on colors, themes? Maybe we should consult the fey, but run it past Blunk, Nod and Wink.”
"I remember visiting my uncle’s vineyards as a lad. I greatly enjoyed tromping on the grapes. He was perhaps a bit too permissive about letting a young lad taste the vintages. They also made fantastic cheese there. Uncle used to say, ‘Smelly cheese and funkful wine make a meal sublime.’"
Elen looks at Anselm, weighing his words -- and the words fo his Uncle carefully, yet expressionlessly. After a very pregnant pause she says finally, ”My expertise is more in flora than fauna. I would very much like to help with the vineyards… although less funk, more flavor -- at least as far as the wine goes. All cheese is funky by some holy fiat, and I’m sure your uncle’s is among the funkiest.”
Elen is relieved to finally be able to deliver Moffis home to his lanky family.
She prepares the next morning for the harvest, wearing a cotton tunic under a set of heavily woven yet pliable pair of blue cotton overalls.
~~
"Back taxes."
Elen whips out her notepad and scribbles on it. She rips the paper from the notepad, folds it and seals it with her signet ring and hands it to Eta.
"You have overpaid for your license," she says simply and continues on her way.
For His Grace Count Bartleby Lotheed
"Dear Count Lotheed,
.....You owe us some explanation as to how these 'taxes' are set. We will assess the Village of Stachys, and once we determine what a fair tax would be -- we will pay.
.
.....We do expect to see some benefit for the town of Stachys for the payment of these taxes, as well as the other denizens of the Country of Meratt who pay Your Respectable Grace taxes.
-e, on behalf of the County of Meratt
for
for
for
"I don't mind paying taxes. They pay for the army. And that has always been a good thing in my mind," Kort replies stiffly as he moves to address Giado.
"Of course, just let me see the relevant paperwork, along with the backhistory and if my reading matches yours, we'll see how best to pay," Kort takes his leave of the grueling rye harvesting to repair to a shady spot to review the finances.
Giado laughs, though it doesn’t quite reach his eyes, ”Oh,” he shows you his license, duly signed by Count Lotheed giving him the authority he claims, ”This is the only paperwork I require, and this,” he points to his head, ”is the only accounting.” He adds menacingly.
"Mister Eta. You are most welcome in Stachys. I trust you've had no troubles on the road? I've heard tell of bandits in the region. As Lord Kort suggested, let us review the paperwork together. Can we offer you tea at Betony?"
”No, no tea. I can’t imagine but it would stink, like this whole village.” He gobs onto the ground as if too disgusted to even be here.
"You have overpaid for your license," she says simply and continues on her way.
He smiles, revealing a blackened tooth, rotting away in his head, ”I’m always happy to help the local nobility communicate.” he takes the letter presumably to pass it along to the Count.
He does not accept it as payment however.
”Now. You owe what you owe. Refusing to pay the taxes you owe can get you stripped of your rank, as you well know, my Lords.” he says with a sneer in his voice, ”I am, of course, obliged to tell you you may always make a formal request of the Count, if you feel your taxes are too high. He is, naturally, within his rights to grant your request to lower them.”
”Until that time,” he gestures to the guards who begin loading his wagons, ”I suggest you stay out of my way, unless you wish to face the Count’s wrath!”
Once the wagons are loaded, it seems clear he means to travel east, probably to the Oppara Highway, then North to Lotheedar where he’ll sell his haul for the highest price. Let me know if you do anything to stop him. Short of violence, it doesn’t seem like he’ll stop and his guards are well placed with heavy crossbows, longswords, breastplates, and shields - though not all at once of course and there are only four of them.
Anselm speaks with velvet kindness. "Careful, Eta. Spitting upon a lord's hold is no different than spitting on his person. I have seen perfectly legal duels fought over less. I doubt the Count would be so very concerned, should your tenure end in a battle of honor. But I would consider it a pity."
"This is the only paperwork I require, and this.”
Kort can only nod stiffly at Eta's gloat.
"Yes, of course," Kort agrees dryly. "Why would you need paperwork?" As an army bureaucrat, he's somewhat offended by the looseness of the tax law around here.
Know (Local)
Elen watches as the man spits upon Stachys, and starts unloading the wagon as soon as it starts being loaded.
”Oh? So we’ll have to answer to the Count? Did you hear that, Lady Lotheed M’della? We'll 'have to answer' to your cousin. You will too -- Giado Eta, if you don't stop loading that wagon. See, you don’t understand. You have paid too much for your license. It’s either that, or you can’t do math at all, and THAT particular bit of accounting," Elen declares, pointing to Eta's head, "is easily adjusted. We can start with that here and now,” she says looking him in the eye, ” just below the chin. Remember, you can be easily replaced.”
”The people of this town need this grain, and you would do well to leave us with it until after the Count has read that letter.”
for
for
for
Kamari is a bit surprised by Elen's diplomatic tactics, but finds she rather likes them. However, she's not sure if she's ready for a fight yet. Well, she's always ready for a fight, but she wants to see how this plays out a bit more.
Anselm winces a little at Elen's blunt antagonism. Better to draw them out than trigger conflict ourselves. But I do appreciate her vehemence. He begins in his head to formulate a call to Shelyn for help, while praying that he might pair well with her servants.
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”Oh? So we’ll have to answer to the Count? Did you hear that, Lady Lotheed M’della? We'll 'have to answer' to your cousin. You will too -- Giado Eta, if you don't stop loading that wagon. See, you don’t understand. You have paid too much for your license. It’s either that, or you can’t do math at all, and THAT particular bit of accounting," Elen declares, pointing to Eta's head, "is easily adjusted. We can start with that here and now,” she says looking him in the eye, ” just below the chin. Remember, you can be easily replaced.”
Mama D looks up from her work to see her companions discussing vulgarities with a newcomer. She dusts her hands upon her skirt, then casts a cantrip to clean her face and clothing as she approaches. rats and roaches; it seems no harvest is completely free of them Bu the time she has drawn near enough to be heard, she fairly glows with health and cleanliness, and dare we say, a bit of nobility.
“Licensed Taxman, is it? Of course we shall pay the taxes. But not in grain. Hmmm, I am certain all is likely in order, though of course we do like to have things written down, a receipt, if you will. Now, how much is it you are thinking? Oh, no need to make a formal complaint. I am certain my cousin and I can discuss it at our next visit to Bird Song." Mama D’s hands trail faint lines of sparkle and glitter, as if her body cannot but announce the Lotheed bloodline with her movements.
“Now, don’t you worry about your letters and sums. We can of course write it for you once we know the amount and you will simply have to scribe your ‘X’ so to speak”. She positively beams, her words the very embodiment of Noblesse Oblige.
"Now, speak the amount and we will see to gathering it for you."
M'Della sends a glance to her friends, hoping for cooler heads. A spoonful of sugar, my friends. May he choke on it.
Anselm speaks with velvet kindness. "Careful, Eta. Spitting upon a lord's hold is no different than spitting on his person. I have seen perfectly legal duels fought over less. I doubt the Count would be so very concerned, should your tenure end in a battle of honor. But I would consider it a pity."
The man laughs in his own spiteful way, ”You’re in the country now city-boy. Why… spitting is as natural as breathing out here. I doubt the Count would consider spitting on one’s boots a duel worthy offense, let alone the ground beneath them. Besides,” he continues snidely, ”I ain’t no noble. So you’d be taking advantage of your station by challenging me to a duel. Little old innocent peasant me!”
The cost is up to the Count. In theory it should be based on population and industry. Knowing a bit about the Count however, you doubt he’s a stickler for process, and may even simply sell them to the highest bidder. It’s an annually renewed license, probably renewed now - in the spring. Quite so.
Elen watches as the man spits upon Stachys, and starts unloading the wagon as soon as it starts being loaded.
”Oh? So we’ll have to answer to the Count? Did you hear that, Lady Lotheed M’della? We'll 'have to answer' to your cousin. You will too -- Giado Eta, if you don't stop loading that wagon. See, you don’t understand. You have paid too much for your license. It’s either that, or you can’t do math at all, and THAT particular bit of accounting," Elen declares, pointing to Eta's head, "is easily adjusted. We can start with that here and now,” she says looking him in the eye, ” just below the chin. Remember, you can be easily replaced.”
”The people of this town need this grain, and you would do well to leave us with it until after the Count has read that letter.”
”No, no,” Giado sputters, ”You… See here!” he snaps his fingers and summons the guards, who set down their loads, and draw their weapons. Two join Giado with longswords and shields, trying to menace Elen, while the other two draw heavy crossbows.
”I have the right to take what I want, and your taxes are owed. You may take it up with the Count, but I will not be denied. Attack me now, and you’re attacking the Count.” He clicks his fingers again and a small fireball is summoned in his hand, burning away instantly. ”…and I am a powerful sorcerer to boot!”
- - -
- - -
“Licensed Taxman, is it? Of course we shall pay the taxes. But not in grain. Hmmm, I am certain all is likely in order, though of course we do like to have things written down, a receipt, if you will. Now, how much is it you are thinking? Oh, no need to make a formal complaint. I am certain my cousin and I can discuss it at our next visit to Bird Song." Mama D’s hands trail faint lines of sparkle and glitter, as if her body cannot but announce the Lotheed bloodline with her movements.
“Now, don’t you worry about your letters and sums. We can of course write it for you once we know the amount and you will simply have to scribe your ‘X’ so to speak”. She positively beams, her words the very embodiment of Noblesse Oblige.
"Now, speak the amount and we will see to gathering it for you."
”Now that’s better,” he says grinning, though his guards do not lower their weapons. ”Cash works, and as you’re being so nice, I’ll take a little off the top. Just 2,300gp as it’ll save me a trip to Lotheedar.” He makes no move to provide a receipt though, until the payment has been made in full.
“Those are indeed powerful magics, Eta. I imagine you’ve scared many a mouse with them.” Anselm considers for a moment. “Here is my proposal to you. We shall pay you the full sum. In exchange, you will personally invest five hundred gold in Stachys’ rebuilding efforts. The benefits of which will accrue to you in future seasons. Also, you will apologize to the good folk of this town for disparaging them. Do this, and we shall be great friends.”
Kort keeps quiet, having his own plans for revenge in mind. He lets others speak and act, and of course he will support the party, especially Anselm.
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Kamari watches events unfold, a bit disappointed they seem to be going away from bloodshed, but her recollection is that they were supposed to avoid open confrontation with the count for now. Besides, if the poor man was besieged by ruffians in the night, it would a lot easier for them to carry away gold. It would also be understandable how the idiot made himself a target moving around with that much gold.
"Mr. Eta, surely you see the wisdom in Lord Anselm's proposal. How do you think the rich stay rich? It is not by chopping down the tree and leaving nothing for to produce next year's harvest. No, they harvest the fruit and assist the tree in it's growth that it might produce more in the following year."
"Please, consider my fellow Lord's proposal carefully."
Elen looks at the tiny fireball in the thief’s hand in alarm at first, then she looks at him skeptically when it fizzles out.
They do that?!... She sighs impatiently and stands her ground.
“Now, don’t you worry about your letters and sums. We can of course write it for you once we know the amount and you will simply have to scribe your ‘X’ so to speak”
OOoh, ooooh! What’s she doing?! He can’t read? Leaving off a couple of zeroes?!
“Here is my proposal to you. We shall pay you the full sum --”
”As written.” Elen interjects.
”Also, you will apologize to the good folk of this town for disparaging them. Do this, and we shall be great friends."No, they harvest the fruit and assist the tree in it's growth that it might produce more in the following year. Please, consider my fellow Lord's proposal carefully."
Elen takes a step back and nods in affirmation.
for
for
for
”Yes, of course. We can give you the full amount. Most in gold, as you say, but since you are such an esteemed sorcerer, perhaps I could be persuaded to do a bit in scrolls. Being the Count’s man, you must know how WE Lotheeds love our magic. I will personally make up the rest with scrolls of some of the Family Favorites. “
Madella Lotheed continues to talk as nobility and magic fairly seeps from her very pores. Her pen moves just as quickly as she writes up the receipt.
”Now, this much in gold here, and this is in scrolls comes to, oh yes, 2300, per your assessment! Now, just make your mark, *here* and oh, here as well, for the scrolls, you see. And another on this final line here, swearing to be the Count’s faithfully licensed Taxman. It is all mere formality, I am sure, but Needs Must, and all..”
Anselm lays on another layer of buttery smoothness.
"Really, Mr. Eta, I would like to think we can be partners and advisors for the long term prosperity of you and your employees here. Stachys is about to see a real turnaround. It would be a shame for you to miss out on the opportunity. Why, did you know that our vineyards were once featured at the Porthmos Club? The terroir here is simply perfect. How would you like to see your name on a fine bottle of Meratt merlot?"
“Those are indeed powerful magics, Eta. I imagine you’ve scared many a mouse with them.” Anselm considers for a moment. “Here is my proposal to you. We shall pay you the full sum. In exchange, you will personally invest five hundred gold in Stachys’ rebuilding efforts. The benefits of which will accrue to you in future seasons. Also, you will apologize to the good folk of this town for disparaging them. Do this, and we shall be great friends.”
”Hah! Not even. I ain’t all rich and posh like you folk. You pay me and what I do with it is my business. I don’t tell you how to rule over this dung-heap, now do I. Don't tell me what to do with my money.” He awaits payment.
"Mr. Eta, surely you see the wisdom in Lord Anselm's proposal. How do you think the rich stay rich? It is not by chopping down the tree and leaving nothing for to produce next year's harvest. No, they harvest the fruit and assist the tree in its growth that it might produce more in the following year."
"Please, consider my fellow Lord's proposal carefully."
He all but spits another gob onto the ground, but he hesitates - as close as he seems to come to compromise. ”I considered it, and already reduced my price. You want to invest, you can invest.”
“Here is my proposal to you. We shall pay you the full sum --””As written.” Elen interjects.
”Also, you will apologize to the good folk of this town for disparaging them. Do this, and we shall be great friends.Elen takes a step back and nods in affirmation.
”I have no need to be friends with the likes of you lot." he gestures to the group, and to Stachys at large, "Just pay your bill, and we can all move along to our own homes and be done with this unpleasantness.”
”Yes, of course. We can give you the full amount. Most in gold, as you say, but since you are such an esteemed sorcerer, perhaps I could be persuaded to do a bit in scrolls. Being the Count’s man, you must know how WE Lotheeds love our magic. I will personally make up the rest with scrolls of some of the Family Favorites.“
Madella Lotheed continues to talk as nobility and magic fairly seeps from her very pores. Her pen moves just as quickly as she writes up the receipt.
”Now, this much in gold here, and this is in scrolls comes to, oh yes, 2300, per your assessment! Now, just make your mark, *here* and oh, here as well, for the scrolls, you see. And another on this final line here, swearing to be the Count’s faithfully licensed Taxman. It is all mere formality, I am sure, but Needs Must, and all..”
Giado Eta frowns, ”Scrolls?” He shrugs, not wanting to drag this out any further, and close enough to his goal, ”Fine.” He says abruptly. He reads, slowly perhaps, the document Lady Lotheed put together. If it is, what she says it is, he signs it.
”Now where’s my taxes?” he says rudely.
"Really, Mr. Eta, I would like to think we can be partners and advisors for the long term prosperity of you and your employees here. Stachys is about to see a real turnaround. It would be a shame for you to miss out on the opportunity. Why, did you know that our vineyards were once featured at the Porthmos Club? The terroir here is simply perfect. How would you like to see your name on a fine bottle of Meratt merlot?"
”This ain’t no opportunity for you. I am not some rube to be taken in by a bunch of carpet baggers. Pay what you owe. Why I’ve never heard such pleading.” he says, though you suspect he hears a lot of pleading as the tax man.
”Pay up.”
"An unfortunate loss for you, Eta. Since every person in this village is your better, we shall overlook your base, vulgar insults. Know that the lord of this county shall not renew your license in the future. That is a certainty. You would do well to put any of your profits into savings."
Anselm nods to the ruffian and gives Kamari and Elen a veiled, knowing look.
We aren't done with him. But I wouldn't want to trouble the Major or M'Della with what comes next.
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”Ah, that is a shame, but I understand. Not everyone is cut out for the adventure of the Stalk Market, Anselm. Here you go, the 1700 in gold pressed Latinum, you Ferengi Scum!, and the rest is scrolls. Here are... Now these, these are excellent! And look at this ink here! It really is lovely and I do believe it adds that certain something to the casting!” Madella continues her chatter, showing the man each scroll individually. Finally, she hands over the stack of twenty or so scrolls of various low level spells.
Finally, she looks back and forth between her companions and the Taxman, ”It is a shame that we don’t have our home set suitable for company as yet, or we spellcasters could spend a quality afternoon going through these again. But...” she allows her smile to brighten as a future ray of sunshine occurs to her, ”I am certain we will see each other again, and who knows. Perhaps I can show you some of my other scrolls.”
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”I am certain we will see each other again, and who knows. Perhaps I can show you some of my other scrolls.”
Kort crosses his arms, mostly to show displeasure, but also to indicate his support for Mama D's attempts.
"Well, we've tried to be diplomatic. And then we will resort to other measures," Kort replies stiffly. "You should learn how to do your job better, then you might not need such a force behind you."
Kort has little else to say at this time.
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Elen catches Anselm's eye as he speaks.
"You would do well to put any of your profits into savings."
She almost shrugs.
Or dental hygiene.
She turns to Eta. ”Well?! There you go! You’ve been paid the taxes! It’s all in the accounting -- the gold and even more valuable scrolls, as I’m sure a powerful knowledgable peasant sorcerer such as yourself would know.” Elen states, waving at the highway robber as if she hoped he’d just evaporate. ”I guess you’ll have to go back to Lotheedar after all. Don't forget to give His Grace the Count Lotheed that letter," she reminds Eta none too gently, emphasizing the Count's title as she speaks.
She turns to go on her merry way once again and cautions, "Take your underpaid guards and watch your back, though -- lest there be someone else lurking about wanting to take a ‘little something off the top' for their own…”
Your top...
Blind sight.
for
for
for
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Kamari simply smiles and stares at Eta.
He ignores Anselm, in as much as one can ignore Anselm, and concentrates on the wealth being given over by Mama D.
”Ah, that is a shame, but I understand. Not everyone is cut out for the adventure of the Stalk Market, Anselm. Here you go, the 1700 in gold
pressed Latinum, you Ferengi Scum!, and the rest is scrolls. Here are... Now these, these are excellent! And look at this ink here! It really is lovely and I do believe it adds that certain something to the casting!” Madella continues her chatter, showing the man each scroll individually. Finally, she hands over the stack of twenty or so scrolls of various low level spells.Finally, she looks back and forth between her companions and the Taxman, ”It is a shame that we don’t have our home set suitable for company as yet, or we spellcasters could spend a quality afternoon going through these again. But...” she allows her smile to brighten as a future ray of sunshine occurs to her, ”I am certain we will see each other again, and who knows. Perhaps I can show you some of my other scrolls.”
”Sure, sure.” he says rushingly as he takes the scrolls and coin. He counts it all carefully, and just as carefully goes through the scrolls. He actually seems to know a bit about their value and carefully notes which is which.
"Well, we've tried to be diplomatic. And then we will resort to other measures," Kort replies stiffly. "You should learn how to do your job better, then you might not need such a force behind you."
”Oh, I’m no diplomat. I’m a tax collector.” He gestures to his guards, still ready with bared weapons, ”These guys go with tax collectors like… like… fancy clothes go with a diplomat. Yeah, that’s it.” He seems stupidly proud of his analogy.
She turns to Eta. ”Well?! There you go! You’ve been paid the taxes! It’s all in the accounting -- the gold and even more valuable scrolls, as I’m sure a powerful knowledgable peasant sorcerer such as yourself would know.” Elen states, waving at the highway robber as if she hoped he’d just evaporate. ”I guess you’ll have to go back to Lotheedar after all. Don't forget to give His Grace the Count Lotheed that letter," she reminds Eta none too gently, emphasizing the Count's title as she speaks.
He pats the pocket casually where the letter resides, ”So I shall.”
She turns to go on her merry way once again and cautions, "Take your underpaid guards and watch your back, though -- lest there be someone else lurking about wanting to take a ‘little something off the top' for their own…”
”Oh, no one is foolish enough to go against the Count in this county. His hatchet man, Sir Gul Gusairne is just too good at his job. It is said he can smell a lie. And should I disappear, I’m sure he’ll come around looking for me.” he says with venom in his voice.
Kamari simply smiles and stares at Eta.
He swallows uneasily and then whistles to get his guards attention (though they were already watching him) and directs them to pack up. They sheath their weapons, climb onto the wagons, and the whole group begins to turn around - back toward Pensaris and the Oppara highway.
They get underway.
“Well, that was unpleasant. Lady Lotheed, thank you for your efforts to keep the peace. I must say, the longer I deal with the count and his men, the more I find my diplomatic instincts slipping from my grasp.” Anselm turns to Mayor Piscum. “I assure you, he will not show his face here again.”
Once the lords and ladies of Stachys have some privacy, he ponders aloud. “I suppose he shall not be a problem once we succeed in our mission. Still, I worry about the harm he will do to others in the county... Not to mention the good we could have done with those funds.”
Kort stands down, mostly too irritated to speak.
"Well, let's get back to work. This rhub-rye isn't going to harvest itself," Kort says of the work. Now on its third day, he wonders if they are almost done.
He approaches the Mayor, clacking on his cane.
"Are we almost done? What else should we do?" Kort asks, trying to see the best way to finish things up.
”Know that the lord of this county shall not renew your license in the future. That is a certainty.” [ .... ] Anselm turns to Mayor Piscum. “I assure you, he will not show his face here again.”
Now, there is the second time he’s gone and said that…
”Well, if we were planning on replacing him anyway, why didn’t we make his guards an offer?” We could have killed this despicable excuse for a being and rolled the cart away into the forest and buried the whole thing...
”Anyway, the Count would just appoint someone even more despicable.”
She turns to Mama D and curtseys. ”Oh, thank you for the scrolls! Please let me donate to your Scroll Fund.” She offers Mama D 60gp.
She resumes helping with the harvest until finished.
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"If we are successful, Lord Lotheed will no longer rule over this county. Her Highness will most certainly ensure that future tax collectors are fair and treat the people with dignity."
Anselm gives a sad shrug. "Or I suppose we could remove him now. No doubt the people would rejoice. But we must maintain our positions here, at least until the other lords and ladies of the county have united behind Eutropia's claim. And the Count still has the power to remove us." Then he speaks Elen's thought out loud. "I doubt the Count would blame us if Eta and his men disappeared two days hence, waylaid by bandits. But killing him seems an ugly end when true, waking justice lays in wait for him."
He also continues the work, counting in his head the funds remaining for investment.
Seeing the lords huddled up, and then start to approach her, Mayor Piscum leaves her cluster of locals and joins you, ”My lords and ladies, thank you. He’s been our tax collector for a few years now, always taking so much from us. But this year, half! The gall. He knew you’d be here. He’s a fool, but well informed. It’s more money than he’s likely ever seen before.” She trails off at the injustice of it all.
”Anyway, on behalf of the people of Stachys, thank you.”
"Are we almost done? What else should we do?" Kort asks, trying to see the best way to finish things up.
”Oh, the harvest will continue for some time, but the rush is over. Now the farmer’s work truly begins, and the rest of us can go about our own jobs.” She makes it clear that you’re done, as are many who help out at harvest time.
You’re free!
Free to start a week bringing your estate into some shape. At least enough so it’s not too embarrassing to host guests! You’ve already purchased the supplies and whatnot, you just need to do the work. I’ll share an entirely too long missive on your hirelings in a moment and once we’re done with that, we can proceed with more entertaining matters - Dame Crabbe’s Tea.
The work preparing your home is hard and involves quite a bit of effort on your part. Not just with housework and yardwork (well, it’s an extensive estate, so you’re really just touching up the grounds around the house) but also with supplies, hiring staff, and getting to know the people of Stachys a little - and letting them get to know you.
Thought you’re busy, you still have time, particularly in the evenings, to relax, craft (4hrs/day), and whatever else you may wish to do. Oh, a few days before the week comes to a close, a messenger arrives to remind you of your tea obligations with Dame Crabbe at weeks end. Perhaps you can seek the Iron Lash of Meratt’s treasure on your way home from Moost Village.
Let me know if you have any particular plans during the week’s work on your home.
You can get a project started after the week is up, before leaving for tea, if you wish. Just let me know what project, or projects, you propose. You can see the list of projects here (link) on the fifth and sixth pages (you have 5,800gp at the moment). Note that the Market, Basic will reduce future costs, so you might want to prioritize that sooner than later. Plus, who doesn’t like a farmer’s market within walking distance?
With the bulk of the harvest work completed, Anselm focuses on getting to know his new subjects.
"With all that needs doing, I suggest we employ the residents of Stachys first were possible. If no one possesses a needed skill, perhaps we can arrange for our artisans to take on as apprentices those who show promise."
Looking at the long list of potential improvements, he points to those he sees as most important.
"First, I would suggest some basic improvements to the town. Once the roads are repaired, we can lay out a market square. Then we can work on our wider estate, so it may be used anew by our farmers. Perhaps we can offer them a lower rent for the first year or so, until prosperity is more widely shared." He thinks back on the many glasses of wine he shared with Baroness Voinum. "It will take some years, but I look forward to sampling our first new vintage."
"From there, we may begin work on the pump house and agricultural infrastructure. That should ensure a much better yield for the next harvest."
"Perhaps we could share the priorities we agree on with the people of Stachys, giving those with deepest roots an opportunity to share their wisdom."
He makes himself available to lead the launch of projects, as needed.
Kort does take a few days to finally enjoy his new home, and begin to envision what he might do with it now that he has time, lease, and direction.
"Your plan is sound, good Anselm. I had come up with a similar priority list as well," Kort shows some logistical notes with estimates and timetables, sketching out the next few weeks.
"I think you are right about the civic improvements, which I've enumerated on page 4," he nods. "But yes, getting the Market and Pump House going will surely do more for the people than just about anything else."
Kort rubs his chin, looking over at Mama D.
"And when we have time, we all should attend to the Pumps and see if we can do the advanced workings to make it more sustainable. I, for one, would like to enjoin to make that happen, considering our limited funds at the moment. But maybe, after the first set of upgrades, we shall see our financial position upgraded as well." Kort smiles, as he enjoys planning.
"And it might be that the lair of the Iron Lash will have some funds to help us even moreso. A creature like that might have some years of treasures built up."
Kamari nods along at Anselm's suggestions both as to the specifics and as to sharing them with the townspeople to get their buy-in. She also daydreams a bit.
A market would be nice. It would feel more like home. What this place really needs is a cafe, but I think we're a while from that.
Kamari spends her night learning to ride a horse since she's sure that the skill will be needed since everything is so spread out in the countryside.
It's too bad Muri isn't here to teach me.