"The Boneyards. You know, Pharasma's domain. Where all souls are weighed and assigned their home after death." He spies a bit of mildewed fabric with a distinctive pattern and gathers it. "If anything helps us identify the victim, please let's take it with us."
Elen dons a puzzled look and looks around at all of the bones surrounding them.
"Shouldn't they have called it 'Soulyard'?"
"Perhaps. After we tend to their remains, let us see which items we may to surviving loved ones. I would hate to profit from their loss, especially those who don't know the fate of those missing."
There may be forty or fifty bodies here, though they're all jumbled together, so it's hard to tell, hard to sort, and many are not human (livestock mostly). Just sorting and burying the bodies would take days, if not weeks even with the proper tools, which I suspect you don’t have with you. Trying to track down the surviving families from the remnants found here, and return what 'might' have been found with which body is nigh impossible.
Like it or not, you’re looters at a mass grave, and putting the money back into the Stachys community is about as good an option as you’ve got short of just throwing coins in the streets of Lotheedar - the community most affected by the Iron Lash. Even then, it’s likely the farming communities who were more directly hit - based on the livestock you also see here. Hard to know how best to help them - other than provide their vengeance on the creature, which you have done to their great joy.
For now I’ll presume you collect what you can, as respectfully as you can, and leave things mostly alone. You can always return - the cave itself is very well hidden, and it’s unlikely anyone will find it way out here in the wilderness without a map, which you have.
So, you make your way to Lotheedar. You head west through the open country and toward the town. As you’re a bunch of city-folk, you invariably get a little lost along the way and muddle about the forest for an hour or two before getting righted again. As a result, it’s a very late supper indeed when you finally reach the finest inn in Lotheedar.
It is a nice place. Certainly not as nice as some you’ve stayed in from Oppara, but nice enough in its own rustic way. Dark wood paneling lends a cozy air, and the ever-lit fireplaces warmth in every corner. The servers too are friendly and efficient. The only downside is there's no entertainment. Not that sort of place. So it's quiet.
Myrna and Virgil area already here, and confirm their readiness to depart the next day after you’ve had some time to look up Sir Gusairne.
As it’s a little late to send a runner to the Palace of Birdsong tonight, you decide perhaps to just drop in tomorrow. Shouldn’t be too much of a faux pas, as you’re merely visiting the servant of the Count and not the Count himself.
Let me know of any plans before the meeting. Also feel free to backfill of course, I’m just moving you on to the next scene if that’s still your plan.
Kamari chats up the friendly servants to see what they think of the Night Swan and her activities.
"Do you know of anyone who has actually been her victim or her beneficiary?"
Kort ponders what to do, but mostly wants to spend a day at home and relaxing. It’s been a taxing few weeks and he retired to enjoy rest and life and not work every day.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"Do you know of anyone who has actually been her victim or her beneficiary?"
Kamari hears more of the same, and all stories, no personal experiences - at least from the folks in the inn. The Night Swan seems to have some support from the community at large, though not as much as you’d have thought. She’s a divisive figure, with some arguing she’s helping and others that she’s hurting the populace at large. Most seem to be in favor of her though, at least in principle.
The party rises comfortably the next day and climbs into your home-away-from-home - your elegant carriage. Myrna hints at the whip, the horses respond, and you’re on your way home!
You travel south a bit before turning west to Stachys where there’s a celebratory mood as the village celebrates Currenteve - a Gozreh holy day. It’s not anything dramatic mind you, and folks are still working, but there’s a plethora of Gozreh holy symbols about, hanging from doorways and eves in celebration of the day.
You turn to head up your private road and return to the manor. By the time you reach the door, the head butler has all of the servants turned out and lined up for your entrance. They bow/curtsey lightly, and immediately help unload the carriage, guide you inside, prepare snacks and drinks, and otherwise pamper and support your triumphant return home!
Your cats are found pouncing on motes of sunlight, for the Domovoi prefer that form... And why not? It’s so comfortable. They greet you, in their own way - with both snuggles and disdain, as you return from your time away.
As you come into the main chamber, you see a large crate off to the side - the head of the Iron Lash of Meratt, well taxidermied and ready to hang. Your butler comments, ”It arrived from Lotheedar just a half hour before you. I understand you are considering hanging it in the public house. May I suggest you wait until it’s been renovated my Lords? I believe you mentioned such a plan.”
There was no further fee, other than the 50gp you paid up front for the work, courtesy of the Purple Finch’s connections with the taxidermist - at least in part. Also likely an investment into future business.
Also, you do have an option to improve the Public House/Café (link - last page). Basic Civic Improvements will be done in three days. Following that, you planned to start the Market, Basic. That will take another week, cost 2,000gp, and give you a 10% discount on all future infrastructure improvements and will likely open up several things at once, limited only by your budget really.
You’ll need to be around in three days to start the Market project. It takes a day, and you have to be present, in order to start new projects. Other than that, your time is free. Do you spend a few days decompressing from your rushed existence so far? What are your immediate plans for the next few days?
Lastly, I’ve allocated the 2,000gp you found among the Iron Lash dead to the projects fund. I think that's as intended, but let me know if I'm wrong. :)
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Kort doesn’t have much to say at the moment, choosing to retire to the library after he gets settled back in.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"Very good, Simcox," says Anselm to the butler. "Would you be so good as to find storage for it until then? It's quite a job they did, isn't it, Kamari?"
It isn't Anselm's sort of artwork, but he appreciates its craftsmanship.
In the intervening days, he...
...cajoles the Domovoi into taking the form of dogs...
...reads more about running vineyards...
...offers sermons and art lessons to locals at the site of the town shrine...
...and generally chats up the citizens of the town.
The days at the manor seem to drag on and Kamari finds herself venturing into Stachys frequently to help with the projects as she can.
She looks into acquiring a horse of her own so that she can maintain her independence.
”Heh,” Elen chuckles fondly at them as the Domovoi greet the group. I do prefer this form too. ”Good news! We’ll be rolling in rye soon enough!”
She heads for the main hall.
”Oh, so that is the pickled smell,” she exclaims, gesturing toward the taxidermy. ”Well, yes, I guess we did mention that! Let it be so!”
"Would you be so good as to find storage for it until then?”
Yes, yes store it! Store it for now far away where the air is cool and heavy -- and it’ll keep out rats… ”The cellar!”
Elen spends her time pulling the more noxious weeds as she wanders through town pondering old skills to then hone.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Kort settles into the library, which smells less musty now that it’s aired out over a couple weeks. The rich smell of leather from the bindings now fills the room. The books aren’t anything special, but it’s a great foundation for a truly impressive collection. If one were so inclined.
...cajoles the Domovoi into taking the form of dogs...
They refuse for a day or two, but as Anselm persists, eventually he’s confronted by Blunk, in his bipedal guise, short and hairy. ”Now look, we don’t like dogs. They’re big, they’re smelly, they don’t bathe properly. Pissing everywhere, and leaving their soil without covering it up. It’s just unsanitary.”
”I mean, Underfoot is OK I guess, but he’s the most behaved dog I’ve ever seen. They’re not like that. ‘Bad dog’ is a phrases you know, in every language. For a reason.” He shakes his finger at Anselm, turns - revealing his naked hairy ass - and stalks off to the library.
Kamari, there are no local horses for sale (well, nothing for the sort of riding you want to do, there is a plodder, good for a wagon or tilling), but you can get one out of Penesaris or Lotheedar. Usual cost. You can all get riding horses if you wish - you’ve room in the stable building.
Yes, yes store it! Store it for now far away where the air is cool and heavy -- and it’ll keep out rats… ”The cellar!”
The butler curtseys directing a few of the other servants, those that are not already providing you with refreshment, to lift and carry the big head into the basement for storage. Not in the Domovoi’s tower naturally!
Elen spends her time pulling the more noxious weeds as she wanders through town pondering old skills to then hone.
I presume you also direct the groundskeeper in your employ at the Estate? They have some ideas of how to improve upon the gardens - once things are brought back under control. A process that will take many seasons. After all it's been over 10 years since anyone has done anything.
The party spends a few days at leisure, getting to know your home and lands and town and, to some degree, recovering from your rushed trip to Meratt and the quick succession of events that had kept you busy over the last couple weeks. The townspeople are slowly warming to you, but as yet they are still indifferent.
So far, you talk a good talk, and have made some improvements. But they’ve been at the mercy of any wandering noble for the last ten years. Unable to stand for the foot on their backs.
On Gozran 10, the Basic Civic Improvements are completed. You see that potholes have been fixed, one or two streets have been properly graded, a few of the town square buildings have been painted, and generally improvements have been made to spruce up the place.
The townspeople are pleased and you gain one loyalty point.
Now it’s time to get to the next project. You all set into motion the task of cleaning up the town square and holding a weekly market. Flagstones and brick are brought in for the square, and runners are sent out to the countryside to encourage farmers and craftspeople to bring their goods for the first ever market. Hopefully the first of many!
Once you get things in motion, and supply the resources to make it happen (2,000gp), you’re again free to do as you will. It’s Gozran 11, a Wealday. What are your plans for the coming week?
Anselm beams at the impact the improvements have on the overall aura of the village. “I can’t wait to invite our new friends to visit. Perhaps we could send an invitation to the Baroness to join us at the market opening. Show her our plans. And let’s make sure to invite Moffis personally to sell his produce.”
He contemplates the week ahead, eager to keep exploring the county. ”I think it high time we enquire after Baron Telus. It will be hard to unite the entire county behind our cause, if such a large portion of it operates without a leader at court.”
During the week, Kamari spends some free time sketching what things will eventually look like. It takes a bit more imagination than it did in Oppara, but things eventually materialize on the paper. She makes herself accessible to the townsfolk and chats up anyone who stops by. She tries to help them see things through her optimistic eyes and reassure them that the future will be brighter.
Now only if I had a good drink to sip on.
”A party, Anselm? I could get behind that. What sort of festivities would you think would be appropriate? I don’t think we have a proper hedge maze yet, but maybe we can cobble together something interesting.”
Kort thinks about the party idea.
”Did you think to invite Baron Telus to us, or should we send an announcement of our intent to visit? How’s how it should work, right?”
Kort spends a bit of time reading and in the library.
"I think for now, a less formal visit with Baroness Voinum may be in order. Then again, given her interest in supporting the renewal of our vineyards, perhaps we should invite her once we're ready to begin work on the pump house. It will be key to restoring our grape-growing land."
He smiles.
"And certainly, it may be good to ensure the market has customers before we show it off. Do you think we ought to send her an invitation for two or three weeks from now?"
He thinks on the Major's reminder of etiquette with regard to Baron Telus.
"Perhaps you're right. In a way, I'm more curious about the gossip Dame Crabbe shared with us. Baronet Vort's 'going native.' Between that, and the Baron Telus's absence from Tanager, I worry something may have befallen him. Perhaps a less formal visit into his hold might be in order."
I presume you also direct the groundskeeper in your employ at the Estate? They have some ideas of how to improve upon the gardens - once things are brought back under control. A process that will take many seasons. After all it's been over 10 years since anyone has done anything.
"Oh, dear! Well, I expect we should start with that wall of poison ivy -- do you know anyone who has some goats? Then I say we spare the natives and relegate the more exotic types to ..." Elen's voice becomes muffled as she advances into the Jungle (previously known as "Betony Garden") until it fades completely.
When she returns, she excuses herself to the powder room to remove the various twigs and leaves from her hair before joining the conversation.
"That’s going to be very beautiful some day,” she says gesturing toward the garden. ”About the Market -- did we want to invite the people from beggar’s wood to participate in selling their goods?”
”Do you think we ought to send [Voinum] an invitation for two or three weeks from now?"
”Yes, yes. That timing sounds about right -- also by then the Market should be able to practically run itself.”
”Did you think to invite Baron Telus to us, or should we send an announcement of our intent to visit? How’s how it should work, right?”
”Yes,” Elen says pensively. ”but if the Gold Canyon bridge is destroyed, how would a messenger even get there? Unless we just wanted to skirt southeast, maybe the peasants who purportedly took it out can tell us something if they are there.”
There are two steps to the Pump House infrastructure work. Basic (1,000gp) to get the infrastructure back into place, and then you were going to do a magical Advanced bit (3,000gp reduced by party efforts, 3 days). Basic needs to be done before advanced.
You can send a runner to Baron Telus’ home, inviting him to join you - or to ask for a neighborly visit. It’ll take three days to make the trip as the bridge on the southern road, the most direct route, is out (area P on the map). I presume you send your runner (presumably on horseback or it’ll take longer).
Not sure what is meant by a ‘less formal visit’ Anselm? You’re nobles now, and so pretty much every visit is somewhat formal (assuming you’re visiting other nobles of course). The easiest is the relatively straightforward tea and overnight stay so you’re not rushed. Certainly more formal things can be done, but less formal? I’m not sure what that would entail. Let me know what you’re thinking.
As far as having a festival goes, you can really do it it up (2,000gp) for infrastructure benefits, and a +2 on all checks to influence anyone attending. You’ll need a reason - the triumphant return of the aristocrats to Stachys is enough for the first one - almost anything will do. Two weeks past the market opening would put you at Desnus the 1st, though your market day is likely a Fireday, so Desnus the 4th. I've tentatively added it to the calendar.
Do let me know how you approach the Beggar’s Wood denizens. Here again, you could send your runner, though by their reputation, he’d return without his horse. Or you could go yourselves, no advanced notice needed naturally as they’re not aristocrats.
”Yes,” Elen says pensively. ”but if the Gold Canyon bridge is destroyed, how would a messenger even get there? Unless we just wanted to skirt southeast, maybe the peasants who purportedly took it out can tell us something if they are there.”
The messenger would take the much longer northern route through the town of Lotheedar and past Moost Village. You know it is possible to walk through the canyon. Parts are very steep (no carriage, no horses), but it’s doable on foot. I’m not sure if it’s quicker to go on foot via the southern route, or by horseback on the northern. It’s probably pretty close to the same as the northern route is so much longer.
You recall Dame Crabbe tell you about Baronet Vort, ”Apparently Baronet Vort’s gone native with a band of peasants southeast of Baron Telus’s land; even destroyed the Gold Canyon bridge to keep outsiders away. I hear a witch got into his brain and stirred things up a bit. Positively scandalous!”
You also know that Baronet Caphridius Vort, tribune of New Towne (area O on the map), was a former assistant to Baron Telus, and he has interests in the opera. An unusual place for a man interested in opera to be, as the closest opera house must be in Cassomir far to the west.
- - -
So where do you send your runner initially? East to the Beggarwood, or West to Barnoet Caphridius Vort, or West to Baron Telus?
Also, just to throw more out there at you, your butler reminds you that the Abadar Holiday, Taxfest, is being celebrated in a few days on Gozran 15 (it is currently Gozran 11). You know there are shrines to Abadar at the Gold Canyon (area P on the map) as well as the larger towns of course. Stachys even has a shrine dedicated to Abadar (as well as Erastil, Iomedae and Sheyln).
"I should say more. We have the means to disguise ourselves, should we wish to enter Telus' holdings or pay a visit to the brigands in Beggars Wood."
Anselm perches on the table in the library as the group discusses.
"For the latter... I sympathize with the plight of those our Count may have driven into poverty. But we do not know enough about them to say whether they would be treat the folk of Stachys or Meratt kindly, should our goal come to pass. And it may hurt our efforts to unite our peers behind us, were we to associate with them openly."
He spends a moment in prayer, tapping into the sentiments of the local public.
Dear Shelyn, what do the people of Stachys say of the people in Beggars Wood?
What do they know of the Count's attitude towards the same people?
What have our townsfolk to say about how Baron Okerra relates to the denizens of the woods?
And of Baroness Voinum's view of them?
"At any rate, I suggest we send a note to the Baronet and await his response. Perhaps in the meantime we could pay a more... covert visit to the woods."
"I should say more. We have the means to disguise ourselves, should we wish to enter Telus' holdings or pay a visit to the brigands in Beggars Wood."
"And I'm intrigued to fix that dang pump and waterworks," Kort offers his own opinions. "I think, if we focus, we can get it done pretty quickly. And use the momentum from that victory to carry word to the Beggar's Wood. It might make things easier for us there."
"At least let us start the basic repairs. And heck, let's finish the job."
”At any rate, I suggest we send a note to the Baronet and await his response. Perhaps in the meantime we could pay a more... covert visit to the woods."
In her mind’s eye, Elen pictures the group in disguise only then to pile into one of the most lavish looking carriages in Taldor. ”Annnd, how do you propose we travel to Beggar’s Wood?”
”No, I was thinking that we would just send a runner to the outer border of the Wood to nail some signage to the nearest tree. A small gesture the Beggars be bound to notice and -- with luck -- be able to read and decide for themselves whether or not they want to participate. Though, maybe expecting them to be able to read is much, and if they can -- maybe they might just show up to rob the place. Maybe it’s just not a good idea after all.”
Elen agrees with the Major. ”Yes. Let’s focus on the town and the adjacent areas. Good word will spread soon enough to Beggar’s Wood.
”We could send the runner to start the invitation to Baron Telus. In the meantime, maybe we could attract Vort here with a local Opera. Rumor has it, he’s really really into opera. Anselm, you can narrate! We can make this as unconventional as we like, maybe even do it on the market square. We all have skills that we can use in an Unconventional Opera -- what do you think?!”
”He who loves opera won’t be able to resist seeing ‘An Unconventional Opera’.”
"I like your idea to engage with the denizens of the Wood, Lady Elen. But do you see my point about the delicacy of such matters? Until we've taken a fuller measure of them, we should proceed with caution. If we buy horses or, better yet, use those that M'della summons, that should serve."
He scratches his head . Do we have three days to pursue other matters, while our workers finish preparing the market grounds? I don't think we can work on other projects during that time.
"An opera, though. That sounds delightful! I'd be delighted to design the sets."
”He who loves opera won’t be able to resist seeing ‘An Unconventional Opera’.”
"O for a Muse of fire, that would ascend the brightest heaven of invention, a kingdom for a stage, princes to act."
Kamarai delivers the lines with force and a flourish before smirking.
"No princes, but we do have lords and ladies and some of them even leap."
The locals view them as brigands and robbers and bums. Most avoid heading south of Pensaris for fear of their property.
What do they know of the Count's attitude towards the same people?
As with most things involving the peasants, he doesn’t seem to care. The people of the Beggarwood seem to avoid conflict with local nobility, so he has little reason to deal with the issue. He probably forgot all about them, assuming anyone even told him about them.
What have our townsfolk to say about how Baron Okerra relates to the denizens of the woods?
The Baron, a man of law, seems less kindly disposed to the residents there. However, until the Count says something one way or another, his hands are somewhat tied. Technically the Beggarwood is outside his realm of influence - and so solidly in the Count’s. That said, he could still do something if he wanted to as they are neighbors, but he hasn’t.
And of Baroness Voinum's view of them?
You’re less sure what her view may be of that group. Likely, due to her distance from them, she has little to say one way or another about a few beggars if she even knows they exist, and she may not.
- - -
Major Kort makes it clear he wants to start to drain the swamp soon. You can start it tomorrow (1,000gp) or wait until after the market (in 6 days) which will save you 100gp. Let me know if you are starting this now or later. Also on the docket is a proper Public House / Café (3,000gp), the Gardens of Stachys (2,000gp), and of course the upcoming Festival (2,000gp) in a few weeks.
It sounds like you are going to send your runner to Baron Telus to start. Presumably as he’s a Baron, and so higher ranked, you’ll suggest visiting him at some future date of his choosing. I’ll let you know when the runner returns with a response (in 3 days).
You begin planning for the festival in a few weeks time. As part of that planning, it sounds like you’ll be erecting a small stage in the market square for An Unconventional Opera. It will also be handy for proclamations, impromptu performances, and more. A nice addition to the town.
The only limiting factor on projects is the day it takes to start one. So you could have as many as seven concurrent projects as they each take a week to complete. You’ve been waiting until after the market is complete to start several others as it gives you a 10% discount on all future infrastructure.
From your earlier experiences with the Beggarwood folk, they’re distrustful of outsiders and remarkably closed mouthed. They number perhaps as many as two dozen from what you’ve seen, but it’s hard to know for sure. It will take some time to break down those barriers and get someone to open up - maybe a few days with good luck, so you’ll want to plan ahead. Horses are not common among the peasantry, so you’ll likely want to ride part way and walk in the rest or you’ll be viewed with additional distrust. Let me know if you’re still planning on going and if so, when you want to fit it in.
Around lunch as you’re debating your plans (still Gozran 11), Onora Piscum comes to the estate requesting an audience. Presuming you see her, she curtsies and begins deliberately with business, ”It seems we have ourselves a criminal. And now that you are the Tribunes… well, you must decide her fate. There will be a trial, at the pub, this afternoon. As Tribunes, you must pass judgement when the trial is completed. When can I expect you?”
Kort listens to the plans of others, uncertain about a place for him in the Operatic plans. He assumes he'll be able to find space in the audience.
| 2 people marked this as a favorite. |
”But do you see my point about the delicacy of such matters?”
”Yes, yes, I did -- ,“ Elen assures Anselm sincerely, ”and that is partly why I changed my mind and convinced myself it might be best to just leave the Beggars in Beggarwood alone for now. Yes! Great! You can design the sets! And then be the narrator! And the makeup artist!”
She applauds Kamari’s performance. ”Perfect! We found a protagonist!”
She espies Muri and Underfoot. ”A Knight and his Trusty Steed”
”Ma D, by any chance can you do Special Effects? Or -- any other role you’d like!”
She espies Kort. Damsel in Distress Elen shakes her head. ”Major Kort, you can have a frontest row seat -- in the Orchestra Pit! Come, let’s find you a tambourine! It would be great if you wore your armor for extra percussion! I mean,” she blushes a little at her own enthusiasm, "as long as you are comfortable."
”Me? I’ll be the antagonist!!!!” She laughs, maniacally and comically.
”It seems we have ourselves a criminal. And now that you are the Tribunes… When can I expect you?“
”A criminal, really?! Oh, one shouldn’t do such things on an empty stomach… Then again, one doesn’t want to linger too long on deliberations… Let’s say, 1:30pm? Does everyone think that will work?”
Anselm relates his findings with regard to the Beggarswood. "The Count barely knows they exist. Our friend, Baron Okerra, is not well disposed towards them — but is inclined to wait for the Count to do is duty. Our people fear going south of Pensaris, for fear of being molested by them."
Anselm nods as Elen suggests half after one.
”A tambourine? Yes, okay?” Kort looks around, confused but willing. He’s not much on percussion, but he’s willing to listen, and bang a thing, if necessary.
He continues to listen to the planning, amazed.
”A criminal, really?! Oh, one shouldn’t do such things on an empty stomach… Then again, one doesn’t want to linger too long on deliberations… Let’s say, 1:30pm? Does everyone think that will work?”
"Agreed. I'm all for swift justice, but she makes better decisions when not distracted by her own inner rumblings."
Kamari turns to Onora, "What are the crimes alleged?"
Kamari turns to Onora, "What are the crimes alleged?"
”Theft, destruction of property, violence, that sort of thing. Lucinia is quite a handful.” she smiles shaking her head.
The sheriff leaves to make preparations as you leisurely finish lunch and discuss the opera.
You arrive at the public house with its rickety walls and dirt floor just before half past one. Onora has rearranged the interior so you can all stand behind the bar, the accused is to the side tied to a chair (not a lot of guards to keep watch, so they have to do more with rope or the accused would just get up and wander off). Then the chairs and a few tables are lined up in the rest of the pub so the villagers can watch.
And it’s standing room only. The whole village seemingly has left their fields and workshops to see the new Tribune’s of Stachys give their first verdict. Though they’re quite packed in, and spilling out into the street, they’re generally quiet, and grow more so as you enter the dusty room and move behind the bar.
Sheriff Piscum unties the prisoner for her comfort now that she’s back and can keep a better eye on her. Her prisoner spits obscenities at the sheriff and looks nearly ready to haul off an hit her, but she looks around and resists the urge.
Onora then calls a number of townspeople to make their claims against the prisoner. And many step forward.
According to testimony, local drunk and troublemaker Lucinia Mag (image) has been causing problems for years. Petty larceny on occasion, but usually she picks a fight for no good apparent reason and is frequently drunk and disorderly. Though she’s a good fighter, she doesn’t win them all, which doesn’t seem to deter her in any way.
Most recently she started a brawl in the public house, punched the mayor-sheriff, and ran off with the night’s take - 22 sp - and a bottle of rare Oldlaw whiskey worth 20 gp. Sheriff Piscum found her passed out drunk in Jo Sini’s barn this morning and recovered the 22sp, but the whiskey had been drunk in the night.
You, naturally, are allowed to ask questions of the victim (Onora Piscum in this case), the villagers (for past transgressions leading up to this one), and of course the perpetrator (who looks somewhat hung over and angry at this waste of their time).
Kamari winces at the waste of the good whiskey, but maintains her composure and calmly asks Lucinia, "What do you have to say for yourself? What defense do you offer?"
Anselm gazes at Lucinia as the questioning commences. He adds his own.
To the drunkard, he asks kindly, "Miss Mag, what can you tell us about what happened? Who has been affected by what you've done, in this case and the others you've been accused of? How have they been affected?"
Assuming she chooses to respond, he goes on.
"As you can see, there are many people here who harbor a grievance toward you. What would be required, do you think, to make things right? What would you need to do?"
He pauses a while to let his fellow tribunals ask questions. Then he turns to Onora and the towns people.
"I would like to invite Mayor Piscum and any others who have been harmed by Miss Mag to speak. What did you think when you realized what she had done? What effect have this or earlier incidents had on you? What was the hardest thing for you?"
As Onora or other townsfolk speak, he maintains a firm but kindly watch on Lucinia. Finally, he asks the parties,
"And what do you think needs to happen to make things right, and welcome Miss Mag back into our community in good stead?"
Kort lets Anselm handle the bulk of the interrogation, and may ask questions as things get more clear. In the meantime, he will keep an ear out for falsehoods.
Sense Motive (aroden)
And will try to recall any local laws or precedents that might help offer a fair verdict.
Know (Local)
Oh, my! Shelyn pity the poor woman! A whole bottle of whiskey?!
”Why do you fight? What do you fight about? Why did you start drinking like that? When is the last time you have eaten?”
Mama D sits primly and listens as Anselm does the questioning. She keeps one of her books close, to jot down pertinent answers.
| 2 people marked this as a favorite. |
Kamari winces at the waste of the good whiskey, but maintains her composure and calmly asks Lucinia, "What do you have to say for yourself? What defense do you offer?"
”I need no defense, this whole thing is a sham! A bunch of gussied up aristocrats from Oppara don’t rule over my life!” and she spits on the bar in front of you to show her disgust - as if it wasn’t plain on her face. It is clear she is quite unrepentant.
To the drunkard, he asks kindly, "Miss Mag, what can you tell us about what happened? Who has been affected by what you've done, in this case and the others you've been accused of? How have they been affected?”
”Aye, you’re a smooth talker, I’ll give you that. But take your smooth talking city-slicker ways and go back where you came from!” she bellows, wincing at the headache she must surely be feeling.
”As you can see, there are many people here who harbor a grievance toward you. What would be required, do you think, to make things right? What would you need to do?”
”Bah! Ain’t nothin’ to be made right! Folks is just sore I live my life my way and don’t bow to no’ne.”
”I would like to invite Mayor Piscum and any others who have been harmed by Miss Mag to speak. What did you think when you realized what she had done? What effect have this or earlier incidents had on you? What was the hardest thing for you?”
Onora keeps her mouth shut, a trait you’ve seen her utilize before when she isn’t sure about an answer - or wants more from the question. Others do quip up though they seem to miss the point of the questions, and instead complain loudly that the woman is a menace, and worse. Villager number three even suggests, ”She’s a witch!”, but in this case the others all groan and tell him to pipe down.
"And what do you think needs to happen to make things right, and welcome Miss Mag back into our community in good stead?"
”Burn her!” cries someone from the rear, who’s also shushed by the villagers - though it’s clear as a group they aren’t pleased. Sheriff Piscum frowns, clearly feeling the party is abdicating their responsibility to judge, in favor of mob rule. And the mob does rule, and shouts of ”Run her out of town!” abound and gain in frequency, though there are a few, well, very few, who want to give her yet another chance - even those folks want some sort of punitive measure.
”Why do you fight? What do you fight about? Why did you start drinking like that? When is the last time you have eaten?”
Lucinia rolls her bloodshot eyes, ”Who are you, my mother? I don’t have to answer you! You and your silly court! You’re all standing in dirt behind an ale soaked bar and putting on airs!” she goes on to ramble some more about the generally poor state of nobles today - though you suspect she’d complain about the older epochs too had she lived through them. She does not respect authority.
In the meantime, he will keep an ear out for falsehoods.
While some of the complaints may have stretched the truth a bit, strictly speaking, and one or two people may have fabricated hardship they did not suffer, but they are just trying to be one with the group. The vast majority of the many complaints seem true and correct - and certainly Sheriff Piscum doesn’t lie or stretch the truth in the specific matter before you.
And will try to recall any local laws or precedents that might help offer a fair verdict.
Profession Barrister would be really handy here. As for precedent, you know that expulsion from the community is pretty common in cases such as these. Also some time in the pillory (which Stachys doesn’t yet have) a walk of shame where villagers throw fruit and veg at the perpetrator, or even manual labor for a few weeks (though you’ll have to find someone to vouch for her work - unless someone in the party will). On the more serious side, you could also take a hand or fine her (if she can pay).
- - -Sheriff Piscum quiets down the crowd, which had started to grow a little excited and unruly. ”Now calm down everyone. I want to hear what our Tribunes have to say about this.”
"You’re all standing in dirt behind an ale soaked bar and putting on airs!”
Elen looks down at her feet in the dirt, then at the ale soaked bar. She frowns. "Well, you're half right..."
Elen nods in thanks to Sheriff Piscum for garnering control over the spectators and giving the Tribunes the floor. ”Well now, I think this answers all of my questions.” She turns to her fellow Tribunes, ”If we, the Tribunes, are equally satisfied with the proceedings, may I move to sequester ourselves for deliberation? Otherwise, ask what questions you will.”
Anselm says, "One moment, if you will, Lady Elen."
He turns to the assembled crowd, hands raised as if blessing them."Good people, in the name of Shelyn, who finds beauty and merit in all creatures, please hear me."
With a gesture towards his fellow lord and ladies, he continues. "Over these last many years, Stachys has suffered under neglectful stewards. Food has been taken from your mouths to feed those who already have more than enough. It stops now. We, your tribunes, will not stand for any more suffering."
He turns back to Lucinia, still addressing the crowd. "If Stachys is to recover, we must all remember the goodness in each others' hearts. Yes, let us hold Miss Mag to account. But let us make sure that everyone fairs better afterward, including those who have erred. You would deserve the same, were you in her shoes."
Gazing out into the crowd, he asks, "Is there anyone here who can speak to a kindness, an honest laugh, anything Miss Mag has brought to you over the years? And who can speak to what she has endured, as you have yourself struggled?"
Kort tries to help Anselm, rising up in his combat armor to support the calls for quiet.
Diplo to aid
He's not quite ready to deliberate just yet, still stiffly making up his mind.
While unconvinced that there is much redeemable about Mag, Kamari appreciates Anselm's efforts at keeping the bigger picture in mind. She does her best not to undercut his efforts and remains quiet as things resolve.
The crowd had already been quieted down by Onora Piscum who seems to hold much sway with the people, but I get what you’re doing - all good.
Gazing out into the crowd, he asks, "Is there anyone here who can speak to a kindness, an honest laugh, anything Miss Mag has brought to you over the years? And who can speak to what she has endured, as you have yourself struggled?"
There’s an awful lot of silence as the crowd rejects Anselm’s pleas, and then an uncomfortable silence as everyone waits for someone else to speak. Eventually, one quite voice squeaks out, ”Well, she is fun to drink with at lunch…”
A few nod, and a few more have thoughtful faces, but most of the crowd erupts, some shouting, ”That’s the problem!” and many agreeing. Vocally. Sheriff Piscum gets them corralled again scarcely raising her voice, ”If you lot keep this up, you’ll be removed from the, ah, court. Got it Marchesno?” She calls out one of the lead perpetrators who quiets immediately as do the others in turn. A sort of uneasy decorum settles in and everyone turns back to the party to see what they’re going to say next.
Elen nods in thanks to Sheriff Piscum for garnering control over the spectators and giving the Tribunes the floor. ”Well now, I think this answers all of my questions.” She turns to her fellow Tribunes, ”If we, the Tribunes, are equally satisfied with the proceedings, may I move to sequester ourselves for deliberation? Otherwise, ask what questions you will.”
”Kitchen’s through that door.” The sheriff-mayor-pub owner points to a door behind the party. She remains at Lucinia’s side so she doesn’t run off, though the angry woman shows no signs of trying to escape.
You pass through the door and into a small cramped kitchen with dinner prep lying all around. It doesn’t look good, but probably about as can be expected from such a space.
You begin to deliberate.
Once within the kitchen, Mama D joins the others in deliberations. ” I agree with community service. Stachys has many needs and Miss Mag shouldn’t be spared from it just because she is disagreeable. I am used to disagreeable tantrums in the face of hard work. Perhaps Miss Mag’s punishment should be to stay at hand and help until she has given as much to the community as she has taken. They call her a witch, though I’ve seen no sign of any magic so far. Still, we will soon be ready to work on the pumphouse waterworks; she can work side by side with us in the thick of it until it is fixed.” she lays out her suggestion to see what the others think. “once it is running to the town’s satisfaction, she can choose to stay and work with the community or leave and be on her own, beyond our borders.”
"I agree with you, Lady Elen. We have much to keep her busy. If we employ her at enough tasks, perhaps we'll find a love that rivals the one she has for Cayden's drink."
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Kort pauses for a moment to collect his thoughts. He's not used to civilian court; he is inclined for military tribunals. This is a change. He steps forward to speak.
"In the Taldan military, where we tend to prefer order over chaos lest our enemies overrun us, I would ask for her pinkie for her strikes against legitimate authority, and her hand for stealing. But this is a more civilian matter," Kort pause, thinking more. "And Anselm's words, and M'Della's supportive comments give me pause. They understand the metrics that undergird life and community in ways that are far different than those that our military depends on. In this case, I would accept their suggestions on treatment, but might not be so lenient again. If she is going to be a part of this community, then she must honor our laws. Should she fail, then more permanent and detrimental actions might be next. I do not need people in our lands who do not honor decent code. They will be expunged, or put to death. Might be that trimming them from our community will allow others to be better."
Kort sits, voting in favor of Anselm and Mama D.
"I see wisdom in offering her such an ultimatum, Major. Though from my perspective, what's most important is that she honor the rights of the rest of the community. We are all prone to break the letter of the law now and then."
"She has no remorse, so I expect she will break the letter and spirit of the law before long. Even if she does try to reform out of fear of reprisal, she will likely slip in some way."
Kamari tries to see how to avoid the oncoming runaway carriage.
"Our ultimatum should be something we are willing now to impose and set as the standard. I'm not for maiming her, but would be happy to see her go upon a repetition of the same behavior. Even if she was the best laborer to be had, she will not work off the twenty gold and we will be forced to cover the difference. I'm willing to pay once for the good of the community, but won't have her thinking she can do whatever she wants and only receive more labor in return."
"I'd hate to see us paint ourselves into a corner though. If she is just drunk and disruptive without the theft of property, then I would count that as extending the time owed the community."
Kamari looks about for a drink and then remembers where she is and gives up on the idea.
"In the Taldan military, where we tend to prefer order over chaos lest our enemies overrun us, I would ask for her pinkie for her strikes against legitimate authority.”
Does maiming ever solve things long term?
”As I said, I think that if we try a kinder approach, maybe we can earn her trust, and she'll tell us all about whatever is bugging her. If we’re able to resolve that, the rest will fall into place. But first, we’ll have to get her sober. I recommend keeping her away from the vineyards.”
”I see our biggest challenge being how to keep Mags in place. I’m thinking hook her up to an ankle cuff with a heavy iron ball -- light enough for her to just barely be able to lift, but heavy enough to keep her from running away from task. But, how do we keep her from running off at night, or other times? Magic?”
You continue to deliberate, though everyone but Kamari is seemingly taking up Elen’s community service plan.
If you follow that plan, you’ll either need to be present to ensure work yourselves as Elen suggested (well at least one of you, maybe two for bathroom breaks), or hire/deputize a couple folks to keep an eye on her for you.
If you plan to restrict her nighttime movement as well, how do you plan to do so? The town has no jail, but you could confine her to her home - a couple more deputies, or yourselves again.
Lastly, how long do you plan to remain in town watching over Lucinia? What is the duration of her sentence?
Kort is happy to go with Elen’s plan, but if there isn’t the will and a plan, then expulsion or other matters might be better. He’s not keen on those who won’t contribute back to the community being part of the community.
He sits stiffly and waits for those who proposed their ideas to decide how to enact them.
"I can see your point, Major: It would not behoove us to be too lax. We must be clear that there are consequences for theft and assault. I just hesitate to choose exile or corporal punishment at this stage, as our very first judgement."
"I would like to send the message: We offer the chance for redemption, even for those who have no interest in it today. But will enforce consequences if the terms of redemption aren't met. I suggest we assign her to a task on our estate, and make clear that further offenses or failure to live up to her assignment will lead to permanent exile from our community. Perhaps we can assign her to our groundskeeper, since we have much to do. Our own involvement should be little more than confirming with the groundskeeper whether she is earning the modest wage we pay her."
"I am prepared to enforce exile if she fails to live up to her sentence. And... more extreme measures if she should try to harm anyone, or violate the terms of exile."