"I don't have any information on their current situation, but it's possible that they don't have the manpower or resources to spare to send a delegation of their own. We might be uniquely able to dispatch a diplomatic mission.
"Of course, there's also the possibility that they are not as aware of us as we are of them, so the option of sending a representative may not have occurred to them.
"Either way, if we take the initiative to say hello and introduce ourselves as good neighbors, it may leave a better impression."
"I just had a thought...oh, between Addy and I, it must be my turn to be the worrier this week," Ash sighs. "If this Nymph Queen has strange designs upon the whole region, could Varnhold fall prey to her manipulations, too?
"Besides the potential for forging a partnership with our fellow settlers, it might be the decent thing to do to check on them and at least warn them to stay vigilant against fey mischief. At least, the harmful kind," she adds, casting an embarrassed look at one of your passing First Citizens.
"That depends on who you ask. Every pie that goes missing from a window sill, every sheep not in the paddock, every fishing line that snaps - it's all part of some scheme by the faerie queen, to hear our locals tell it.
"As you can guess, our citizens have been very jumpy, so we haven't told them about this owlbear just yet. In truth, nothing obviously wicked has happened around Tamlyn in your absence. We've been carrying on with business as usual.
"However, we have heard from travelers heading west from Restov mention that another of Rostland's chartered expeditions has settled a frontier settlement much like Horace. They've named it Varnhold, and it's located on the far side of the mountains to the east, across the Kamelands."
"This...this is...words fail me," your councilor stammers, surveying the slain beast.
"Besides dispatching a contingent to secure this cleared-out troll hole, should I also recruit some of our hunters and militia to trace this monster's trail back to its den? We may find some clues to this mystery there."
"Well, I wish I could say that was the only matter we have to settle," Asham says, looking at some points on a map tacked upon the council table. "Besides various reports and sightings from nearby regions, there's still plenty of work to do around Horace."
We can either complete another kingdom turn, or we can investigate one of the plot hooks you guys have received: the swamp witch, the trolls, planting a gem orchard, the cairn treasure map, or reaching out to the Varnhold colony beyond the mountains to the east.
"There is one other matter to consider, too," Asham says with some trepidation.
Addy hefts in the ornate box of living wood, the size of a carriage's luggage chest, left behind by Queen Nyrissa and sets it down on a table in the council chambers.
"In days past, this would've been a joke for Lady Wonky, but in her absence I've had some of our other local experts examine this. They all conclude that the box and its contents are neither cursed nor trapped."
Despite these assurances, Asham looks nervous to see her wife holding and then opening the box.
At first it appears to be filled to the brim with brilliantly colored fruit: apples, pears, figs, and pomegranates, as well as a few you don't immediately recognize. However, upon closer inspection, you discover that these fruit are actually large gems.
"According to some of our First Citizens, in their homeland there are trees that grow gems rather than fruit. These seem to be proof of that," Asham explains. She tries to keep the awe and wonder out of her voice, but it is plain upon her face.
It would take a bit of time to find buyers or markets to sell these, since you can't think of very many Tamlyn residents with the wealth to buy these incredible gemstones.
You can either sell these gems for a total of 24,000 gp, or you can convert them into 6 BP to add to your treasury.
In either case, the funds will be available at the start of the next kingdom turn.
"The good news is that the nymph queen's departure seems to have signaled a 'closing bell' for all her fey courtiers and sycophants," your councilor announces, surveying the scene outside from the window. "If any of them do decide to linger, I just hope they won't be...problematic."
Ash punctuates this with an involuntary shudder.
"So, where do we start?" she asks, composing herself. "Say the word, and Addy and I will get the workers in motion."
We can plan the next Kingdom Turn in the Discussion tab.
"Should I recall some militia members to retrieve and escort the tanner? Where should we...carry out the sentence? Right now, almost all of the visiting fey are gathered in the fields east of Miss Tremaine's dance hall and Madame Vika's inn."
Magister and Treasurer are right out; Katrine has no interest in or aptitude for that sort of thing. Same with Diplomat and Spymaster.
"What does a Marshal do?"
"Well, while a General commands a nation's military forces and the Warden enforces the law in settlements, the Marshal ensures that the laws are being enforced in the remote parts of the land, as well as in the spaces between settlements. The Marshal is also responsible for securing our borders against threats such as banditry and roving monsters."
Pelipe:
These storm clouds are neither forming nor moving naturally. The wind currents should ensure that forming storms roll southward along the lake abutting the town, rather than moving northward off the lake.
Magic could easily account for such phenomenon. Fey and nature spirits attuned to the rain, wind, and thunder could cause such an occurrence if working in concert, and it seems quite likely that such a group may be summoning this storm as a means of paying tribute to the powerful fey queen due to arrive in Tamlyn.
"Well, with the departure of Miss Prong, we will be needing a new Magister," Asham recounts, idly watching the dark clouds rolling north from the lake. "I'm sure Oleg would eagerly retire from being our Treasurer so he could return to running his trading post.
"I would step down from my own post as Councilor, if you wish, but I doubt that Addy would allow it. Our Diplomat, Marshal, and Spymaster have also expressed interest in taking leave and attending to business back at their respective homes."
Magister uses Intelligence or Charisma, Treasurer uses Intelligence or Wisdom, Grand Diplomat uses Charisma or Intelligence, Marshal uses Dexterity or Wisdom, and Spymaster uses Dexterity or Intelligence.
Pelipe's question seems to spark an epiphany for Asham.
"Oh! I hadn't thought of that!" she exclaims, beginning to think about the sequence of events.
"The winds began before the creatures escaped," she soon replies with a good amount of certainty. "I remember because Hexa was down at the lakeside, helping haul boats off the water to safety, when he was summoned to start rounding up the escaped beasts."
"When the jubjub bird escaped, even the dangerous fey 'visiting' Horace scattered for safety, clearly frightened of the beast," Asham says grimly. "I have never heard of such a creature, even in the fairy tales I heard as a child, but I am sure that it is the most dangerous of the escapees."
"According to the last information I received, there were four creatures that Warden Hexa and his hunters haven't been able to manage: a pair of giant owlbears that escaped south and east along the lake shore, a giant slug that has been rampaging - albeit slowly - across the farmlands to the north, and something called a pygmy jubjub bird that was last sighted charging past the sawmill to the west, heading for the forest."
Asham reports that the menagerie is currently encamped just east of the dance hall and library.
"The owner is a lean, willowy fellow with purplish skin," she says. "Kind of like a lavender flower. He's also dressed like a fop, like he came straight out of some nobleman's ball."
"Nyrissa? Aye, we've been hearing that name a lot in the past few days, much to the consternation of our First Citizens," Asham replies to Ahto as her newly returned wife dotes upon the exhausted councilor. "You can easily distinguish our own fey from these newcomers by how willingly they speak or hear that name. Our grigs and sprites? They shudder at the name as though it were the foulest curse imaginable."
However, Asham confirms that the infamous Nyrissa has not yet made herself known in Tamlyn. She then digresses to offer proper greetings to Katrine and Pelipe, the honored guests.
"Where to begin with the menagerie?" Ash groans, briefly cradling her head in her hands. "I don't know what's worse: the exhibits that escaped or the ones still in captivity."
The escaped creatures causing the most trouble are a giant slug, a mated pair of giant owlbears, and something called a pygmy jubjub bird, which (despite its epithet) is still also quite large in size. However, there has also been some unease about the handful of humanoids that they fey owner of the menagerie has kept in captivity.
"Although some of our residents certainly find it whimsical, others find it disturbing to see humans and halflings being treated like beasts. I knew your lordship would undoubtedly take issue with the affront, so I've been petitioning and negotiating to secure their release. So far, though, the owner of the menagerie keeps demanding outrageous compensation for their release."
Pelipe:
Among the stories you've heard coming out of this land of Tamlyn, one concerns a hunter by the name of Teuni-Hexa. He is apparently a lizardfolk who was exiled from his tribe, somewhere to the southeast. When the charter of colonization for this region was given to Ahto, Teuni-Hexa was one of his adventuring companions at the time. He now serves as Lord Ahto's warden.
The Tuskwater is a brown, rocky lake surrounded by cliffs and steep hills. The town of Horace was founded upon its northern edge. Nearly every river in the Kamelands and Narlmarches lead, inevitably, to Tuskwater. The lake experience seasonal floods, brought on by the spring thaw, spilling out into ravines along its length to the west. However, there is no natural reason for gale-strength winds to be localized upon its waters. This must be caused by one or more of the visiting fey.
Your steeds are guided to the castle stables, and you make for the council chambers in the keep.
As the councilors of Tamlyn ready themselves, Pelipe has just enough time to complete her impromptu accessory. Addy provides some valuable input and assistance that ensures it is completed just as the party enters the audience chamber.
Scant moments have passed before Councilor Asham comes crashing through the door. Her face is streaked with sweat, and she is clearly out of breath from hustling around Horace. She half runs, half collapses into her wife's arms. Addy, or rather the Vixen, just about scoops up Ash into her arms to lead her into a chair beside the broad, round table.
Asham gives a quick briefing on the situation.
As you've already seen, Captain Garess and Father Kavken had been leading the effort to drive the leshys and other fey beasties from the farms outside Horace.
"They were being assisted by Teuni-Hexa and the local hunters, but they've been redirected to the latest disaster," Asham groans. "One of the fey nobles brought an entire menagerie with them. It was quite the spectacle, and our residents were actually enjoying it - until some of the creatures escaped. Hexa, Vekkel, and practically every hunter and trapper in Tamlyn are out trying to catch them. They've made it a bit of a competition. I'm glad they're having such fun," she says, too exhausted to even hide her sarcasm.
Paval, Eunomia, and Harmond have been spearheading the policing effort around Horace, attempting to get the visiting fey to follow the laws. Tyg and Perlivash have been leading the First Citizens in support of them, and they've...they've been doing their best, but propagating law and order is new to them. Meanwhile, Barris Volklev is been down by the Tuskwater, praying to quell the strange gales blowing in off the lake.
"Father Kavken had previously been assisting him, but the two had...something of a disagreement. To his credit, Father Kavken decided to be the bigger man and step away, leaving Barris to the responsibility.
"My real pity goes to Madame Tremaine and her circle," Ash says, referring to the courtesans at the dance hall. "They've been working almost nonstop to placate some of the more fun-loving fey by keeping them entertained.....With their music and dance, I mean!" Ash quickly corrects herself, with plaintively raised palms.
"The time to refit the carriage largely depends on whom you intend to entrust with the task. A local wheelwright might take anywhere from 3 days to a week to complete the task. On the other hand, our very own gnomish genius might be able to achieve success much faster."
Whilst the Vixen and Wonky send a message to Melianse, using a bit of magic to aid them, Asham departs to summon the students. Eunomia, meanwhile, sets about securing horses and supplies for the journey.
In due time, the council is joined in the castle courtyard by the nixie representative of the fey, members of the militia, and the lion's share of the self-defense students.
"I couldn't assemble everyone," Ash explains. "I couldn't find Jocelyn or Tomi, for instance. They're busy working, I'm told."
She turns to her wife.
"So, do you have an inspirational speech prepared, dear?" she asks with a subdued smile.
"The saboteur caught us by surprise the first time. We won't be taken unawares again," Ash states confidently and defiantly. From her tone, you suspect she takes this situation as both a personal affront and challenge. "In addition to the militia, I have no doubt that Masters Paval, Hexa, and Volklev will be eager to go on the hunt for this villain even in your absence."
Asham removes a large, rolled sheet of crisp parchment from a shelf along the wall in the council chambers. She unfurls it upon the table, anchoring the corners with copper pieces, revealing a map of the River Kingdoms. A newly drawn map, at that, adding Tamlyn's borders and Horace in their proper place.
"Uringen is about...150 miles to the southwest, as the raven flies," Ash announces, walking her fingers across the map. "Even on horseback, there and back again is a fortnight's travel. Were you of a mind to make the journey yourself, or did you have reliable representatives in mind to serve as your delegation?"
Grigori is ushered out of the council chambers. Asham heaves a sigh once he is gone.
"I was really hoping that apprehending him would be the end to our sabotage troubles," she says, shaking her head. "I'll keep the militia patrols on the lookout for whomever was responsible for the granary. Maybe we'll get lucky again, and they'll show themselves, too."
"Oh no! I didn't mean it like that!" she quickly corrects herself, calloused hands raised plaintively.
"It's just...Teskerten reminds me of the city girls I knew growing up, the daughters of merchants and guild members. When we would bring our animals to market, they'd sneer and hurl insults at me. 'Why'd Old Kavinka dress one of his animals like a daughter? Does he visit her real mother at midnight in the barn?'" with a mocking voice, she parrots the remembered taunts.
Ash sighs, then in a sudden surge of anger pounds her fist against the wooden door frame. She clutches her hand, cursing and wincing, quickly regretting her outburst.
"I'll check in with Melianse to find out if our First Citizens have been practicing their music at inopportune hours," Ash offers.
"Regarding Miss Teskerten, I can't say that I've had much reason to cross paths with her. She and I...well, let's just say she's not my kind of people. Anyhow, I believe she works as a seamstress out of her cottage near the inn.
"As for posting a guard at the granary, should we use a rotation of militia members or should we assign some of Commander Garess' regulars? They might be better able to apprehend our mystery man, but I can easily guess that the commander will be displeased with having his soldiers placed on such menial duty."
"I'm not much better," Tomi sighs, dejected. "At least I've been doing much better with Ash and Addy's fighting lessons. My hands seem better suited to carrying a spear than a samisen. I'm making new friends, too. I've been getting on well with Jocelyn the tanner, first during fighting lessons and now during militia drills. If we get paired up, patrolling at night might not be such a bore."
Vixen:
If the creaking floor wakes Ash, she does not stir from the bed, presumably trusting her wife's ability to take care of herself. Huntress, however, offers an indignant yet curious chirrup and slithers after the Vixen.
Outside upon the castle parapet, the night wind carries hints of fey music from somewhere out in the dark. Or it could simply be a figment of the Vixen's imagination. Below the castle walls, Horace remains dark. Only the occasional bobbing light of a torch or lantern carried by one of the newly minted militia patrols stands out from a distance.
In the morning, Asham submits reports drawn from the militia patrols.
"Tanith and Nell took the first watch. In fact, Tanith was very specific about taking the first watch. She said it would give her time to rest for a few hours before having to rise again and begin baking the day's bread. Anyhow, they reported seeing nothing unusual.
"Tomi and Jocelyn were on the second watch. Jocelyn reports seeing a man that may have been our rabble-rouser lurking around the granary. At the time, Tomi was relieving herself, so Jocelyn was on her own. She says she chased him off but could not catch him.
"Vekkel and Hexa volunteered for the last watch. I would have thought our warden would have more important things to do than patrol like a common grunt, but hells if I could dissuade him. He was dead set on taking the 'dawn watch' as he called it, and that one-legged hunter's become as much a part of his personal hunting band as his horse or that dinosaur.
"Anyway, Hexa reports seeing a local woman - Lily Teskerten - slipping into the smithy before the forges were even lit. Apparently Vekkel convinced him not to interfere, although Hexa could not fully understand the reasoning."
"I asked after some of the women from our defense lessons," Ash says to Abby and the council with a smile. "I was looking for potential recruits for our militia. We...may have sparked some enthusiasm in them, since I ended up with more volunteers than I expected. I suppose we should be relieved that at least some of our new recruits will have a good foundation to build upon."
The good news ends there, unfortunately. Later that day, Asham - clearly fuming - brings some unpleasant news to the council.
"Rats got into the granary!" she reports, throwing her hands up in impotent rage. "Much of what we stored over the winter's been spoiled!"
Food Shortage: Spoilage, treachery, or bad luck has caused a food shortage this turn. Attempt a Stability check. If you succeed, Consumption in the next Upkeep Phase increases by 50%. If you fail, Consumption in the next Upkeep Phase increases by 100%.
Edict Phase (Cont.)
Assign Leadership: No change
Claim or Abandon Hexes: Claim Rickety Bridge Hex (1 BP)
Build Terrain Improvements: Farms in Rickety Bridge Hex (4 BP)
Create and Improve Settlements: Dance Hall (4 BP), upgrade Tenement (2 BP, -1 Unrest)
Create Army Units: Horace Militia (Small Army) (1 BP)
Issue Edicts: No changes
Income Phase
Make Withdrawals from the Treasury: None
Make Deposits to the Treasury: None
Sell Expensive Items for BP: Trade Goods and Jewelry (8,000gp => 2 BP)
Collect Taxes:
Economy Check DC 26:1d20 + 21 ⇒ (20) + 21 = 41
Result: 13 + 2 = +15 BP
Event Phase
25% base chance of event; 75% base chance if no event last turn.
Event on 1-75:1d100 ⇒ 46 Type of Event:1d100 ⇒ 41 = Dangerous Kingdom Event!
Specific Event:1d100 ⇒ 39 = Food Shortage!
Edict Phase
Assign Leadership: No change
Claim or Abandon Hexes: Claim Rickety Bridge Hex (1 BP)
Build Terrain Improvements:
Create and Improve Settlements: Dance Hall (4 BP), upgrade Tenement (2 BP, -1 Unrest)
Create Army Units: None
Issue Edicts: No changes
Before completing the Income Phase, did you want to sell any items or make any deposits to the Treasury? You have 6850gp in trade goods and 2400gp in assorted jewelry recovered from the bandits. You could trade this in for 2 BP and still have 1250gp left over in cash.
News of the proposed dance hall quickly flees from the castle walls and spreads through Horace, bringing much cheer to the residents at this, the start of a new year. Tremaine and her courtesans are soon deluged with visitors wishing them well on their future performances, as well as people jockeying for seats to the opening night.
Asham, with the backing of Paval and Oleg, suggests expanding the barony's borders to the northwest, along the Thorn River.
"The old bridge lies that way. Master Paval has - quite thoroughly - explained why it would be advantageous to secure and control all the crossings over the Shrike and Thorn. On the other hand, I know that for Master Oleg, the more important business is eventually extending our control towards the nearby vein of gold."
"Paval and Hexa have provided updates regarding rumors going around Horace. Considering how many new residents have been arriving each day, and how large our town has grown, it's not surprising that rumors spread so easily."
Loggers, hunters, and even fey continue to report sightings of a "dragon" in the Narlmarches. Witnesses claim it has been gobbling up people, although no one can actually name any potential victims.
In addition to the "Swamp Witch" who dwells somewhere along the swampy shores of the lake, there are also stories about a mad hermit to the south. They say he speaks to beasts, sleeps in a tree, and eats people he catches.
"Perhaps the most worrying account, however, concerns the would-be bandit king, the late Stag Lord," Asham states. "Wagging tongues claim that he's risen from the dead and is plotting some manner of revenge. I suspect these stories might be coming from the reformed bandits who number among our citizens. It is not hard to imagine that these superstitious fellows fear their pasts catching up to them."
Upkeep Phase
Determine Kingdom Stability:
Stability Check DC 24:1d20 + 22 ⇒ (13) + 22 = 35
Stability Check Effect: -1 Unrest (New level: 0)
Consumption Cost: 3 BP (Treasury: 17 BP)
Fill Magic Item Slots: None
Modify Unrest: No change
Edict Phase
Assign Leadership: No changes
Claim or Abandon Hexes: Claim hex west of Horace (1 BP)
Build Terrain Improvements: Sawmill in new hex (3 BP), Road in Capital hex (3 BP)
Create and Improve Settlements: Shop (8 BP) and Tenement (1 BP and +2 Unrest)
Create Army Units: None
Issue Edicts: No changes
Income Phase
Make Withdrawals from the Treasury: None
Make Deposits to the Treasury: None
Sell Expensive Items for BP: None
Collect Taxes:
Economy Check DC 24:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (20) + 19 = 39
Result: 13+1+1 = +15 BP (Treasury: 16 BP)
Event Phase
25% base chance of event; 75% base chance if no event last turn.
Event on 1-25:1d100 ⇒ 74
The first month of the new year proves to be quite peaceful. However, that should not be mistaken for unproductive. With the completion of the sawmill and the opening of Oleg's General Store, business continues to boom in Tamlyn. More merchants visit Horace, and more laborers and homesteaders also flock to the frontier settlement.
In the next Kingdom Turn, claiming the hex for logging (1 BP), building the sawmill there (3 BP), building a road in Horace's hex (3 BP), and building a Shop (8 BP) and House (3 BP) would produce a total cost of 18 BP. However, after paying the kingdom's consumption at the start of the turn, we would only have 17 BP in the treasury. We could put off the road for now, build the Dance Hall instead of the Shop, or build a Tenement instead of a House (for 1 BP instead of 3 BP).
"Giving control of the shop to Mister Leveton is a fine idea. As our treasurer, he is perhaps the most business minded among us.
"Lord Ahto is also correct that it would extend the reach of our supply lines: people wouldn't need to send messages to the trading post or make the trip themselves. Common or much sought goods could be shifted from the post to the store, being ready at hand and easing the process for our citizens."
Upkeep Phase
Determine Kingdom Stability:
Stability Check DC 24:1d20 + 20 ⇒ (7) + 20 = 27 = Success!
Stability Check Effect: -1 Unrest
Consumption Cost: 3 BP
Fill Magic Item Slots: none
Modify Unrest: No change
Edict Phase
Assign Leadership: No changes
Claim or Abandon Hexes: None yet
Build Terrain Improvements:
Create and Improve Settlements: Granary in Horace (12 BP)
Create Army Units: None
Issue Edicts: No change
Income Phase
Make Withdrawals from the Treasury: None
Make Deposits to the Treasury: None
Sell Expensive Items for BP: None
Collect Taxes:
Economy Check DC 24:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (7) + 19 = 26
Result: +8 BP (tax revenue), +1 BP (Sootscale mine)
Event Phase
25% base chance of event; 75% base chance if no event last turn.
Event on 1-75:1d100 ⇒ 8 Event Type:1d100 ⇒ 10 = Beneficial Kingdom Event!
Beneficial Kingdom Event:1d100 ⇒ 31 = Economic Boom!
Economic Boom Windfall:1d6 + 1d6 ⇒ (6) + (5) = 11 BP
The unrest in Tamlyn continues to subside as the human settlers grow accustomed to their First Citizen neighbors - especially as tales spread about the fey of Crystalhue who helped rescue the Cooperson boy.
The newly constructed granary inspires confidence in the populace, but the markets of Horace prove to be rather bearish. Although the Sootscale kobolds deliver their small tithe of silver and precious stones, the rest of the barony's revenue for the month is light as the citizens brace themselves for the looming winter.
However, the blessings of Crystalhue soon show themselves in your barony's blossoming prosperity. Not only was the festival a boon day for local artisans and laborers, but it also drew far more traveling merchants than the town usually attracts. Furthermore, the success of the Crystalhue celebration has effectively put Tamlyn on the map, ensuring that many of those merchants will add your land to their regular trade circuit.
We've rolled the Economic Boom kingdom event, adding a windfall of 11 BP to your treasury.
"I can't say I've ever even heard of Uringen," she admits, inwardly embarrassed by her lack of knowledge. "I could seek out travelers, merchants, or even residents who've visited the town and gather stories from them."
"The arm of the forest due west of Horace would be ideal for logging," Asham confirms, "Especially since it contains the last leg of the Skunk River, which would be great for turning a sawmill wheel.
"Of course, speaking of Melianse, we can't press too far west. Her home lies in that direction, and she's made it clear that it's not to be disturbed. I think it would be best to respect her wishes, especially if she is responsible for saving the Cooperson boy."
The hex immediately west of Horace is safe for a sawmill. The hex just to the west of that one has Melianse's pool.
One hex to the west again has Tiressia's grove.
"We certainly have enough in our treasury to construct a granary. Now would be a good time, since winter is upon us. Since we haven't expanded our territory to the forest's edge, I don't think we can construct a sawmill yet. Independent loggers already bring in timber from local copses, but they would want the protection of patrols and watchposts before operating that far from Horace."
A Granary costs 12 BP, and after paying consumption, you will have 13 BP at minimum.
The Sawmill terrain improvement has to be in a forest hex, and you haven't claimed one yet.
"I don't know whether this could be considered a domestic matter, but some of your former companions visiting for the festival brought word that Althea Thrune has fled Brevoy after her complicity with the bandits was discovered. Her current whereabouts are unknown."
"I know," Ash replies with a smirk when they stand at the door to their suite.
She reaches for Addy's hand at the same time, causing your knuckles to bump. You share a smile and laugh before competing to see who can tug the other into the room, akin to a romantic tug-of-war.
"I'm glad your family seemed to like me," Ash says sheepishly, sitting on the bed. Her confidence has flown now that you are in private. She has consulted the library and other councilors to learn how to fulfill her role for Tamlyn, resulting in the professional affect she cultivates out in public. She can best be described as a councilor on the streets and a shy, awkward farm girl among the sheets.
Fortunately, she is in the best company she could hope for.
"Now that we're drawing close to the year's end, I thought it would be best to prepare a summary for you lords and ladies regarding the state of Tamlyn," Asham explains to the rest of the council on the following day.
"Regarding Crystalhue..." she begins, putting aside a fleeting blush and smile.
"Tyg and her friends came up to me and asked why everyone was thanking them. I explained that they were grateful that they rescued the Cooperson boy, but that seemed to only confuse them further. After asking around a bit more, I've found that none of the fey in Horace claim to be responsible for saving the boy. I don't know what this could mean, but I thought it best to bring to your attention.
"On the same topic, I've been informed by Lord Garess and Father Kavken that we need to be wary of the Volso family. The rest of the clan is apparently just as belligerent and liable to hold a grudge as Ariscus. They left their previous town because of a feud with another family; the Volsos claim they left in protest, but most other people say they were run out of town for causing trouble. I think Lord Ahto's ultimatum may have instilled the right amount of fear in Ariscus, but we should look out for trouble from his kin."
After the punishments have been doled out and the families have been dismissed, the newlywed councilor Asham approaches the party.
"I have a report for the year's end to deliver, but it will have to wait until tomorrow," she explains. A sheepish look crosses her face. "I...um...promised Addy that I'd abstain from work for the day, to honor the holiday."
Although her outfit is new, an indulgence that she likely only made with encouragement, it is a far cry from being a dress or gown. Asham has put together her best approximation of an officer or seneschal's uniform, although the somewhat cobbled-together pieces are hardly uniform. It certainly provides a bit of contrast to Addison - to say nothing of the night-and-day difference with the outfit which Hibernia Orlovsky has been spotted wearing.
Even rarer, though, is the fact that Ash has clearly allowed (or perhaps entreated) someone to help her with her hair and a spot of cosmetics. Rather than being a show for the festival goers, it is clearly a treat for one person in particular. Proof of the confidence she has gained, Ash does not lose her composure upon receiving the kiss; her cheeks take on their usual blush, though.
...
"Mortro has parked his wagons on the western edge of town, beyond the tannery and smithy. It had the most space available, since much of the festival grounds are on the north side, and I wanted to keep their animals away from the houses on the east side."
Ash leads you past the smithy, where Taured charges a couple coppers for folks to hurl rejected horseshoes towards stakes driven into the frost-flecked ground.
The menagerie's wagons are obscured from view as a number of canvas sheets, suspended between tall poles, have been erected to hide the scene from non-paying eyes. A garishly dressed man in a hat two sizes too big for him stands before the divider, taking payments from adults and children alike to allow them to step beyond the curtain and see the strange beasts kept beyond.
"I did not tell him he could begin admitting customers," Ash growls, her voice containing equal parts anger, frustration, and worry.
Asham develops an itinerary for the performances. The human entertainers are scheduled first.
"I'm not sure what manner of performance the fey will be putting on, but it didn't seem fair to make Miss Tremaine and her friends have to follow them."
The fey will perform after lunch, and then Sprocket will be the grand finale.
"Once more, it didn't seem fair to make anyone try to follow that act."
She also informs the council that several locals have set up stalls selling their wares, as well as a few who have attempted to set up games and other diversions. It remains to be seen how well those will go over.
"Master Hexa and Vekkel are judging an archery contest. I pity anyone trying to meet their standards. Jocelyn the tanner has teamed up with a couple of our reformed bandits to put together a game they call 'Bandit Toss.' It seems to be a simple bean bag toss, with caricatures of bandits drawn upon the bags, and players trying to toss them through holes in boards painted to look like jail cells or, yikes, shallow graves. I suppose it's nice they can make light of their past," she adds with a plaintive shrug.
"Most interestingly and unexpectedly, a small traveling menagerie has also arrived. The owner introduced the exhibition as Master Mortro's Magnificent Menagerie of Mivon. I told him he would need approval to set up shop, so to speak, in case any of his animals are too dangerous."
Ainsel, sitting upon Asham's shoulder, whispers into the councilor's ear.
"No, if you lose the competition, I'm certain they won't feed you to the big dog," she reassures the sprite, maintaining her composure despite the fey intruding upon her personal space.
Melianse ushers her smaller kin out of the council chambers to attempt a serious discussion with them regarding the children of Tamlyn. Before she herself slips out the door, the nixie sorceress whispers something beneath her breath and aims a finger towards Eunomia - who quickly finds, to her relief, that her nose returns to its normal size.
"We have a few other pieces of business to attend to, although none of them are as...fantastical as a pageant of dancing fey," Asham announces.
"First off, Barris had a grievance to air. He seemed quite agitated and was holding up a gold coin, but I didn't quite follow what he was trying to explain.
"Next, there are a couple of visitors seeking audience. Mister Ismort reports that a 'noble-looking bunch,' to use his own words, arrived at the castle gates asking to see Lord Orlovsky. Akiros failed to provide their identity," she adds, her voice hinting at distaste for the lackadaisical bandit-turned-guard.
"Lastly, the new inn is nearly complete. I'm told that all that remains is to move in the furnishings, which the owner is handling herself. She has asked to speak with you, I presume to offer thanks for subsidizing her new business. She specifically asked after 'Lord Ahto' and 'Lady Wonky' by name, offering her own as Madame Vika."
When the First Citizens Edict is delivered, the people of Horace and Tamlyn fall into two camps. The first group seem not to understand the pronouncement, perhaps discounting it as merely noble rhetoric. The other group, though, cling to their superstitions, and talk of fey walking among the town streets leaves them afright.
The following month unites the two camps in shock when the fey arrive. Tyg, Perlivash, Falchos, and Melianse are the familiar faces you see among them. There are a few other small strangers, though, that Wonky readily points out as sprites, atomies, pixies, and even a pooka.
A deluge of complaints are heaped upon any authority the people can reach. Captain Garess, Akiros, Father Kavken, Eunomia, and even Lord Ahto are hounded as every misfortune that happens around Horace is now attributed to these fey. Of course, given the fey's penchant for pranks, at least some of these incidents are genuine - especially when Mr. Welkin reports that he woke up to discover his shaggy cows' fur dyed bright shades of pink, yellow, and green.
However, there is one practical factor that begins to quickly redeem the fey.
New Subjects Income Windfall:1d6 ⇒ 5BP
The fey bring treasures from the forest, exchanging rare herbs, berries, tea leaves, and lost Iobarian treasures for alcohol, sweets, and bits of metalwork from Taured's smithy. What's more, farmers and herded around Horace have begun leaving offerings in hopes of attracting "house sprites" to help them with their chores. A sudden rise in morale and productivity suggests that brownies or domovoi may have indeed taken residence in local households.
Vixen:
I started drafting this before you made your new post. This takes place when you share your backstory with Asham but before you begin preparing for Crystalhue.
Asham delivers a friendly punch to your shoulder after hearing out your story.
"You goose, you had me scared!" she exclaims. "When you were talking about some 'ugly past', I was expecting to hear that you were part of a dark cult, one of those bandits, caught up in the Chelish slave trade, or - heavens forbid - raised by goblins."
Asham's mood quickly subsides. She seizes you and pulls you into an embrace, placing a hand on the back of your head.
"Thank you for sharing your life with me," she coos reassuringly.
"That's all in the past now. You're here, with us, with me. You are safe here. You are right here."
Upkeep Phase
Determine Kingdom Stability:
Stability Check DC 24:1d20 + 21 ⇒ (17) + 21 = 38
Stability Check Effect: +1 BP
Consumption Cost: 3 BP
Fill Magic Item Slots: None
Modify Unrest: No change
Edict Phase
Assign Leadership: No change
Claim or Abandon Hexes: None
Build Terrain Improvements: None
Create and Improve Settlements: Inn (10 BP) and House (3 BP) in Horace
Create Army Units: None
Issue Edicts: No mechanical edicts
Income Phase
Make Withdrawals from the Treasury: None
Make Deposits to the Treasury: None
Sell Expensive Items for BP: None
Collect Taxes:
Economy Check DC 24:1d20 + 23 ⇒ (16) + 23 = 39
Result: +13 BP (+1 from Kobold Mine)
Event Phase
25% base chance of event; 75% base chance if no event last turn.
Event on 1-25:1d100 ⇒ 41
The dryad appears utterly unfazed by Sprocket's gesture, presumably accepting it as merely a course of nature.
"The matter of a fey ambassador - which itself will be a curious change - brings to mind some other pressing business," Asham says on the ride back to Horace. "The air grows bitter. How shall we handle winter?"
For the next kingdom turn, did you want to claim any new hexes? Construct any new buildings in Horace? Build army units?
Feel free to make your suggestions in the Discussion thread.
Upkeep Phase
Determine Kingdom Stability:
Stability Check DC 23:1d20 + 20 ⇒ (4) + 20 = 24
Stability Check Effect: Success, +1 BP
Consumption Cost: 2 BP
Fill Magic Item Slots: None
Modify Unrest: n/a
Edict Phase
Assign Leadership: No change
Claim or Abandon Hexes: Claim Sootscale Hex (1 BP)
Build Terrain Improvements: Build Mine in Sootscale Hex (6 BP)
Create and Improve Settlements: Build Library in Horace (6 BP)
Create Army Units: None
Issue Edicts: None
Income Phase
Make Withdrawals from the Treasury: None
Make Deposits to the Treasury: None
Sell Expensive Items for BP: None
Collect Taxes:
Economy Check:1d20 + 22 ⇒ (15) + 22 = 37
Result: +12 BP
Event Phase
25% base chance of event; 75% base chance if no event last turn.
Event on 1-25:1d100 ⇒ 28
Vixen:
Ash smiles and blushes as she listens to how you regaled children with your shared story.
”Really now?” she manages to squeak between happily embarrassed chuckles. ”A story about me? Those must’ve been some disappointed children.”
She leans further, closer into your embrace.
”I didn’t see Kalima as just some noble, same as she didn’t see me as some farm girl with a sword. I guess we’ve just been turning that attitude to critters with scales, tails, wings, and what-not. Seeing as they’re capable of delivering mail, I suppose it only makes sense to treat them square.”
The talk of a jewelry elicits a furrowed brow from Asham. She seems surprised, and a bit confused. However, her face tells you that she does not suspect your true intent.
”Can’t say that we’ve attracted anything as specialized or fancy as a dedicated jeweler. For something like that, we’d still have to go through our dear treasurer and his merchant contacts. Or hope that some equally connected peddler comes rolling through town.”
A smile flashes across Asham's face. Had she been holding any sort of portfolio or missives, they would have run the risk of being physically cast aside as the councilor wordlessly yet eagerly accepts the offer.
As Wonky hurries off to her quarters within the castle, Asham reaches into her belt pouch.
"I almost forgot. This...message arrived for you. Well, it was left on a window sill, weighted down with a small rock, anyway.
Your councilor offers what appears to be a large leaf, folded over into fourths and sealed with a bit of tree sap.
Fey Letter:
Dear big friends,
We've invited some other friends to meet
at the cairn and hold a memorial for Horace.
We really hope you'll come, too. No pranks, we promise!
Please come at the new moon.
"Welcome back," Asham calls out as you approach. She stands beside the barracks. Her breath remains slightly ragged, as though she ran out to meet you as soon as word reached her of your return. Although she overs prime respect to Lord Ahto, it is obvious which of your party her eyes linger upon most.
"I'd ask how the hunt went, but there was never any doubt of the outcome," she says with a smile. "Hopefully you weren't expecting more excitement too soon, for I have no terribly pressing business to report."
Wonky - choose whether to first attempt Knowledge: Arcana, History, Nature, Planes, or Religion. Your check will reflect either your own initial research with the materials you have at hand or correspondences with contacts at the University of Lepidstadt for more information.
Rova finds Horace and the surrounding countryside busier than ever. Many local woodsmen and artisans joke about how they plan to save up money to commission copper or pewter tankards from the "sharp-tongued elf" in advance of next year's Armasse. The farmers work to coax the quick-growing crops sown, having planted late in the growing season, to ensure a stable food supply as autumn creeps forth.
It is during this month, when the Greenbelt's heat finally begins to abate, that Asham escorts a farmer to the castle. He clutches a straw hat in his hands and gapes at the tall, sturdy walls in awkward awe.
"Mr. Welkin here has a farmstead just south of the river crossing," Asham explains, encouraging the jittery man to step forward. "He's lost a few heads of livestock in the past few days. He was unsure about bringing the matter to you, but I assured him that we could help."
