>>41548206
Past Threads: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=king+of+men+quest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KingValorian
Ask.fm: ask.fm/KingValorian
Resources Website: http://www.komquest.net/

>>41548206
>>C) We should provide immigration incentives.
I'm thinking the not!Frenchies might be a good source of immigration.

>>41548206
>C) We should provide immigration incentives.
From what I recall La Faresse is very urbanized. Some of them will likely jump at the chance to leave.

>>41548206
>C) We should provide immigration incentives.

>>41548206
Is it accurate to say we rule two kingdoms, Vastov and Greater Essland, and the capital of Greater Essland is Hoogstrad?

>>41548302
>>41548242

"A proper set of policies in place to encourage people to move here would be interesting. Perhaps we could even get the La Faressen people over? They share a large border with Vastov Minor, it seems the logical choice." She nods and then sighs,

"While that is true, sire, they will need to pass through Order Lands." You are taken aback and ask why, she rubs her arm nervously and explains.

"Well, sire, you see, there is a field of mystical thorns that stand between us and La Faresse. We have tried everything, cutting them, setting fire to them, and using poison, but they always regrow before the day is out. It would be impossible for people to move across the border." You raise your eyebrow, "Well, then, I demand to know who is doing this." She sighs, "That's the issue," the Duchess says as she shrugs, "We aren't certain. About five years ago it popped up and since then we've not been able to get through it. And we desperately relied on La Faressan goods and specialists to help us remain independent of the Order."

You have a few theories about who could be behind it before settling back in your chair and continuing, "Well, alright, then tell me about other neighboring lands. Who lives across the seas?" The Duchess speaks forlornly, "We cannot say. Vastov Minor hasn't had a running port for nearly fifty years at this point. Last we heard, there were Men across the seas, and there are also monsters. Records show that ships that sailed too far west were capsized and sunk without warning while out in open sea. We know not what lies out there now."

You nod and decide to first investigate....

>A) Across the Western Sea
>B) Opening the border between Vastov Minor and La Faresse.

>>41548364
[You could certainly say that, but you could just as easily say that it's all Vastov now, and that the entire area, which was Cernos' original kingdom, is Magna Vastov]

>>41548426
>>B) Opening the border between Vastov Minor and La Faresse.

>>41548426
>>B) Opening the border between Vastov Minor and La Faresse.
better than running into a new enemy.

>>41548426
>B) Opening the border between Vastov Minor and La Faresse.

>>41548502
>>41548458
>>41548456

"If we wish any measure of success we must be able to have access to our closest ally." She nods, "An excellent suggestion, sire. I am fully in support of this. What would you like to do to begin?"

>A) Have the Mage's Guild set up a camp near the thorns and investigate it.
>B) Go speak to the Fey about it
>C) Ask the Duchess if she knows anything more about who could have done it.

>>41548569
>>A) Have the Mage's Guild set up a camp near the thorns and investigate it.
it was obviously the Orders doing, and id like to rely on the Fae as little as possible

>>41548569
>>A) Have the Mage's Guild set up a camp near the thorns and investigate it.

>>41548569
>A) Have the Mage's Guild set up a camp near the thorns and investigate it.
There's also that magical power up north. We can pay for their assistance if need be.

>>41548673
This is a good way to get into contact with them. First we visit the Queen of La Faresse, then we ask Illuria to send a diplomatic mission to our capital

>>41548673
>>41548598
>>41548596

You call for a courier and send a message back to Vastov ordering the majority of the Mage's guild to go investigate the mystical thorns. You explain the order to the Duchess who happily agrees to provide them with whatever they need to see success. The two of you discuss matters of the realm for a bit as you realize from the discussion that this part of the world is not as populated as you had hoped. Though you did gain many people through this conquest, you nearly doubled your land ownership, and maybe gained an additional 40% of your population.

Naturally, you realize, the problem will even itself out over time under your rule, but without taking proper action now, you will be left with vast tracts of untended land.

You then bring up the name of the state to the north of the Order, Illuria, which you were told about by some of the people here. "Illuria?" The Duchess asks and then nods, "Ah, yes, I haven't heard that name in many years. Certainly, they may be able to help you out. They are extremely skilled in all things magical. Shall I request a diplomat be sent to discuss things with you? They will probably be extremely swift about it."

>A) Contact the Illurians immediately, we need that wall down as quickly as possible. Stay in Greater Essland.
>B) I owe the Queen a visit still, I will see if she can help on her end at all. Return to Vastov.

>>41548772
>>B) I owe the Queen a visit still, I will see if she can help on her end at all. Return to Vastov.

>>41548772
>>B) I owe the Queen a visit still, I will see if she can help on her end at all. Return to Vastov.

>>41548772
>>B) I owe the Queen a visit still, I will see if she can help on her end at all. Return to Vastov.

>>41548772
>>B) I owe the Queen a visit still, I will see if she can help on her end at all. Return to Vastov.

File: image.jpg (167 KB, 750x1334)

167 KB JPG

Guys

>>41548816
>>41548807

"Give it some time, let the Mage's Guild do what they can first." You stand up and call for your minister here, one scribe of a dozen or so in the city, and have them send the availability of Greater Essland's resources and people as soon as possible so you can command them. "For now, Duchess, I will return to Cernorian. I trust that you can take care of things while I am away." She nods, happy to prove herself to you, and you set off with your Honor Guard and half of the army, leaving the other half as a garrison/police force in Greater Essland.

~Deep Night, Fourthday~

You and your forces return to the capital. They are given housing by your order and they wearily, but thankfully, lay their heads down. You ascend the stairs to your keep after dismounting and enter the Great Hall. Ralero is sitting there, clearly devoid of sleep, scrolls and notes all around him as he rapidly glances at them to and fro, trying to keep himself calm.

You clear your throat and he jumps, bundles of paper and velum fall to the ground as he stands to attention. "Sire! I had not expected your return so swiftly." You walk over to the man, grip his hand and give a warm smile. "Yes, Ralero, I am back so swiftly. What can I say, I can only sleep in fields and other beds for so long before desiring my own. Besides, I am eager to see what you have done in my absence."

[cont]

>>41548938
Diabolical

>>41548958

A few minutes later he lays out what was done. The military recruitment has frozen, and the standing soldiers in Valeriya's army have been placed through the establishments to be trained. Not wanting to ruin the novelty, he left the newly written building options closed on your dresser for you to peruse at your will. Instead, he explained, he determined that more infrastructural improvements would be fitting. So, he established toll roads that would charge traders a pittance in coin, as well as travelers, to earn more wealth and pay for increased security through the kingdom. He also spoke to a few Guild members throughout the realm and they explained that the farming techniques used in the majority of the Kingdom were outdated and could use improvement. And so he funded their constructions.

You nod your head, taking it all in, before smiling, "As expect, Ralero, you are quite the manager. Are you certain you do not wish to do this more often?" His eyes bolt open, "NO!" His shout surprises you to laughter as he flushes and finishes, "...Ahem, sire. No, thank you." You laugh and put your hand on his shoulder briefly, and he laughs a bit as well, the two of you going up to your sitting room.

"What of persons of note and talent?" He flicks through his ledger, "I saw fit to hire a few professional merchants and appoint them to a royal role. They will seek out goods and crafts in our land that may be sold at value, as well as improving trade." You nod at his eternal good sense. "In regards to specific persons of interest, they will be arriving tomorrow morning. I had planned to meet with them before lunch, if you wish to meet them, sire." You nod, saying that it would be perfectly acceptable. You then turn to the important issue.

"Has the Queen of La Faresse sent any word?" Ralero smiles and produces a small letter from within the pages of his ledger. "I made certain that I was the only one to receive it." He passes it to you and you open it.

[cont]

From the rumors page

>Reports come to you as the summer yields to fall, that the Seelie forest is becoming more and more frightening. It may be worth investigating.

Since they border us we should investigate

>>41549047
It's Seelie giving way to the Unseelie. Its a seasonal thing in most mythologies.

>>41549097
could you explain a little more, or post a link?

Weren't we going to vote on our followers actions for while we were away or something?
>>41549047
Probably a harvest/day of the dead/spirits/halloween/etc. thing, or maybe the witch.
Definitely not checking it out before visiting the queen, as we could end up spending more time than we expect in the forest. I'd prefer to do it after talks with the centaurs.

>>41549126
What are you guys thinking should be our goal? Are we just trying to improve our realm, are we trying to conquer the globe, are we trying to unite the lands of Men?

>>41549106
Basically, the Seelie are affliliated with the spring and summer, and are alien but ultimately mostly benevolent. They can cause harm, but they either did it due to a misunderstanding of how humans worked, or you had it coming in some fashion. The Unseelie are alien and malevolent, and are associated with fall and winter.

>>41549042

""Your Majesty, King Valorion Vastov;

I am saddened to see us forced apart, once again, by the calls of our stations. However, I wish you all the best of success against the villains in the West, though I do not doubt your success. I know this letter will find you in the best health and triumph. I am planning another feast, coincidentally of course, on the evening of Fourthday next week. I do not expect you there, however, your appearance would be more than welcome, should you choose to grace my halls.

Yours in Truth,
-Queen Farrah Bethenne of La Faresse"

You close the letter and smile, seeing straight through her proper wording to the honest sentiment behind her words. "Ralero, did Vasily complete the order we set for him?" He nods, "Yes, of course, sire. He said that he was personally inspired by the presence of Contessa Eleisha, and because of it created a masterpiece. It rests in your chambers."

You walk into the room and take a look at it. A beautiful glass orb, nearly two feet across, stands on a beautifully carved base of oak. Inside the orb are two figures, one male, and one female. A small lever stands at the bottom and when you pull it, snow begins to twirl around them and music slowly rings out, a pleasant tune indeed. "Truly, this is a masterpiece." As you say that, the two figures begin to dance, not simply twirling around on a gear, but to shift and twirl, arms and legs moving, though a bit unnaturally, still with many more joints than you expected.

"I believe she will be pleased." Ralero says and you agree. "There is one other thing, sire. Word was sent yesterday of a large group of foreigners moving through Ruston, Foreigners in white garb, that briefly sparred with the guards at the Weighstation. The Guard requested Royal attention."

>A) See the Guard tomorrow
>B) Go see Queen Bethenne

>>41549126
[Ah yes, fair point, we'll do that after I get responses for this post]

>>41549149
Trying to survive and improve for now, we'll treat opportunities to expand as they come up, but we shouldn't get too ambitious too fast.

>>41549106
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classifications_of_fairies
Woefully incomplete, but there you got.

>>41549176
>>A) See the Guard tomorrow

>>41549176
[Also, lol, misspelled Valorian.]

>>41549176
Ruston is on the way to La Faresse, right?
Go check it out before we go meet the queen, I don't want no dirty zealot scum dirtying MY kingdom with hostile intentions.

>>41549176
>B) Go see Queen Bethenne
Can we see the Guard on our way north, a short detour?

>>41549176
>>B) Go see Queen Bethenne

>>41549217
>>41549234
[We certainly could make a detour. However, fair warning, often times when we make detours we get caught up in stuff that takes hours and hours.]

>>41549262
Move out very early so we have more time for bullshit, then?

>>41549182
Thanks! I read this http://faerie.monstrous.com/seelie_and_unseelie_court.htm

>>41549290
[We have that meeting with the persons of note who want to be hired in the morning. You could let Ralero handle it.]

>>41549305
Lets let Ralero handle it, he's been making good decisions it'll likely take the players a while to get around to

>>41549176
>B
Queen time. Perhaps the chief of the Khazdor dudes could see to the guard situation. Be nice to give home some authority within the kingdom.

>>41549305
Have Ralero house them in the capital until we return if they are even somewhat useful for free.

>>41549335
I'd be ok with this

>>41549335
Khazadite chief is a little too trigger happy to be dealing with possibly sensitive diplomatic situations, if you ask me.

>>41549378
>>41549353
>>41549335
>>41549234
>>41549237

"Is that so....in that case, change of plans, Ralero. I will have you house the candidates here in the palace tomorrow for free. See to it that they are treated well, and I will deal with them tomorrow afternoon. I will go handle the situation in Ruston personally tomorrow morning. Have this gift prepared for transport most delicately, even if it must be carried by hand, and I will be going to La Faresse tomorrow." He nods, taking note of your orders,

"Very well, sire. Ah, I held off from giving orders to your Followers sire, they have been sitting idle, I was...." he coughs softly, "A bit overwhelmed..." he finally mutters before your laughter makes him smile slightly. "It is no trouble, Ralero," you tell him with a sweeping gesture of the hand, "I will give you those orders."

[Please assign orders for your followers. I will pick the most popular options and reconcile the rest if possible.]

>>41549442
Ralero
>Observe the Realm
Vasily
>Study Blacksmithing
Catherine
>Reduce Corruption
Contessa Eleisha
>Spy on the Count
Aditya
>Attend training
Elsabeth
>Bodyguard Services

>>41549442
Rolerio should Observe

Cathrin should rest

the Countess should continue to reduce corruption

The shaman should train

And keep our body guard with us.

>>41549442
Eleisha spies in her father.
Catherine goes(comes?) to La Faresse and Creates New Trade.
Vasily studies Blacksmithing,
Vaditya attends training, she could also divine futre if anons want her to but I vote against it.
Elsabeth bodyguards and also gives us Tutelage in swordsmanship.

>>41549442
Ralero
>Observe the Realm
Vasily
>Study Blacksmithing
Catherine
>Reduce Corruption
Contessa Eleisha
>Spy on the Count
Aditya
>Attend training
Elsabeth
>Bodyguard Services
>Train swordsmanship

>>41549529
Sounds good. One more thing. Perhaps we could encourage the Kazadite chief oversee some military crosstraining.

>>41549593
>>41549581
Can we please do both for reduce corruption.
The QM confirmed that our corruption us pretty Damn high and that current corruption is assumed to be what happens when both worked on reducing it

>>41549689
>military crosstraining
What?
>>41549529
>>41549554
Would you too be against Elsabeth giving MC training while being a bodyguard?
>>41549442
I want to ask, how exactly does Follower Energy work? Do they keep unspent energy from orevious weeks? Like, Catherine has 10 energy/week but has a 30 energy action.

>>41549747
It means they keep working on it for weeks.

>>41549747
no as long as we dont need to be sedentary i dont mind elsabeth giving us training as we travel, even though that might be more energy than she can expend in a week

>>41549743
Income: 7,650 Crowns/Week [35% lost to corruption]
thats bad but not horrendous, i think between 15-20% is acceptable and i think one follower can get it to that

>>41549747
Training would be good.

>>41549442

Vasily
>Study Blacksmithing
Catherine
>Reduce Corruption
Contessa Eleisha
>Reduce Corruption
Aditya
>Attend training
Elsabeth
>Bodyguard Services
>Train swordsmanship

>>41549787
Each reduction is only 5%
Right now if we take both of them off and only do 1 it's gonna be 40% the qm confirmed it on the ask page.

>>41549747
Embed folks from our line infantry with the Kazadite fighters during some drills. Perhaps bring some useful skills back.

>>41549593
>>41549529

[Eleisha will spy on the Count, Ralero will observe the realm, Catherine will continue to reduce corruption in Vastov, Aditya will train, Vasily will study Blacksmithing, and Elsabeth will shadow us and train us in sword when she gets the chance.]

"Very good, sire, I'm sure they'll be very eager to be productive now that you have returned. I will send the word out." You thank him and then dismiss him, telling him that he needs the rest pretty badly. He smiles and thanks you for your concern.

~Morning, Fourthday~

You rest for a few hours, enough to fill you once more with energy. You dress in your field gear, not your full battle armor, but enough that you should be protected should things go unwell. Your Honor Guard are waiting with a carriage. Inside the carriage, held securely with whatever they could, is the precious gift, and it is strapped down and fastened as tightly as can be. To further protect it, three servants grip the handles of the chest and make sure it doesn't move too much. One of the attendants in this caravan also has a set of extremely elegant clothes for you.

With that, the procession sets out to Ruston. Once you arrive inside the border of Ruston Province you notice that it has become a bustling area. For a Province with the capital and fewer towns than Tamaris, there are carts and merchants and travelers swarming the Inn near the weighpoint. It appears that it is a very successful inn.

You arrive at the checkpoint and the Guards salute and call for the captain. A young man appears and firmly salutes, "Your Majesty!" You nod and he stands at ease, "Sire, thank you for coming out to see us here. We normally wouldn't call you for such things, however, these outsiders attacked with such ferocity, and normally we would lean on Count Piotr's men for help, but they didn't answer our call. We wanted to make certain that this was a known occurrence before we filed a report." You nod and think.

[cont]

>>41549864
I really want to keep an eye on Count Piotr right now given relations with the Order have just become precarious but if anons vote against it i wont be salty

>>41549906

Count Piotr, indeed, is in your castle training some of the military men in your forces. However, he should have left a steward or a minister to attend to issues just like these. At the very least, the duty for supporting the Weighpoint lies on his shoulders. Your mind flashes to Eleisha's letters, causing you to swear internally at forgetting to read them. The meeting with the Grandmaster and the attempts on your life convince you pretty firmly that Piotr's neglect here is not an accident.

>A) Put order out for Piotr to be arrested and questioned.
>B) Have the Watch investigate
>C) Piotr is innocent.

>>41549962
>>B) Have the Watch investigate
nothing concreet but we should still have some people look into it...quietly.

>>41549962
>>B) Have the Watch investigate
Lets deal with him once we return from La Faresse

>>41549787
>>even though that might be more energy than she can expend in a week
You could, you know, check out the followers page on the website and see that it ian't, bodyguard is 10 energy, tutelage is 5, she has 15/week
>>41549962
>have the Watch investigate
I want to know who Piotr put in charge, how they acted, and why no one responded.
See, this is why having eleisha spy is important.
Are the people dressed in white still here, or what?

>>41549962
>>B) Have the Watch investigate
Can we read the letters while we ride?

>>41549962
Have we borrowed some books on basic magic theory yet? If we weren't reading the letters on the way here then I don't see what we WERE doing, assuming we sat in the carriage.

I love /tg/ seriously my favorite board now. I love these threads, so creative and entertaining. Love reading this stuff while brain storming my own ideas.

>>41550000
[Nice quads.]
>>41549981
>>41550008
[We left the letters in our room.]

You nod, "Very well, Captain. I would like your most intelligent and....subtle men on this. I grant you my approval to investigate into this matter fully. Are those men in white still around?" He shakes his head, "No, sire, after our encounter with them, they retreated back across the La Faressen border." You sigh and nod, "As expected, they flee to where I cannot strike them." The Captain gives you a salute, "Sire! I will have my best men on the job." You have a man bring forth a pen and quill and hastily jot down your note of political immunity to the men in regards to this case, which will only be suspended should you directly order it.

Once done, you and the group set off for Creccy. Elsabeth rides alongside you and announces, "Sire, Mother Olga has sent word that she wishes you to....come to the Monastery and speak to her." She seems displeased that such an order would come down for you, but you take it in stride.

"Very well, I will be sure to do so as soon as I am available to." She nods and then you speak, "So, Elsabeth, tell me, would you be able to teach me how to be a better swordsman?" She looks at you and frowns, "That is not part of our deal, Sire." You laugh and give her an impressive smile,

"Come now! Aren't you and I dear allies, we fought in battle together, even. At this point we're practically blood." She scowls and shifts her armor over her shoulders before grunting, "Fine, yes, I will teach you, your Majesty." You smile, starting to understand how to get to her, as you and the caravan ride to the precious gem of La Faresse, Creccy, you and Elsabeth chatting about swordsmanship theory and drills the whole way.

~Evening, Fourthday~

You dismount and your Guard wait outside, a few of them bringing extremely valuable gift inside. You are taken to a side room where you change and clean the filth of the road from you.

[cont]

>>41550204
I exclusively use 4chan for these quest threads and other /tg/ related stuff

Wait, isn't this one of those instances in which we are supposed to have a representative of the Order present?

>>41550264
no, its only if we are discussing an alliance

>>41550276
or rather, forming an alliance

Diplomacy page says we pay Mavens 200/week, but didn't we haggle it down to 100/week? If no, why didn't we?

File: Bethenne.jpg (91 KB, 600x450)

91 KB JPG

>>41550216

Eventually, you are ready to present yourself. Your Guards cautiously remove the priceless gift and place a blue cloth over it, carrying it between them. Two Guards flank your shoulders and you walk up to the entrance of the Great Hall. The heralds by the door blast out a cry and one of them steps forth,

"Announcing the arrival of the King of Vastov, Vastov Minor, Greater Essland, Lord of Cernorian, and all her provinces; King Valorian the First, of Vastov!" The room is absolutely packed with nobles of all types, minor nobles, peers of the realm, knights, Counts, Viscounts, and Marquis of all types and sorts. The fashion in La Faresse these days, you notice in horror, has shifted towards ghastly large hats and abnormally long socks. Thankfully, you maintain a more classical look of a head of state in your semi-military uniform with dress to stand apart.

The crowd bows their heads and steps back, making wide berth for you as you enter the room and stride down the long carpet towards the famous Thrones of La Faresse. The two thrones are made of incredible craft, two metal thrones that appear to be interwoven from a single thorny vine. Sitting in one of the thrones is Queen Bethenne. The other throne, of course, is reserved for her husband. Sitting to her right, however, is another chair and there sits a seat of honor and upon that chair sits a man.

The young man appears to be several years your minor, barely a man by most standards, but he wears the garb of the Order, and you immediately regard him lowly. His well-designed white garments with black trim mark him, and the gold accents mark him as noble. Bethenne stands up and smiles. She spreads her arms and bows her head softly in politeness.

[cont]

>>41550204
[Thanks!]

>>41550395
We haggled it down to 100/week/unit/ We have 2 units.

>>41550415
"I, Queen Bethenne, welcome you, King of Vastov to my realm, as friend and ally." You arrive in front of her and bow, gesturing towards your Guards. "I present you this state gift, your Majesty," you say with a genuine smile on your face as the cloth is removed and she gasps, covering her mouth.

"Valorian! I mean-King Valorian, this is a marvelous gift." She says as she rushes down from the raised part of the room to glance into the beautiful glasswork. As she draws near you can see that she has aged as well as you expected, she is fair beyond any other you have met. She faces you and gives a polite smile, remembering her courtly manners, and nods, ordering for her men to carry it as she offers you her hand. "La Faresse receives your gift with gratitude and compliments the hands that wrought it." You step up onto the platform with her and help her to her seat.

"King Valorian," she says once seated, indicates to the man opposite her with a bit of hesitance, "This is Prince Manfried of the Order of the Tower. He is here on a.....diplomatic mission to La Faresse." The seated young man gives the smallest nod of his head, which you return with a neutral expression. A seat is brought next to the vacant throne beside her and she gestures for you to sit. A thought races through your mind....

>A) Sit in the chair offered
>B) Make a statement, sit in the Throne.

>>41550415
Good thing we know Bethenne personally so we have a good excuse to find some privacy away from that kid in white.
We could subtly drop a "nothing, it's just use clothes remind me of some troublemakers who appeared in my realm recently, I feel I will have to execute the people responsible if something like that happens again" or something if he questions us for why the unhappy face while looking/talking to him.

>>41550483
>>B) Make a statement, sit in the Throne.
HAHA fuck you order stooge.

>>41550483
>chair offered
Woah mate, we are not ready for marriage committment.
Plus, no need to piss off the Order more than necessary, we can just talk to Bethenne in private later.

>>41550483
>>A) Sit in the chair offered

>>41550483
>B) Make a statement, sit in the Throne.
Can we smile at her really kindly before we do? Bethenne is a babe

>>41550483
To be clear, while it is quite annoying that a prince sits in the chair of the honor guet instead of a king, but I'm not ready to be this politically aggressive yer, I want to make them think their bullying tactics still work somewhat, so >>41550530 is a vote for
>A) Sit in the chair offered
Appear humble while plotting the other's downfall, take a clue from Piotr.

>>41550597
Piotr failed miserably

>>41550483
Before I vote is it possible to Fuck and marry the water God?
This is important to know.

>>41550512
>>41550539
You do realize this will really piss off the Order and neither Vastov or La Faresse is ready for a war with them, right?

>>41550621
[It's a big world, there's a lot of possible things.]

>>41550635
FUCK the order

>>41550614
Because of events outside of his control, and because he is not as good or special as we are.
>>41550641
There won't be smut in the quest though, right?

>>41550635
The order knows it can't fight on two fronts and frankly they need to get knocked down a few pegs. And our army is well trained and still full of men who have been through our recent campaigns. the order can fuck off.

>>41550641
So you're telling me there's a chance?

>>41550635
Right now they are occupied and they basically said the second we become the allies of frenchie that they would attack us.

>>41550683
Noooo they didnt

>>41550641
Good by mortal pussy.

>>41550681
[Stranger things have happened.]

>>41550672
Not in thread for sure. Not my kind of writing.

>>41550659
Patience,
>>41550676
Their army is still better trained, and our army isn't even in one place.
>>41550683
They did not, and even if they did, why speed up the conflict when we can manuevre and have an alliance with Bethenne without officially having one? As been said, we can get her in touch with the Mavens to give her the force necessary to resist the Order's pressure, we don't have to directly involve ourselves,

>>41550734
Bullshit. The Royal army is damn good and we have a back up at home. Besides I don't think the frenchies like the order breathing down their neck. and I was the one who tired the humble shit a few threads ago and that started shit. We arent weak by any means.

>>41550714
[Disclosure, we are tied at the moment. And the system as it is, will have us sit in the Throne. However, I sense this is a bit of a contentious issue. So, let's discuss it until 8:30 (6 minutes at time of posting). Respond to this post with your final vote.]

>>41550763
quick question will Bethenne be insulted?

>>41550763
>>B) Make a statement, sit in the Throne.

>>41550763
I havent' voted yet but i'll put mine in now at
>B) Make a statement, sit in the Throne.

>>41550797
[She will not be insulted, but the assembled nobles will start talking, and it sends a very powerful message.]

>>41550763
>A
Sittin in the throne is probably not only seen as arrogant, but also as impolite as fuck.

>>41550763
>>B) Make a statement, sit in the Throne.

>>41550763
>A) Sit on the chair offered.

>>41550824
see
>>41550815

>>41550869
You think jut because our childhood friend isn't insulted it won't be seen as rude/impolite to just imply that we will be their king without even proposing or courting?
KEK

>>41550483

>A) Sit in the chair offered

>wasting our only marriage on a neighbouring friendly country less than 1/3 our size, or at least implying that we will
I am disappointed in you, anon.

>>41548938
Well done.

It's not like they can really out her without exposing their own hand as well.

>>41550899
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcLs5VC9giQ
this is what i think of you
>>41550964
but shes such a baaaabe

and we are childhood friends

>>41550974
>>41550974
Thanks! I was a little disappointed no one else responded to that

>>41550975
Marriage isn't about love or attractiveness, numbnuts, it's about politics.

>>41551000
Shes definitley the best option we have yet for marriage

>>41551039
Nah it's the sea God, plus she would help our navy.
Honestly will go for that God pussy.

>>41551039
Hell I'm the guy who wants a Fey wife for us but still, Bethenne is our best bet. Hell we could be a protector rather than a husband if it comes down to it.

>>41551077
we havent even met the sea god she doesnt count

>>41551039
>yet
THAT'S THE POINT, THIS IS SUPER EARLY GAME, WE AREN'T EVEN AN EMPIRE FOR FUCK'S SAKE, AND YOU'RE WASTING ONE OF OUR MOST IMPORTANT MOVES!
Pardon the caps lock, it just seems like players want to rush into marriage for some strange reason, even though there is no use for it now that is really important.

>>41551100
but shes suuuuuch a baaaabe

>>41551097
She has whispered in our ear from behind us

>>41551097
Qm said she would if we worked for it.

>>41551123
wait you mean the goddess of war? fuck that, bitch is crazy

File: Vella.png (303 KB, 429x416)

303 KB PNG

>>41550799
>>41550806
[The vote is split 3/3 and the B's responded first. Thus, as established, we shall do B]

You stride over to the offered chair and pass it over, sitting instead in the Throne beside Bethenne. A collective gasp rises from the crowd and the Prince from the Order sits upright, his face turning burgundy as you smile at Bethenne and say, "Thank you, your Majesty, for saving the seat of honor for me." She flushes and nods her head, trying her best to suppress her emotions. The air is abuzz with whispers, people looking at you conspiratorially and muttering about the actions of this new King. You ignore it and the Prince pipes up, his voice croaking as it has yet to quite settle in to its adult sound.

"I see that you are not want for courage, King Valorian, yet you appear to be lacking the grace and diplomacy of your Father." He is doing his best to remain polite as Bethenne winces very slightly, starting to speak before a horn blasts through the hall, stilling all conversation, and Bethenne's brow furrows.

The herald steps forward, a bit shakily as if drunk, as he announces loudly, "Announcing the arrival of the Countess Primiere, Lady of Hoogstrad and all her lands, Countess Vella the Wise, of Vastov." Your eyes fly wide open at this announcement and you barely keep yourself seated as the tall woman appears. She carries herself like a noble, but you have never seen her before. Bethenne hisses as the crowd is distracted, "Valorian! I did not tell you to bring guests!" You try to respond but find yourself unable to as she arrives with great speed and curtsies.

"Thank you for receiving me, your Majesty." Bethenne nods, like she knows what is happening, and the woman reveals a white bracelet in her hands which glows softly blue. "This is a small show of my appreciation." Bethenne gives her thanks and has one of her men take it away. Vella walks up onto the post and bows her head to you, "Greetings, sire."

[cont]

>>41551119
And she is not going anywhere, she is literally less than a day's travel from our capital.
Hell, we could even become lovers without marriage, and meet under guise of political talks, if people just wanted to spend time with her.

>>41550763
>A) Sit in the Chair offered.

We simply don't have the standing to challenge the Order, we need to consolidate our power at home before we can claim we have the army to back up our big brass balls.

>>41551159
Who the fuck are you and why are you annoucing yourself as ruler of MY lands?

>>41551159

You barely can contain your indignation as you nod your head and she sits beside you. You are determined to not ruin Bethenne's event, or cause an uproar, however, you alone recognize the title. Countess Primiere means that she is your mistress. You fume and feel the heat in your face rising up as you look at her, wondering how she got the heralds to announce her arrival and where she managed to find the way into this event without being stopped.

As you sit there fuming you hear a familiar voice in your head, "Did you not enjoy my appearance, Valorian? You seem so angry!" A female laugh rings in your head as you see Bethenne's straight backed anger and blink repeatedly. The voice of the goddess....is this her?

The woman's voice laughs again, "I never told you I was a goddess, just to worship me as one."

>A) Speak up and call her out as a liar and a fake
>B) Talk to her mentally
>C) Ignore her

>>41551257
>>B) Talk to her mentally
"What game are you playing?"

>>41551257
>>B) Talk to her mentally

>>41551159
>lying about your station
>GIVING YOURSELF THE TITLE "the Wise"
Is she cunning, or incredibly conceited? Is this the witch? The water god?

>>41551278
we need to watch our ass on this one, can't be gung ho and aggressive like we can with the order.

>>41551257
>B) Talk to her mentally
"Well done. That was quite artfully done. What's your game?"

>>41551278
shes powerful AF but she has admitted she is not a goddess

>>41551257
>Talk to her mentally
So I am to take it you, a mortal, have supported the Raiders for years and caused my people severe sffering, and now I am to make you my Count?
HAH!

>>41551321
A bit to...agresive.

>>41551257
>B) Talk to her mentally
Hello my true love, Fuck the normies I want the fun queen.

>>41551159
She's quite a babe as well.
>>41551311
She hasn't ACTUALLY said she isn't a goddess, she just said that she never said she was.

This is what happens when you flirt and impress a godess of war...FUCK!

>>41551257
>Mental
>I would've preferred a more... official meeting. You know, meeting me in Hoogstad or my capital, telling me who you are and what your goals are. Normal stuff.
>So, if not a god, a sorceress/wizard?

>>41551354
She isnt Queenie material, shes paramour stock

Say something neutral, like "It is so nice to see in the flesh, Lady Hoogstrad. Though i find your title a bit presumptuous. Might i ask why you chose this venue for our formal introduction?"

>>41551403
I was hoping she would show up, but who knew she was the type that likes to show up in style.

>>41551409
This is acceptable

>>41551307
>>41551268
>>41551277

~What exactly are you playing at!?~ You hiss at her mentally and she laughs, letting you continue, calming yourself down, ~You have worked for those Zestraid for years, and now I'm supposed to just accept you into my life? That is a very bold move, Vella.~ The laughter finally abates as the woman whispers mentally now,

~I am a very powerful ally, Valorian. The Raiders were....disappointments. They started with such promise, but they grew too rowdy, too short-sighted. Bjorn had such dreams, but he let his nights carry through his mind into the days, what a shame. I thought that it was time to find someone more....focused. I can be a great asset, Valorian. My magic is powerful, and I am very learned. Let me help you. Of course...~ She trails off as she slowly slides her foot over, under her dress, to your leg and rubs her foot up and down the outside of your leg, before continuing,

~You could declare me a liar...but with each passing moment that seems less and less wise. I would do it now, if I am to do it. Go on, Valorian, throw away your strongest ally, and go on trying to romance the girl there, she appears VERY interested in me. Maybe I should put my arm around yours and let her know what my title means....~

>A) Call her out as a liar, immediately.
>B) Keep talking to her
>C) Other

>>41551409
>implying
We just need to fuck her into submission, lad

>>41551409
What do you mean by paramour stock?

>>41551446
>>C) Other
Announce our pleasure to see a loyal and faithful ally of the crown in the flesh. And make other statements of general happiness and surprise while making sure to let her know that we will need to talk later.

seriously now is not the time for this shit.

>>41551446
>B) Keep talking to her

>>41551446
>I do not think "allies" are usually made with threats, scandals, and blackmail

>>41551492
Kek than you don't know politics anon.

>>41551462
Like a lover, a mistress, sort of tacitly acknowledged and accepted but not an actual spouse
>B) Keep talking to her
I am interested in getting to know you but this was not the proper place. You are interrupting my plans, and I would know why you are doing this.

The very sad thing is we absolutely can't afford to make her our enemy, yet her dominant personality is trying to force us to choose between making her a friend or an enemy.
>>41551446
>I'd appreciate if my self professed allies didn't strive to make my plans more difficult than they need to be.

Hey is all this mental talk going by in a matter of seconds or what. Cause that would be awkward if it wasn't.

Also is she just teasing us or does she actually want to jump our bones?

>>41551528
>>41551492
>>41551487

~That's interesting, Vella, I did not think allies were based on threats and blackmail.~ She laughs inside your mind again, pulling her foot away from your leg and properly talking to a nearby noble as she effortlessly talks to you in your mind.

~Oh, Valorian, you are no fun when you aren't in the battlefield! Do I have to dress up as a big hairy raider with an axe to get your full attention? I can do that if you'd prefer it.~ You immediately reject it and she laughs again. The Order Prince speaks up, cutting off your conversation, "So, King Valorian, aren't you going to dance?"

You hear the sound of the music fill the air and the party-goers start forming up in pairs and form a rough circle with room in the middle for the dancers. Bethenne looks over at you, her cheeks a bit red from the frustration you brought to her, almost expectantly.

~Va-lo-rian.....aren't you going to ask your Countess Primiere to dance?~ You immediately respond with, ~You know this was not proper, Vella. If you wished to speak with me, you could have done so at any time, rather than making a fool of my plans. Why are you doing this?~

She giggles softly in your head now before pressing against you briefly as she talks, ~Why? Because I know you can handle thinking on your feet, and that you like this, secretly. I know the dark desires that lurk in your mind...come on, dance with me. Leave that girl to the little boy there, a man deserves to dance with a proper woman~

You stand up and turn, extending your hand with a gentle bow to....

>A) Queen Bethenne, as the Queen at her party, it is proper to dance with her, since you have the highest rank. Plus, she's your old friend.

>B) Vella, she is very insistent about it.

>>41551619
[Yes, it goes as quickly as you can think of the words aloud, much faster than you could say the words]

>>41551619
She'd def be down to tango if we wanted to but thats not her main objective i think. She said
>Bjorn had such dreams, but he let his nights carry through his mind into the days, what a shame.
So we can assume she was sleeping with King Bjorn but he couldnt focus on his goals outside of the bedroom, which disappointed her

>>41551651
>>A) Queen Bethenne, as the Queen at her party, it is proper to dance with her, since you have the highest rank. Plus, she's your old friend.

and we need to get her up to speed on the shit in our lives.

>>41551651
>A) Queen Bethenne, as the Queen at her party, it is proper to dance with her, since you have the highest rank. Plus, she's your old friend.

Sorry Vella we will dance with you but the Queen takes priority....

>>41551651
>A) Queen Bethenne, as the Queen at her party, it is proper to dance with her, since you have the highest rank. Plus, she's your old friend
we can't insult the Queen or give this woman the ability to tell us what to do
"I came here for a reason Vella, you shall have the next dance"

>>41551446
>Tell me, did you chose to announce yourself not only as Count, but as Premier as part of some grand plan, or does it just amuse you to complicate my life?
>>41551619
I don't know, but I don't think giving a witch our semen is a good idea.
>>41551651
>A
>(mentally) As admittedly tempting as you are, I value proper etiquette and politics, and we both know what that is. Hey, look at that, I'm thinking on my feet!
We're not goin to let some phony god play her games with us indefinitely.

I have a sinking feeling that playing hard to get will make her want us all the more and she might have the order stooge start shit with sexy whispers and false information...I think we might need to have polygamy to stay alive...

Let me guess, she will also wish to ride in the same carriage as us in the way back and demand a shared bedroom if we soend the night here?
Fuck that, I want to talk poliics with Bethenne.
QM, why you gotta make things so difficult? ;_;
>>41551796
What we need to do is either reform her or kill her once we're powerful enough.

>>41551727
>>41551707

You smile at Bethenne and whisper, "Farrah...please." She gives a small smile and takes your hand, and you escort her out to the dance floor.

~Oh, Valorian. You have such spirit, it's so handsome a trait in you....I love men with spirit~ You do your best to lock out her voice as you dance with Queen Bethenne.

She immediately, as soon as the song brings you two closer together, hisses, "Who in damnation is she, Valorian!?" The two of you part and rejoin as you whisper quickly, "It's....very complicated, Farrah. I need to talk to you about this at greater length. Do not be upset, I am here for you." She nods and breathes a bit of air out harshly from her nose, a habit she had since childhood, and dances with you politely for a few songs before you escort her back to her seat.

Vella is leaning on the side arm of the Throne. If you sit, she will nearly be leaning against your head with her own. This is rather irritating and so you take to standing, somewhat awkwardly, on the elevated portion of the floor. As you watch out across the dance floor you hear a hiss,

~Oh Valorian....I know you hate the Order with such fire....~ You restrain your physical response and talk back immediately, ~That is besides the point. You announced yourself as Countess Primiere for a reason. Why?~

An audible purr fills your mind, like a large cat, and you cough to cover up your warm face, ~Oh come now, you can clearly see why, can't you? Are you that used to men in armor that the graceless advances of women are lost upon you?~ You choose not to respond to her, eliciting an audible "hmph" of anger.

Suddenly, an arm swings into your side. The Order Prince, in the midst of a dance he appears to be taking too seriously, caused you to hunch over a bit, his elbow biting into your liver. You see stars for a moment and Bethenne gasps as the Prince's voice fills your ears.

"Sorry, King, I didn't notice such a small person such as yourself."

[cont]

>>41551883
Isn't killing gods a it difficult and has giant after effects. Also she isn't evil just blood thirst.

Just remember that this is 95% certainly not her real form and is just wearing this to temot us/play with us.
She likely fucked the big guy king anyway, and I don't exactly want his sloppy seconds.

>>41551963
Oh hellll no

>>41551963

A small person? Is this stripling serious? Is he so damnably confident that he will be rude in public? People are looking now, as you straighten up and gather your breath. The sword on your hip is, naturally, the magical blade you have carried into battle. The spear is too large to wear as a mark of station. His face passes in front of your eyes and you can see the smile, the taunting smile... You could cut him down.....

You will cut him down. His smug face, his rudeness, his stupid damn haircut, his youth and gall!! You WILL KILL THIS WHELP!!!

>A) Draw your sword and gut him
>B) Stop, this isn't me! Resist the rage. [Roll 7d10, <=7, +3. Required: 8 Successes]

>>41551964
She isn't a god, I think.
>>41551963
OHHHHH, the little shit,
>No problem, I believe your eyesight shall improve with age, once you'be started to become a man, boy,

Rolled 7, 8, 3, 2, 3, 10, 6 = 39 (7d10)

>>41552028
>>B) Stop, this isn't me! Resist the rage. [Roll 7d10, <=7, +3. Required: 8 Successes]
Small? I think not. The mouse often fails to notice the mountain, young prince, so you are forgiven

Rolled 4, 1, 6, 5, 8, 2, 10 = 36 (7d10)

>>41552028
>BBBBBBB
Vella this is not cool, you're just making us want you less.
I'd be okay with leting him feel our presence of absolute bloodthirst and Death before calmly patting his shoulder and telling him >>41552032

Rolled 9, 4, 10, 9, 8, 6, 3 = 49 (7d10)

>>41552028
>>B) Stop, this isn't me! Resist the rage. [Roll 7d10, <=7, +3. Required: 8 Successes]

>>41552081
8 successes
>>41552097
9 successes

>>41552155
i think its 8 and 8

>>41552028
Your pettiness does not speak well of your court, my prince.

Come on guys lets say it, call him out in front of everyine

>>41552212
a 1 counts as two successes

>>41552097
>>41552081

You clamp down on the rage inside of you, breathing in and out slowly and deeply as you stand up and smile. "Think nothing of it, PRINCE Manfried. Perhaps one day your eyesight shall improve when you fulfill the first half of your name." A few laughs fill the room as he grows redder and pulls the woman closer to him and the band resumes the music, as he goes twirling off.

~I do not appreciate being manipulated like that-~ Vella laughs and whispers, ~No, no, Valorian, I manipulated his arm into you. The rage is inside of you. You have felt it before, when you faced off against the assassin on the roof. You know that rage is there, and yet you keep it so well restrained behind your noble visage. There's no need to blame me, why would your Countess Primiere do such a thing to her beloved Sovereign?~

You ignore her and take your seat, leaning slightly towards Bethenne to avoid her completely leaning against you. When she eventually backs up she laughs, ~Perhaps you have such restraint in public, and in front of your dear friend. But, in the darkness of the night, in a cold bed, we shall see how your restraint lasts.~

You spend the rest of the evening ignoring her, though she does not extend her mental voice to you again, and you aren't certain if she could hear you if you reached out to talk to her. Still, you never give her the satisfaction as you talk to Bethenne and dance with her more. Eventually, three hours in, people begin to leave and Vella is amongst them. She bows and addresses you and the Queen.

"Thank you, Queen Bethenne, for such a lovely evening. You have a wonderful Court, and I would be happy to visit again, should you permit me." The Queen gives a non-committal answer and Vella gives you a subtle wink, "Until we meet next, oh virile Sire." You redden and she leaves, cackling inside of your mind, before disappearing into the crowd.

[cont]

>>41552312

A group of Thorn Guards appear to escort you and the Queen to a sitting room where after dinner drinks are prepared. The Queen maintains her regal composure until the two of you are left alone and the door closed. As soon as that happens her hand shoots out and pushes your shoulder.

"Valorian! What in the world was that woman talking about? VIRILE!? Is she your mistress or something? I thought you would have had the decency to ask me before your brought your...your....courtesan to my ball!"

>A) Be apologetic, don't deny anything
>B) Tell her that you were surprised too
>C) Be honest, tell her everything you know
>D) Other

>>41552312
>Util we meet next, oh virile Sire
She's such a cheeky, sassy, domineering, fun, sexy bitch, if she wasn't a bloodthirsty megalomaniac manipulative magic whore who makes our life harder, I'd most definitely waifu her.

>>41552356
>C) Be honest, tell her everything you know

>>41552356

>>C) Be honest, tell her everything you know

Since the room should be secure

>>41552356
>>C) Be honest, tell her everything you know
>>D) Other
I encountered her on my conquest of Lost Vostov. She is a witch, who was worshipped by the Zestreid as a goddess, and who gave unto them abnormal height and strenght. Before a great battle she stole this from them, after my defeat of King Bjorn, and asked that I worship her as a goddess, which I have refused to do. Tonight is the first I have seen of her in person.

>>41552356
>B) Tell her that you were surprised too
No point in telling her how powerful that women was.
>>41552388
We must break her and make her pure.

>>41552356
>A) Be apologetic, don't deny anything

>>41552424
Cant make a ho into a housewife my friend

pimpin 101

>>41552422
Anon she never denied being a God, only that she never called herself one.

>>41552356
>Be apologetic, tell her you were surprised too, say that you have definitely not had her engage in any mistressy activities, een if she introduced herself as such.
Be sure to sax "I did NOT bring my courtesan here without asking you, she sort of just showed up without askinb ME. Also she's not my courtesan."

>>41552443
never get advice about women from a pimp.

>>41552356
>B) Tell her that you were surprised too

>>41552451
She strongly implied that she wasnt, but whatever, we can add that she might be a goddess nbd

>>41552356
>>C) Be honest, tell her everything you know

>>41552422
Don't tell her everything anon, those are military secrets, she doesn't need to know the details only that she ain't our bitch but we can't really go against her outright.
>>41552443
>doubting the power of the cock
can'tbeatthecock.jpg

>>41552356
>B) Tell her that you were surprised too
Mention that she wasn't our mistress either, no need to mention the other shit

>>41552356
>>C) Be honest, tell her everything you know


Can you elaborate on option A please.

>>41552548
Why are you voting if you want clarification?
>>41552356
Just not full disclosure, that would be a retarded thing to do for a king, telling a foreign nation who is only Friendly with us all of our secrets.

>>41552548
>>41552488
>>41552422
>>41552406
>>41552397
Telling her the whole truth and expecting her to believe us, hell we only need to tell her she came of her own volition.

>>41552586
I always vote too quickly on these things

>>41552586
I am confused by the wording of option A, Option C makes the most sense to me but I would still like to know what A meant.

>>41552397
>>41552406

"She is not a courtesan, nor is she my mistress. You know me, Farrah, I would not do that to you." She sighs, crossing her arms and tapping her foot, tossing her hair frustratedly, "Well...fine! Fine, Valorian, tell me what she is, then."

You nod and begin telling her the story of your war with the Raiders, and how she contacted you. You refer to her as a witch, or a sorceress, and explain that she seems to want you to worship her as a goddess. You initially thought, you told her, that she was one, but now you aren't quite certain. However, you tell her honestly, that you did not expect her to appear, and never planned for her to do so. You, however, are still wise enough to keep out the exact details of your military and military campaigns.

She sighs at the end of your story and laughs bitterly, "Valorian....your Father's reign was much more peaceful." She shakes her head and you laugh a bit as well. Farrah puts her hand on your cheek and smiles, "Since you were honest with me, I will be with you...I....must be honest. I contacted you with ulterior motives, as well as wanting to see you."

She checks the door quickly and whispers, almost conspiratorially, "Valorian, the Prince is here on a mission from his Father to pressure me into marriage. He says that if I do not capitulate, he will stop protecting our borders against the Tyranny and they will march on us. If I do not agree to marrying the Prince by the end of the evening, the consequences will be dire."

That bastard Grandmaster!!! You should have known he would do something like this, something to gain ground against you. His envy of your relation to La Faresse was evident, and now he plans to do something vile.

"Please, Valorian, will you help me?" She says, desperately, holding your hand, looking into your eyes with her warm dark ones.

>A) I promise, I will help
>B) I'll do what I can
>C) I can't help you

>>41552628
[Option A meant that you do not deny that Vella is your courtesan and mistress, but you still apologize for her arrival.]

>>41552643
>A) I promise, I will help
but this shouldnt be offered by us as a marriage proposal, yet

>>41552643
>>A) I promise, I will help
What kind of man would leave a woman in her hour of need, much less a childhood friend.
>>41552670
ok thanks.

>>41552643
>B) I'll do what I can
Tell her about the battle mavens.
The QM said this would be a great way to help her, without political backlash.

>>41552643
>A) I promise, I will help

>>41552628
A means we apologize but don't deny that she is our mistress.
>>41552643
Damn, you closed that vote fast.
>What can we do to help?
What can we even do?
Also the Order is playing dirty.
We both know they can't afford to let the Tyranny take La Faresse, they would be surrounded and lose a bffer state, as well as make an enemy of Vastov.

>>41552643
>A) I promise, I will help
Mention the Mavens being available for hire to bolster her army.

>>41552643
>B) I'll do what I can
Promises are not something a king throw a out easily.

>>41552705
Lets definitley include this in A

>>41552753
Do you WANT her to have an alliance with the oorder? No? Good, then pick option A

>>41552694
A man who is smart and knows politics.
>>41552643
>B+Tell me how I can help.

>>41552779
Nigga the only one that does that is C, B just puts us on a time limit.

>>41552779
Don't be retarded

>>41552802
We want La Faresse totally dependent on us, we do this with a mixture of honeydicking and military support

>>41552779
I picked A abd even I know that B is also a viable option.
A just guaranteed that we can go over the time limit,but also forces us to move our army up north if we do.

>>41552800
Is allowing the Order to have a northern boarder and new and fresh recruits a smart thing to do? This is not Game of Thrones we have honor and pride.

>>41552873
We do have a decent relationship with the centaurs now.
We could use the recent attack in Piotr's lands as an excuse for moving our army there.

>>41552643
>A) I promise I will help

Preferably we'd do this covertly. However, if the only way to support her is open military support than we should kidnap the Prince ASAP.

Since when has La Farasse had a border with the Tyranny anyway?

>>41552883
Oh Jesus I can just see the QM messing with you, all he needs is a pussy and a sob story.

>>41552944
They don't, but the order can easily lose some land and let the guys get to her.

>>41552883
What are you even talking about, the Order can't co quer La Faresse, if the queen hires the Mavens and we express our supoort then the Order won't be able to afford making everyone in the South their enemies.
We could even get the Centaurs in on it with promises of raids on the Tyranny and the Order.

>>41552718
>>41552694
>>41552705

"Do not worry, Farrah, I am not going to abandon you. I will make sure that you are safe from this." She nods and grips your hand tighter, "Do you promise me, Valorian?" You nod once, firmly, "Yes, I promise."

She lets go as soon as she hears footsteps approaching, but the voice at the door is that of Elsabeth. "Sire! There is something you may be interested in seeing." You stand up and excuse yourself, but Farrah follows you anyway. The three of you head into the hallway, led by Elsabeth, where a group of Thorn Guards are holding up the Prince, restraining him by the arms.

"Your Majesties, forgive the disturbance," one of the Guards says as he bows his helmeted head and looks at the Prince, who grins rudely as he is being held. "Your guest here was caught trying to enter your chambers." Bethenne blanches and swallows as the Prince clicks his teeth together in a lewd gesture, before talking, "Come on, your Majesty, I wasn't going there intentionally, it was just an accident, I had lost my way to the lavatory. You know that mistakes are made and misunderstandings occur, right? I meant no ill will. Tell your men to release me." He pauses and then laughs, "Please." He finally spits out with venom.

Queen Bethenne pauses and looks at you. "King Valorian," she finally speaks, "The punishment for criminal trespass is a week in the dungeon. However, a political envoy such as him is....beyond such things. Is there anything you wish to add?"

>A) Write in

[To respond to the ask.fm, yes, there is such a thing as a Protectorate. Technically, the Order is a protectorate, they just have been there so long, it's basically their own nation. There are also client states, which means La Faresse is subservient to us, and there are alliances.]

>>41552735
[I usually just grab the first ones from the winning option.]

>>41552950
Quit being a tool

We do not want the Order to steal away our closest ally, you dont need to act like this isnt everyones chief concern

>>41552979
>A) Write in
"It is obvious that he is so drunk that he can't find his way to the lavatory then it would not be out of the realm to find him drowned in the moat or dead at the bottom of the stairs correct?" Motion for the guards to do this.

>>41552981
There's a difference between being smart and being a knight in shinning armour.
We are a king we must think of our people first.
This anon gets it.
>>41552977

>>41552979
A duel, maybe? You know, just one on one, MAN against MAN. Well, prince?
I do not think trespassing into the bedchambers of a queen is light enough crime to be dismissed. Maybe send him back to his father so that he may learn proper manners?
Use this traumatic experience to try and lengthen the deadline on the marriage.

>>41553078
He was spying on us, and to think people thought the chamber was a safe place.

>>41552979
>>A) Write in
This pompous young foreigner is here to strong arm you away from your allies and under the thumb of a foreign power known for its inclinations towards domineering smaller nations. If these were my lands, he would not be made exempt from the law.

This is really gonna antagonize the order though After this we should move our seconf army into Vastov minor, keep the royal one in or near La Faresse, and make an alliance with the Centaurs

As well as trying to break down the barrier as quickly as possible

>>41552979
"I'm sure that your father will be fascinated at your attempts at diplomacy young prince. And I'm sure that the other Masters will applaud his choice of envoys."

>>41553053
The order has tired to take advantage of our peoples sufering to line its pockets with stolen gold and land. Do you think they would stop here? They have already sent assassins after us and they won't stop till we are dead and they have our kingdom stripped bear and its people forced under arms. The order is the enemy.

>>41553036
Killing him would be to rash.
keeping him as a prisoner, as a bargaining chip would be much better and Benifits us.
even delaying the orders retaliation by a month or two would be good. Allows us to better reinforce ur borders. And better Train our men.

>>41553105
He wasn't, he was trying toget into the queen's bedroom, we were in a different room.
>>41553053
Thanks mate, appreciate the appreciation.
If the winter Seelie is lead by the Witch and aggressive, we could even get them to help us against the Tyranny/Order

>>41553125
Are you literally retarded?
The Order CAN NOT AFFORD TO GO TO WAR WITH US RIGHT NOW!

>>41553125
You need to reread what I and the anon said.
Also look at the diplomacy tab, what the anon said is the best we can do short of attacking him.
Right now he is tied up with what ever is in the west.

>>41553123
>>41553078
>>41553036

"Thank you, your Majesty." You say and face the Prince, who scowls openly at you, "I think that it will be of great interest to the other Masters as to the actions of their leader's son on an errand of diplomacy. It reflects so well on them, after all." The Prince's jaw drops as he calls out, struggling against the large Guards, "You wouldn't do such a thing! They would never believe you!" That sort of reaction tells you that, indeed, they would believe you. Bethenne sighs and looks at her Guards who are almost silently begging her to let them throw him into the dungeon.

You think on it, quickly.

Putting him in the dungeon, even if against protocol, could give you a length of time to negotiate or prepare for action against the Order.

Alternatively, sending him back along with a message of his actions could maybe cause some internal strife in the Order? You aren't too sure of their politics.

Then, of course, there is the option of abusing his presence here and doing something hasty, like entering an alliance with La Faresse. Something that outright could be the final straw and you could see Sword-Brothers on the horizon by morning. Or worse.

>A) Recommend he be put in the dungeon
>B) Send him back, send a messenger to the Masters with information about his actions.
>C) Form a political bond with La Faresse using him as the Order official.
>D) Do nothing, let him walk, there is no need to be so openly hostile, when you can be passively hostile.

>>41552979
voting for either >>41553078 or >>41553112 and >>41553123(send him away)

>>41553270
what do you guys think? im leaning towards sending him back to the order and sending a etter to the other masters

>>41553270
>>B) Send him back, send a messenger to the Masters with information about his actions.


And tell Beth about the Mavens and ask if we can move men and supplies into her kingdom covertly to help against possible Order Retaliation.

>>41553270
>>B) Send him back, send a messenger to the Masters with information about his actions.

>>41553270
>B) Send him back, send a messenger to the Masters with information about his actions.
Make some shotgun as well.

>>41553270
>send him back
Tomorrow morning, spend today discussing the Vastiv Minor/La Faresse border and the Mavens,
Tomorrow we leave, move our army north and into/near Vastov Minor, enter an unofficial alliance, and either go to the Seelie or the Centaurs or both, depending on how much time we have until he Order starts moving. we will also talk to the Mavens, since the mother asked for our presence anyway.

>>41553363
Damn meant to type make some shit up as well.

>>41553389
this works, we should also get the centuars in the fold too. Also we should have the messenger drop not so subtle hints that we know about their plots to scare em. >>41553270

>>41553332
Not into their border, just right outside of it, and we'll get them Mavens for the inside of their borders, should hold till our army arrives aye.

>>41553270
Also, I'm coming to the conclusion that our turns are way to short. We definitely need a few months to digest our conquests before starting new ones.

>>41553363
I agree

>>41553270
>B) Send him back, send a messenger to the Masters with information about his actions.
Say he also struck the King of Vastov and paid himseveral insults

>>41553429
Would rather have more than just the Mavens to help defend against the Order assault. The bastards forget their place and make enemies where there could have been allies.

>>41553363
>>41553462
No need to make things up. He behaved badly enough on his own.

>>41553420
Well yes, I mentioned the Centaurs and Seelie for that prupose, possible allies.
If we do get the centaurs in on it, we should send a messenger to our bookkeeper bro to send our merchant into the centaurlands to establish trait right now, to strengthen our connection further.

>>41553495
I think the centaurs might like a fight. But how will we get the Fey involved?

>>41553491
well he did do both the things i said

>>41553270
>A

Put that little ahit in the dungeon. He's an extremely valuable bargaining chip & this gives us time to prepare for a coming conflict.

>>41553353
>>41553332

"I'm certain they won't believe us, as well, Prince." You say as you call for a courier who bows. Bethenne then dictates a letter, looking at him the whole time, a letter full of acid and vitriol. She condemns him as a sneak, a liar, a pervert, and a common thug for striking you and being so rude. She then orders the courier to copy it four times and send it out to each Master and the Grandmaster himself.

Farrah tosses her hair and glares down at the young Prince who is nearly shaking in the knees, "You will remain in your quarters, Prince Manfried, until tomorrow morning when you are established to leave. Consider this an act of mercy. Take him to his quarters." The Guards nod and escort him to his room.

The job done, the three of you walk back to the sitting room as Farrah wonders, aloud, "It is strange, however, that he should come so brazenly without guards. I have not seen a single one." You take note of it and whisper for Elsabeth to go and keep an eye out for anything worrisome and if she sees it to gather the Honor Guard by the sitting room. She nods and rushes off to execute your will.

You sit back with Farrah in the room, a Thorn Guard standing guard outside the room. Once you are both seated and in secret again you tell her about...

>A) The Mavens, and how she can hire them and their services to bolster her army
>B) The information you have on the Grandmaster, maybe she can wield it in her talks with the Order?
>C) Other

>>41553460
[What do you mean our turns are too short? The timeframe I'm giving? Or people's turn around for seeking more conflict?]

>>41553567
>>A) The Mavens, and how she can hire them and their services to bolster her army
>B) The information you have on the Grandmaster, maybe she can wield it in her talks with the Order?

>>41553567
>A) The Mavens, and how she can hire them and their services to bolster her army
>B) The information you have on the Grandmaster, maybe she can wield it in her talks with the Order?

>>41553473
The thing is, La Faresse is small, and withthe help of the locals we could move our troops across it in less than half a day, I think.
And if we don't have any of OUR troops in La Faresse, then we haven't officially done anything the Order forbid us from doing, and they will be the aggressors if they attack, which will put us in a good light and create an image of us protecting people in other nations.
Don't underestimate the Mavens, by the way.
But I suppose we could move our Mages into La Faresse, under the excuse of studying the thorns blocking the border.
>>41553567
>Mavens
That reminds me, are our mages studying the thorns on the La Faresse side, or the Vastov Minor side? Anyway, since we have mages in Vastov proper as well, we can move mages onto the La Faresse side as well, right?

>>41553567
>A) The Mavens, and how she can hire them and their services to bolster her army
>B) The information you have on the Grandmaster, maybe she can wield it in her talks with the Order?

include elsabeth in the conversation, ask if the Mavens would being willing to work for her, or maybe even work out with La Faresse the type of deal we have with the Khazadites, by giving them land

Unless anons think we should try and do that ourselves

>>41553590
>>41553603

Backing these, but let's not be too explicit on exactly what those Grandmaster misdeeds are.

The Queen seems like an old friend,but we're not married yet and for all we know her dad is a real dickhead.

Tldr - don't show the Queen our full hand of cards. We've been successful so far because everyone thinks we small time shit

>>41553637
I wonder how much the people know about the situation. Information like this has the nasty habit of getting around so maybe the people know more than we think... for better or worse.

>>41553541
>extremely valuable bargaining chip
Is he? How do we know he isn't his father's most hated son?
>>41553523
Someone said that autumn/winter Seelie are more hostile and such, if the Witch is their leader, we might be able to diplomance them to trn their hostility towards the order.
Also isnit just me or does the thorns blocking the border reminds you of the Witch! She used thorny vines as well.

>>41553731
Could be the Witch...but then again what they get out of it other than dead fey? We might need to bribe them with something before they would consider our request. But what would they want from us?

>>41553671
>Her dad
Doesn't her being a queen imply that her father is, you know, dead?

>>41553567
>[What do you mean our turns are too short? The timeframe I'm giving? Or people's turn around for seeking more conflict?]
Both really. Basically, we've doubled our land area, and we need time to digest our conquests or our empire will quickly become incredibly unstable and poorly governed. The Order knows this as well. If they take on us and La Faresse, they'll take casualties even if they win, and then have to deal with garrisoning triple the land area with a restive populace while simultaneously still being at war with the Tyranny. We'd obviously basically have the same problem if we took them out.

>>41553770
I said they MIGHT have enough hostility to just attack the Order because we ask.
I'm not willing to pay them for help.
I'm thinking maybe La Faresse has an agreement with the witch so she keeps the border closed for them? Maybe they were afraid of the order or something? Not sure, might need togo lookig in the northern mountains once we have the time.

>>41553832
Just have to keep paying the bills and everyone will come home own time

>>41553832
Maybe. Honestly if the order backs off I would be satisfied, they are holding back the tyranny and I would love to send men to help them fight it off but they need a reality check.

>>41553567
Wait what if they kill the Prince and blame it on us or the queen?

>>41553912
then they are even more corrupt and ruthless than we though. They must be replaced.

>>41553875
Yup let's expand south and get rid of the demons in our mountains.
Also maybe have the mavens join us.

>>41553802
I don't think OUR goal is to conquer the order, maybe some raiding for resources, but we mostly want to get them to back off.
The Order may want the same, making us more submissive.
>>41553912
We sent them messages that say we sent the prince, and have witnesses, they could do it sure, but that is always a possibility.

>>41553939
>>41553912
It could be a back up plan in case the queen says no.

>>41553951
Yeah I'd rather figure shit out within our own borders for a while.

>>41553951
>expand south
Nah, we need to bro it up with the Centaurs, and maybe expand East a little bit instead.
But we meed to concentrate on internal affairs, get our economy and population us, improve military, get a navy maybe for trade, diplomance the Illurians, amd clean up the demons and such, get better in combat and read magic books.

>>41553990
I also don't want to waste our only marriage to a small nation we can absorb easily especially since what she gives is is basically nothing.
We can easily have her nobles come over without a marriage.

>>41554034
We aren't constrained by monogamy, though polygamy would be a pain in the ass. Stop acting like we are.

>>41554016
Also get rid of corruption that is taking a third of our money.

>>41553951
Actually, we could give the Mavens a similar status to the Khazadites, being our subject but not paying taxes instead being soldiers.
Even better if they worship our war god, they're basically a clergy/cult that just needs to be legitimized.

>>41553647
>>41553603

You whisper to her once you are in secrecy, "There is a group of warrior women who live in secrecy in the mountains to the west of Vastov. They are honest people and excellent fighters. I am going to speak to their leader soon, would you like me to try and get her soldiers to protect your lands? They are not cheap, but they are very powerful. And it is a great help to get an army in a short time, should it come to that." She nods and sighs, "Yes, we have let the military fall to the wayside here, things were peaceful for so long...."

She is right, before your wars, Vastov and La Faresse hadn't seen true war in around fifty years, since your grandfater was killed in battle. Sure, your father fought the tail end of that war, if you could call his part fighting a war. Regardless, there's one more thing...

"Farrah," you tell her seriously, "I hold information of great importance to the Grandmaster, perhaps...if we are fortunate, perhaps, damning information. I do not wish to divulge exactly what it is, but I assure you, we can find some use for it. If he begins to put pressure on you, truly dangerous pressure, tell him that you know of his wife's youngest. But please, do not do it until such a time as you have no recourse.

The two of you chat more, later into the night, before you escort her to her chambers, kiss her hand, and head to yours and drop off to sleep. You wake up briefly as Elsabeth returns and takes up watch over you and the door.

~Morning, Fifthday~

The couriers with those damning messages have nearly a whole night's start and, with Thorn Guards surrounding him on all sides, the Prince is escorted out of the castle and given his horse. He snarls and as he rides off, says, "You will be hearing from me very soon, Queen Bethenne." You shake your head, "Somehow, I doubt that."

>A) Return to Vastov
>B) Hang around La Faresse more (write in what do)

>>41553802
[In fairness, I am not determining what we do, or pushing war.]

>>41554051
Nigga the QM specifically said polygamy is a big no no, and at best we can have a mistress.
He'll courting was specifically meant for marriage as well.

>>41554034
It might be a bit too soon for that i agree. but she is our best option ATM.

My list goes
>Queen Farrah
>Countess Vella
>Aditya
>Contessa Eleisha

and i'll vote against anything non human unless its a shapeshifting dragon or a goddess

>>41554072
>A) Return to Vastov

>>41554072
>>A) Return to Vastov
and find out where the hell vella is.

>>41554089
No he said it would be very difficult and result in a probable civil war. Don't get me wrong monogomy is the safest bet but don't act like were constrained by it. its annoying.

>>41554072
>A) Return to Vastov

>>41554072
Unless anyone has a good way to make La Faresse a client state, i vote
>A) Return to Vastov
We really need to have a chat with Count Piotr

>>41554072
>Return to Vastov
We need to prepare.
Did we talk about the thorny border with her? Please tell me we did.
Also comment on >>41554063 ?

>>41554167
IDK if youre addressing the QM but I like the idea

>>41554125
So you are cool with a civil war happening?
This is of course we can even convince the bride's to polygamy and there is no backlash from their home countries.

>>41554103
See, that's the point, even according to you, MC has onky FOUR possible marriage partners right now, and TWO AND A HALF of those are our own subjects!
We don't have a wide enough pool to choose from to marry right now, we don't know any emperors with daughters to marry off for instance, we need to save our marriage for later, when it will be useful.

>>41554220
Not even that anon, but stop.
Anon is right, we aren't actually constrained to monogamy. Polygamy is very risky, sure, but it is an option.

>>41554072
>A) Return to Vastov
But ask her to come visit us in a weeks time

>>41554220
Why would we get backlash from their home countries. And you are mistaken, I want Polygamy but will defer to monogamy due to the sheer fact that polygamy will result in blood shed and chaos...unfortunately.

>>41554263
Guys, NO POLYGAMY this WILL be the one wuest that doesnt turn into "add every named female character to the harem," which just recently killed AEQ

>>41554295
what the hell is AEQ?

>Such a glimpse into Order politics would be so useful! If only we knew someone who had such insights...
Reminder that the count and his daughter should be able to tell us the politics of the order.

>>41554323
Aspiring Emperor Quest

>>41554354
Meh. Anyway I just want the anon who's complaining about OUR ONE AND ONLY CHANCE to quiet down. We all know about that and its mostly just basic waifu bullshit right now.

>>41554335
By the way we gotta deal with that Piotr motherfucker... He's too sketchy for my liking.

>>41554335
Good point.
>>41554295
That's irrelevant, you have to admit that it's a possibility.
And at least I'm not the idiot who wants to marry the first female royalty we know of even though she isn't ery powerful.
If we did do polygamy, I'd vote for it for politics, marrying onky very powerful women, e.g, wouodn't marry the shaman qt or Elsabeth, even though both are waifuable.

>>41554419
QM has been very clear its a bad udea

>>41554063
[This is an extremely good idea, though they, like the Order, may find our lack of faith disturbing. It's interesting that they are not so fond of one another, but zealots rarely are fond of other zealots. Regardless, good talking point for the Matron]

>>41554157
>>41554167

"Ah, Queen Bethenne," you say as you mount your horse with your Guard all around you, Elsabeth back at your side, "One more thing. There is a barrier between La Faresse and Vastov Minor, a thorny mystical barrier. Have you heard of this?"

She nods and looks sad, "Yes, I lost one of my good friends to that blight. He tried to clear it with a magical sword, that is now undoubtedly lost in that tangle. I have no clue how to surpass it, and our mages have been at it for a decade." You sigh, a bit frustrated, but ask her to have her mages send their notes to your Mage's Guild, and you will have yours do the same for her. She agrees and finally, farewells are bid.

~Evening, Fifthday~

The horses stabled and all cleaning taken care of you push the door open in your great hall and reveal a medley of unique looking characters. Three men, two women, standing there all of them apparently talking very pointedly to Ralero, who is backed up against a pillar and laughing nervously. "I do not believe this is proper behavior for guests of the King." The five of them face you and immediately bow, apologizing, and settling down.

They sit themselves neatly next to one another as you look them over.

The first is an older man, a grizzled leather tough looking old man who looks like the son of a boot and a bear. He is wearing extremely scarred and marked armor and looks none to happy to be made waiting.

The second is a short young man with a massive backpack full of what you assume to be books, judging from his glasses and the cuts on his fingers. He appears to be a bit nervous to see you.

[cont]

>>41554417
He is loyal to us so he has to listen, plus once the order is gone he won't have anyone else to go back on.

>>41554395
You say that like there's no chance that enough anons buy into the "basic waifu bullshit" that they actually marry Bethenne
it's a very real danger.

>>41554443

The third person is a woman in, maybe, her thirties. She wears man's clothes and a leather jerkin. Her heavy gloves and boots, especially with the caked mud on them, marks her as something of an outdoorsman, or an explorer?

The fourth person is the other woman, though you can only tell from the shape of her body. She wears a cloth over most of her face, save for her lips and eyes. Her hands are held inside of her sleeves.

Finally, the last person in this group is a flippant looking young man with a reed between his teeth and extremely fancy looking garments, garments that put even some of your outfits to shame. The sword on his hip, thin and long, is the mark of a La Faressen, perhaps one of value.

"Now," you announce as you walk past them all, "Let's talk properly. We'll start with..."

>A) Person 1
>B) Person 2
>C) Person 3
>D) Person 4
>E) Person 5

>>41554457
Enough with the real danger bullshit. If we marry Bethenne then we marry her and improve her kingdom like we did with ours. Hell I like her a lot but my choices of wife are shot down immediately and the other choices don't have the same political power and land value that a QUEEN has.

Besides Anons here have been strangely intelligent about the waifu shit, other than talking about it.

>A) Person 1

>>41554496
>B) Person 2

>>41554496
>>E) Person 5

>>41554512
>>41554496
fucking hell.

>>41554453
That doesn't mean he won't have chances to backstabb us anyway. All I'm saying is we gotta be careful with the fucker

>>41554496
>person 1
Interested in muscle right now, 4 is intriguing, rest is kinda normal except 5.
My suggested order atm is 1 to 4 to 2 to 5 to 3
3 could be a thief

Are these nobles we sent out to look for?

>>41554512
The danger I'm referring to is giving an idiot with a slight cold an incredibly valuable magic potion that cures everything. Wasting resources/potential/opportunities,
I like Bethenne too, don't get me wrong, but marrying her is not all that beneficial to us.
Then again, we don't have other suitors nearby, and gettin it out of the way may cut down in drama later on.
I'm still against marrying her, but will think about it more,

>>41554622
no these are this weeks agents

i finally figured out which of the pools were waterparks

>>41554496
We should give all of them a chance to speak. Who knows what we may miss. So... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

>>41554636
She is the safest option we have. The fey are the Fey. The godess is insane and bloodthirsty and if its political power and whatnot you want then the queen is the best one we have.

>>41554622
Of course not, I think they are possible followers/agents.
>>41554496
Is 4's skin/eye/hair/etc. color unusual too, or does she just wear strange clothes?

>>41554663
this is a logical order
>>41554675
guys this discussion has gone on long enough its not worth talking about anymore, we arent going to get married any time this threads

>>41554675
I know she's the safest anon I'm not retarded, butthat's irrelevant, I'm saying it's too early for marriage.

>>41554704
Yeah yeah I'll drop it.

>>41554720
Well at least your civil about it and sure but I still think we should get a heir soon if conflict is going to take up a lot of our time...just a paranoid suggestion and thats the last I will say of it.

>>41554063
This was supposed to be a question, actually, oops.

[New Thread: We blew past the limit tonight.]

>>41554855

>>41554661
Well it should be known we only have 22 resource to pay for wages.