Spring of Year 1
Dear Sire...
Welcome to your estate, wise Baron Coldane Volzing. Although your realm is at present only small, I am sure that your great rule will bring us into an era of prosperity and happiness. Your Chateau, Volzing Keep, is at present a Keep in name only, but with many years under your lordship, I am sure that will change.
I am Scribe Ostleb, your most humble of servants, I am honoured to be of service to you and will do my best to carry out my duties with haste and quality.
As you know, the estate is deep in the Forest of Chalons. To the north, east and west the trees may be seen, and to the south the wide River Morceaux blocks any passage that way. Luckily, a road crosses through the estate. The road west leads to safety in the lands of Bordeleaux, the road east leads towards the Massif Orcal, a mountainous place perhaps more dangerous than the forest realm of our abode.
Within the estate of Volzing Keep, the Chateau rests close to the centre of the cleared area that is your lands. A short distance west of the Chateau is the estate town. Named Elmwood, the small village houses almost all of your subjects. Ten of the people in Elmwood are trained and armed, ready to serve you as loyal Men-At-Arms.
South of Elmwood rests the Farmstead and Field of the estate, within an area of land named The Oaks, due to the many large, ancient oaks that may be found dotted about the land.
Not all of your lands have been built upon, however, as a length of land known as The North March, which rests at the northernmost reaches of your estate has a small, but cleared, patch of undeveloped land, in prime condition for building. Many years ago the area was abandoned due to foul creatures inhabiting the patch of forest nearby, but I would think that they had moved on to more travelled roads.
Another area of undeveloped lands is Shrub Vale, a long piece of flat lands named so due to the abundance of small, pleasant-looking Shrubs that cluster in the patch of land. The lands themselves, however, are in a good position to be cleared, and then built upon.
Two other lengths of land are also within your estate, but both harbour dangers of ill fortune. First, a small area named The Spit that is pleasant and peaceful, except for one part of it. A decaying, dank and broken tower stands upon a hill. It is not of Bretonnian design, however, and looks, to my common eyes, Elvish. Some misfortune must have befallen the owner in times past, however, as the place hides some evil that has stopped any who venture within from returning.
Secondly, perhaps a more mundane threat, but still as dangerous. The Morceaux Banks, a part of your estate bordering on the River Morceaux, is often hunted on by a over-sized River Troll and a handful of its progeny. This danger will need to be dealt with if those lands are to be built upon to any real extent.
Now, to bring the matters of state to your attention:
The Lord's Tax for this Spring is a modest 1 Revenue, do you wish it paid?
Spring has come, and it is time to sow the Farmer's crops. They, however, require your permission to do so. My question is, do you wish to have the Farmers plant the crops, and if you do, at what quality do you wish the crop planted?
At present, the Tax Rate is at Average level, providing us with enough Revenue to sustain the realm, but not much more. Do you wish to increase the Tax Rate to produce more Revenue, or perhaps a decrease in the Tax would be better, to increase morale? Of course, keeping the Tax Rate at its current level is a choice as well.
The rate of Rationing at the present time is Full Rations, the usual level for Bretonnian realms. Do you wish to change this?
The Men-At-Arms are few in number and more than likely unable to withstand an attack, should any large force of opponents come from the forests. Do you wish to have more trained, and if so, how many?
The cleared area of land in Shrub Vale is ready to be built upon. Do you wish to build the Free Land Square into a more useful form? Smaller constructions on our current village or farm. An Animal Barn, for example, would increase our Food Stocks during the Winter months.
Of course, if you wish any actions other than those mentioned above to be done, I shall see them carried out to my best abilities.
I hope this, my first report, has aided you in your first Season of lordship.
I shall write no more for this Spring, and shall wait for your orders.
Your honoured servant,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 104
Food Stocks: 138
Townsfolk: 52 (grown by 2 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 47
Farmers: 5
Men-At-Arms: 10
Land Squares (Total): 5
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 1
Field Squares: 1
Free Land Squares: 1
Tax Rate: Average Tax (1 Revenue per 4 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 62%
Faith: 48%
King's Favour: 40%
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Lord's Response
Welcome to your estate, wise Baron Coldane Volzing......
Now, to bring the matters of state to your attention:
The Lord's Tax for this Spring is a modest 1 Revenue, do you wish it paid?
Yes
Spring has come, and it is time to sow the Farmer's crops. They, however, require your permission to do so. My question is, do you wish to have the Farmers plant the crops, and if you do, at what quality do you wish the crop planted?
Plant Normal Crops at The Oaks 3 & 4.
At present, the Tax Rate is at Average level, providing us with enough Revenue to sustain the realm, but not much more. Do you wish to increase the Tax Rate to produce more Revenue, or perhaps a decrease in the Tax would be better, to increase morale? Of course, keeping the Tax Rate at its current level is a choice as well.
Increase tax rate to High Tax.
The rate of Rationing at the present time is Full Rations, the usual level for Bretonnian realms. Do you wish to change this?
No.
The Men-At-Arms are few in number and more than likely unable to withstand an attack, should any large force of opponents come from the forests. Do you wish to have more trained, and if so, how many?
Train 10 more Men-At-Arms.
The cleared area of land in Shrub Vale is ready to be built upon. Do you wish to build the Free Land Square into a more useful form? Smaller constructions on our current village or farm. An Animal Barn, for example, would increase our Food Stocks during the Winter months.
"Having consulted my map Ostleb, the cleared Free Land Square is actually in The North March." -Throws chicken leg at scribe-
Build an Animal Barn at The North March 1.
Of course, if you wish any actions other than those mentioned above to be done, I shall see them carried out to my best abilities.
Yes... Sell 30 Food Stocks to the Royal Granary.
Buy and clear The Oaks 3 and carry out planting as I said above.
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Summer of Year 1
Dear Sire...
The Spring has passed and now is the Season of Summer. I did my best to see the commoners perform the orders you gave.
Firstly, I apologise for the mistake in the description of the placing of the clear land square. You are correct, the North March is where the cleared land is, not Shrub Vale.
The two Fields at The Oaks were planted, following your orders, and just recently Harvested. The Food Stocks yielded were great, and shall feed the population for many months to come.
Although the population protested upon hearing of the Tax Rate increase, they were quickly convinced to pay. The sight of 10 new Men-At-Arms and the large Harvest bounty showed them that the higher Taxes were being put to good use.
The people were most happy to hear Rationing would remain the same.
The Animal Barn you requested was built. However, as the Animal Barn is an additional building of a Farmstead, it could not be built in the North March, where no Farmsteads are. Seeing this, I gave the order to your peasants to build it in the The Oaks Farmstead, instead.
The Food Stocks you ordered sold were sent to the Royal Granary. All in all, enough food to feed 30 people for a Season was sold, for a profit of 10 Revenue.
Now, to the matters of state:
First of all, the Lord's Tax for this Season is 4. Should it be paid?
Most wise Baron Coldane Volzing, the Harvest Day Festival is upon us. The population is extremely excited, as 'tis one of the few days of the year in which the common-folk may rest and enjoy good food in abundance. How much Revenue and Food Stocks do you wish to be spent in this celebration, and showing of thanks, to the harvested gifted to us by the Lady of the Lake?
The cleared land at The North March is still empty, do you wish to improve it by building it into a Farmstead, or perhaps a new Shelter Square?
As the Animal Barn has improved the Farmstead at The Oaks, so would different kinds of improvements. Palisade Walls, though expensive, would give a good deal of protection to your subjects.
The ranks of your Men-At-Arms are now very strong, with 20 armed Men-At-Arms at your command your lands are well protect. They are not immune from danger, as some threats of the land could destroy even that force of fighting men. Do you wish to train more Men-At-Arms? The mid-Summer gathering would allow me to do so at a reduced cost.
Of course, any other actions you, in your wisdom, see needing to be done, merely give the command, and I shall se it done to the best of my abilities.
Thus I end my Summer Report.
Your humble Scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 45
Food Stocks: 481
Townsfolk: 46 (grown by 1 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 36
Farmers: 10
Men-At-Arms: 20
Land Squares (Total): 6
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 1
Field Squares: 2
Free Land Squares: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 63%
Faith: 46%
King's Favour: 41%
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Lord's Response
Now, to the matters of state:
First of all, the Lord's Tax for this Season is 4. Should it be paid?
Yes
Most wise Baron Coldane Volzing, the Harvest Day Festival is upon us. The population is extremely excited, as 'tis one of the few days of the year in which the common-folk may rest and enjoy good food in abundance. How much Revenue and Food Stocks do you wish to be spent in this celebration, and showing of thanks, to the harvested gifted to us by the Lady of the Lake?
Yes spend 20 food stocks on the festival.
The cleared land at The North March is still empty, do you wish to improve it by building it into a Farmstead, or perhaps a new Shelter Square?
Build a Farmstead at The North March 1.
As the Animal Barn has improved the Farmstead at The Oaks, so would different kinds of improvements. Palisade Walls, though expensive, would give a good deal of protection to your subjects.
NO palisade walls yet.
The ranks of your Men-At-Arms are now very strong, with 20 armed Men-At-Arms at your command your lands are well protected. They are not immune from danger, as some threats of the land could destroy even that force of fighting men. Do you wish to train more Men-At-Arms? The mid-Summer gathering would allow me to do so at a reduced cost.
Yes train 20 more Men-At-Arms.
Of course, any other actions you, in your wisdom, see needing to be done, merely give the command, and I shall see it done to the best of my abilities.
Raise 200 revenue from a peasant levy.
Buy and clear The North March 2 and 6.
Sell 60 Food Stocks to the Royal Granary.
Baron Coldane Volzing
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Autumn of Year 1
Dear Sire...
I bring many tidings in this, my Autumn Report to you, milord. Unfortunately, not all of the tidings are good ones. I have faith in your ability to resolve the situations, and put my full trust in you.
Here is my Autumn report:
The Farmstead you ordered to be built was finished at the beginning of this Season, and the two Land Squares you ordered cleared are now ready for building upon. Do you wish to build upon these lands, milord?
The Harvest Day Festival was an enjoyable day indeed. Although few entertainers and dancers were present, the feasting table had a huge amount of good food and drink for myself and your other subjects to consume. After eating our fill, a large portion of the Food Stocks you so generously provided were offered as tribute to the grace of the Lady of the Lake.
With the garrison's number now at a formidable 40 Men-At-Arms, I am sure they are ready for any threats that should come our way. Training more is an option, but unnecessary as far as I can tell.
The Food Stocks you wished to be sold were sent immediately off to the Royal Granary, the return Revenue has been added to your reserves.
Now, to the unfortunate tidings...
The Peasant Levy you wisely ordered to be collected was not responded to well by the common-folk. The total you asked for required each commoner to hand over 3 Revenue, on average, and most claimed they could not pay it.
It was collected, eventually, but much resistance was put up by some of the population. Most were easily subdued by the Men-At-Arms until the Levy had been collected, but three townsfolk of a family acted most foolishly and attacked the Men-At-Arms and Tax Collector. This action, unfortunately, ended in all three people having to be killed in a battle, such was their foolishness.
However, on the brighter side, the Levy was collected, in full, and now your reserves swell with the additional Revenue.
Now, to the matters of state:
Shockingly, the Lord's Tax for this Season is quite large. 25 Revenue, in fact. 20 of it is from the Peasant's Levy, 3 of it is from the Taxes and 2 of it is from the Revenue gained from the sale of the Food Stocks. Do you wish it paid?
Do you wish to build any Upgrades on your existing Land Squares?
The Winter will soon be upon us, and trade will be risky at best during the snows of that most chilling time. If you wish to buy or sell any Food Stocks, I recommend you do so now.
With so much Revenue at your disposal, many options are available to you. Do you wish to clear any more land, or build upon any of your already cleared land?
Thus ends my Autumn Report.
Farewell for now, my liege.
Your humble subject,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 189
Food Stocks: 241
Townsfolk: 21 (fallen by 5 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 11
Farmers: 10
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 8
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 2
Free Land Squares: 2
Animal Barn: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 26%
Faith: 46%
King's Favour: 42%
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Lord's Response
Dear Sire...
I bring many tidings in this, my Autumn Report to you, milord. Unfortunately, not all of the tidings are good ones. I have faith in your ability to resolve the situations, and put my full trust in you.
Baron Volzing turns from his desk where he is reading maps and tales of knights.
Here is my Autumn report:
The Farmstead you ordered to be built was finished at the beginning of this Season, and the two Land Squares you ordered cleared are now ready for building upon. Do you wish to build upon these lands, milord?
"No Ostleb, we won't build on them just yet."
The Harvest Day Festival was an enjoyable day indeed. Although few entertainers and dancers were present, the feasting table had a huge amount of good food and drink for myself and your other subjects to consume. After eating our fill, a large portion of the Food Stocks you so generously provided were offered as tribute to the grace of the Lady of the Lake.
"Excellent. Even the peasants should live like a Baron for but one day a year."
With the garrison's number now at a formidable 40 Men-At-Arms, I am sure they are ready for any threats that should come our way. Training more is an option, but unnecessary as far as I can tell.
"I am very sure they are ready - won't recruit any more for the garrison at the moment."
The Food Stocks you wished to be sold were sent immediately off to the Royal Granary, the return Revenue has been added to your reserves.
"Good."
Now, to the unfortunate tidings...
The Peasant Levy you wisely ordered to be collected was not responded to well by the common-folk. The total you asked for required each commoner to hand over 3 Revenue, on average, and most claimed they could not pay it.
It was collected, eventually, but much resistance was put up by some of the population. Most were easily subdued by the Men-At-Arms until the Levy had been collected, but three townsfolk of a family acted most foolishly and attacked the Men-At-Arms and Tax Collector. This action, unfortunately, ended in all three people having to be killed in a battle, such was their foolishness.
"Unfortunate yes. However their death will serve as a reminder to the peasants of the price they will pay for defying their Baron."
"Ostleb give this speech to the peasants on my behalf" - Recently our lord Baron Volzing had extracted a sizeable levy from you. This was necessary as this estate is just beginning and as a new born child needs lots of care and attention. However now you peasants are protected by the most formidable force of Men-At-Arms in the Borderlands. The levy will be a cornerstone that lays the foundation of this estate as it grows in wealth and stature and thus improving your lives. These are the words of our lord Baron Volzing.
However, on the brighter side, the Levy was collected, in full, and now your reserves swell with the additional Revenue.
"I might have a treasure bath later".
Now, to the matters of state:
Shockingly, the Lord's Tax for this Season is quite large. 25 Revenue, in fact. 20 of it is from the Peasant's Levy, 3 of it is from the Taxes and 2 of it is from the Revenue gained from the sale of the Food Stocks. Do you wish it paid?
"Yes. As it is the duty of my subjects to pay Peasant Tax it is my duty to my liege to pay the Lord Tax."
Do you wish to build any Upgrades on your existing Land Squares?
"Build a Barracks at Elmwood 1. The gold hydra will be more fearsome now. The men deserve a place to relax and train and to swap tales".
The Winter will soon be upon us, and trade will be risky at best during the snows of that most chilling time. If you wish to buy or sell any Food Stocks, I recommend you do so now.
"No trade for now. We shall sit tight and wait for winter".
With so much Revenue at your disposal, many options are available to you. Do you wish to clear any more land, or build upon any of your already cleared land?
"No. We will wait."
Thus ends my Autumn Report.
Farewell for now, my liege.
Your humble subject,
Scribe Ostleb.
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Winter of Year 1
Dear Sire...
The long Winter has now begun, and as I huddle close by the fireplace I write this Winter Report.
By your most wise command, I gave the speech to the population that you instructed me to give. Spirits seem to be slowly improving, but reports have a handful of townspeople leaving the estate to make lives elsewhere. Most of the estate's population are still loyal to you, however.
The Barracks you wanted to be built is now finished, and serves as a centre of activity for all of the Men-At-Arms. Even though the building has only been completed for a week at this time, the warriors already show improvement in both the skill of their fighting, and the leadership of the overall force.
With the Winter snows, storms and winds blocking most news in and out of the estate I am sorry to say I have news of the outside world to report.
However, within the estate of Volzing Keep, I have many matters of state to bring before you:
Firstly, the Lord's Tax for this Season is a mere 2 Revenue.
Alarmingly, although at the moment the Revenue stockpiles can only be described as healthy, they are being whittled away by Upkeep, Lord's Taxes and Men-At-Arms wages.
You make 28 Revenue per Season from the Peasant Taxes, currently, this is the estate's only form of income. Unfortunately, the Men-At-Arms take 20 Revenue in costs per Season (arming, training and paying the wages of 40 Men-At-Arms is expensive), and Upkeep of the buildings you own is a further 10 Revenue. If you factor in the Lord's Tax, we are losing 4 Revenue per Season on upkeeping the realm alone!
Thankfully, as I said before, much stockpiled Revenue is available to cure this problem. Although my commoner mind cannot match your wisdom, I recommend either building a Market or a Mine in future Seasons. Of course, you may already have a different, more intelligent plan, which is obviously more sound than my own.
On other matters, however, no construction may occur this Season (beyond small Upgrades) due to the Winter's snows and cold. The population refuse to work under such dangerous conditions.
Do any other actions, by your wisdom, need completion? If so, merely give the order, and I shall see them done.
The candlelight fades, I shall write no more...
Your humble scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
P.S. The Peasantry are still (although wrongly) unhappy about the Peasant Levy of the past. However, seeing the number of Men-At-Arms patrolling the lands and new construction going on because of the gained money, most are slowly becoming happier with the idea.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 144
Food Stocks: 293
Townsfolk: 18 (fallen by 3 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 8
Farmers: 10
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 8
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 2
Free Land Squares: 2
Animal Barn: 1
Barracks: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 31%
Faith: 44%
King's Favour: 43%
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Lord's Response
Pay the Lord's Tax.
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Spring of Year 2
Dear Sire...
I must start my second Spring report to you with an apology. In my last report I sent you, I included a report of the stockpiles of the realm's resources. I reported that you have well over 300 Revenue in your stockpiles. I correct this clerical error by informing you that the real amount of Revenue at that time was 144 Revenue.
I apologize greatly for this foolish error on my part.
Hoping that you can forgive me for such an error, I now give thee my Spring Report to you for this year:
Milord Baron Coldane, I welcome thee to the second Spring of your just rule of Volzing Keep. A full year hath you reined over these lands, and already the estate has grown greatly in size and wealth.
The Winter's cold has been banished by the pleasant warmth of the Spring. The growing Season is upon us thus, and it is now time for the Farmers to plant the crops.
The most shocking news of this Season is that a crime has occurred in your most glorious estate! A long-held dispute (over some trivial business matter) between two of your subjects has boiled over into a criminal act.
A man by the name of Gilmorr, an ironsmith deciding to take the law into his own hands, brutally attacked the only other ironsmith in the estate, a peasant named Conann (a strange name, indeed, perhaps originating from the Norscan-folk?). Gilmorr claims that Conann had been spreading false rumours about the poor workmanship of his wares, and vandalising his shop almost weekly.
Anyway, to the crime. Gilmorr was seen attacking Conann with a heavy iron rod, beating the peasant half to death with the weapon before fleeing the scene. Luckily, Conann was discovered by others before he died, and the Men-At-Arms were summoned, and were able to capture the criminal, whose clothes were still stained with the blood of the victim.
What do you wish the punishment to be for this criminal, milord? He stands charged with Grievous Assault, a Major Crime, indeed. Your command shall be carried out swiftly, and the fool shall know his punishment.
Now, to bring before you the matters of state that require your most wise attention:
The Lord's Tax for this Season is 2 Revenue. Shall we pay it?
The King has sent out a request to all of his lordly subjects. Give over 40 Food Stocks to help feed the Royal Army on a grand crusade they are said to be departing on soon.
The payment of this request is not required, and we may choose not to if we so wish (although that would disappoint the King somewhat). I believe, however, that we can afford to pay the request, and still have enough Food Stocks left over to feed the population and plant all of the crops.
As I have said before, the Season is Spring and now is the only chance this year we shall have of sowing crops. Therefore, it would be wise to inform the Farmers of your intentions.
How many Fields do you wish to be sown, and at what quality should those Fields be planted at, milord?
As I have mentioned previously, much Revenue remains in our reserves, and many choices are open to us. 2 Free Land Squares stand ready for development, and much more uncleared land remains to be used once it has been suitably readied for construction.
Do you wish to perform any other actions than those mentioned above? If you do, give the command and I shall do all in my power to see your orders put into action.
So, thanking the Lady for blessing us with a second year of your glorious rein, I end my Spring Report.
Your servant,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 140
Food Stocks: 235
Townsfolk: 18 (has not changed since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 8
Farmers: 10
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 8
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Animal Barn: 1
Barracks: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 32%
Faith: 42%
King's Favour: 44%
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Lord's Response
Orders to Ostleb and replies to his report:
I must start my second Spring report to you with an apology. In my last report I sent you, I included a report of the stockpiles of the realm's resources. I reported that you have well over 300 Revenue in your stockpiles. I correct this clerical error by informing you that the real amount of Revenue at that time was 144 Revenue.
I apologize greatly for this foolish error on my part.
Hoping that you can forgive me for such an error, I now give thee my Spring Report to you for this year:
I forgive you Ostleb, but you must wear the silly hat that I am sending to your quarters for a full year.
Milord Baron Coldane, I welcome thee to the second Spring of your just rule of Volzing Keep. A full year hath you reined over these lands, and already the estate has grown greatly in size and wealth.
The Winter's cold has been banished by the pleasant warmth of the Spring. The growing Season is upon us thus, and it is now time for the Farmers to plant the crops.
Yes plant crops. Sow 3 Normal Fields at The Oaks 3 &4 and The North March 2.
I am Coldane IX. The first Volzing to establish an estate in the Borderlands.
The most shocking news of this Season is that a crime has occurred in your most glorious estate! A long-held dispute (over some trivial business matter) between two of your subjects has boiled over into a criminal act.
A man by the name of Gilmorr, an ironsmith deciding to take the law into his own hands, brutally attacked the only other ironsmith in the estate, a peasant named Conann (a strange name, indeed, perhaps originating from the Norscan-folk?). Gilmorr claims that Conann had been spreading false rumours about the poor workmanship of his wares, and vandalising his shop almost weekly.
Anyway, to the crime. Gilmorr was seen attacking Conann with a heavy iron rod, beating the peasant half to death with the weapon before fleeing the scene. Luckily, Conann was discovered by others before he died, and the Men-At-Arms were summoned, and were able to capture the criminal, whose clothes were still stained with the blood of the victim.
What do you wish the punishment to be for this criminal, milord? He stands charged with Grievous Assault, a Major Crime, indeed. Your command shall be carried out swiftly, and the fool shall know his punishment.
His punishment shall be Embarrassment. He is a blood stained fool, but the estate's last ironsmith. If the false rumours and vandalism occurred the crime is provoked and partly justified sparing the accused a harsher penalty. The gossip of lowly peasants does not concern me. However if one of the Men-At-Arms know the vandalism did not occur then inform me and the punishment shall be upgraded to Mutilation (tongue cut out for lying).
Now, to bring before you the matters of state that require your most wise attention:
The Lord's Tax for this Season is 2 Revenue. Shall we pay it?
Yes.
The King has sent out a request to all of his lordly subjects. Give over 40 Food Stocks to help feed the Royal Army on a grand crusade they are said to be departing on soon.
The payment of this request is not required, and we may choose not to if we so wish (although that would disappoint the King somewhat). I believe, however, that we can afford to pay the request, and still have enough Food Stocks left over to feed the population and plant all of the crops.
Yes send 41 Food Stocks to support the Royal Army's grand crusade. May the Lady protect them.
As I have said before, the Season is Spring and now is the only chance this year we shall have of sowing crops. Therefore, it would be wise to inform the Farmers of your intentions.
How many Fields do you wish to be sown, and at what quality should those Fields be planted at, milord?
Sow 3 Normal Fields at The Oaks 3 & 4 and The North March 2.
As I have mentioned previously, much Revenue remains in our reserves, and many choices are open to us. 2 Free Land Squares stand ready for development, and much more uncleared land remains to be used once it has been suitably readied for construction.
Do you wish to perform any other actions than those mentioned above? If you do, give the command and I shall do all in my power to see your orders put into action.
Increase rationing to Double Rations (possibly for this season only). "The populace may still be upset with the levy extracted in summer last year. This gesture of goodwill shows the peasants and those outside the realm they have a future at Volzing Keep."
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Summer of Year 2
Dear Sire...
I thank thee most greatly for forgiving me for my error. The "silly" hat you sent to my quarters now rests upon my head throughout the day.
The Summer is here, and with it, the Harvest has come. I am happy to report that the bounty was so great that we could easily keep Double Rations going for the entire year to come.
The population have rejoiced upon hearing of your orders to increase the Rationing level, and many who thought badly of you before have changed their opinions.
The Rationing, if kept at the current level, will slowly build the population growth into a steady rise.
In your wisdom, the gesture of good will has improved the morale of the peasantry greatly.
Although this Estate is but young, under your promising rule, milord Coldane IX, we shall soon be a beacon of prosperity shining across Bretonnia.
Also, you asked the Men-At-Arms to look into the vandalism that Gilmorr claimed Conann performed upon his shop. The Men-At-Arms could find no proof of vandalism, and upon questioning the townsfolk, no-one could so they had seen any wrong-doing. The Sergeant of the Men-At-Arms ended the inspection with the conclusion that Gilmorr was lying.
As you commanded, his tongue was cut out of his unworthy head.
Now, to further issues:
The Lord's Tax for this Summer is 2 Revenue. Should we pay it?
Ill news! Milord, the North March No.6 cleared land parcel has been ruined. Whether it started by natural causes or by some fool's hand, a Fire has claimed the free lands in that area of land. The land is now covered with ash, fallen trees and other debris from the fire. The Ruined Square will need to be re-cleared before it may be used again.
The blaze was put out by your loyal townspeople before it spread to any other lands, but 4 Townsfolk were killed in the process. They will be missed.
The time has come for the Harvest Day Festival once more. As the lord of the Estate, it is up to you how much Revenue and Food Stocks are used in the celebrations. How much should we spend on celebrating, and giving thanks for, the bounty the Lady has bestowed upon us?
One of your townspeople has committed a most foolish act. Paul, a young man who is lacking in Faith, made the following declaration to the townspeople earlier this Season. I was "lucky" enough to be present at the time, and recorded the words he said:
"Fellow people of Volzing Keep, harken to my words! The Lady is a false, fool's god who takes and does not give in return. Turn away from the (I cannot write what was said here, as it shames me to even think of the words he used) deity who takes without giving back. Turn to the way of Sigmar, who has shown me the way!"
I quickly ordered the Men-At-Arms to take the peasant into custody, and he awaits your judgement. Paul stands charged with the crime of Besmirching the Lady of the Lake. What punishment do you see fit for this faithless crime?
Finally, do you wish to clear any new lands, or build any smaller Upgrades, milord? As it is, we could afford to fully clear and build upon one section of land into a new Shelter, Market, Mine or Farmstead and still have enough reserves to host a Harvest Day Festival. What are your orders, milord?
Another choice open to you is to lower the Rationing back to Full Rations, and sell off up to 300-400 Food Stocks for a very tidy profit. Do you wish to do this?
The hour is late, I shall write no more...
Your humble and loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
|
STATISTICS:
Revenue: 106
Food Stocks: 686
Townsfolk: 17 (has fallen by 1 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 7
Farmers: 10
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 8
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Animal Barn: 1
Barracks: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 36%
Faith: 40%
King's Favour: 45%
|
Lord's Response
Baron Volzing's replies to scribe Ostleb's report:
I thank thee most greatly for forgiving me for my error. The "silly" hat you sent to my quarters now rests upon my head throughout the day.
"Ha-ha. You are most amusing Ostleb."
The Summer is here, and with it, the Harvest has come. I am happy to report that the bounty was so great that we could easily keep Double Rations going for the entire year to come.
The population have rejoiced upon hearing of your orders to increase the Rationing level, and many who thought badly of you before have changed their opinions.
The Rationing, if kept at the current level, will slowly build the population growth into a steady rise.
In your wisdom, the gesture of good will has improved the morale of the peasantry greatly.
Although this Estate is but young, under your promising rule, milord Coldane IX, we shall soon be a beacon of prosperity shining across Bretonnia.
Also, you asked the Men-At-Arms to look into the vandalism that Gilmorr claimed Conann performed upon his shop. The Men-At-Arms could find no proof of vandalism, and upon questioning the townsfolk, no-one could so they had seen any wrong-doing. The Sergeant of the Men-At-Arms ended the inspection with the conclusion that Gilmorr was lying.
As you commanded, his tongue was cut out of his unworthy head.
"Now his dishonorable lies will no longer pollute the ears of those who live in this estate".
Now, to further issues:
The Lord's Tax for this Summer is 2 Revenue. Should we pay it?
"Yes."
Ill news! Milord, the North March No.6 cleared land parcel has been ruined. Whether it started by natural causes or by some fool's hand, a Fire has claimed the free lands in that area of land. The land is now covered with ash, fallen trees and other debris from the fire. The Ruined Square will need to be re-cleared before it may be used again.
"There goes 40 Revenue up in smoke."
The blaze was put out by your loyal townspeople before it spread to any other lands, but 4 Townsfolk were killed in the process. They will be missed.
"We will remember them. It is fortunate more were not killed."
The time has come for the Harvest Day Festival once more. As the lord of the Estate, it is up to you how much Revenue and Food Stocks are used in the celebrations. How much should we spend on celebrating, and giving thanks for, the bounty the Lady has bestowed upon us?
"10 food stocks"
One of your townspeople has committed a most foolish act. Paul, a young man who is lacking in Faith, made the following declaration to the townspeople earlier this Season. I was "lucky" enough to be present at the time, and recorded the words he said:
"Fellow people of Volzing Keep, harken to my words! The Lady is a false, fool's god who takes and does not give in return. Turn away from the (I cannot write what was said here, as it shames me to even think of the words he used) deity who takes without giving back. Turn to the way of Sigmar, who has shown me the way!"
I quickly ordered the Men-At-Arms to take the peasant into custody, and he awaits your judgement. Paul stands charged with the crime of Besmirching the Lady of the Lake. What punishment do you see fit for this faithless crime?
"The Lady rewards the faithful with her blessings and we still must thank her for nature's harvest. Sigmar however demands outrageous tribute and gives less than the Lady. Embarrass the fool Paul in public for his hypocrisy".
Finally, do you wish to clear any new lands, or build any smaller Upgrades, milord? As it is, we could afford to fully clear and build upon one section of land into a new Shelter, Market, Mine or Farmstead and still have enough reserves to host a Harvest Day Festival. What are your orders, milord?
Another choice open to you is to lower the Rationing back to Full Rations, and sell off up to 300-400 Food Stocks for a very tidy profit. Do you wish to do this?
The hour is late, I shall write no more...
Your humble and loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
Keep the rationing at its current level for now and keep our food stocks within the estate.
No land upgrades just yet.
|
Autumn of Year 2
Dear Sire...
I now bring thee my Autumn Report for this year, as the Summer has finished, and the Winter has not yet begun.
I start by writing that I am pleased that my presence amuses you milord, and I still wear the "silly" hat over the course of the day.
We have had no more trouble with the now mute Gilmorr.
This year's Harvest Day Festival was a simple, but enjoyable, day. The peasants pooled some extra money that had been saving up, which was enough to purchase some banners and a keg of ale for the celebrations. The food you generously provided for the day was mostly consumed in a great feast, and none of the food put towards the feast was left at the end of the day.
A second portion of the food provided was given as tribute to the Lady.
The final hours of the celebration were spent with the peasantry enjoying the purchased ale, and telling stories of Knights bold and days of old.
Not a particularly sumptuous day, but thanks to your kindness, an enjoyable one.
Hopefully, future Harvests will be as bountiful as this year's one.
In other news, the Double Rationing has gone into full effect. The promise of such good food, and the increased health of the population has caused the population to grow by 9 members this Season!!! If such growth continues in coming Seasons, the population should be much larger in just a year!
Finally, before continuing on to the matters of state, I have a small piece of good news to report. In previous Seasons, we have been losing Revenue at a rate of 1 or 2 Revenue per Season, the income has just not been able to cover the outgoings from Upkeep, Lord's Taxes and Men-At-Arms wages. However, the boost in population has increased the Tax income to such a level that, all things added and subtracted, we are no longer losing money each Season!
I am confidant that, with a few Seasons more of Double Rations, the population will grow enough that we will be making some tidy Revenue profit each Season from Taxes!
Now, to the matters of state:
Firstly, the Lord's Tax is 3 Revenue for this Season. Should it be paid, milord?
The man, Paul, was placed in stocks as punishment for his crimes. However, he has committed yet another crime.
During the period of a day or so in which he was placed in the stocks, he was ranting in all directions about you, your lordship. He made several crude statements about your lineage and you ability as a ruler.
As soon as his time in the stocks was over, he was arrested and charged with Decrying the Lord of the Estate. What shall be his punishment, sire?
Finally, as I always ask at the end of my report. Do you wish any actions to be performed? Construction, training and lots more is available to be done, just give the command and I shall make it so.
Your humble scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
|
STATISTICS:
Revenue: 107
Food Stocks: 554
Townsfolk: 26 (has risen by 9 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 16
Farmers: 10
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 8
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Animal Barn: 1
Barracks: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 42%
Faith: 38%
King's Favour: 46%
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Lord's Response
Ostleb here are my replies to matters of state and my orders:
Firstly, the Lord's Tax is 3 Revenue for this Season. Should it be paid, milord?
"Yes"
The man, Paul, was placed in stocks as punishment for his crimes. However, he has committed yet another crime.
During the period of a day or so in which he was placed in the stocks, he was ranting in all directions about you, your lordship. He made several crude statements about your lineage and you ability as a ruler.
As soon as his time in the stocks was over, he was arrested and charged with Decrying the Lord of the Estate. What shall be his punishment, sire?
Repayment. "Fine the fool for his insolence".
Finally, as I always ask at the end of my report. Do you wish any actions to be performed? Construction, training and lots more is available to be done, just give the command and I shall make it so.
Yes.
Reduce rationing to Full Rations.
Sell 210 Food Stocks to the Royal Granary.
Buy and clear Elmwood 3 and build a Grail Chapel there.
Build 2 monuments (at Elmwood 1 & 2).
- Baron Volzing
|
Winter of Year 2
Dear Sire...
For the second time since the start of your reign, the Winter is upon us. The population have survived the cold much better than in previous years thanks to your wise decisions.
Beautiful is the Grail Chapel that has just been finished by the townspeople. A small sect of Grail Maidens have moved into the Chapel and offer religious guidance to the entire population. Surely, the Lady's blessing shall fall upon you for such a fine Chapel to be built upon your lands.
By your command, one statue (depicting Gilles the Uniter) and one small fountain (depicting the Lady of the Lake) have been built in the village of Elmwood. The pleasant running waters of the fountain and the skilfully carved statue have improved Faith, Loyalty and have even pleased the King himself.
The two Monuments cost 50 Revenue to finish, but that was due to the amount of stone needed, and also the skills of half a dozen skilled artists was obtained. I must say, the statue captures Gilles in all of his glory. Clad in heavy armour, Gilles carries a sword in one hand, and the Banner of Bretonnia (the one the Lady blessed) in the other.
The fountain is also well crafted, the Lady of the Lake holds a chalice, from which the water pours into a basin before the depiction. Small carvings of famous Questing Knights are ringed around the basin, all in different stages of prayer.
In a final piece of good news, the profits from the sold food have arrived, and the sum, a hefty 70 Revenue, has been added to the stockpiles.
The population has accepted the return to Full Rations, and thank you for the period of time under Double Rations.
Now, to the matters of state this Season brings:
The Lord's Tax is 9 Revenue. Should we pay it?
It seems that the fool, Paul, has finally stopped decrying everything about Bretonnia, and after paying the 2 Revenue fine you commanded, returned to being a productive member of society. Most of the townspeople don't trust him, however.
In addition, whilst he was being held, Paul's house was Vandalised. Many items were smashed, and his doors and windows were all broken by blunt force. It seems that some people did not appreciate his view on the Lady, or you, milord.
One of the townspeople has come forward, confessing to the Minor Crime, his name is Allouard. I am sure that more than one person was involved in this crime, however. I have no idea how to find out who these others were, unfortunately.
Nevertheless, Allouard shall receive the punishment for the crime committed. What shall be his sentence, milord?
The Winter does not allow much activity, as the dangers of construction are increased greatly by the winds and storms of this time. However, you may have some plans for the Revenue the great Estate of Volzing Keep currently has in its coffers. If you do have any such plans, merely give the order and I shall see them done.
There is nothing else to report. I eagerly await your response.
Your loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
|
STATISTICS:
Revenue: 76
Food Stocks: 288
Townsfolk: 26 (has not changed since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 11
Farmers: 15
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 taken up by a Grail Chapel)
Grail Chapels: 1
Barrackses: 1
Animal Barns: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 55%
Faith: 58%
King's Favour: 67%
|
Lord's Response
Ostleb,
Pay Lord's Tax of 9 Revenue.
Embarrass Allouard for trying to take on the Baron's role of punishing crimes.
- Baron Volzing
|
Spring of Year 3
Dear Sire...
It is now the Spring of the third year of your reign, and although the Lady has tested you greatly over the past years, the Estate is thriving under your most wise rule.
By your command, Allouard was punished with Embarrassment. He spent a day in the stocks, and by the end of the experience had learned his lesson. I have not been able to find out who the others were involved in the crime, I suspect I never will, and have turned my attention to more pressing matters.
The water supply to the realm has been poisoned! It is believed that somebody, or some foul creature, poured a vial of deadly poison into the streams we gather our water from.
Most of the population of Volzing Keep have survived with little more than stomach cramps and minor illness, but unfortunately 11 of the townspeople have perished from severe reactions to the poison!
The poison seems to have left our supplies of water, but now a full patrol of Men-At-Arms guard the water sources at all times. The Estate cannot withstand another such attack of poisoned water.
Although this event has damaged the realm a great deal, we shall recover in time.
In happier news, no criminal acts have occured over this Season, it seems that your fair, but effective, punishments have deterred crime in the region.
I shall now report to thee the matters of state that require your attention:
The Lord's Tax for this Season is a modest 2 Revenue. Should it be paid, milord?
The growing Season is upon us, and it is your decision how many of our three Fields are to be sown for the coming Harvest. It is also your decision at what quality these Fields should be sown. So, milord, what are your orders?
With the Winter Season gone, construction is once more open to us. Do you wish to build any Upgrades, clear any land or perform any other construction-based actions?
My liege, the Loyalty of the people is rising, bolstered by the high numbers of Men-At-Arms patrolling the realm and the Monuments built in the previous year.
Finally, do you wish to perform any other actions this Season? Training more Men-At-Arms, changing the Rationing or Tax Rate and much more is open to you, all you must do is give the command.
Farewell for this fine Spring, milord.
Your humble and loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
|
STATISTICS:
Revenue: 65
Food Stocks: 231
Townsfolk: 17 (has grown by 2 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 2
Farmers: 15
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Animal Barns: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 58%
Faith: 58%
King's Favour: 46%
|
Lord's Response
I shall miss my water tester. Although another worthy but idle peasant can fill her role.
Pay Lord's Tax of 2 Revenue.
Sow 3 Normal Crops on the 3 available fields.
That is all.
- Baron Volzing
|
Summer of Year 3
Dear Sire...
The Harvest is here, and the Estate has rejoiced at the bounty your wise rule has brought to the fair lands of Volzing Keep. Long did the Farmers toil in the Fields, but it was to great effect.
The Food Stocks Harvested this Summer will be more than enough to feed the population, and I am quite sure that some will be left over to sell to the Royal Granary, store away, or feed the population on Double Rations.
I am also pleased to report that the Loyalty your subjects have to you is increasing at a rapid rate. The population are most happy under your rule, and look forward to many more years of joyous rulership.
Not all the news I bring is good, however.
As I am certain you remember, the fool named Paul has struck again. Shouting forth yet another of his anti-Bretonnian speeches, he has once more dishonoured the Estate with his words.
He has previously committed Besmirching the Lady of the Lake and Decrying the Estate's Lord . However, his foolish words have once again broken the law.
After saying yet more false words against the Lady over the course of this Season, the fool Paul was arrested once more. It seems that he is determined to speak his falsehoods whilst free.
Therefore, he has (once again) been charged with Besmirching the Lady of the Lake. It is safe to say that Paul has angered a good many of the townspeople, as he was nearly mobbed by many of the people of Volzing Keep.
As lord, it is your decision what his punishment is for this Minor Crime. I suspected he would return to normal life after the Repayment order, but it seems that it isn't so.
What shall be his punishment, sire?
Now, to the matters of state that require your attention during this Season:
The Lord's tax for this Season is 3 Revenue. Should we pay it?
The bounty of this Season is wonderful, with hundreds upon hundreds of bags of grain now filling our stockpiles. As is customary, we must now thank the blessed Lady of the Lake for the bounty bestowed upon us.
So, therefore, how much Revenue and Food Stocks should be spent on the celebrations and the paying of homage that takes place during the annual Harvest Day Festival?
Also, construction is an option, although Revenue, at present, only allows the building of a smaller Upgrade or two. Do you wish to build any Upgrades, milord?
Finally, even taking the feeding of the population for the coming year and the Harvest Day Festival into account, we still have a lot of excess food in the stockpiles. What do you wish done with this excess, milord?
On that happy note, I end my report.
Your loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 33
Food Stocks: 886
Townsfolk: 23 (has grown by 6 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 8
Farmers: 15
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 taken up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Monuments: 2
Barrackses: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Full Rations (1 Food Stock eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 62%
Faith: 56%
King's Favour: 69%
|
Lord's Response
Ostleb...
These are my orders..
* Sell 150 food stocks to the Royal Granary.
* Use 50 food stocks for the Harvest Day Festival.
* The punishment for the fool Paul shall be Exile. Banish him to the wilds beyond the borderlands so the fool realises what Brettonia is.
* Pay Lord's Tax of 3 Revenue.
* Increase rationing to Double Rations.
Baron Coldane IX
|
Autumn of Year 3
Dear Sire...
The people prosper under your rule milord, and as the third Autumn of your glorious reign dawns, the future looks good indeed.
The large shipment of Food Stocks was sent to the Royal Granary to be sold, as you ordered, and arrived in good time. After some bartering and talking, the Revenue gained from the sold goods was a pleasantly large 50 Revenue. The gold now lies in the stockpile, waiting to be spent.
On the topic of food, the peasantry have rejoiced at the order to increase the Rationing to Double Rations! Already signs of the extra health this brings is clear, as eight new members of the community have either just reached adulthood or have just moved in.
Happiness is increasing rapidly in current months, and Loyalty is at an all time high for the Estate. The people grow happy and hopeful under your most grand rule, milord.
The Harvest Day Festival was a joyous affair. Although no lavish goods were purchased, and the banners were few, the Food Stocks you provided allowed all present to eat and drink long into the night.
When the feasting was finished, a huge plate of the remaining food was taken to River Morceaux and dropped into the waters as tribute. It is our hope that the offerings please her, and coming years Harvests are just as good as this one.
The Festival passed without any unfortunate incidents, and the only downside was the following day was very slow, due to an excess of people staggering about with headaches.
Finally, the fool Paul was Exiled as you commanded, and sent on his way. All of his belongings bar the clothes on his back were sold off to other Estates and people of Elmwood, for a profit of 2 Revenue.
Now, to the matters of state:
The Lord's Tax for this Season is a fair 8 Revenue. Should it be paid, milord?
I am sorry to report a Murder has occurred this Season, milord! Chlodomer, one of the young citizens who recently moved into the Estate, turned out to be a wanted murderer! He attacked Cassvon, another of the recent arrivals to Volzing Keep!
Cassvon, who had just became one of your Subjects, had just finished a hard day's work and was taking an evening walk when he was approached by Chlodomer. It is believed that Chlodomer lured Cassvon into his house by telling him that he needed some help repairing his roof, and would pay a few copper coins for his aid.
Accepting the task, Cassvon entered Chlodomer's house, and was immediately set upon by Chlodomer, who was wielding a club he had hidden within his clothing. Cassvon was not easily killed, however, and managed to flee back into the streets and gain the aid of many people walking the streets.
The Men-At-Arms were summoned and quickly arrested Choldomer, who was attempting to flee the Estate and travel to Bordeleaux. Sadly, Cassvon had suffered some sort of damage to his brain from the club hits he had taken, and died shortly after Chlodomer was arrested.
It has been discovered that this man, Chlodomer, is a wanted Murderer with more than five deaths from other small Estates to his name already. What shall be his punishment for this Murder, sire?
Finally, do you wish any construction to be done over this Season, milord? If you have any plans, I recommend you put them into action now, as the Winter weather will halt any attempts in coming months.
Also, if you have any other orders, please give them to me and I shall see them done.
Your faithful Scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
|
STATISTICS:
Revenue: 89
Food Stocks: 548
Townsfolk: 29 (has grown by 8 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 14
Farmers: 15
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Ruined Squares: 1
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 taken up by Grail Chapel)
Animal Barns: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Grail Chapels: 1
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 60%
Faith: 61%
King's Favour: 70%
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Lord's Response
Excellent news Ostleb, lets hope things remain good.
*Pay the Lord's Tax of 8 Revenue.
*Punishment for Chlodomer is Death. His trail of evil shall end here. Better make sure he stays dead .... cut off his evil head then cremate him.
*Clear the ruined land square in The North March.
- Baron Volzing
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Winter of Year 3
Dear Sire...
As the end of the third year of your reign is on the horizon, the Winter storms rage across the skies of the Estate. The trees of the surrounding forest are frozen by chilling winds and shredded by speeding winds.
Unfortunately, the Heavy Storms of Winter have been particularly damaging this year, and the most powerful of which lasted for four days straight! Houses suffered a great deal of damage, and many people perished from the lightning and the cold. Seven was the number of casualties in all from the Heavy Storms and the Winter chill, as well as five Revenue that was spent repairing heavy damage.
Hopefully, no more such huge storms shall reach the town this Winter. The countryside is littered with bark, leaves, stray rubble and other such wreckage from the power of the Heavy Storm. Truly, nature can be a deadly foe at times.
However, the news is not all bad this Season, and I have much more to report.
The townspeople cleared the ruined land in The North March. The ground is once more clear of rubble, and ready to build on.
Chlodomer, the Murderer, was executed in the fashion you specified, and once the sentence was finished and his ashes were then spread to the winds, the people let out a cheer. He shall trouble Bretonnia no more, milord.
The execution took place in Elmwood, and was a public affair. The population shouted jeers at the Murderous fellow up until the end, and many people were quite glad to see the Executioner do his job.
I am very happy to tell you that no crime occured this Season, my liege. Your fair, but firm justice has inspired the population to all follow the law. Your wisdom is great indeed.
The Double Rationing you put in place is continuing to encourage growth, and even with the Heavy Storms and Winter chill, the population has remained basically unchanged.
Now, to the matters of state that require your attention during this most chilling of Seasons:
The Lord's Tax this Season is 3 Revenue, a fair and quite affordable Tax. Should we pay it, my most generous and grand lord?
Unfortunately, construction is impossible during the Winter. Especially with the Heavy Storms, no-one dares to venture outdoors for too long. Smaller Upgrades are still a choice, as they can be built in between the snowstorms and chilling winds.
However, many choices are still open to us. The garrison is large, at present, so I see no need to train more warriors. You may see otherwise however, so do you wish to train any more Men-At-Arms?
The Tax Rate is currently set at High Tax, do you wish to change this? The income coming in at present is enough to support the realm, but not much more. However, Loyalty is at a very high level, and it would be a shame, in my humble peasant opinion, to lower it with a higher Tax Rate or Peasant Levy. However, you are the Lord, and your word is Law.
If you wish any other actions to be done, merely give the order and I shall see it done.
Long may you reign as the Lord of the Estate, my grand liege.
Your loyal servant,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 43
Food Stocks: 422
Townsfolk: 28 (has grown by 3 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 13
Farmers: 15
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Free Land Squares: 2 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 72%
Faith: 59%
King's Favour: 71%
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Lord's Response
Ostleb,
I am somewhat saddened by the life taken by nature's wrath. I pray this is not repeated upon us. The murderer Chlodomer met what he deserved and it does seem it also served as a lesson to your fellow peasants.
Also I am curious as to what a small upgrade is. I am hesitant to order anything built during winter at the risk of sending my loyal subjects to unnecessary death at the hands of icy storms. Since you are a peasant Ostleb, I am hoping you can inform me what peasants are capable of building during winter months.
Pay the Lord's Tax of 3 Revenue.
No further orders this winter.
- Baron Volzing
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Answer to Lord's Question
Greetings Sire.
Small Upgrades are the term used for small buildings built to improve the land it is on. The Barracks, Animal Barn and Monuments already within our realm are examples of small Upgrades.
Whilst the Winter storms do not allow us to clear any land or perform any large scale construction, such as building a Free Land Square into a Shelter Square, the smaller Upgrades can be completed quickly and easily, in between the harsh storms of Winter.
The Peasantry could build any of the small Upgrades during this Winter. May I suggest a pair of Grain Silos, to increase the next Harvest, milord?
I hope this answers your question, my grand lord.
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Spring of Year 4
Dear Sire...
The new year has begun with the fourth brilliant Spring of your equally grand rule. The name of Volzing Keep shall surely be spoken of in times to come as a symbol of greatness, honour and light.
The Spring has banished the foul weather from its sight and now a pleasant warmth bathes the land. Besides the odd rainstorm, the weather is always clear and a brilliant blue.
Ah, but 'tis not for the weather that you require my Scribe's Report, and I shall move on to more pressing matters.
The population continues to grow at a rapid rate milord, eight more townspeople have joined the ranks of the people of Elmwood. They are drawn to your Estate by good food and safety.
All in all, the Estate has been quiet since the Heavy Storms of Winter. I have little to report this Spring, which is, in all respects, a good thing.
The only real news to report is that a Minor Crime occurred earlier this Season. An act of Vandalism, to be exact.
Now, to give you the details of the crime:
Rademund, the person charged with the crime, is a young citizen of the village who was reportedly drunk out of his mind. He had recently purchased an entire keg of Bretonnian ale with a good half of his monthly wages.
After consuming much of the contents of the keg, he had staggered into the streets of Elmwood. After an hour or so of being drunk and staggering around the streets (many witnesses saw this particular part of the report), he decided to return home for a nap.
Unfortunately, he was not sure where he was in the town! For some reason, he decided that a nearby building (which looked nothing like his actual house) was his house, and was frustrated by his inability to open the door, due to it being locked.
He kicked the door open after much commotion, and staggered inside. The actual owner of the house, a man by the name of Henry, was still at work, and so the drunkard Rademund decided to take a rest.
He was arrested by the Men-At-Arms when the neighbours alerted them of his presence (he was not exactly sneaky in his entrance to the house). He is still being held in the Barracks, awaiting your adjudication on his punishment.
Therefore, what shall be his punishment for the Minor Crime of Vandalism (for breaking the door, and he also smashed a lot of other items inside the house), milord?
With the news of the Season reported, I now bring before thee the matters of state for this graceful Spring:
The Lord's Tax is once more 3 Revenue. Should it be paid, my grand lord?
The growing Season is upon us, and as lord, you must make the decision of how many of our fields are planted with crops for the Summer Harvest. How many crops shall we plant this Spring, milord, and at what quality should those crops be sown?
In addition, the Winter weather has passed, and now construction is an option once more. Do you wish to clear any land or upgrade the existing free land into a more useful purpose?
Training is also an option, but our garrison is quite large already, and I see no need for it.
Finally, if you wish to have any other actions performed upon the Estate this Spring, please give the order and I shall see it done.
Regards,
Your scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 47
Food Stocks: 270
Townsfolk: 36 (has grown by 8 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 21
Farmers: 15
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Free Land Squares: 2 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 3
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 74%
Faith: 58%
King's Favour: 72%
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Lord's Response
Ostleb,
Make Rademund repay Henry for the damage done.
The Lord's Tax of 3 Revenue shall be paid.
Plant 4 normal crops on the existing fields and the free land square at The North March 6.
-Baron Volzing
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Summer of Year 4
Dear Sire...
The time is now Summer and the crops have been Harvested, their yield added to the stockpiles of food within the Estate.
The Farmers laboured hard in the Fields in the past Season, milord, and their hard work, combined with your intelligent use of the resources at our disposal, has yielded a bounty of Food Stocks that will feed us well in the coming year, as well as planting next year's crops. Milord Baron Coldane, you are indeed a grand lord.
However, I have much news other than the Harvest, and shall report it all within this report.
The most pressing news of the Season is most grim indeed. Earlier this Season, strange noises emanated from the forests around our realm. Guttural shouts and the sound of collapsing trees echoed throughout the Estate.
Fearing what was occurring, the Captain of the Men-At-Arms sent a small force of scouts into the forest to see what was happening. The news they reported was very dark indeed.
A small tribe of feral Savage Orcs has moved into the forests near our realm! Not much is known of these Savage Orcs, who, according to my history books, should reside far to the south, well away from our fair Estate.
In any case, these greenskins are in the process of building a small and crude Orc Encampment. I fear that they are preparing to raid surrounding villages once they have finished their construction. If such an event occurs, we will no doubt be the first they set their bloodthirsty sights upon.
Thankfully, due to your wisdom, we have a strong garrison of 40 fighting men, and shall not be easy prey to the raids that are sure to come.
Despite the threat of the Savage Orc Encampment that has appeared in the forests surrounding us, the population continues to grow. The people grow healthy and happy under Double Rations, and you are one of the most adored lords in the land.
Now, with news both of ill and good reported, I turn your attention to the matters of state at hand:
The Lord's Tax this fine Summer is 4 Revenue. Should we pay it, milord?
The Harvest Day Festival comes in but a few short weeks, and, as Lord of the Estate, it is your decision as to how much Revenue and Food Stocks are spent in the annual celebrations.
The Grail Chapel has served the religious needs of the population well, and the people's Faith in the Lady is still at a good level. However, we have much excess food, and can afford to spend quite a portion of it on the Festival if you give the command. What are your orders on such matters, milord?
Construction is available to us as well, milord. Do you wish to clear any lands around our current holdings to improve the Estate?
Another option is to build smaller Upgrades upon our existing lands. Grain Silos, for example, would offer increased crop yields next Harvest. It is your decision, however, and you are wiser than I.
We must also take action against the Orc Encampment that now is building within the forests. We may wait for them to show their hand before we act, perhaps they will simply move on without attacking us?
Another choice is to train Men-At-Arms in preparation for an attack. Although our garrison is strong, I fear many of your loyal subjects will perish if the Savage Orcs do launch an attack upon our Estate.
Finally, we may take the most active action available. We may prepare our forces and launch an attack on them before they can attack us. This would cause maximum casualties on both sides, as the forests are no place for a pitched battle, but we could throw them from our realm before too much damage is done.
What is your choice, milord? Or have I overlooked a more intelligent action that you wish to take on the matter of the Orc Encampment?
As the final matter of state, I have a Minor Crime of Assault to report to you, milord. Rademund has foolishly committed another crime.
Upon hearing of your order of Repayment, Rademund was taken back to his own house to collect the needed coins and possessions to repay Henry for damage done. However, upon handing over a good deal of goods, Rademund was enraged to hear Henry claim that it was worthless junk, and would not repair the damage caused.
Well, Rademund once again acted foolishly as his delivered a harsh double-handed punch to the head of Henry, and knocked the unfortunate fellow out cold. The Men-At-Arms, who Rademund had committed Assault directly in front of, took him into custody (again).
Henry, upon waking, now calls for Rademund to be executed, and wishes the punishment for his Assault to be dire. As a side note, he has accepted the goods given as repayment, because he does not wish to come near Rademund again.
However, you are the Lord of the Estate, and it is YOUR decision what Rademund punishment is for committing the Minor Crime of Assault.
These are troubling, but also hopeful, times milord. I am certain you shall lead us to glory.
Your humble scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 16
Food Stocks: 1021
Townsfolk: 46 (has grown by 10 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 26
Farmers: 20
Men-At-Arms: 40
Land Squares (Total): 9
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 4
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 79%
Faith: 57%
King's Favour: 73%
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Lord's Response
I was wondering when those wretched greenskins would show up at our fair realm. Thankfully they have not yet attacked and overall things seem good.
We shall do the following this season:
* Sell 210 food stocks to the Royal Granary
* Use 60 food stocks in the Harvest Day Festival
* Pay Lord's Tax of 4 Revenue
* Punishment for Rademund shall be Embarassment
* Train an additional 10 Men-at-Arms
* Send the full compliment of Men-at-Arms to seek out and clear the orcs and their new encampment.
- Baron Volzing
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Autumn of Year 4
Dear Sire...
Following your orders, much has occurred within the Estate of Volzing Keep of late. As we enter the months of Autumn, I have much to report.
First of all, the most important news. Due to your wisdom, our forces were victorious over the Savage Orc tribe inhabiting the forests!
It took many weeks to formulate a plan of attack, and for the right time to present itself to launch an attack we stood a chance of winning, but attack we did. Under your orders, the entire garrison made a systematic attack on the Orc Encampment in the dead of night.
Although the tribe was small, only fifty to sixty Savage Orcs in total, the battle was fierce. Because we attacked at night, a large number of them, around half, in fact, were cut down before they were able to arm themselves for battle.
Orcs are larger, stronger and tougher than men, however, and even the stalwart Men-At-Arms of Bretonnia fall easily to their brutal Choppas. Fifteen of the garrison's number were cut down in a powerful counter-attack that saw many brave men hacked to pieces in moments.
Once more, however, your wisdom proved to be great indeed. Due to the training offered by the Barracks that was built according to your orders, the better trained Men-At-Arms of our realm made a brilliant tactical move. Whilst most of the valiant Bretonnian survivors held firm against the Orcs, the rest circled around the counter-attacking Orcs and launched a charge from behind!
Caught between twenty men in front of them and fifteen behind (the 10 Men-At-Arms you ordered trained had been added to the garrison by this time), the Orcs were unable to defend themselves properly and most were cut down. Only a handful of survivors managed to flee the battle, and they were hunted down later by the garrison. The head of their "Big Boss" is currently impaled on a pike outside of town, as a warning to any who would dare attack our glorious Estate.
In all, although it cost fifteen brave lives, 'twas a noble victory!
In another piece of good news, 70 Revenue profit has been added to the Estate treasury from the sale of the Food Stocks that your ordered last Season.
The Harvest Day Festival was enjoyed by all as well. After a feast, which all the peasantry enjoyed greatly, the Damsels of the Grail Chapel aided the population in performing the giving of tribute to the Lady. Although few entertainers were hired, and the decorations were not of the best quality, it was still a day well enjoyed by all within the Estate.
With your victory over the Savage Orc tribe, the Double Rations and overall fair treatment which you give the population, you have become one of the best loved Estate Lords in all the realms. Truly, milord, it is a testament to your greatness.
No further crimes have occurred in the realm, and Rademund has completed his punishment, and has kept quiet since.
Finally, before I bring the matters of state before you, I have a piece of bad news to report. Heavy Storms, similar to those of only six months ago, once more wracked the Estate. Eight of your loyal subjects died in the storm, and three Revenue was spent repairing considerable storm damage.
A sad event, indeed.
Now, to the matters of state that require your attention:
The Lord's Tax for the Season is 10 Revenue. Should we pay it?
As Winter is on the horizon, I suggest that any construction you wish done be performed now. The conditions of Winter are too harsh to build anything large in, and therefore any plans you have to increase the Estate's land holdings must be done either now, or after Winter has passed.
The garrison is now thirty-five men strong. Do you wish more men to be trained?
The Revenue gained from the sale of the Food Stocks opens many options to us, both in construction and other things. What do you wish this Revenue to be spent on, or do you wish to save it up for coming times?
I humbly suggest that clearing a Land Square in Elmwood and building a Market upon it would be a good idea to increase income. However, your intellect is far greater than mine and you probably have a better plan.
Rationing remains at Double Rations. Should this change?
Finally, do you wish anything else other than what I have mentioned to be done? If so, give the order and I shall put your words into actions as best I can.
Your loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 79
Food Stocks: 603
Townsfolk: 39 (has grown by 8 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 19
Farmers: 20
Men-At-Arms: 35
Land Squares (Total): 9
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Field Squares: 4
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 89%
Faith: 62%
King's Favour: 74%
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Lord's Response
Ostleb,
A toast to our victory !
The veterans of the battle against the Orcs shall be awarded medals for their valor. Those who fell shall be remembered by all as brave defenders of this great realm.
We shall also remember those who died in the storms. It doesn’t rain daggers by any chance does it Ostleb?
I am heartened by the good news of the Harvest Day Festival going well and the smooth sale of Food Stocks.
This season we shall pay Lord’s Tax of 10 Revenue.
Your humble suggestion of building a market square is a worthy idea.
Clear the land square at Elmwood 7 and then build a Market there.
- Baron Volzing
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Winter of Year 4
Dear Sire...
Snow and ice blanket the Estate now, and all stay close to their fireplaces during the most inhospitable of Seasons. The cold winds of Winter howl through the air, and already two of your subjects have perished in the cold.
Some good news, however, is that the horrible storms of past Seasons has not returned. Thank the Lady.
The veterans of the battle against the Savage Orc Encampment have all, as you ordered, been awarded medals for their valour. Those who fought, and died, defending our glorious Estate shall surely be remembered for years to come.
The head of the Savage Orc "Big Boss" has been removed from the outskirts of the Estate, travellers were reportedly becoming disgusted by the smell the rotting greenskin's head was giving off.
A clay-made fake replacement has since been put in the place of the real "Big Boss's" head.
In more good news, the Marketplace you ordered constructed was completed only weeks before the Winter began. It now employs over twenty-five townspeople in its workforce.
The extra Revenue made by the Market has been put into the treasury, and will help fund the Estate's growth in future times.
I have grim news to report, milord! I have just heard news of a most grievous event that has occurred!
Carleond, one of the younger Men-At-Arms of your garrison, has been found to be a Traitor!
Upon a search of the Orcish dead, before the bodies were burned, (legend has it that new Orcs grow from the corpses of the dead greenskins), many strange items were taken, a dirt-encrusted parchment was among these items.
This piece of parchment was written in a very weird cross between many different dialects of Bretonnian and Reikspeil. Apparently, it was written in a way that the Savage Orcs could read (if such a thing is possible).
I personally read the note, and after many weeks of working out exactly what it said, it was discovered to be a list of names. According to the parchment's writing, it was a list of friends who were in league with the Orcs!
Many different people from different realms were listed on the grim parchment, and Carleond was among them. A search of his house found a similar parchment, that described a deal between himself and others with the Orcs.
Apparently, other Men-At-Arms of neighbouring realms had aided the Savage Orcs to gain access to your realm unharmed, for a price of some gold coins. Sickeningly, Carleond was going to set fire to the Barracks a few hours before the Savage Orcs launched their first attack on your realm. Only your quick action stopped this horrifying plot from reaching a tragic conclusion.
His reward for betraying you, milord, was to be a tenth share of the loot gained from the pillaging that was sure to happen, should the Barracks have burned and confusion reign.
He has since been stripped of his medal of valour.
What shall the punishment for the young Man-At-Arm's Treachery be, milord?
Now, with that horrible news reported, I move on to the matters of state that require your attention this Season:
The Lord's Tax for this Season is a fair 4 Revenue, should it be paid, milord?
The cold of Winter does not allow us to perform any real construction or land clearing, as the weather is too unpredictable and harsh. However, smaller Upgrades may be built, if that is what you wish to be done.
Training is also a choice that is open to us. However, the garrison is both large and well armed, so I see no need for such an action.
The Tax Rate or Rationing level may be changed, if you wish it to be so. Do you want to change the Rationing level or Tax Rate, milord Coldane?
Finally, if you wish anything else (like a Peasant Levy, for example) to be done, please give the order and I shall see your orders put into action to the best of my abilities.
Your humble scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 25
Food Stocks: 449
Townsfolk: 47 (has grown by 8 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 0
Farmers: 20
Men-At-Arms: 35
Workers: 27
Land Squares (Total): 10
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Market Squares: 1
Field Squares: 4
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barrackses: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 92%
Faith: 61%
King's Favour: 75%
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Lord's Response
To Scribe Ostleb...
The new market place certainly brightens the estate up and adds some wholesome Bretonnian culture to the borderlands.
Here is what we'll do this winter.
* Pay Lord's Tax of 4 Revenue.
* Punish Carleond with Imprisonment. He is sentenced to life in prison. Issue a notice of his sentence and treachery, that collaborating with Savage Orcs threatens not only this estate but the entire kingdom. Gather the parchment evidence of the plot and send it to the king at once. The plot implicates far more than just this estate so the king must know. Have the traitor ready to be moved should the king's marshalls request his presence in the capital. Well done translating the parchment, you are a worthy scribe.
* Collect a peasant levy of 100 Revenue.
May we see the warmth of the coming Autumn bring growth to the estate.
- Baron Coldane IX of Volzing
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Spring of Year 5
Dear Sire...
I welcome you to the start of another year of your glorious rule. Long have you reigned over the lands of Volzing Keep, milord Coldane, and hopefully your rulership shall continue for many, many years to come.
This fine Spring I have much to report. Some of the news is good, some bad, but it is my duty to report both in a faithful and true account of all the happenings in the realm.
I present my Scribe's Report to you now, milord:
As per your orders, Carleond was Imprisoned, stripped of his rank as Man-At-Arms and the evidence was sent to the King. The fair King of Bretonnia saw fit to allow the various Lords decide the punishment for those involved. He did add, however, that they should not be allowed to return to a normal life. Exile, life Imprisonment or Death were the options he would be most happy with.
A spare room in the Barracks, usually used for storing spare weapons, has been cleared out (the weapons and boxes moved to a new area of the Barracks) and converted into a cell. It will hold Carleond as long as he may live. He will be fed a slice of bread, a bowl of chicken soup and a flask of water every a day 'til his death.
He is lucky you are merciful, milord. Lords less agreeable than you would have seen him beheaded, or worse.
Now in other, more pleasant news, the peasantry have accepted the need for a Peasant Levy. Although many have grumbled about the Levy, most see your wisdom and decide that they would have died at the hands of Savage Orcs and Traitors if it was not for you.
In short, they do not like the Levy, but see that it is needed.
The population is growing at a steady rate, and many new people are joining the Workers in the Market. Although not yet full, the Market has added needed Revenue to the Estate's treasury.
I now bring the matters of state of this Spring to your attention:
The Lord's Tax is once again 4 Revenue. Do you wish this Season's Tax to be paid?
Once again it is the growing Season, and it is time for you to decide how many of the Estate's 4 Fields should be sown with crops, and at what quality those crops should be planted. What is your decision, milord?
I imagine that you already have a brilliant plan for the Revenue within the treasury, but, if I may, I would suggest that we build a Trade Guild in the Market. Such a move would vastly increase profits from those shops, as the unified Guild will serve many needs of the Marketplace's Workers.
Other building of smaller Upgrades is possible, all that you need do is give the word.
Land clearing is also an option, should you wish to increase the holdings of the Estate. Do you wish any land to be cleared, milord?
I am happy to say that no criminal acts or unfortunate storms have occurred this Season. Hopefully, such good sense in the population shall continue for at least another Season or two.
Thus ends my Spring Report to you, milord. I pray to the Lady that your rule shall continue for many years to come.
Your humble scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 149
Food Stocks: 275
Townsfolk: 53 (has grown by 6 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 0
Farmers: 20
Men-At-Arms: 34
Workers: 33
Land Squares (Total): 10
Free Land Squares: 1 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Market Squares: 1
Field Squares: 4
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barracks: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 55%
Faith: 60%
King's Favour: 76%
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Lord's Response
Ostleb,
Thank you for your report. All seems to be good and we have the Lady's blessing nothing ill has happened this season.
This spring we shall....
* Pay Lord's Tax of 4 Revenue
* Sow 4 Normal Fields
* Clear The Oaks 7 & 8.
Baron Volzing
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Summer of Year 5
Dear Sire...
The fifth Summer of your rule has begun, and with it comes much news that I shall report to you now.
Firstly, the Farmers have worked long and hard in the Fields, but their efforts were not in vain. A huge harvest of Food Stocks was gained this Season, and the stockpiles overflow with Food Stocks. Your wisdom has brought us prosperity once more, milord.
In addition, two new large plots of land have been cleared, and added to the holdings of the Estate. These are perfect for development, and you were wise indeed to order their clearing.
A final piece of good news is that no ill events have befallen our realm this fine Season. It seems that the Lady's Blessing shines on us still.
However, one of the townsfolk has broken the law in a most foul manner.
The culprit's name is Mannfred, and he is a Worker at the Marketplace. He owns a small leatherworker's shop, where he sells many products made from leather.
Now, to explain his crime, and how it was discovered.
It was Tax Collection day, and four of the Men-At-Arms were busy escourting the Tax Collector to each house, and collecting the owed taxes from them. Well, when the Tax Collector came across Mannfred's shop, the door was locked!
This was very strange, as common-folk work every day of the year except feast days, and Mannfred should have been tending to his shop at this time.
A strange, smoke-like smell emanated from under the door, and one of the Men-At-Arms jumped to the conclusion that Mannfred's shop was on fire from the inside, and that Mannfred might be trapped inside somehow.
The door was bashed open, and the Men-At-Arms rushed inside, and searched the building. They were puzzled to discover the shop mostly empty, besides the normal stock on the shelves and in the back storerooms. However, a particularly alert Man-At-Arms followed the smoke-like smell to its source, and found a trapdoor hidden under an empty box in one of the storage rooms.
Calling his comrades to follow him, the Man-At-Arms opened the trapdoor and climbed down a ladder. What he found shocked him greatly.
A small room lay at the bottom of the ladder, where Mannfred was leaning over a pile of sigils and items, and chanting in a low voice. The foul smell emanated from one of the objects.
Mannfred was attempting to gain the dark blessings of the Chaos Gods!!! Symbols of the four gods of Chaos were hanging from the walls of the small room, and Mannfred was chanting prayers to the Ruinous Powers.
Luckily, however, he was surprised by the Men-At-Arms, and was easily arrested. A few of the less profane objects were kept as evidence, whilst the rest were burned and the ashes scattered to the winds.
He refuses to answer any questions, and has since clawed deep wounds in the shape of Chaos symbols on himself with his fingernails. He has truly abandoned the way of the Lady of the Lake, milord.
He is charged with the Major Crime of Heresy, milord. What shall be his punishment for this horrid crime?
Now, to report the matters of state this Summer:
The Lord's Tax is this Season is a fair 5 Revenue. Should it be paid?
Summer is the traditional time to hold the Harvest Day Festival, to give thanks for the harvest bounty, and to give the peasantry a hard earned day of rest. However, as Lord of the Estate, it is your decision how much Food Stocks and Revenue are used in the celebrations. What is your decision, milord?
We also have two plots of Free Land, which may be developed. Do you wish to spend any Revenue on developing the free land in our possession?
Training is also an option, if you wish it, milord.
Finally, if you wish any other actions to be done this Season, please give the order and I shall see your orders done.
Your humble scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 48
Food Stocks: 964
Townsfolk: 59 (has grown by 6 since the start of the Season)
Idle Villagers: 0
Farmers: 20
Men-At-Arms: 34
Workers: 39
Land Squares (Total): 12
Free Land Squares: 3 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Market Squares: 1
Field Squares: 4
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barracks: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 60%
Faith: 59%
King's Favour: 77%
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Lord's Response
Greetings Ostleb,
It is will great joy I hear nothing bad has happened to the peasantry or estate this season. I am however most disturbed about hearing of peasant Mannfred's crime.
Mannfred's punishment shall be death. He will be shown the same mercy the chaos gods give their followers. Burn him at the stake.
Pay the Lord's Tax of 5 Revenue.
Use 50 Food Stocks for the Harvest Day Festival.
If possible, train one of the workers to become a Man-At-Arms.
- Baron Volzing.
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Autumn of Year 5
Dear Sire...
As I write this, my Autumn Scribe's Report to you, the world outside seems to be eternally silent. No soul walks the streets at this late hour, as a tragedy most foul has befallen our realm.
A malady has claimed many of the inhabitants of the realm. A Plague, as many call it. It has been named the Morceaux Pox, and many have felt its icy touch.
Although I shall not go into the grizzly details of the contagion's method of killing, suffice to say that it is mercifully quick, but not painless. It takes many days to incubate, in which time it is highly contagious, before it springs to life and kills its victim in a matter of hours.
Those Men-At-Arms whom I am sure are not infected I have sent to block the roads into the Estate. Although it was not my place to do so, and I may have acted rashly, I hope my actions have saved the lives of those who would have travelled here.
Already, fifteen have died at the hands of the Plague, and I fear more are yet to perish. Those who are not infected hurry about their business, and don't talk to anybody, or shut themselves inside their abodes, hoping to wait out the disease. Those who are infected, well, their fate is already sealed.
The Grail Chapel is filled with the bodies of the dead and dying, and although the Grail Maidens have tried their best to aid those afflicted by this disease, their efforts are sadly in vain.
Milord, I have no idea how to cure this Plague, or how it started. What should our actions be?
In happier news, the Harvest Day Festival was an enjoyable day indeed. It occurred a week before the first signs of the disease appeared, so it was a happy time.
Unfortunately, although it only took place weeks ago, it still seems as a distant memory, far from the bleakness of the Pox. I do, remember, however, that 'twas a great feast, and much singing and dancing was had.
In addition, a single Man-At-Arms was trained during that time. A fine lad, he shall serve our realm well.
Mannfred, the retched Heretic, was executed in the manner you commanded. Many blame him for the Pox that has befallen us, perhaps they are not to far from the truth?
In another piece of good news, the population have not committed any further crimes this Season.
I apologise if my tone is saddened, it is difficult to keep a high spirit during a Plague. However, I shall now bring the matters of state to your attention:
The Lord's Tax is 4 Revenue this Season, milord. Shall we pay it?
As it is Autumn, and the Winter looms on the horizon, now is that time that construction should be performed, if you have plans for any. Enough healthy people are around for any projects you may have, and perhaps some visible progress within the realm would life moral amongst the population.
We may also construct some smaller Upgrades, such as a Palisade Wall. Mayhaps a Trade Guild is needed, to increase profits from the Marketplace?
As the aforementioned Winter is coming, it would be difficult for trade convoys to make it through the weather and terrain such a time brings. Therefore. if you have any plans to buy or sell Food Stocks, it would be wise to do so now.
Although the garrison is quite well-prepared for any danger, perhaps you wish for more young men to be trained?
Finally, if you wish any other actions to be performed within the Estate, please give the command and I shall do my utmost to see your orders put into action.
In this harsh times, it is only your wisdom and the Lady's mercy that can guide us.
Your loyal scribe,
Scribe Ostleb.
P.S. I know it seems unimportant right now, but I have heard of a Tournament being held in Lyonesse. Do you have plans on competing, or know of any Knights who are? Perhaps it would be wise for you to go, as it would allow you to seek help for us outside of the Estate at the same time.
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STATISTICS:
Revenue: 65
Food Stocks: 740
Townsfolk: 52 (has grown by 10 since the start of the Season (but then fallen by 15 due to Plague))
Idle Villagers: 0
Farmers: 20
Men-At-Arms: 35
Workers: 32
Land Squares (Total): 12
Free Land Squares: 3 (1 used up by Grail Chapel)
Shelter Squares (Serf Level): 2
Farmstead Squares: 2
Market Squares: 1
Field Squares: 4
Animal Barns: 1
Grail Chapels: 1
Barracks: 1
Monuments: 2
Tax Rate: High Tax (1 Revenue per 2 Townsfolk or Men-At-Arms)
Rationing: Double Rations (2 Food Stocks eaten for each Townsfolk or Man-At-Arms)
Subject's Loyalty: 62%
Faith: 63%
King's Favour: 78%
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