Titus gives a resigned shrug as he replies, "There are good Orcs you know. Orcs who do not abuse, if not outright kill the weak. (Well, let us admit that a bullying Orc is not the worst of them, but you get my point.) It is probably their seeming predilection for 'badness' that makes them such easy marks for the Demons that control them. In Theodoric's realm there are Huns left behind that we have permitted to remain and attempt to become part of our society, but they are in the minority and understand that if they wish to survive they must adapt.

"We Humans are so much more adaptable, are we not? Among us live the purest of the good and the vilest of the bad. Compared to other races (from what I have seen) we have the greatest capacity not only to go to extremes, but to change our way of being.

"And this is my point: those who you just described need to be shown what they are becoming. They need to see that while they have survived at less cost than others it is precisely the cheapness of that cost that is inspiring this indulgence of which you speak, because the slopes of Mount Indulgence are slippery. The sludgy rubble of abuse and murder and worse at its base are difficult to escape from one has slid down into it."

Pausing he runs a hand through the soldier's cropped hair atop his skull, "Look, my friend, perhaps I am being to generous with my comparisons between what is here and what was in the North. We were not in Lutetia Parisiorum, though some of us had escaped from that city before joining us. But there must be a way to offer constant, if subtle, reminders of what is being given away to the Visigoths.

"And, no, I do not mean to suggest that at this point outright violence against the Orcs would be useful, but if a thing like a popular song, for example, were to be passed around reminding people of the value of a difficult good deed that might be a seed. But, you know, a farmer does not just plant a single seed. (And what I describe would be only one element of a larger campaign.)"

He laughs, "This must sound foolish to you, because it is so small..."

Paulus huffed.  "If there are Orcs who are decent folk, with senses like mercy and justice, I have not met them," Paulus says.  "Only some who seem more tolerant and indulgent than others.  Even they... perhaps I've lived here too long.  I haven't had much time away.  And even that, you know... that's an indulgence they allow us, especially those of our class, because of the money it brings in.  They are not so easy with the poor."

He paused, thinking.
"The poor..."

That was worth another pause, while he organized his thoughts.

"There is some freedom, though, in having nothing worth taking.  The poor aren't watched.  Our class is.  We can't speak freely in our own homes, or in any place we might be overheard, that's why we're hear.  We are noticed, watched, followed.  The poor, on the other hand, are nameless and faceless to the Orcs.  No one worth their trouble.  We keep them in line, and the Orcs don't have to bother.  But they can come and go around town, and talk among themselves, with a level of freedom we don't have.  If you want to plant seeds, plant some among them."

Paulus, now thinking of how the Orcs watch over the people of the aristocratic class, became a little more nervous.  He looked around, for some sign that they weren't alone.  He found none, but it didn't calm his feelings.

"We're here too long as it is.  We don't want to draw attention, Titus, even here.  I would suggest it is time to call it an evening, and go about our ways, and think."

Gondioque goes to visit House Mercator.

Titus smiles, "The poor it is, then, my friend. I think we both have much to think on."

With that he wishes Paulus good night, "I look forward to our next meeting."

He returns to the family compound feeling somewhat relieved. His conversation with Paulus has given him not only a better understanding of things here, but a few ideas of next moves.

Titus is humming a tune he heard at one of the last performances he attended of Jazelle and Cado's company. The duo are a fond memory, particularly the latter, and while he misses them and their performers it does occur to him that having them here would be particularly useful.

As he enters the Mercator gates he appears distracted as he is trying to recall where they last were and writing a missive to them in his head.

The next morning Titus is informed that Ambassador Gondioque has come to visit.

Hearing that he has a visitor Titus goes to meet her. He is wearing riding leathers having just finished his morning sword practice and had been about to break his fast.

He smiles as he enters the atrium where Gondioque had been left to wait, "Good morrow, your Eminence! After having spent so long together on our journey here, I must say that while I have enjoyed my return to this lovely city my hours have been somewhat poorer without your presence!"

Titus sees that Gondioque is attended by two lads. She gives them a few coins. I'll be here for some while, I believe. Buy something to eat and drink, and stand by. Gondioque smiles when she hard Titus' remark. Good morning, Master Flatterer. You look...competent, and hungry. May I sit by as you break your fast. If I know somewhat of you, I expect you've been busy. So have I. After you eat and otherwise refresh yourself, I ask that we have a tête-à-tête.

Titus shrugs, "I would not keep you waiting and I know that a warrior such as yourself need not stand on formalities, so please join me. I would be pleased to share my repast with you."

Turning to a servant, "We will have food in the tablinum. Please see that we are not disturbed."

Turning back to Gonioque, "Please come with me."

Leading her through the Domus he takes her past a shallow pool open to the sky that lays at one end of the atrium and into a room that is comfortably appointed with a desk, table and several chairs. He makes small talk about the history of the house, which has a storied role in the history of House Mercator. The walk is short, though (not more than 60 feet), so she is saved too many tales.

Taking a seat at the table he pours them both some wine from decanter on the table as food is brought in. Once the light breakfast is laid out he grabs a rolls and tears a off a chunk dipping into his wine before popping into his mouth, "So, how does this day find you, my Lady?"

Gondioque waters her wine.

"Probably busy. And if it please you, my lord, how about "Gondioque" and "Titus" when we're alone? Quite a lot has happened. She fills Titus in on events. [All: Feel free to tell me about omissions or inaccuracies.]

"I've established my embassy on the entire third floor Of the Cabreus House Inn—father leased it.  Maid service is by Persilla Cabreus and their servant Donna. Valentia, my personal maid, is in charge.

"Two people you should know attached to the Inn: Bryon, a hostess, and Druk, an ook. Bryon is quite the characgter: Voluptuous, actively so; scatterbrained, amusingly so. But she gets things done; there's more to her, I think...hidden. Still, she's goodhearted, I believe; and she attracts patrons. Druk is efficient, honest, and humble—and he has connections. From what I gather, he won't go looking for a fight, but would be formidable if fight comes to him. I trust him, as you will hear.

"I was at the breakwater last night and bought enough holy symbol wind chimes to put at every door and window of the suite. I told the vendor, 'These will remind us of the most essential of all goods: The air we breathe. And I shall dedicate at least some to Njoror.'"Gondioque leans forward and whispers, '.'

"Some young men with the lanterns were present. A helpful puppeteer said, 'The one with the curly red hair is Gallus.  His younger brother has been schooled for years now, and knows the writing and the numbers as well as any clerk.  Gallus...  well Gallus had the chance, but thought it was his duty to look out for people along the water.  It's a thing, these Lantern Boys, they are... well they are like the constables we would have if there weren't Orcs.  They try to keep people safe.  Good kids.'

"One of the Lantern Boy mentioned a teacher from the old temple of Minerva.  She's not supposed to teach; the Visigoths don't want her to; they closed the temple.  But she teaches... young ones.  Reading, writing, numbers, history, poetry.

"A woman selling baked goods mentioned that the orcs had a muster yesterday.  'Sometimes, the Orcs gather to get instructions from their chiefs.  Not usually Harridog himself.. he's like the Over Chief.  But under him, there are the war-bands, and each war-band has a chief.  Things have been quiet but sometimes, when they have a muster, it's because they are planning something, and that can be bad.'

"I met a shell-and coral ornament woman. She does good work. I also heard that there's a nearby beach littered with shells and such. this gave me an idea. I'll say about that in a bit.

"Yesterday I sent off two letters using a messenger service, which maybe will do portering too, I helped create...the idea and the funding. Each read:

To His Majesty Amaric, of the Visigoths, King:
also
To the Esteemed Harridog, Tyrant of Massilia:

[Two separate letters with the same text.]

Greetings!

My father, King Gundobad, has posted me to Massillia to promote continued good relations between our two kingdoms, to further peace in Gaul, and to help with any problems related to trade from the Inland Sea to Burgundy without interfering with Visigoth control. To these ends, I am authorized to receive and to respond to any communications regarding these matters or such matters as you think best to share.

A favor: Please inform me of any customs or laws—besides those which are common to any well-controlled realm—which, were I to violate them, would create problems which other wise would not arise. In particular...I am residing on the third floor of the Cabreus House Inn. I ask permission to display my Burgundian colors on an outside wall of that floor to make my presence better known. If it is desirable, the Visigoth standard could be shown, say, on the roof so misunderstanding would not arise.

Sincerely,

Princess Gondioque Bourgogne, Ambassador

I expect an answer in a few days...not prompt...you know Visigoths think delay shows their superiority. Foolish; delay sows distrust. Anyway, the letter gives me an argument if I step on any toes.

"I set up the messenger through Druk. It's called Nuntius Partum Celeri (or rapid message delivery) called NPC for short. He has worked with people named Talacos and Simzic and a few others to set up the runners in a small stall behind Simzic's own business near the Inn. Talacos himself, dressed in finery, delivered the first messages. They worked together to create a fee system and begin getting their name out. I'm, say, an advisor and silent partner. I've put money in and expect to get some money back. I also expect to be told of rumors and any news that may be learned incidentally, not by spying. Talacos, Druk, and Simzic put together a list of merchants and houses that might use their service.

"Druk also obtained paper and contacted a small scribe named Gorni, who runs a simple shop with painted signs and a few of his Orcish friends such as Nuvrog and Rhum, a young couple who met as stone workers who are trying to make some cash on the side. Gorni completed my Burgundian letterhead. He also created several flyers for Nuvrog, Rhum, Druk and Talacos to deliver to potential customers to get their name and services out.

"I set out some principles:

Operating without disturbing Visigoth governance.

Meetings allow subordinates to speak if thkey've a mind to. If opinions are called for, the junior person present opines first.

Impartiality: Visigoth, German, Latin. Fair and square service for all.

Messages delivered without snooping into contents; oral messages not blabbed.

All members of the business are to trust and help each other on business matters. Therefore, each member of the business should have identification or personal knowledge of each other.

"If you think what such an organization might amount to, keep on thinking.

"I've noticed that a lot of people are not well employed, so I have an idea: Collect shells; and, under instruction, make earrings, circlets, necklaces, bracelets, waist belts, and even anklets. With luck, Bryon and I can invent a dance that will show them off. Have some people make them and pack them for export. They won't take up much room in ships and could bring in good profit...novelty items.

"Finally, a faun named Florian and I were guests at House Palantus. Members of the house decamped. If they made it safely, they sailed far, far away.They deeded everything to us, but we two have not accepted. This evening, we'll go there to hear the house steward submit an accounting. If we accept, Florian and I will have to make arrangements and record the transaction. I expect there are entanglements, so I'm wary. I'd appreciate it if you'd accompany me."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:43, Wed 27 Feb 2019.

PM

OOC: Ben, having spent a good time of his life prior to heading north in this city, Titus would know of the Lantern Boys, no? Or are they a group that came into existence in the time he's been away?

OOC: Sorry for my quietude, Gondioque, but my professional life has obstructed my gaming life again, I'm afraid. Thanks for your patience!

Titus takes in the impressive tale that the Ambassador reveals, "So, you have established quite a network! I very much agree in your focus on the underclasses. The Goths seem to see the aristocracy as their tools, but ignore the poor as being powerless. I would be happy to join you at House Plantus, but just to be clear the purpose of this meeting is to learn why it seems things have disintegrated in the House?"

Taking a sip from his own watered wine he continues, "While I have not been quite as busy as you I have been doing some investigation into matters in the City myself. It occurred to me that in the same manner that we countered the Emperor's efforts to demoralize His subjects and  make them more manageable by taking over and turning around Zerova's Troupe, we might encourage songs and street performances that would encourage characteristics counter to the Tyrant's will. (You know, disrupt Her demon master's desire to corrupt their non-Orc citizens into becoming more Orc-like and whatnot.)

"Towards this end I have encouraged an old family friend who is concerned about things here to become engaged by promoting street performers. Encouraging them to tell tales and sing songs that will cause those who hear them to question things their leaders say and do. This will require some subtlety, granted, but it is Art and without subtlety 'IT' is not Art, is it?", he says with a grin.

RL comes first; thanks for explaining.

"The purpose of the meeting with the House Palantus is to ascertain whether Florian and I accept ownership. If so, there will be a name change. I'll have to be careful with my involvement; I certainly can't be involved in day-to-day activities. Anyway, I'm curious about why it, as I think failed. If there are creditors, the House may be bankrupt. I'm also curious about any entanglements the House has.

"Florian is a Faun; I'm unsure about his ability to run a House. But there is an Oc, one Druk, an employee at the Inn. He seems quite capable and has contacts. That's not to say that Florian shouldn't have a role.

"I disagree with the strategy of trying to undermine the Tyrant by, as you say, encouraging other races to show "characteristics counter to the Tyrant's will." I do like the idea of using the troupe but suggest that they use references to the helpful, protective things the Visigoths do or have done...both here in Massillia and elsewhere in the realm. This last is important, I think; it subtly promotes division among the Visigoths...I bode a battle between the Emperor and Tyrant is coming.

"One other thing: I'd like to see the populace be readies to defend Masillia against the Vandals. That shoudl be objectionable, and the people will be prepared more than now t9o act when it's time to throw off the yoke.

"Oops! One other thing...let us be careful to avoid being against the orcs as orcs. I somehow think it would be evil to have them exterminated. OH, and Ocs [spelling, peaceful Orcs like Druk]; I"d encourage them to marry and have children."

"As to how the singers and artists are used, I think you are misunderstanding.

"I have had a good deal of experience dealing with Demon-influenced populace against the Huns. Their influence is subtle, but ultimately makes it easier for those who might have bad instincts become truly evil and for those with good instincts to accept evil actions as permissible, even tolerable. What has been described to me as the attitude of the noble class of Massila sounds much like that of the Emperor's realm --that is, the through the Tyrant the Demons have taken hold already.

"Simply encouraging the common folk with stories in which the weak succeed against great odds, for example, works to strengthen resolve not to go along with evil things. This may certainly be done along with other themes and should not be obviously anti-Tyrant or Orc. As you say, the point here is subtlety... And like what we did in the North success will require an alliance of all who would resist what seems to be the overwhelming power of the Tyrant"

Taking a sip from his cup, "Of course, things here in the South are complicated by the nearness of the Ostrogoths. At least back then we had only one power to contend with!"

Smiling, "But forgive me for I seem to have been rambling a bit. It sounds as if you have assembled an interesting crew. Your meeting with the Palantus should be interesting. It is a shame what has befallen that House."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:26, Sat 16 Mar 2019.

Gndioque nods her understanding. "I wish it well, but as ambassador I cannot be involved. Be careful, Titus...advice you've already given yourself. If you get interrogated, it might help to point out that having the populace more than panicked sheep will hep against threats form the east or sea.

"I go to see the shell artisan, taking a couple of deft-handed girls. I hope to apprentice them to her with me contributing some money. Then I'll be visiting the Septimus Market followed by looking over the theaters. (52-54)

"What are plans for the day?"

Titus nods, "I appreciate the warning, Your Highness.

"As to my next next moves I admit that I am uncertain. There is apparently a slave auction later today that I have been invited to attend."

His face displays his distaste, "I suppose if I am going to play the role I ought to attend. My impulse is to buy what I may and then liberate them, but that would possibly only expose myself, would it not? Though, perhaps that is just the play?

"What is your thought? What do you think of me buying some doughty lads and training them up with the idea of offering them their liberty...? But how does one do this without showing his 'hand' to the powers that be?"

Gondioque ponders. "Perhaps you'd care to accompany me to the Artisan's shop, and then I accompany you to the slave auction. Along the way, we can observe how slaves are treated here and discuss what to do about slaves."

Titus considers, "Well, it would be interesting to see this shop...

With a certain resignation he continues, "I fear that I have rather certain sense of how these slave auctions work and how slave are treated -- I am from here, remember.

"I was to attend with a fellow you shall be acquainted with eventually, Fanclo Ancius, who owns the Pharo Cove. It is the place for people of our class! An exquisite inn with all of the delightful delicacies and delicious rumors one could want.

"Yes, why let us do these things together -- it shall be entertaining if nothing else!"

Draft because inventing some names.

Gondique smiles, an honest smile rather than a diplomatic one, a smile that let Titus see the teenager, not just a harrier of Huns in the north (a year ago around what is now Nancy) and the guarded courtier/diplomat. (By the way, she's armed with rapier (peace knot) and dagger.) Titus recalls that she has yet to reach her 19th birthday. (Some royal children may live a life of ease and indolence, but Gondioque—she must have been hard at work every day of her life.)

Then the artisan—her name is Kelyfea [shell-related], the slave market and see and be seen at the Pharos Inn?

They go outside to see Gondioque's young teens waiting:

Three lads: Ischyres, who looks strong and sturdy
            Kidemonas, who stands straight and keeps watch like a guardian
            Tachys, lean with long legs...the body of a runner

They look to be about one year apart and are brothers.
Two sisters: Adrasteia, who seems unafraid
             Ophelia, who seems eager to do whatever Gondioque requires

Titus may recognize that all are descendants of the original Greek colonists.

"Lord Mercator of [name of your kingdom Belugia?], these are {naming them]. Obey him as you would me. We will be traveling in the city. If you think you should tell us something, please do so. Adrasteia and Ophelia, as you know, I will be arranging  your apprenticeship to Kelyfea if she approves. However, I grant you right of refusal; I dislike forcing people. Any questions?"

OOC: Mea culpa, again! I've no longer got the job that was causing such tumult in my life, so I'll have more time to be online. (Until I get another job that will cause 'such' tumult again...)

As far as names and titles, you would know that Titus was 1st Minister to Theodoric King of Belgica and was probably given another title, but Ben and I never really got into that. While in Massilia it is sufficient to call himself a Mercator and would have made that clear on the trip here.

Before they depart Titus will excuse himself and returns with his squire, Gian. Titus has also changed into clothing that reflects his standing as a merchant prince of this city. He wears a white linen toga with a pale yellow linen cloak with a silk lining. As usual around his neck a red silk scarf is tightly tied. He is not visibly armed.

Gian is somewhat older (mid-teens) than the lads Gondlioque has brought along. He fought through the Great War with Titus and carries himself with not only a martial air, but a confidence that the Princess will recognize from her own brothers. She recognizes his clothing to be similar to other high-level servants. It is obvious to her that he too is native to this city.

Standing somewhat closer to Titus is the golden sighthound, Felix, who is definitely not native to Massilia.

With a nod and smile Titus says to the three lads, "Well me, gentlemen."

Looking back to Gondioque, "Well! Shall we be off, your Excellency?"

Hope you land a new position soon.

Let's make Gian 18; those Gondioque brought are younger. I created a PM about that.

Gondioque nods back at Gian's bow (assuming he would (he should)). She looks Titus up and own. Impressive,  Honoratus [adjective
honored, esteemed, respected, well-bred, of gentle birth] Titus. And, by appearances, you have chosen a worthy squire.

Now on to  Kelyfea's shell shop.

In reply to Gondioque Bourgogne (msg # 47):

OOC: He's actually closer to 20 and in the other Europa game he went to study at the Academy in Aurelianorum at 18, but since this seems to be a sort of alternative timeline, I'm okay with playing with his age, so 18 is okay. (I was thinking he was still a bit younger originally.)

A bit confused by the PM... Is that where you're moving this thread for some reason?

No, just imparting information about NPCs.

In reply to Gondioque Bourgogne (msg # 47):

"Yes, quite so.", he replies.

He lets the Princess indicate the way and her lads lead as they begin to move, "So, tell me, have you been this far south before, my lady?"

First time. I have, of course, traveled throughout...gaining some experience.  Burgundy, and I have been north gaining some experience. My father was not pleased by my going sans leave to do so but pleased by what happened thereafter. [Gondioque was a recruiter and war leader who had some part in driving the Huns out of the land sought of Belgium. Titus would know this.]

They arrive at Kelyfea's shell shop; apprenticeships are arranged. Adrasteia, Ophelian, do your work well and obey your mistress, making ans selling. Create new items such as would please you. You will be present in my thoughts.  Tachys, you will look in on them every day. Once a week, oftener if need be, bring me report. In any case, I shall visit from time to time.

So, to the slave auction.

While Gondioque does her business Titus looks over the items for sale. He does so not only with a Merchant's eye, but with that of a lover of beautiful things. If something strikes his fancy he purchases it.

Once the Princess is done and indicates she is ready to move to the next step he nods and indicates what direction they will be travelling, "Of course!"

He take her to the Pharo Cove to meet up with Fanclo Ancius.