All the islands on the Catheran side have at least a few people on them and are claimed by someone, although there will likely be some changes of late due to the war.  You don't know anything about those on Zenther's side of things, but expect they would also be claimed.
One thing you do know is that those on the Catheran side put up with an almost constant wind from the south or southwest, making them not so pleasant. Those on Zenther's side don't seem to have that problem as much.

In reply to Finger of Fate (msg # 779):

Then the ones on Zenthers side sound like places that need new rulers. This might be a good place to head to investigate.

Quite Possibly... what are you going to suggest to his Excellancy? You know that deed is not done and the king is not in the bag yet.

In reply to Finger of Fate (msg # 781):

I will suggest to his excellency that I be sent to find a suitable island near the coast of Zenther to act as a forward base for ensuring safe passage for his troops across the sea, thereby securing supply lines in war and trade in peace. I will be looking for a location that is poorly secured, or not at all, and displacing any hostile bases and nobles in the area. I will therefore seek authority to rule in that region in on Malcolms behalf, having authority to protect Liliths folk, and other like-minded free folk who are willing to live at peace under Malcoms rule. We ask that the common folk be exempt from taxes, using what taxes are gathered locally to strengthen the local defenses and economy, but paying for any services or military assistance Malcolm offers. As their leige, I will collect fees from ships passing through, and pass that on to Malcolm in leiu of taxes. As for my own expenses, I will have to develop trade to cover them.

Umm, the problem with that concept is he already has Zila with a nice big port and roads to wher he wants to send forces. After he get's Zenther settled and under control, he might consider something like that. But first I wwill ask that w retrun to my home and let them know what has happened and that Malcolm will acknowledge their freedom under his rule. Then I can get a cart and load up my things to bring to wher ever we go.

In reply to Lileth (msg # 783):

"I do like your idea, dear, and we will actually do that. But as any military strategist knows, protecting supply lines is vital. If Zenther controls these islands, they can use them as bases to cut of supply lines to Zila, and then they will be able to destroy the forces there. Having a base on both sides of the sea is not enough...if you cannot also control the seas, then Zila can become a trap, and your village caught in the war if they take sides. hence, I want to secure the logistics lines before we return to them with the good news."

I see... that makes some sense... how many ships does Zenther have?

In reply to Lileth (msg # 785):

"Good Question. I believe a good number have been captured or changed sides, but in truth, I do not know. They used to have a good many, enough to ship their entire army north across the sea..."

So pehaps there ar still some out there, which might make poking around these islands dangerous without a decent force to do it with? I expt the Duke will want to settle the mainland before he looks at islnd. though.

In reply to Lileth (msg # 787):

"I am sure the mainland will be his primary concern, but as I mentioned, he will not ignore his supply lines. But yes, initially it could be dangerous. But with greater risk is the chance of greater reward. A few good men can capture a larger ship if they want to board us, and as a small fishing boat, there is little to be gained militarily by hunting us to sink us."

Unless you are a pest, then they just squash you. My bet is your Duke will want to see Zenther finished. Then when he sends you to the islands, it's a done deal and they best play nice.

In reply to Lileth (msg # 789):

"Or he sends me with enough force to do the deal and make that happen, securing his supply lines."

I am thinking he has his supply lines covered, but we shall see. Your fishing boat, even a bunch of them will not be much threat against some of those big boats we saw.

 reply to Lileth (msg # 791):

"No, it won't. It is just transport, not a warship. But now we are agreed on what we want, shall we prepare to meet the Duke again?"

She Laughs... OK, So tell me what you think we agree on ... because I am not so sure.

In reply to Lileth (msg # 793):

"well, you did agree that a large island would be a good opportunity for both of us, and also possibly for those from your village, did you not?"

I did, after we finish some business. I do think the Duke is going to want Zenther under his control before he goes looking for left over hold outs on islands. I expect he will want the Current King of Zenther and many of his nobles dealt with;  Then we go back to my house, let the people know there has been a change and the new Lord has agreed to let them live as they have, but they will have to pay some taxes, said to be low, for that privelege.  Then, we can go looking for an island. You sort of didn't mention those points in our agreement.

In reply to Lileth (msg # 795):

"You keep saying that, but I think protecting his supply lines will be a crucial part of his plan to deal with Zenther. Many invasions have come unstuck logistically.

But I agree we should wait until Zenther is dealt with before we talk to your village. Those I consider fine details, and I did not cover all the details. Perhaps you could consider being a lawyer?" he teased with a smile.

A Law-yer? Doesn't sound like me...

In reply to Lileth (msg # 797):

So we have a nice dinner together, and wait to meet Malcolm.

She enjoys the time together and drags her feet for quite a while before leaving for her room.

In reply to Lileth (msg # 799):

Mustafa also enjoys the company and is in no hurry either.

So it is late when you finally separate and go to bed.  Neither of you rise very early. After breakfast you have a little time before you need to get ready to see the Duke.

In reply to Finger of Fate (msg # 801):

We will use the time to freshen up and check out things, before going to see the Duke.

Seemss quite reasonable.
You go to pick up lileth for the meeting and find her in a very different sort of dress...well, a nice somehat diaphenous dress with many layers of thin green cloth that sort of flows as she moves. You are on time for the Duke's Tea , but still trying to guess where this dress came from. She has worn a foresters breeches and tunic since you met her.