by SalsaDoom » Thu Oct 02, 2003 3:07 pm
He takes the offered seat and refreshment. Last time Birch had spoken to Kilborn, the chap had be pleasent and sociable. Likeable. Now, he seemed to be bordering on insulting. "I'm sorry that some people have been whispering bad things about me into your ear, Lieutenant. I can only hope you know better then to listen to street toughs and rogues against the word and honor of a Gentleman. As for politics, I must say, I am surprised to hear you say that. Surely you know that politics come with the job. Politics, I hate to say, are my business almost entirely. But that doesn't mean we still cannot be friends.
I'm not entirely sure that things are so simple. The minor fortification's basic complement is two hundred, this is enough to man its defences. Now, I do admit this is likely not to be required unless one of Myrken Wood's enemies invade, or something of the like. But you are not being attentive to a few issues yet.
Does the Order of Straka provide our convoys escorts? Will it escort our important personnel around? You've never offered so far. Even if the odd time they did, you cannot expect me to believe they would do as well a job as our own boys, and certainly not to follow the orders of our Officers. On top of this, you are well aware, I assume, that our Fort is located a good distance from Myrkentown. A good several hours on horseback. Your two hundred and thirty eight guards are not likely to give our fort the proper patrols it deserves. Nor should they be expected too!
You see Lieutenant, this entire thing has happened because quiet simply, we want to cut costs. Our own troops are rather expensive. We compete with several other groups for man power you see, raises the price. And, honestly, I don't need regulars here. These boys can be better used elsewhere. For every Irregular troop that I hire on from here, thats a Regular troop I can send away. Personally, I think that having locals would be better for everyone involved. A good deal of my troops don't even speak the language. For your own peace of mind, your local people would surely not be willing to interfere with the proper authorities here as well.
As a final note, I should say, that I have absolutely not transgressed upon any laws. I have a contact that allows me to maintain trade and defences here. I have a copy of it on my person, in fact, should you wish too see it."