“A promise kept is worth more than any wordy oath.”—Dwarven proverb

  Castle Tower, Cryptonia, Ground Plane

  Jasper led the way into the map room, the only logical choice for such a meeting. Once there, Jasper adjusted the map to show a high vantage of the Tower and the surrounding areas. Forests, fields, and roads were laid out before the group. They looked quite enamored by the magical contraption but contained their wonder for the moment. The Ambassador took up a tall chair against the wall that granted her a broad view of the map and the room. Jasper braced the heels of his palms on the edge of the table and blew out a long sigh.

  “Ladies and gentlemen, I face quite a few troublesome prospects. One I am certain all of you are most aware would be the current condition of our roads.” He looked at Lorrenson, who nodded in agreement.

  “A sad state, ser. If our wagons were to travel these tracks for any serious journey, they’re like to have several repairs on each trip.” He shook his head, pointing to the main road leading from Southton up to the Tower. “There were several washouts that need to be filled with rock and packed with lime as well as drainage ditches on either side to allow the water to flow safely.”

  “I had assumed as much but have not been able to make a trip to witness the state of them myself,” said Jasper. “I’m glad to have the eyes of experienced travelers to assist me. Master Lorrenson, I spoke at some length with Samen regarding what would be required of the Tower to make such repairs to the roads but would like to hear it from you as well. What would the Guild expect from us to make the land safe and economical to travel?”

  “Well, as I’m sure Samen told you, our laborers would be quite capable of doing the actual work themselves but would need permission and guards from the local lord—that being your good self—to guarantee their safety during the hours on the road.”

  “Yes, he mentioned this. Another of my primary concerns at the moment is establishing a real military presence to defend the land and her people should the need arise.”

  “We had noticed the increase of soldiers and the disposition of their equipment,” Samen chuckled. “They already look much better than when we visited last.”

  “I’ll pass on that praise,” said Jasper. “I’m sure both my captains and Armsmaster Benn will be pleased to hear it.”

  “To answer your question outright, Lord Jasper, if you granted protection and perhaps some lodgings, I can certainly arrange for roadworkers to make the trip north and begin reconstruction.”

  “Protection I give freely, though lodgings may need to be constructed. Calian, make a note for us to speak with Idien about building shelters for visiting laborers.”

  “Of course, Lord.” Calian’s pencil scratched quietly on his pad as they continued speaking.

  “There are a few old houses in and near The Vill that might be of use, Lord,” said Caedran. “They’re in need of a good cleaning, probably rethatch the roofs, but good sturdy buildings. They’ve been vacant for some time now.”

  “Thank you, Master Caedran, we will certainly look into it. Since you are a local man and been working the land the longest, perhaps you can answer my next question as well. Looking forward and assuming Master Lorrenson’s folks have resolved our road issues, where do you suggest we survey for foresting and farming?”

  “There are many fertile areas along the river’s main straight here, as well as the north and south forks here and here,” said Caedran, pointing to the locations with a thin stick Calian provided. “I believe these would be wise places to plant. With the right methods, we might be able to irrigate land from the river on either side to stretch the water’s reach. However, certain seasons may cause the river to not flow as full, reducing the amount of water fed into the irrigation channels.”

  “We should start small,” said Master Rikson, scratching his chin. “Experiment with the smaller farms nearer the river, expand once they are sustainable and we know the water can support additional crops.”

  “I agree,” said Jasper. “As my dwarven tutor has instructed me, ‘small steps begin a great journey’. But what about the farmers themselves?” Jasper indicated the few remaining occupied structures and farms still growing crops in the land around the Tower. “We need more people to work the land—especially if we expect to have a large number of road crews coming to eat what we do have.”

  “They do eat like hogs,” Lorrenson chuckled, shaking his head.

  “I will see what I can do to convince some of the more stir-crazy farmers I know to travel north,” said Evermar. “I know several who are champing at the bit to leave home, look for better land. That would not be a bad incentive to make the trip, Lord Jasper.”

  “I had considered it,” said Jasper. “It would be right for those who were willing to move such a distance to be rewarded for their hard work.”

  “It would need to be a careful amount of acreage, Lord,” piped up Calian. “We only have so much land available to us, and overcrowding the land would land us in just as much hot water as not having enough workers.”

  “Agreed. Master Evermar, I would ask you to converse with Calian and Caedran to go over the acres we have available to determine what would be an acceptable grant for the average farming household.”

  “Another option, Lord, would be to have the farmers simply be your vassels for a time before granting them the land,” said Evermar. Jasper cupped his chin and thought about it. Those present watched him with interest, waiting to see what he would decide.

  “I’m not sure. I am wary of claiming anyone as a subject or vassel, Master Evermar. I do not intend to be a king over this land. I am its steward, not its conqueror.”

  “As you wish, Lord.” Jasper turned to the elder Rikson.

  “What do you think of our forests, master woodsman? Your son here praised our iron oaks and tall pines on his last trip. I hope they were to your liking as well.”

  A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

  “Indeed they were, Lord. You have woods the likes of which many men will never see. Garand spoke of the Greenwood, but I believe this to be a somewhat sacred landmark to your people, is that correct?”

  “Correct me if I am wrong, Master Caedran, but there are parts of the Greenwood that do stand as a special place to those elves and dwarves among us, yes?”

  “Indeed so, Lord. Many go there to pray and worship their respective gods. I would not cut that forest if possible.”

  “Certainly not.” Jasper turned back to the Guild Master. “What of the areas you saw during your travels?”

  “There were many stretches of prime oak and pine land through the hills and valleys, aye. I took note of at least three large tracks that should be cut soon, or they will begin to overgrow parts of the road.” Rikson took the pointer from his counterpart and indicated the sections of woods that had begun to encroach on the road.

  “Good grief, you’re right.” Jasper looked closer at the map and a thought occurred to him. He studied the map, rotating the image before them to scan it from every angle. “Hmm. I’ve had an idea. What if your woodsmen arrive early, ahead of the farmers, so they can begin to clear the roads and control the forest’s growth.” Jasper held out his hand and Rikson placed the stick into it. Jasper pointed to the sides of the road the guild master had referenced. “By harvesting what is cut back to manage this timber, we would have a bit of material to construct additional houses and shelters, yes?”

  “I’d say so, Lord,” Rikson nodded. “The oaks we passed were in fine condition, if only they hung a bit close over the road.” Jasper began nodding slowly, smacking his hand on the rim of the table.

  “We’ll begin there then. I imagine I might even be able to bring in some local help to lend a hand.”

  “Neither I nor the foremen under my charge would turn down local help,” Rikson chuckled.

  “Wonderful.” Jasper clapped his hands in satisfaction and regarded each of the men with him. “Was there anything else?” Lady Alanis raised a delicate hand and Jasper nodded for her to speak.

  “How exactly will the Tower finance such an undertaking? I understand it is the Wagoners’ duty to manage trade roads, but surely there must be some profit for them to put so much effort down?”

  “Subsidizing such time and effort would be something of an investment on greater future return,” said Master Rikson. “Woodsmen and farmers both rely heavily upon the weather and the gods’ will to prosper. Here, at least, we have a great deal of material and profit just waiting to be made with some effort.”

  “Aye, once the roads are passable again, work can begin on clearing the trees we determine to be problematic,” added Caedran. “I’d even suggest sending surveyors to inspect the forests while the road is under construction—tackle two obstacles at once.”

  “That is a good idea,” Jasper agreed. “To answer your question more directly, Lady Alanis, I am not certain where any extra coin will come from. I wished to get a better idea of what would be required for these ventures before discussing matters with Master Torald. Until I have a firmer understanding of the situation, I believe Calian would be better suited to sorting the finer details of finances in business like this. I’m marvelous at the broad picture, but I have yet to master the intricacies of how to determine what money to put exactly where.”

  “That is what I am for, ser,” Calian grinned. “I will have documents outlining exact areas to be surveyed by tomorrow morning, Guild Masters. The physical surveys will take a little longer, but with the forest folk we have to assist us, not as much time as would normally be.”

  “Very good, master steward,” Evermar smiled. “Perhaps a drink to celebrate?”

  “Agreed! Calian, fetch that delicious brandy we discovered in the cupboard the other day, it would be perfect for a moment like this. I do hope there is enough.” The vampire vanished before reappearing a few moments later, carrying a beautifully carved wood tray piled with small cups and a glass decanter three quarters full of amber liquid. Calian expertly poured drinks for everyone and Jasper raised his in a toast, grinning openly. “To good neighbors and business partners.” They all saluted and drank before departing for the main hall for more food and music, their beds, or home, in the case of the councilors. As planned, Calian had sought out Master Torald some minutes after their meeting was adjourned, informing the banker that Jasper wished to speak with he and Loric.

  “Lord Jasper.” Torald bowed politely and Loric followed suit.

  “Master Torald, I hope you are feeling better since your arrival. Your color seems much improved.”

  “I am, thank you. I believe something on the trip did not agree with me, but this northern air seems to have at least lessened my distress.”

  “I hope to have something to lighten the mood even more. A sign of my good intent.” He cast a quick glance at Loric over Torald’s shoulder. The messenger stiffened a bit but Torald did not seem to notice.

  “Really? How intriguing.”

  “If you will follow me, it’s just this way.” Jasper led the way towards the side chamber that had been converted into storage. One of the veteran sergeants in Jasper’s cohort; Turian, stood outside, a private with him.

  “‘Evening, Lord.” Turian saluted sharply. Having expected Jasper’s arrival, he took the key from his belt and unlocked the thick oak door with a heavy metallic click before swinging it open to reveal the dark interior.

  “A torch, sergeant, if you don’t mind.”

  “Certainly, ser.” The soldier lit an oil-cloth wrapped stick from a nearby candelabra and led the way into the darkness. Turian quickly lit the torches lining the walls inside and stood by the door.

  “Oh my,” Torald exclaimed as light bloomed through the stone room, his eyes widening at the sight before him. Beside him, Loric’s mouth hung open, and Jasper barely contained his grin. Before the group was the neatly stacked and rather expensive collection of tableware, which was evenly arranged around the bejeweled throne centerpiece.

  “I had a similar reaction,” said Jasper, unable to contain his chuckle any longer. “I spoke to your accomplice here of my intent to repay the Tower’s outstanding debt upon his last visit—rather rudely, I admit. I do apologize for my impolite words, Loric. But I do honor my promises.” He indicated the large haul of treasure. “This is a down-payment on future income the Tower accrues over time. I have spoken with Calian at length, and based upon the projected sales of lumber and what crops we already have, I expect to return at least a quarter of this sum every four months.” Jasper held out an envelope to the Torald, who took it and inspected the paper within. His eyebrows rose in surprise and the guild master nodded.

  “It is an impressive feat,” he said, finally tearing his eyes away from the treasure and paper to face Jasper once more. “You seem confident this amount will satisfy our accounts.”

  “I am aware exactly what the Tower owes the Guild, and despite being mediocre at mathematics and bookkeeping, my steward is an expert. And thorough. This is more than double any repayment you have received in the last three years, even without the throne. I believe this buys me a little leeway.”

  “Indeed…” Torald’s gaze slid back to the carefully arranged platters, piles of utensils, stacks of cups, and unique pieces. “I must say, Lord Jasper, you have surprised me more than any other client.” He folded up the paper in his hands and placed it into a pocket of his robes. He smiled. “I do believe this will sit quite well with the Guild in H?llthar.” Jasper returned his grin and gave a small bow.

  “Calian will see it loaded upon your departure. Enjoy the rest of your evening, gentlemen, but not too much. There is still tomorrow.” Torald and Loric returned his bow.

  “Good evening, Lord.” Jasper left them with Turian to inspect what they would and found Calian waiting for him outside the door. He jerked his head for Calian to follow as he skirted the edge of the hall.

  “That seemed to have gone well,” Calian pointed out. “Though Loric’s heartrate seemed to be borderline apoplectic.” Jasper chuckled at the vampire’s dry observation.

  “Yes, he did seem quite taken aback. I think Torald was impressed, though. I don’t think he was expecting us to be so well-prepared. Nice job on the ledger, by the way. Having an exact count to hand him was incredibly satisfying.”

  “I aim to please, Lord.” Calian smirked, quite satisfied with himself.