The Cost of Progress

Writers: Anika, Suzee
Date Posted: 2nd March 2015

Characters: Bryvin, Eirock
Description: Eirock and Bryvin meet to discuss Hold matters.
Location: Sunstone Seahold
Date: month 11, day 16 of Turn 7
Notes: Mentioned: Yriadha, Xeladrie

Bryvin

Eirock

"I brought the report from the technicians on the feasibility of the
wind generators," Eirock stated as he entered for his meeting with
Lord Bryvin. The technicians had submitted the report on paper rather
than hide and the Steward passed the sheaves over to the Lord Holder.
"They would be expensive to build, but we could power the entire Hold.
I did not feel they adequately addressed the maintenance costs, and
considering the sizable initial expense, that is information I would
like to know."

"As would I," Bryvin said and held out his hand for the report. "Have a seat."

"If we want to consider the project, we need to re-assess the tithes,
so I've brought that information as well," Eirock added as he sat
down.

Bryvin looked through the figures and narrowed his eyes at some of the
expenses. "Have you met with these crafters? Are they padding this
just a bit?"

"I haven't started negotiating yet," Eirock replied. "They've added
the normal five to seven percent to cover project scope creep, which
I'll of course insist they reduce to no more then two - keep them
accountable. I'd say we could get them down at least another five to
ten percent but I didn't want to start haggling until we were closer
to a decision. We might be able to build maintenance into the
contract, which could ultimately allay our costs substantially."

"Good thoughts," Bryvin nodded in approval. "Be careful of chewing
them down too much though, we want them to think they've made a good
bargain in the process." He pushed those documents away and went back
to the map he'd been studying. "Come here," he motioned for the
Steward to come around his desk.

"See this area," he pointed to a forested section to the north of the
main hold. "We could clear this area and use the wood for the
construction project, then once the fields are cleared, plant a new
wheat crop. That way we can use this field," he indicated one closer
to the hold and the marshy area between the two hills, "for river
grain. That way we'll have two major grain crops for use and export."

"That's a sound plan. I think the increase of grain will prove
beneficial as the Hold's population numbers continue to rise. Between
the Hold, Hall, and shipbuilding projects lumber is definitely in high
demand so this will help us keep on track with our other commitments."

"Exactly," he said. Then he sat contemplating the map. "My wife would
like to hold a gather."

"Gathers can be tricky in the rainy season, but I do see merit in the
idea. It shows that Sunstone has transitioned well to your leadership
and everything is as it ought to be. I'm just not sure we'll be
assured a dry and storm free day for some time."

"Oh I don't mind waiting a bit," he smiled at the man with whom he was
fast building a friendship. "Xeladrie is expecting. We can let her
develop a bit. It won't be a bad thing to see the Lady in that
condition."

A broad smile spread across the Steward's face, pleased for Bryvin
both personally and because of the fact that an heir would secure his
leadership of the Hold. "Congratulations! That's very good news
indeed and you're absolutely right. Seeing the Lady in the family way
will be advantageous in many respects."

"It will, but take it slowly and naturally. I don't want her
stressed." Bryvin still smiled but there was a hint of a warning in
his eyes. "Perhaps when you've a child of your own on the way you'll
understand."

"I'm sure I will," Eirock nodded acknowledging not only the words but
the look in the Lord Holder's eyes. "Though that might yet be a long
time out for me," he chuckled. Deciding to move to the next topic the
Steward put a report in front of Bryvin. "Yriadha has brought me up
to speed on the incoming tithes. It seems Echo Ridge is consistently
late and offers substandard goods," he stated, his voice taut.

"Yes," Bryvin nodded. "That has been a consistent issue with them"

"I am confidant that I can successfully remedy the issue with a short
visit to my cousin. My sister would be more than happy to provide
transport, I'm sure. Perhaps the beginning of next month?

Last updated on the March 18th 2015

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The Cost of Progress