A Diplomatic Faux Pas
Limestone 267, Early Fall
Cythereal has completed her labors. While I could not deny its exquisiteness, I would have preferred something more useful to Gemclod; we are positively drowning in crafts of this sort. Especially disturbing is the subject matter, which led me to suspect that it was not our ancestors that guided her hands.
I had Boing investigate her for possible espionage. Boing assured me her room was free of molting, which she explained was the show in spy prospecting. I did not realize that elf trickery was so advanced; I need to adjust training to reflect these developments.
*****
I heard rumors that the peasantry are grumbling over having to meet minimum combat standards.
I sent a message amongst the populace that the requirements are for not only their safety but the safety of our entire race. I can only hope that the natural dwarven inclination towards duty to his people is enough to assuage their anger.
*****
The Hall Hunts continued to be a rousing success with the soldiering class. Not only is their bloodlust directed away from their fellow dwarf, but the mock-battles allow practice of techniques that would be dangerous in sparring.
*****
More dwarves complained to me about the stink of rot. I tied to explain that we are in a swamp and so it can not be helped. They told me they are used to the plant-rot, that it is flesh-rot the bothers them now. My investigation revealed that some dwarves have tried hiding extra rations in their rooms.
I circulated a message amongst the troops to keep all food within the Great Hall. Not only does dining amongst the greatest monument to our culture improve morale, but it prevents misplaced rations from being wasted.
*****
I received a message that the human merchants were growing impatient and were threatening to leave.
I welcomed the news to be rid of their presence, until a follow-up message revealed that Markus had never discussed terms with them, despite my clearing his schedule of all other tasks. I ordered the messenger to take Markus’s place and commanded my soldiers to find Markus immediately. I feared we lost our Great Architect to some unnoticed cave-in.
*****
The merchants left with bag after bag of worthless baubles we convinced them were relics from our lost cities in exchange for every piece of liquor and food they had with them. Unfortunately, though they took as much as they could carry, Bad Munki’s legacy still filled the stock halls.
Markus, meanwhile, was discovered in the council room speaking with the unassuming Leperfish. When the architect was brought to me, I explained to him that while I understand the importance of social obligations, his contract with society comes first. My words did not menace with curses, however; I was more relieved than angry.
*****
I have given orders to line our road with the bodies of our enemies.
Such a display will surely intimidate our foes and impress our friends.
Bobbin Threadbare wrote :-
Mama, mama! I c'n dwa like Sithy! See?
(Wait for it. Again.)