video;

[hazelwood]

[The video opens on an uncommonly solemn-looking Lieuen, in a sombre state of dress that's unlike his usual pretentions. His skin, so modelled after the common Foreigner complexion, is a tiny bit sallow.]

Dear residents of Keeliai. It's with deep and considerable regret that I am the bearer of unfortunate tidings in regards to our fair city. You may have begun to notice that Tu Vishan's health has been... deteriorating, of late. This is certainly no cause for alarm! Things being what they are, it's tantamount to... say, a cold or flu that you Foreigners seem so susceptible to. We have every assurance that Tu Vishan will overcome this malady and return to its usual self soon.

But in the interest of not taking our grand turtle for granted, certain... shall we say, rules are going to be put into play effective now. The first and most importantly, of course, is rationing.

[There's a touch of distaste to his features as he says that. Guess who doesn't like the concept?]

Resources are going to be a touch more difficult to come by in the coming weeks, and as our guests we ask that you respect our laws and customs in this time. You will find a list of what it's permissible to purchase at your local vendors. Wasteful behaviour will become a punishable offense, and fully one-fifth of your resources, whether they are earned or made, are going to be... ah, requisitioned by detachments of the local law enforcement. It's with my sincerest apologies that I relay these terms to you, you see, and when we all come through this in fine fashion I will be reimbursing everyone fully for any, hm... hardships they might encounter due to these edicts.

And on that note!

[He claps his hands together, clearly trying to change gears from the unpleasantly macabre to the positive.]

I couldn't help but notice that several of you have taken an interest in our local language. Truly, I couldn't be happier. It brings me great joy to see your appreciation of our culture. Therefore, I'd like to offer my services as a translator, of sorts. I know each of the seventeen kedan dialects, including the more ancient forms, and I would gladly assist in any translations you've been undertaking. For a fee, of course, to be negotiated based on... oh, trifling things. The amount you wish translated, the time involved in doing so, and so on and so forth.

As always, if you have any questions do please ask, but it is my keenest wish that you keep it brief. I'm a touch preoccupied at the moment. Thank you.

Comments

vendor shopping list;

[hazelwood]

[All characters will find these lists across Keeliai, with slight variances according to Sector. This is meant to give a rough idea of the restrictions on their purchasing abilities. It should also be noted that trade of the harder-to-get items will become an underground activity and subject to criminal prosecution if caught! Does your character truly need that extra chocolate bar? If you'd like to discuss your character being caught with contraband, let us know and we'll work something out!]

GROCERIES PER WEEK;

2 cup of milk
5 eggs
1 ounce of butter
1/2 pound flour
1 ounce sugar and/or honey
3 ounces coffee
1 loaf of bread (small)
Any (5) fresh vegetables (ex: one onion, one head of broccoli, one stick of celery, one carrot, one beet)
Any (3) fresh fruits
Any (1/2) pound meat
1 packet salt/pepper
1 'luxury' item (ie: a small chocolate bar or a 300 ml bottle of cider or alcohol)

AMENITIES PER WEEK;

2 sheets of paper
1/2 ounce ink
1 ounce soap

[Restaurants will still be open and functioning, but with their rations restricted as well, the fare will be generally bland and not as filling and/or nutritious as normal. If you're curious about an item that isn't on these lists, please ask and we'll let you know how short-supplied they are.]

[andaway]

Could I maybe ask more about the turtle's sickness? And what is going to happen with the rations we will give away?

Please don't take my questioning as complaining of anything by the sort, I just think the more information we have the easiest dealing with this will be.

[hazelwood]

You are quite within your rights and interests to ask! I, however, may not have all the information your require. I could pursue further information if you but-- [A significant pause.] -- requested it of me. [Such efforts do cost, after all.]

Otherwise, I'm afraid that would do better to ask one versed in the medicines of such a grand creature. [A lamentation, at best.] I am a businessman and woefully unversed in the intricacies of Tu Vishan's health. [Lieuen, despite his solemnity, does have some good news.] Rest assured that things shall return to normal in due time! This has been quite emphasized to me and so I do, in all faith, relay the message to you.

[As to the matter of rations, he cringes. Lieuen is one kedan quite used to his comforts and the very discussion of restrictions hurts him.]

These contributions all are to make will be gathered and disseminated to those, ah, less familiar with having their needs met. As I understand it, a great effort to preserving foods will be made as preparation for the unfortunate and entirely too unlikely event that things become worse, as it were.

[disfavored]

I'm not saying this is my personal stance, I'm just curious on the matter - what if a foreigner were to object to any of this? Specifically, the requisitioning? [It is his personal stance, but he doesn't want to state his objection too strongly until he knows what the consequences are.]

[hazelwood]

Then I am afraid that the Alderwood Commander would get involved. He may be fair, but it can be quite dreadful to do business with one as driven as he.

[Lieuen speaks with the tone of one that has, in the past, tried to find better grounds upon which to work with the man.]

There is also the matter of one's reputation. I am quite enamored with you, our lovely guests! However, there are some kedan which may see such objection as unfair and a very poor statement that you should, somehow, bear fewer burdens than we who reside here.

[suoxi]

I am very sorry to hear about the state of Tu Vishan. Does the -- requisition also include wages, or simply goods that we may produce? Either way, I will assist how I can.

[ that said … ]

I am one of those interested in the local language. At times, it seems very similar to a language I am familiar with – are there books in any of the libraries that one might check out for educational purposes?

[hazelwood]

I am quite afraid it extends to both, my lovely lady. [He takes off his hat in deference to her beauty as he speaks.] All for the greater good, I am well-assured! These requisitioned resources will be used to ensure all basic needs are met.

[There is a brightening to his expression and, indeed, to his skin itself at the mention of language.]

There are many indeed, but they require some grasp of the kedan language to properly appreciate their details. [He lets that stand a brief moment before briskly returning his hat to his head.] I can, however, offer something in the way of lessons were the right chord to be struck between us.

[Because he is a businesskedan aboveall.]

[justlittle]

Can a person learn the kedan language somewhere? Or just listen to translations? [Because translations are so often biased and incomplete, but Bean will have to start somewhere.]

[hazelwood]

[What a curiously intelligent sounding Foreigner youth.]

While we lack any formal texts to engage such learning, I do reiterate that I possess this knowledge you seek. It is in the interest of competitiveness that I offer translations, you must understand.

[A congenial smile. Lieuen is not scaling back his diction mere because of the apparent difference in their ages.]

That is not to say your cause is lost, dear child! The cost differs, but I am always willing to arrange lessons for the right arrangement.

video;

[dracobin]

[When the feed switches on, Temeraire has carefully arranged himself so he looks appropriately noble and dignified in his renovated apartment. His platinum breastplate is being shown off at the most flattering angle, and the light filtering in from outside catches the pearl and sapphires set at the center just so. It a great deal of pomp and circumstances and it is rather what Lien would do, if she were in this situation, but he suppresses the immediate spike of annoyance. There is an opportunity here, he realizes, and it does not begin with his accidentally offending the Hazelwood Merchant.]

I should like to hear more about your translation services, if you do not mind. [His normally excitable voice is careful and measured--and, it may as well be said, clearly rehearsed.] Pray, does it extend to instruction in your honored language? I assure you, you will find me a fast learner, and you will of course be compensated for both time and effort.

video;

[hazelwood]

[Ah, this is a creature of obvious taste and Lieuen watches the feed with some interest, his smile settling between that intrigue and, as always, that of the businesskedan.]

Arrangements can always be made, honoured guest. I regret to inform you that the more ancient writings are difficult to parse and night impossible to teach, but we could certainly come to an arrangement to pass on knowledge of the more recent writings.

[epigrammatical]

Good afternoon—Lord Henry Wotton, at your service. I am sorry to hear that matters are growing difficult, and of course one will make sacrifices as one must. [Try not to laugh, folks. He's trying to sound sincere and really does a good impression of it.]

My question will seem frivolous, I don't doubt, but it is the frivolous that helps one bear matters of such import. Are tobacco and similar products included in the "luxury" category?

[hazelwood]

You have my most heartfelt sympathies, sir, for I regret to inform you that the smoke leaves were first to be struck from the luxuries we have come to enjoy. [And his tone is, indeed, filled with both sympathy and regret.] What stores exist will not be renewed until after this trifling crisis is over, so I do advise stocking up while there is material yet to be had.

Cider, however, is still a pleasure we may have. [A brightening of his tone at that.] The amount may be slim, but we are still permitted that point of warmth in our lives.

text;

[thewaythatiam]

If we are operating a business based around food, are we eligible to receive a rationed amount of the ingredients we need to continue said business, or will we be required to shut down until Tu Vishan's health has improved?

The business in question is a bakery, if that is helpful information.

text;

[hazelwood]

Why certainly! The finer spices and herbs have been stricken from the lists, but the beautiful dining establishments of Keeliai will be permitted operation in a dreadfully reduced capacity. All one need do is register with the nearest detachment of our esteemed police force and they will ensure that the permitted supplies are delivered straight to your business.

There is, needless to say, the reminder that these supplies are meant only for the business and they will check in, so to speak.

video;

[inseine]

[A grimace curls at Javert's lips. In fact, he has noticed an influx in crumbling city structures as of late, but he had convinced himself that it was par for the course when it came to structures built on the back of a titan turtle. Apparently his first intuitions were correct: They were out-of-the-ordinary. He examines this unfamiliar face intently - or as intently as he can, through a video feed.

He thinks it is with a kedan he speaks, but unlike some of the rest, this one is a rather good imitation of mankind, save for the extraordinarily sallow complexion.]

I take it you are an authority, then. A subject of Madame Emperor? Well! I will come to the point.

[Javert brandishes one of the rationing lists--in French, of course--in his hand, casting a quick glance down to the bottom and reading aloud,]

2 sheets of paper
One-half ounce of ink.

[He sets the paper aside with a flutter and fixes his iron gaze on the Merchant.]

In my line of work I use paper contracts, invoices, and receipts. Does the rationing apply to individuals and businesses? I do not intend to strain the supply, but I must know the alternatives.

video;

[hazelwood]

[Lieuen's expression is one of understanding and sympathy for the challenges that these restrictions bring into play. While he cannot understand the text of the list, the reading makes clear what distresses this man to such boundaries. Indeed, it is a terror that he shares! Will one not think of the businesses in this time of need?]

You speak to a matter of concern that I myself share, rest assured! My business is little without the paper to track it and the first question that came from my mouth was to the impact this might have. The Emperor advised that we may register our business activities with a police detachment and they will ensure sufficient supplies are delivered to your place of operation. Restrictions will come into play, but they exist beyond those of one's personal needs.

There is also the matter of necessity. Were you, say, providing an indulgence and not producing something rather required to live, then the provisions would be greatly lessened. When times are tough, it is always the silver that must tarnish before the iron rusts.

[gathersnomoss]

I can't say I've dealt with rationing before, save for those required for long travel. Would additional materials be available for sale or barter, if we have the means?

[hazelwood]

I'm afraid the production of excess will be rather stunted in the times coming. The Alderwood Commander made it quite clear to me that one must first contribute to the whole and then take for one's self. Whether there is any amount left for others is a question indeed.

video;

[wintershepherd]

Um, I have a question. I don't have any problem with the grocery list...

[ he doesn't use it anyway ]

... but I get paid different amounts every day. How often is the one-fifth thing supposed to happen?

video;

[hazelwood]

The finer points of administration were not shared with me, regretfully. I suspect an honour system shall come into play, wherein we contribute according to our earnings.

I am certain the Alderwood Commander has these details well in hand. Employers do already keep records of payments, so perhaps he shall just refer to those.

voice;

[ironicprince]

[It doesn't take a genius to figure out there's something wrong and more than unfair going on here, but he's in no position to speak out against it.]

If we don't use our personal rations, are we allowed to give them to someone else who's in need of more?

voice;

[hazelwood]

Why, certainly! One may wish to advise our Alderwood Commander of their lack-of-need, as charity may raise questions as to what supplements them. Suspicion is an unfortunate side effect when resources become scarce.

audio;

[bondsprofoundly]

Where should I go if I wish to assist in the recovery of Tu Vishan?

[He'd ask the turtle itself but its communication methods are.

Weird.]

audio;

[hazelwood]

There is dreadfully little to be done as I understand it. The Ironwood Emperor, however, possesses a great deal of knowledge about Tu Vishan and may be better placed to offer you information.

[effective]

What about hunting our own food. [It wasn't strictly encouraged in the first place, after all]

[hazelwood]

Quite the curious alternative. [Lieuen gives pause to consider this.] Wildlife runs scarce of late in Tu Vishan, but were you to find an unbranded beast I am certain no one would hold its slaying against you. Contribution to the whole may be encouraged, mind you.

[Video]

[alpha_squad_leader]

Alright, taking food and materials I can understand. But why are they taking any of our pay? Is this money going to be equally redistributed when all this rationing ends?

[Victor shakes his head.]

I could actually use some help translating something. Would it be possible to negotiate the fee in person?

[Video]

[hazelwood]

Quite the same reaction as I, good sir! The Alderwood Commander assured me that all funds will be diverted to the rehabilitation of Tu Vishan or, should the need grow dire, the purchase of supplies for the common good.

[There is that unfortunate matter of fairness on fiscal terms. Lieuen's own income relies primarily on profit sharing from ventures he has helped finance. Without this stipulation, he could enjoy this period of rationing almost untouched, but alas!

He recovers with a grand smile, sweeping his hat off of his head.]

That can be done, good sir!

[notamachine]

[This one-fifth requisitioning thing is bullshit and Dean is having nothing to do with it. He'll gladly help people out with food, though.]

This sickness has to be a bigger deal than you're making it out to be. The canals are vile. It smells like death, not a cold.

[hazelwood]

[Lieuen can do little to help with that opinion, Dean, being under these same rationings himself, alas.]

All a minor inconvenience on the scale of Tu Vishan, I assure you.

[idealisme]

And what assurances are we given that the goods and monies we give to the Empress will be used well?

[Economically it makes sense to save what they have now, in case things get worse later. However Enjolras has very little faith in this particular ruling body that the process will be free of corruption.]

Will the division and allocation of these resources be available for all to view? None should receive more, simply because they believe in their own superiority. [Yes, he means Eshai.]

[hazelwood]

Empress? [A flutter of confusion before Lieuen realises that this Foreinger speaks in terms of gender to Eshai and not the position that the Ironwood Emperor represents.] Ah, so you speak of the Emperor. What a delightful reference to make. Do you always speak with such gender assignations. Do tell how this pronoun is adapted to the remaining four genders.

[Gender is fluid to the kedan and often they simply work with the one that the other party identifies for use. With Eshai, she is the Emperor by designation and nothing more -- oh, yes. There are more pressing details.]

My apologies. Language is a passion of mine and I can so easily become entranced by it. [An apologetic tip of his hat.] I have been studying the very idea of Foreigners for years now and have many a question left to answer.

I unfortunately have no oversight in this resource centralisation. The Alderwood Commander has been given such controls and he has proven quite fair in the past. Your fears would be best addressed with he, I'm afraid.