North by Northwest (storyline)/Wehnimer's Merchants Admonish Black Thorns (vignette)

Discord Message Link: https://discord.com/channels/226045346399256576/1067186012100501544
Author: Kenstrom
Date: 01/23/2023 3:56 PM

In response to the recent anti-imperial voices that have labeled themselves the Black Thorn Resistance, several influential merchants of Wehnimer's have petitioned the Darkstone Bay Consortium to address the concerns of several shopkeepers and townspeople.

The Darkstone Bay Consortium convened for several days to discuss the matter. A decision was reached, and a statement issued by Amos, the leader of the Consortium.

"Unlike the Mayor, we do not believe that fire and steel fuel progression. We do not seek to burn bridges built by differences or sharpen blades against the bones of neighbors and allies. Wehnimer's Landing is on the cusp of a future of prosperity and promise never before seen in her lifetime, and far beyond the scope of what even Rone himself could have imagined."

"But today is not the time for thorns or masks. Tomorrow is not that time either. Squawking voices, burning effigies, tucking little cards into hidey holes, that is the mark of yesterday. No one benefits in times of chaos. No one. In war or conflict or rabid dissent, there is no peace. The burden only grows heavier on the minds and shoulders of our mothers, our merchants, and our people."

"The overwhelming majority of merchants, the soul and backbone of this town, have made their viewpoint known. They seek order. They seek peace and a unified town. They wish only to focus on the blades of monsters beyond the walls, not the hidden daggers within. Sheath your blades and dull your tongues. Wehnimer's and her people are ready to embrace a future of freedom and prosperity, without sailing through a storm to reach it."

"I speak not only for the Consortium, but for all the merchants who have come to us to have their voices heard. There will be peace in our streets, our homes, and our hearts. There will be no profit and no promise for those who seek to create the contrary of that. There will be no fire, there will be no sword. But the absence of silver is suffocating. Let it be known."