Journal Entry: July 15, 2025 Location: Turmus (Nile River) Mood/Title: Stocks, Suspicions, and the "Wise" Stephen
I met with Kael this evening after a visit with Lyra—it seems she has finally left Jamel. Kael and I traveled to Turmus to inspect a building that serves as a Magistrate's office. The atmosphere was immediately heavy; we were greeted by the sight of a slave girl, Brynhildr, locked in a pillory.
There was a man there, Thurmand Digfoot, guarding the place. He and Kael got into a rather sharp debate regarding the logic of "strangers" versus "enemies," and the nature of the girl's crime. She claims she entered to serve her temporary mistress; Thurmand insists it was trespass. Kael’s instincts were instantly aroused. He seems to suspect that the layout of the building—an office downstairs with vague "quarters" upstairs—might be a trap designed to lure unchaperoned free women into compromising situations under the guise of caste business.
Kael was fierce in his questioning, and protective. He introduced me as his "intended" to Thurmand, a title that still makes me smile. He even brushed his hand against mine amidst the tension. He is determined to challenge the owner, a man calling himself "Stephen the Wise," regarding the layout of his home and the harsh punishment of the girl. Valerius was there as well, and even he seemed to think the punishment was an overreaction. Kael has gone to investigate the layout further while I waited by the door.
To Do:
Check in on Lyra to ensure she is settling in well after leaving Jamel.
Ask Kael what he found upstairs in Stephen's office and if he intends to file a formal challenge.
Review the local laws of Turmus regarding the rights of Magistrates to secure their private quarters vs. public offices.
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