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[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]

[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]

[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]

[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]

[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]

[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]

[A female Verdalf with long, thickly-braided green hair and green eyes, a pleasant smile on her face. Dressed in a short-cropped floral silk dress with rubber sandals at her feet. Bears the brass bracelets that denote her social status, hands folded comfortably in front of her. Prime Marcus’ voice comes from behind the camera as he asks the questions while the picture is focused on Brita]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Brita:

My name is Brita Fabbro, and I am a slave of the Fiorid household. I’ve worked at Radicefst for 27 years, my main job is gardening but I help out with cleaning or guest reception in times of particular need.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Brita:

Well, my mother and grandparents both worked for the family, she- my mother, I mean- had a relationship with a citizen from one of the local villages. They met at the theater, really hit it off, and when I came along they agreed that I would have the best possible upbringing in the royal household. It was a big communal thing, I got to eat and learn with all the other children- none of the Royal family, though; they were already fully grown by then- and when we were all of-age, we could choose whichever direction we wanted to go. Some went off to the military; one of my best friends, another daughter of one of the cleaning slaves, managed to become a Knight and now she serves in Lord Arni’s honor guard. A couple left to settle in with friends or potential business partners elsewhere, but at the end of the day most of us chose to stay and sign formalized labor contracts. Radicefst was our home, we knew everyone here already, I guess we all figured that the preservation of a familiar environment was worth the forfeiture of autonomy. They’d done so much for us, why not return the kindness?

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Brita:

At the fundamental level, it’s a transactional relationship; none of us would say otherwise. We’re assigned tasks according to whatever best suits our ability- usually limited to six or eight hour daily shifts depending on the task’s strenuousness- and in turn we receive a home, food, and security. The last principle was a bit vague, sorry- stuff like medical care and legal protection. Obviously we aren’t Nobles in our own right with our own Citadels and slaves, but from what I’ve read of other cultures even our humble lifestyle is far beyond the sort of desperation instilled by the apathy of less caring governments. Regarding treatment, I’d say that the Fiorid Household is like an extended family. Eventually you know everyone and everyone knows you- there are good people to get along with and annoyances to be avoided. The family itself is kind enough; we tend to stay out of each other's way, but every once in a while they’ll stop to chat about some business or frivolity of theirs. Outside of work hours we have essentially free reign- wandering the palace complex, catching theater performances, venturing out into surrounding villages- it’s a simple enough matter to report back and deliver updates on where we are. More lengthy trips require official permission and itineraries, but honestly none of us are all too pressed about it. The only major restrictions on movement are some of the lower catacombs of Radicefst and the private banquets hosted for the Nobles.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Brita:

I believe I’ve already answered this previously, but I have a disagreement with the framing. Free will isn’t real, not truly- even in a total vacuum someone will still make decisions based on their preexisting motivations. Is that freedom, or merely one more step in a series of dominoes? Even one who makes a contrary decision does so out of their contrarian nature, and those who abstain from making a decision at all are also driven to do so. Not to get overly existential, these are just some basic philosophical quandaries I’ve encountered while reading in my spare time. Suffice to say, I don’t think that choice is a real thing. People are drawn to whatever calling suits them, and- not to brag- I’m quite satisfied with the quality of my gardening. Even if the lawn is owned by someone else- well, legally speaking, so am I, so it’s my lawn too. There’s a decent amount of dignity to be found in such a state of affairs, right?

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Brita:

More time spent with Lady Lilja would be nice. She may not recognize it, but she’s very… Well, pretty. [she chuckles slightly] Sorry. Serious answers… I know that some of the Nobles aren’t as beneficent patrons as the dei Fiori family. There are technically laws- well, principled understandings, really- to dictate proper treatment for slaves, but since the judiciary is composed of other Nobles it’s difficult for petitions for redress to see any success. Though, being realistic, I can’t think of any better option. The average citizen isn’t qualified- heck, they’d probably take it in the opposite direction and try to drag down the Nobility as a whole, so for the sake of stability… I guess nothing.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Brita:

Yeah, I uh… [she frowns slightly] I know there are some Elect out there that don’t… approve of my patrons… Just, for all of you, if you’re listening, please don’t do anything rash. We have a good thing going here, okay? I’m happy doing what I do. Thank you for your time.

[Video Interview with Brita Fabbro Concludes after a few pleasantries are exchanged between Prime Marcus and Brita and chatting about nothing of consequence.]

[A male Grigialf with short, curly black hair and gray eyes, a disheartened scowl occupying his face. Dressed in a plain white shirt under dark green rubber overalls, themselves tucked into black rubber boots. Bears the brass bracelets that denote his social status, arms folded stoically in front of him. Prime Marcus’ voice filters from behind the camera as the image focuses on Joar]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Joar:

The name’s Joar, from Altosteinn. I don’t want to be talking to you but it’s worth a break from managing the oil taps.

Marcus:

What was the series of events that led to becoming a slave? How did you end up here?

Jaor:

[his countenance sours when Marcus says slave] I fought for Altosteinn in the war; not that “Grigialfheim” nonsense spun by the Greens. We were forced into a defensive pact with the other major states by a common enemy, and they’re the ones that elevated that First Fisherman. I knew he was incompetent from the start- never trust a Velafloan with a gun- but I was loyal enough to defend my homeland, for all the good it did. Our bunker got encircled by those damn mechs, the whole roof was torn off, the Greens had us dead to rights… but instead of pulling the trigger, they rounded us up and dumped us in a prison camp until the war ended. At least there’s something sacred to them, farcical as it was. They charged every prisoner of war- tens of thousands of us, probably- with treason against ‘elvenkind’, for which the punishment was mandatory forced labor. I swear, the only notion more absurd than a unified Grigialfheim is the Chancellor’s lofty ‘Alfheim’… Anyways, the contract got snatched up by an oil baron and now here I am.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your life? How you are treated and what you are allowed to and not allowed to do?

Joar:

Food, shelter, eight hour workdays. Might as well be a prison sentence by any other name. I haven’t even met my ‘patron’, and that’s by design; they know they can’t trust us not to slit their throats if brought anywhere near their home, so they send some more sycophantic slaves to supervise the work sites. They’re usually Greens as well, and just as bastardly as the others- Though some of my coworkers are Greens too, and they’re basically in the same camp as me… eh, watever. They’re all bastards in their own ways, but at least they don’t spare their own. Back on track, we aren’t permitted to leave the work site- not that we’d survive the jungle on our own. Provisions come in, oil ships out, we go nowhere.

Marcus:

Do you think you are following a path of your choosing or is one being chosen for you? Do you harbor resentment for that?

Jaor:

I made the choice to defend my home, my family chose not to. They’re now Citizens of the Principality while I’m stuck out here in Kinus-knows-where, Verdalfheim. Can’t say the Greens are making the consequences clear for everyone who defies them. [he grimaces] …Honestly, though, what’s the point of a homeland in the first place? I’m from Altosteinn, I thought I was willing to die to defend it, but for what? Freedom? The right to get invaded again in another few years? The Greens think they’re fighting for their own homeland, and the Chancellor is fighting to force a higher homeland into being. Of course I resent them, but they’re also the only force working to solve Altosteinn’s problems. Not even we could manage that, isolated as we were. This probably isn’t the sort of answer you want, but I guess I just don’t have one. Is a choice really worth anything if it’s wrong? It's not my job to think about that.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Jaor:

About the past? Our defensive pact should’ve hired Colonel Beldhan instead of letting the stock companies get to him first. ‘First Fisherman’, what a joke… About the present, well, obviously I’d rather be doing literally anything else. If there was some sort of parole option it’d be somewhat worth it, but if I’m going to be stuck here for another century then what’s the point of doing anything but the bare minimum?

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Jaor:

Eh, screw it. FREE ALTOSTEINN! [the video immediately cuts]

[Video Interview with Jaor d’Altostienn abruptly concludes]

[A male Verdalf with albinism, thin lips and a neutral expression. Bears a thin laurel wreath upon his long white hair, pulled back into a ponytail. Dressed in burgundy dress shirt with a high collar and sporting a green cravat, while his white pants end in dark leather boots, one of which is propped up on another knee as he sits to answer the questions. Prime Marcus’ voice is heard from offscreen while the camera is centered on Clemens]

Marcus:

Could you tell me your name, and a brief highlight of who you are and what you do?

Clemens:

Lord Clemens della Palude. I am one of the Principality’s lesser nobles, assigned to rubber harvesting and processing in the northeastern lowlands of Verdalfheim Proper. In addition to managing the logistics of such a large operation, I engage in a bit of writing every now and then. A pleasant pastime, even if my works are not particularly widespread.

Marcus:

What is your view on the ownership of slaves? What do you consider them as?

Clemens:

It seems to be the natural corollary to the fact that some are simply born into a worse position in life than others. We- elves broadly, not just Nobles- abhor death. None of us lived through the War of Eternal Bombardments, but its legacy looms as a specter over our entire culture. Death is nothing to us but a blight on existence, hated above all else, so it is not within our character to simply leave the unfortunate to die in poverty. This, ultimately, is where the modern paradigm began to take form.

Slavery as a means of commanding labor predates us all by millenia- in all likelihood, it had a presence across the entire planet at one point or another- so the bedrock was in place, but our forebears came to recognize that this ultimately transactional relationship could serve the greater cultural project. It’s a guarantee that, no matter one’s misfortunes, there will always be some source of food and shelter to fall back on. The same thought goes towards violent criminals or opponents in warfare- our troops go out of their way to spare as many lives as possible, as is our way, but then what sort of penalty can be imposed on them?

This is where the contractual arrangements become more enforced than voluntary; we do not want to kill anyone, so we induct them into the labor force and attach individuals to different work sites. The relationship between we patrons and each type of induction is markedly different- obviously we wouldn’t want former prisoners of war within our homes and thus our interpersonal ties are weaker- but in both cases it might be helpful to think of the system like military service. One’s individual will is subject to their commander, and the operating procedure of an average platoon is likely no different to a collection of slaves receiving their orders.

Marcus:

Can you speak generally about the condition of your slaves? How do you and your staff treat them and what do you allow them to do and not do?

Clemens:

I ensure that the available food and lodgings are high-quality. I have a decent rapport with most of my immediate Household, though some sternness is natural. I’m admittedly less acquainted with the work site crews; they’re overseen by intermediaries- other slaves whom I trust to conduct themselves fairly- so we have little direct interaction. They do their jobs well, though; I respect them greatly because of it. Obviously recent penal cases aren’t permitted to roam freely, but all are given substantial time off for recreation and other essential needs. I’m not so overmighty as to micromanage every detail of their doings, but they seem satisfied with their allowances.

Marcus:

Do you think you are choosing the path your slaves follow or do you think they have some say in their path? Do you believe your slaves resent you?

Clemens:

Again, there’s a critical distinction between the two varieties- Actually, with the increase in prisoners of war due to the recent conquests, I’ve been petitioning the Crown to choose a formalized terminological distinction between the two. For the sake of clarity, I’ll use “indentured” and “penal” to discern between the two camps.

In the former case, a choice is made by the slave to indenture themselves to a Noble patron. Terms and conditions usually vary from case to case, but the core principle is a choice to allow others to choose for them- in exchange for the boons of stability, security, et cetera. I won’t pretend that the initial commitment is a fair choice, since it’s usually taken when other avenues have been cut off, but in management it’s always important to take the disposition of a slave into account- find something they’re good at, something they would theoretically choose to succeed in on their own if they had the guaranteed safety net.

Penal slavery is a different case, since the entire point is that they chose poorly and are being forcibly reintegrated into society as a consequence, but I would contend that in their case the freedom of choice is not necessarily desirable. Having someone else make the choices for them, regardless of how they may feel, is objectively the best for the entire social fabric. They may resent their condition, I have no delusions to the contrary, but it is sincerely for the best.

Marcus:

If there is one thing you would change - what is it?

Clemens:

I’m well-versed in history, and if there’s one thing I can commend the Fiorid dynasty for it’s their total annihilation of the concept of landed nobility. No subversive power bases, no frenzied conflicts over territorial disputes, all power derives directly from the Crown and is measured in the number of people one can command- either as slaves or soldiers. Unfortunately, the system wasn’t exactly prepared to handle the colossal penal inflow from the eastern and southern conquests- Nobles still have the capacity to fight over power, and I was privy to more than a few backroom skirmishes over access to the new labor contracts. Therefore, my suggestion is this: greater bureaucratic transparency and accountability for Nobles who attempt to game the system.

Marcus:

Do you have anything you want me to know or anything to say to Tekhum?

Clemens:

That Basu-Rahman ad, though I feel sympathy for how apocalyptic the rest of the reaction has been, really should not have seen the light of day. Others can think what they may of our system, but we have no open market on which the lives of our people can be bought and sold. At the root of our system is responsibility, and in all things the safest hands with which to manage our people’s affairs will always be our own.

[Video interview with Clemens ends after a formal goodbye from both Clemens and Marcus]