The Baron’s NTR System: Bonds to Break, Hearts to Claim

Kael sat in the great hall, a large table before him covered in maps, ledgers, and reports.

Across the table sat Geralt, his father's old butler, a man who had served the family with unwavering loyalty for decades.

Time had etched lines across his weathered face, but his sharp eyes and firm demeanor betrayed a keen intellect that hadn't dulled with age.

"It's good to have you back, Geralt," Kael said, leaning back in his chair. "I need someone I can trust. Someone who understands this barony as well as my father did."

Geralt gave a small nod, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. "Your father would be proud to see you taking charge, my lord. And I'll do everything I can to help you rebuild what he left behind."

Kael's lips tightened into a faint smile. "You've seen the reports Lysara compiled. The roads, the granaries, the military they're all in disarray. I have the funds to fix these problems, but I need your advice to ensure we use them wisely."

Geralt leaned forward, his hands clasped together as he studied the maps. "We must approach this carefully, my lord. The people are watching, and every decision you make will shape their trust in you. Let's start with the roads. Without trade, the barony's economy will remain stagnant."

Kael gestured to a stretch of road marked on the map. "Lysara suggested repairing the main route between the Central Plains and the Eastern Riverlands. It's critical for grain and trade goods."

Geralt nodded. "She's right. That road is the lifeline of the barony. If we repair it first, merchants will return, and the villages will see immediate benefits. Do you have a plan for funding it?"

"Two hundred gold pieces," Kael said. "That's the estimate for labor, materials, and skilled workers."

Geralt frowned slightly, his fingers tapping against the table. "That's fair, but we'll need to ensure the repairs are done properly. No shortcuts, no corruption. Hire overseers who have nothing to gain from delays."

Kael nodded, making a note. "Agreed. I'll assign someone trustworthy to oversee the work. What about the granaries?"

"The granaries are just as important, my lord," Geralt said, his tone serious. "The largest one in the Central Plains is on the verge of collapse. If it fails, we'll lose a significant portion of our grain stores."

Kael sighed, his gaze drifting to the ledger. "Lysara estimated one hundred and fifty gold pieces to repair it. Can we afford that alongside the roads?"

"We can," Geralt said firmly. "The funds you recovered during the purge are more than enough. Use them. The people need to see you investing in their future."

Kael's expression hardened with resolve. "Then the granaries will be repaired immediately. What's next?"

"The military," Geralt said. "The bandits in the Western Woodlands must be dealt with before anything else. They're a threat to trade, to the villages, and to your authority. If we leave them unchecked, they'll only grow bolder."

Kael nodded. "I've already authorized new armor and supplies for the troops. Two hundred gold pieces for the infantry, fifty for arrows, and another fifty to hire a knight to train the cavalry."

Geralt's eyes lit up with approval. "Good. The knight will make a difference. The cavalry will need discipline to deal with the bandits effectively."

Kael leaned forward, his voice lowering. "We'll send the cavalry first to scout the area. Once we have their numbers and positions, we'll strike hard and fast. No more delays."

"A sound strategy, my lord," Geralt said. "And once the woodlands are secure, we can begin expanding the timber trade. The forests are vast, and the wood is highly valued."

Kael smirked faintly. "I had the same thought. But what about income? We need more than timber to sustain the barony."

Geralt tilted his head thoughtfully. "The rivers, my lord. They're an untapped resource. Establish a ferry system in the Eastern Riverlands. Traders will pay for safe passage, and it will improve access to the region."

Kael raised an eyebrow. "How much will that cost?"

"Not more than fifty gold pieces to start," Geralt replied. "You'll need boats and operators, but the returns will outweigh the investment."

Kael nodded slowly. "It's worth it. I'll approve the funds. Anything else?"

Geralt hesitated for a moment, then leaned closer. "One more thing, my lord. Create an organization to maintain law and order within the barony. The military is stretched thin, and they're not trained for policing. Separate the two powers."

Kael's gaze sharpened. "You mean a civilian policing force?"

"Yes," Geralt said firmly. "Recruit locals people the villagers trust. Train them to patrol the villages, investigate crimes, and enforce the laws. It will take time, but it's necessary."

Kael considered this, his mind racing. "How much will it cost?"

"Start small," Geralt said. "One hundred gold pieces for uniforms, weapons, and initial training. Begin with one unit per region and expand as needed."

Kael nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I'll approve it. And I want you to oversee the selection process. Choose people who are loyal and competent."

Geralt bowed his head. "Of course, my lord. It will be done."

Kael leaned back in his chair, a faint smile playing on his lips. "With your help, Geralt, this barony will be stronger than it's ever been."

Geralt's eyes gleamed with pride. "It's an honor to serve, my lord. Your father would be proud."

Kael and Geralt finalized the spending plan to address the immediate needs of the barony:

1. Road Repairs (Central Plains to Eastern Riverlands):

200 gold pieces for labor, materials, and skilled overseers.

2. Granary Repairs (Central Plains):

150 gold pieces to restore and reinforce the granary's foundation.

3. Water Mill Upgrades (Eastern Riverlands):

100 gold pieces to increase efficiency by upgrading outdated mechanisms.

4. Military Reforms:

200 gold pieces for new armor to outfit half the infantry.

50 gold pieces to replenish arrow supplies for the archers.

50 gold pieces to hire a retired knight for six months to train the cavalry.

5. Establishing a Policing Force:

100 gold pieces for uniforms, weapons, and training for the first units.

6. Ferry System (Eastern Riverlands):

50 gold pieces to establish boats and hire operators for the ferry service.

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Total Spending: 900 gold pieces.

Remaining Treasury Balance: 700 gold pieces.