Tax Collectors of Tridon

Since we're getting on that time of the year, I figured I'd show how Tridon natives feel the pain, as well.  Twice a year, in the spring and the fall, a man escorted by a dozen guards, rides the roads of Martapa.  Actually many men, usually three or four for each House, maybe more.  They go to every steading, village, town and city and extract a tax for each person in that place.  Depending on the House, the tax could be as little as a half penny per person up to several ducats.  Goods, such as cloth, food or other trade items can be substituted (and often are in rural areas).  This money is supposed to go to road construction and the military, but doesn't always.  Other taxes, such as gate fees and merchant fees pay for other items such as the royal Houses and the like.  Those who are unable to pay the tax are given thirty days to pay otherwise they end up on a work crew for the House until the tax is paid for by their work.