Empire - User contributions [en]

388YE Spring Equinox interlude

2026-05-15T16:11:48Z

Dre: /* Reclamation of Rot and Ruin */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Night light Anvil.jpg|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Downtime following the Winter Solstice is now open. It allows players to process their character's downtime choices. Not all resources allow a player to make a choice about how they operate between events, but we've provided information about new opportunities for [[fleet]] and [[military unit]] owners in particular as well as a reminder about existing opportunities created at earlier events.

On this page, we've outlined and offered some context for various effects and events. As always, these include quick summaries, mostly out of character, to explain effects such as large-scale [[enchantment|enchantments]] and [[curse|curses]].

In some cases, there may be further developments around the events listed here in the Winter Solstice winds of fortune. They may also be handled with a ''Resolution'' entry on the appropriate Wind, or a note in the ''Other Events'' section of next events Winds of Fortune page.

'''The deadline for Downtime submissions is midnight on Wednesday the 6<sup>th</sup> of May.'''
==Choices==
* '''During the Winter Solstice, there were a number of Senate motions, Conclave declarations, Synod judgements, and Military Council orders'''
Each summit the [[Senate]] raises and votes on [[Senate motion|motions]], the [[Conclave]] debates [[declaration|declarations]], the assemblies of the [[Synod]] discuss [[judgement|judgements]], and the [[general|generals]] of the [[Military Council]] issue [[Army orders|orders]] to their [[Army|armies]]. You can find details of these many decisions here:
* [[387YE Winter Solstice Senate sessions|Senate sessions]]
* [[387YE Winter Solstice Synod judgements|Synod judgements]]
* [[387YE Winter Solstice Conclave sessions|Conclave sessions]]
* [[387YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders|Military Council orders]]
The Civil Service is responsible for ensuring that these motions, judgements, declarations, and orders are public knowledge. Not everything is widely distributed across the Empire, but any character who attends [[Anvil]] can easily find out details of what went on in the houses of power during the event.

==Imperial Guerdon==
The [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Guerdon|Imperial Guerdon]] is a bursary set up by the Imperial Senate primarily to reward military units that support Imperial armies, spy networks, and fortifications. The value of the Imperial Guerdon is divided between each military unit and fleet that supports an army in proportion to their effective strength. The [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] has the power to exclude any or all Imperial armies and navies, fortifications, or special projects (such as spy networks) from the Guerdon. If they do so, then a character who supports such an army, fortification, or special project will receive nothing for doing so.

The Guerdon remains at '''500 Thrones'''.

This season, the [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Resupply_and_Imperial_Guerdon|announced]] that shares of the Guerdon will be shared between military units supporting the following armies:

* [[Argent Sword]] in [[Redoubt]]
* [[Drakes]] in [[Mitwold]]
* [[Eastern Sky]] in [[Sarangrave]]
* [[Narwhal's Spear]] in [[Bregasland]]

No other armies, or actions by military units or fleets, will receive shares of the Guerdon.
<gallery mode=nolines>
File:ArgentSword Colour.png|[[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Argent Sword|Argent Sword]]
File:Drakes Colour.png|[[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Drakes|Drakes]]
File:EasternSky Colour.png|[[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]
File:Narwhal's Spear.webp|[[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]
</gallery>

==Military Units==
* '''Players who control military units can choose from a number of downtime options'''
* '''Not every military unit is eligible to participate in every venture'''
* '''Left to their own devices, a military unit defaults to the ''mercenary work'' option'''
Any player whose character controls a [[military unit]] can choose from several downtime options by logging into the downtime system. They may choose to [[Military_unit#Campaigning|support an army]], [[Military_unit#Guarding|defend a fortification]], or [[Military_unit#Scouting|support a spy network]]. They can also choose one of the many [[Venture|ventures]]. Left to their own devices, a military unit defaults to [[Venture#Mercenary_Work|mercenary work]], guaranteeing an income of money along with a random chance of herbs, more money, mana crystals, ingots or measures.

Players who want to support one of the [[Army|Imperial armies]] can also read the [[Army_orders|orders]] issued by each [[general]] before making their decision. These orders are a matter of public record within the Empire and also available on the '''[[387YE Autumn Equinox Military Council orders]]''' page. This new page makes it easier for players to read all the orders before making a decision; previously the only way to do this was to painstakingly click every army in turn. It's also possible for players without military units to see the orders, without waiting for the Winds of War (assuming the orders related to an area that produced a full write-up).

As always, the guidelines around discussing military matters online can be found [[Online#You_May_Not_Post_Military_Updates|here]].

===Support Earthquake Drummers===
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: left;"><quote by="Saemundr Elvirsbairn, General of the Earthquake Drummers">My Drummers, it is time to conquer new lands for the glory of the five-who-are-one! We shall push into the Forest of Ulnak, supported by mercenaries from the Empire, and bring the Mallum to order beneath our heel. Bring death to the Druj who stand against us. Let those who wish to live understand that the rule of the Dragons has begun!</quote></div>
* '''Imperial military units can support the Earthquake Drummers'''
* '''The Thule army is part of a larger effort to invade the Forest of Ulnak'''
* '''A standard military unit that takes this action will receive 7 mana crystals'''
''Rak Who-Speaks-For-The-Dragons-Undivided'' issued an invitation on behalf ''Tathenon the Gyre, Who Wields the Might of the Sky''. Any Imperial [[military unit|warband]] that wishes is welcome to join the [[Thule]] in their assault against the Druj in the [[Forest of Ulnak]]. Those who wish to do so may fight alongside the ''Earthquake Drummers'', who lead the assault against the vermin of [[the Mallum]]. Any captain who brings their warband will be granted a gift of crystal mana. A standard military unit will be rewarded with 7 mana crystals, with an [[Military unit#Upgrades|upgraded]] or [[enchantment|enchanted]] military unit receiving proportionally more.

For more information, see the '''[[Invited_with_asperity#Hinodir,_Tathenon,_and_the_Eastern_Woods|Invited with asperity]]''' wind of fortune

===Root out the Face-peelers===
* '''Varushkan military units can take a raiding action to root out the Face-peelers'''
* '''If at least seven thousand five hundred strength is assigned to the action, then the trudnik will be forced from their lairs in Karsk and Ossium'''
* '''A standard military unit that takes this action will receive six random measures and a phial of Corrupt Blood'''
Following the Winter Solstice, [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[military unit|military units]] will have the opportunity to undertake a [[military unit#Raiding|raiding]] [[venture]] called ''Root out the Face-peelers''. This will involve working with the Thule in Karsk and Ossium to track down nests of "trudnik" and, where they are found, employ axe and flame to destroy them. The Claws of the Dragon are a fairly small organisation, but they are supported here by a cadre of warriors and hunters. Regardless, the full success of this venture will depend on Varushkan involvement.

A standard military unit that undertakes this venture will receive six measures of [[Materials#Natural_Materials|forest materials]], and a phial of ''Corrupt Blood''. This latter is a vile [[potion]] brewed by the trudnik that infuses the drinker with preternatural strength and endurance. A military unit that has been upgraded or enchanted will receive proportionately more. Unfortunately, this raid comes with a cost. One of the problems is that the glamour the trudnik use makes it easy for them to masquerade as Varushkans with the [[draughir]] [[lineage]]. A thorough attack on the trudnik will cause trouble for the draughir of Karsk and Ossium; following the Winter Solstice they will receive a -1 penalty to the production of their resource unless it is a [[military unit]] taking the '''Root out the Face-peelers''' action. Even if few military units get involved, the inevitable suspicion and doubt that is seeded will be enough to unsettle the affairs of draughir in Karsk and Ossium.

If at least seven thousand five hundred strength in military units support the raid, then the Empire will be able to expand its knowledge of these creatures, and finally get some reliable evidence of what they are and what they are doing. There will be some mopping up to do - at least one of the trudnik lairs in Ossium is apparently very old and extends into the earth - and if there is a dark spirit involved with the face-peelers it may fall to the Empire to deal with it.

For more information, see the '''[[Invited_with_asperity#Caridis,_Sławomir,_and_the_Face-peelers|Invited with asperity]]''' wind of fortune

===Swords Against Darkness===
* '''Urizen, League, and Dawnish military units can take a questing action to attack the threats in Spiral'''
* '''If at least two thousand strength is assigned to the action for three seasons over the next year, then the venture will remain'''
* '''A standard military unit that takes this action will receive three mana crystals and two doses of liao'''
After a lot of work persuading some of the wealthier Apulian merchants and key [[arbiter|arbiters]], Naomi has been able to persuade them to back an attempt to solve the problem. The solution is simple enough, and for once, Naomi 's idea requires relatively little upfront investment. If the Empire can muster enough military units to directly attack the threats in Spiral, then that the inhabitants of the territory would be able to get on top of the problem. If that could be achieved, it would only need a little support on an ongoing basis to keep the threats under control. Naomi likens it to weeding an overgrown garden - it requires a lot more effort to get the weeds under control than it does to keep it that way.

With the backing of wealthy patrons, the venture would provide 3 mana crystals and two liao to any standard military unit taking part. A military unit with at least 200 effective strength (from upgrades or rituals) would receive a [[Circlet of Falling Snow]] as part of their rewards. The potential returns aren't great - but of course the Senate could always apply the Guerdon to the expedition.

The venture would last for a year - but if at least 2000 strength of military units undertook the venture on three seasons out of the four, then the venture would remain available for the foreseeable future. If that happened, then the taxation of the territory would permanently increase by 6 thrones a season and the current penalty to military units from the {{Black Plateau}} would be permanently removed.

For more information, see the '''[[My_friends_are_my_estate#Swords_Against_Darkness|My friends are my estate]]''' wind of fortune

===Exploit the Espionage===
* '''Certain military units can take advantage of the chaos in Sarvos with the espionage ring to earn wealth'''
* '''Any military units taking part in this venture will increase the number of congregations needed to investigate Sarvos'''
Somehow, the [[Whisper Gallery]] found out about the goings on in [[Sarvos]], and offered to 'help' the Empire identify what secrets are getting out. Any Night ritualist with a military unit who performed [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] and consumed a dose of [[Shadowcrow Infusion]] invited the favour of the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne'' to join them over the season. They have access to the unique scouting [[venture]] - '''Exploit the Espionage''' - to exploit the espionage ring in Sarvos and gain 108 rings, eight random resources, and Grendel luxuries, with upgraded or enchanted military units receiving proportionally more.

For more information, see the '''[[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|Finding is the final act]]''' wind of fortune

==Fleets==
* '''Players who control fleets can choose from several downtime options'''
* '''Not every fleet is eligible to participate in every voyage'''
* '''Left to their own devices, a fleet defaults to the ''maritime escort'' option'''
Any player whose character controls a [[fleet]] can choose from several downtime options by logging into the downtime system. They may choose to [[Fleet#Trading|trade]] with a [[Foreign_ports|foreign port]], engage in [[Fleet#Raiding|raiding]] barbarians, [[Fleet#Questing|quest]] in search of glory or renown, [[Fleet#Scouting|scout]] either to support a [[smugglers cove]] or as part of another stealthy option, or commit to [[Fleet#Guarding|guarding]] a convoy of other ships.

Left to their own devices, a fleet defaults to [[Voyage#Maritime_Escort|maritime escort]], guaranteeing an income of money along with a random chance of herbs, more money, mana crystals, ingots or measures.

===Escort the Stone Fleet===
* '''The delayed Sumaah aid to the Freeborn is readying to travel to the Brass Coast
* '''Imperial fleet captains can help defend it from Asavean privateers
* '''A standard fleet will receive 54 rings, two bottles of Oilybrag, and one pot of Sevensalve'''
Imperial [[fleet]] captains are able to travel to Sumaah to defend the Sumaash ships travelling with aid to the Brass Coast. Each standard fleet assigned to the action adds 100 points toward the successful resolution of the opportunity. Each additional rank for an [[fleet#upgrades|upgraded]] or [[enchantment|enchanted]] fleet adds another 20 points. Rituals and other effects that increase the ranks of a [[Voyage#Guarding_Voyages|guarding]] fleet (most likely [[Wolves of the Hungry Sea]]) will increase the effective strength for purposes of this special action. In a similar manner to a [[spy network]], the total strength assigned to the opportunity will determine the outcome. The more ships that take part, the more white granite the House of the People are prepared to risk sending to the Brass Coast.

More information on this action can be found in the '''[[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|Drowned in tears]]''' wind of fortune from Autumn Equinox 387YE.

===Trade Summary===
* '''Imperial fleets can trade with ports in Axos, the Commonwealth, Faraden, the Iron Confederacy, the Sarcophan Delves, the Sumaah Republic, and Zemelslo'''
* '''Production depends on the port chosen, and can be increased by upgrades and enchantments'''
Imperial fleets can [[Fleet#Trading|trade]] with a number of foreign nations who have chosen to open some of their ports to visitors from the Empire. The assumption is that a ship trading with a foreign nation makes enough from selling their cargo to cover their running costs, crew salaries and the like, but that there is enough profit to provide the character who owns the fleet with valuable goods of interest to the folk who attend [[Anvil]]. What goods are received for visiting a port is changeable, and heavily influenced by Imperial diplomacy.
* '''Axos:''' The ports of the '''[[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]]''' and '''[[Foreign_ports#Axos|Chambers of Issyk]]''' welcome Imperial fleets. The production of Kantor has been altered. You can find out more about the changes made in the '''[[Troop_of_echoes#Pearl_and_Ruby_Glowing|Troop of echoes]]''' wind of fortune
* '''Commonwealth:''' The ports of '''[[Foreign_ports#Leerdam|Leerdam]]''' and '''[[Foreign_ports#Volkavaar|Volkavaar]]''' welcome Imperial traders and their production has been significantly altered. You can find out more about the new items on the '''[[According_to_principle#New_trade|According to principle]]''' wind of fortune.
* '''Faraden:''' The port of '''[[Foreign_ports#Caitun|Caitun]]''' welcomes Imperial fleets. Fleets from the Marches and Wintermark benefit from a one rank bonus due to close proximity. The production of Caitun has shifted to no longer produce ingots of orichalcum. Instead, a starting fleet will produce a cube of mooncheese. You can find out more about the situation on the '''[[Wild_is_the_wind#Faraden_Luxuries|Wild is the wind]]''' wind of fortune.
* '''Iron Confederacy:''' The port of '''[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]''' is available for Imperial fleets.
* '''Sarcophan Delves:''' The usual ports of '''[[Foreign_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]]''' and '''[[Foreign_ports#Betovering|Betovering]]''' welcome Imperial traders.
* '''Sumaah Republic:''' The port of '''[[Foreign_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]]''' welcomes Imperial traders, and its production has been significantly altered. You can find out more about the changes on the '''[[Friend_of_mine#Inspire_Others|Friend of mine]]''' wind of fortune.
* '''Zemelslo:''' The port of '''[[My_passions_from_a_common_spring#Free_Ports_And_Free_People|Radosmo]]''' welcomes Imperial traders following the Imperial Senate's decision to [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Confirm_Trade_with_Zemelslo|permit trade]] with the nation very close to the [[Principalities of Jarm]]
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_General.png|align=right}}

==Congregations==
* '''In addition to the standard preaching options taken by owners of congregations, special ''lectures'' may be available'''
During downtime, the owner of a [[congregation]] can choose to take a [[Congregation#Downtime_Options|preaching]] action. Normally, these actions are used to preach one of the Imperial virtues, or the general teachings of [[the Way]], allowing a Synod member to change which of the virtue assemblies they belong to.

After the Winter Solstice, there are four lectures available.

===Investigate Sarvos===
* '''Highborn and League congregations can choose to investigate Sarvos '''
* '''A congregation that takes the ''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos'' will receive no liao and be placed in the Vigilance Assembly at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
Highborn and Leaguers who take this action will take part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and potentially identifying any traitors to the Empire. Any congregation owner who takes this lecture will receive the standard amount of votes but no liao, that will be consumed in the course of their activities. They will be placed in the Vigilance Assembly at the Spring Equinox.

If at least 30 congregations take part, this will create opportunities through the Sentinel Gate at the Spring Equinox 388YE to uncover details about the espionage ring and potentially shut it down. Unfortunately, the disruptions to normal business will see tax revenue from Sarvos reduced by four thrones for the season.

The Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to encourage the orcs studying and working at the [[College of the Liberated]] to help. The orcs will spend the season ingratiating themselves in the city, and pass on information to those investigating in the city.

For more information, see the '''[[Finding is the final act]]''' wind of fortune.

===Support the Pilgrim's Defiance===
* '''Highborn congregations can choose to support the Pilgrim's Defiance against the vallornspawn in Therunin'''
* '''A congregation that takes the '' Preach Virtue - Support the Pilgrim's Defiance'' will receive no liao but remain in the same Virtue Assembly'''
* '''If 10 congregations preach support for the army then casualties will be reduced by 10%'''
* '''If 20 congregations preach support for the army then territory conquered by the army will be increased by 10%'''
Not every grey pilgrim joined the [[Pilgrim's Defiance]]. Some were exhausted by their long march and eager to return to the life they had given up to walk the trods. They did not forget their comrades, and will support their fellow pilgrims when asked. Such support can take many forms, providing herbs, potions and liao for their friends and relatives in the new army, or volunteering with the army's field hospital and supply train. Such support can be invaluable in raising morale and supporting the army as it fights.

Any priest that chooses this option will receive votes as normal and remain in their current Virtue Assembly but they will not receive any liao. All supplies will be used to bolster the spirits of those working to support the army.

If at least ten congregations support this action, then it will provide significant benefit to the army while they are fighting the vallorn, reducing casualties suffered by a tenth. If at least twenty congregations support this action, then it will ''also'' help the army press forward increasing territory captured by that army by a tenth.

For more information, see the '''[[Banners_and_bells#March_Together|Banners and bells]]''' wind of fortune

===Encourage Pilgrimage to Capodomus===
* '''Anyone with a congregation can choose to preach Ambition by encouraging pilgrims to visit Capodomus Cathedral'''
* '''A congregation that takes the ''Preach Ambition - Encourage Pilgrimage to Capodomus'' action will receive three fewer liao but four more Synod votes than usual'''
* '''A congregation that takes this action will be in the Ambition Assembly at the next summit'''
* '''This lecture is available until the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
Priests who take this option are assumed to be making use of the [[liao]] they receive to inspire congregants to make the difficult journey to the [[Archbishop_of_Capodomus#Capodomus_Cathedral|Capodomus Cathedral]]. Those who are brave enough to make the journey experience the awe-inspiring power of the true aura in the Atrium of Golden Light; they will return to their home inspired to embrace Ambition and pursue it with the certain belief that nothing is beyond their reach.

A congregation that preaches this special action will receive three fewer [[liao]] each season (assumed to have been spent on creating auras or used to provide patronage), but four additional votes in the Imperial Synod (representing the swelling of their congregations). The priest leading the congregation will become part of the Ambition Assembly if they were not already.

For more information on the events that led to this lecture, see the '''[[Golden_light#Better_to_Try|Golden light]]''' wind of fortune.

===Encourage Pilgrimage to Hacynian===
* '''Anyone with a congregation can choose to preach Wisdom by encouraging pilgrims to visit the Great Library'''
* '''A congregation that takes the ''Preach Wisdom - Encourage Pilgrimage to Hacynian'' action will receive three fewer liao but four more Synod votes than usual'''
* '''A congregation that takes this action will be in the Wisdom Assembly at the next summit'''
* '''This lecture is available until the start of the Summer Solstice 388YE'''
Priests who take this option are assumed to be making use of the [[liao]] they receive to inspire congregants to make the difficult journey to the [[Great Library of Hacynian|Great Library]]. After those who are brave enough to make the journey experience the awe-inspiring power of the true aura in the shrine, they will return home inspired to embrace Wisdom and pursue it in the certain belief that inaction is the only true mistake.

A congregation that preaches this special action will receive three fewer [[liao]] each season (assumed to have been spent on creating auras or used to provide patronage), but four additional votes in the Imperial Synod (representing the swelling of their congregations). The priest leading the congregation will become part of the Wisdom Assembly if they were not already.

For more information on the events that led to this lecture, see the '''[[Sing_a_song#Find_the_Right_Question|Sing a song]]''' wind of fortune.

==Arcane Projections==
* '''Arcane projections must be submitted before the close of downtime'''
* '''It is not possible to submit arcane projections that create personal curses'''
The deadline for submitting an [[arcane projection]] is now the close of downtime. This is a significantly shorter window than previously. We've made this change to improve our ability to process arcane projections - an earlier deadline means that the game team have more time to consider each arcane projection, which will allow us to be more detailed and consistent in our responses.

As detailed in the '''[[The_moth_for_the_star#A_Drowning_Sailor|The moth for the star]]''' wind of fortune, it is not currently possible to create an arcane projection that involves a [[curse]] directed at a character.
===Colleges and Forges===
* '''We've changed the email address for college of magic and runeforge submissions'''
It is important for characters responsible for a [[college of magic]] or [[runeforge]] to remember that the deadline for submitting rituals for codification, or instructions to the runeforge, is also the point that downtime closes. You ''must'' use let us know how you plan to use your college or forge by this point, otherwise it will not be possible to submit anything and the season will be lost.

We've also made a small change there; the e-mail address to which such instructions should be sent is now {{plot}} rather than rules. The rules decisions about an arcane projection that is being codified, or a new item, have already been made, and it is the plot team who deal with the creation of ritual texts, unique items, or schema.

==Miscellaneous Effects==
* '''After every event there will be a range of special effects that have an impact on downtime'''
* '''Each effect is automatically applied to the appropriate personal resources; this provides details of what has caused each effect'''
Every season sees large-scale effects impact individuals and nations. Some arise as the result of [[Judgement|Synod judgements]], [[Senate motion|Senate motions]] or [[Declaration|Conclave declarations]]. Others are the results of winds of fortune or war, or magical effects such as [[enchantment|enchantments]] or [[curse|curses]]. Each such effect is mentioned in your downtime if it affects your personal resource, along with a brief summary of what is going on. This list provides more detail, and is also useful for knowing what is going on in the wider Empire.

===Rivers Run Clear===
* '''Rivers of Life has been cast on Feroz, Mitwold, Redoubt, and Sarangrave'''
* '''As well as reducing casualties to armies in the territories, the magic infuses all water there with life-giving Spring power'''
The Imperial territories of [[Feroz]], [[Mitwold]], [[Redoubt]], [[Sarangrave]] have had [[Rivers of Life]] woven over them. This potent magic preserves life, healing all save the most grievous wounds overnight and infusing water across the territory with restorative powers. As well as the typical effect of reducing losses to any [[Army|armies]] fighting in the territory, the magic has other, more narrative effects. Wounds heal, animals and plants are healthy and fertile, and people find it easier to start or expand their families.

===Frost and Fens===
* '''Dripping Echoes of the Fen has been cast on one region'''
* '''Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae has been cast on four regions'''
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:800px;"}
|-
! Ritual !! Region !! Coven
|-
| [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] || West Marsh, [[Kallavesa]] || Sussivari Frost Coven
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Nadir, [[Mareave]] || Phoenix Rising
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Clisearn, [[Mareave]] || Ashen Flame
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Hope's Rest, [[The Barrens]] || Phoenix Rising
|-
| [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] || Tomari, [[Redoubt]] || Ashen Flame
|-
|}

===Quiet in the Tundra (Sermersuaq)===
* '''The Wintermark territory of Sermersuaq has been flooded with Day magic'''
* '''It is clear to anyone in the territory that it is the result of Day magic'''
The [[Wintermark]] territory of [[Sermersuaq]] has been enchanted with an [[arcane projection]]. [[Inhabitants of the realms|Inhabitants]] of the [[Realm#Day|Day realm]] find it easier to enter the territory.

Some inhabitants of the territory will find it easier to focus on intellectual activity rather than physical action. When action is called for, it might become easier to consider how best to achieve one's goals in the most effective way.

Players creating or attending [[sanctioned events]] set in Sermersuaq should bear this effect in mind, especially when it comes to designing a [[Sanctioned_events#Plot_Events|plot event]]. Any further effects of this ritual will be in the winds of fortune released before the next event.

===Reclamation of Rot and Ruin===
* '''The Wintermark territory of Hahnmark and the Varushkan territory of Ossium have been targeted by Regrow the Land's Heart'''
* '''Both performances were infused with the power of Llofir using whisperspore and vital honey'''
* '''Farms in the affected territories will receive three fewer crowns but three magical mushrooms'''
* '''Herb gardens in the affected territories will receive six fewer drams of true vervain but three magical mushrooms'''
The [[Wintermark]] territory of [[Hahnmark]] and the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] territory of [[Ossium]] have been enchanted with [[Regrow the Land's Heart]], infused with the power of [[Llofir]]. Areas scarred by war or natural disaster will quickly become overgrown with new plants and mushrooms. Regions with the [[Region_qualities#Ruined|ruined]] quality will not lose it, but the areas of ruin will swiftly be transformed into gardens or even woodlands.

More information on this effect can be found in the '''[[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Regrow_the_Land's_Heart|Mushroom, mushroom, mushroom]]''' wind of fortune

Players creating or attending [[sanctioned events]] set in Hahnmark or Ossium should bear this effect in mind, especially when it comes to designing a [[Sanctioned_events#Plot_Events|plot event]]. Any further effects will be in the winds of fortune released before the next event.

==Magical Lore==
* '''Every summit it is possible that new rituals, magic items, or potions may become available to Imperial citizens'''
* '''Some of these options are only available to characters from certain nations, such as those entered into Urizen Lore or Runesmith's Law'''
During the Winter Solstice , one ritual was put forward for inclusion in Imperial Lore:
* [[Viridian's Wildfire Emberstrike]] was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Imperial_Lore:_Viridian's_Wildfire_Emberstrike|raised]] by '''Syl''' the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] and funded by '''Llŷr Viridian duLac'''

No new rituals became part of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizen lore]] during the summit (but see the '''[[The_tune_without_the_words#Out_With_Lanterns|The tune without the words]]''' wind of fortune), and no new magic items were added to [[Wintermark_economic_interests#Runesmith.27s_Law|Runesmiths Law]].

Khobel Tavah

2026-05-14T10:14:36Z

Dre:

[[Category:Eternals]]
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|caption=Khobel and Tavah are the worst fear of sailors and those they leave behind. They are the drowned and the sea that drowns.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Eternal of Winter==
===Sobriquets===
Khobel and Tavah are the ''Two-Who-Are-One'', a pair of Winter eternals bound together by solemn wedding oaths. Together they are referred to as the ''Consorts of Dark Water'', the ''Old Man and the Sea'', the ''Monarchs of the Vast'', ''Fear Death By Water'', or the ''Sunken Rope''.

Other names for Khobel include ''Sculler-in-the-Flood'', ''Sailor of Ill-Fortune'', ''Fear's Bride'', ''Lord of the Last City'', ''Old Tom Flotsam'', the ''Lanterner'', ''Prophet of the Last Light'', and ''King-of-Nothing''. Other names for Tavah include ''Dark-That-Drowns'', ''Our Lord of Salt'', ''Molly Bitters'', ''Fishwife's Burden'', ''Tideless Scream'', ''Terror-Under-Wave'', ''Harbinger'', ''Salt-in-the-Lungs'', and ''Queen-of-the-Vast''.

==Appearance==
It is said that Khobel was once the monarch of a city in the Winter Realm, a great sailor who commanded many fleets. His city is now ruined and nameless, and it stands on the shores of a tideless black sea that is inexorably drowning the buildings that remain. This sea is his wife, Tavah: her waters first rose to swallow Khobel’s city when they fell in love and swore marriage-vows to each other, long long ago. Together they are Khobel Tavah, the Consorts of Dark Water. The two are almost never encountered apart: indeed, on most occasions when one has apparently deigned to appear without the other, the other will arrive or make their presence known in short order.

Khobel generally appears as an old man, bowed and broken, sometimes with a monstrous face but more often all too human at first appearance. He often bears ruined symbols of kingship: a broken sceptre, a battered crown, a tattered robe. At other times he appears as a bedraggled sailor, his skin bloated and pale, a drowned corpse walking. Sometimes he carries a lantern in which is lit a dim flame. He often appears in a small boat with oars, or floating on the wreckage of a ship. His vessel is or was called Ariel, or, the Preserver of Life. Occasionally he is accompanied by his heralds, fellow “survivors” of the wreck, who similarly appear bedraggled and drowned. Occasionally he appears as the corpse of a beached whale, lying dead on the sands, stinking of the sea but somehow unrotting.

Tavah takes many forms, though they are rarely human and always frightening. Sometimes she is the waters on which Khobel’s vessel is afloat: sometimes she is the darkness that surrounds him. Sometimes she is a towering giant, her hand outstretched in the palm of which Khobel sits, or she is simply a great eye peering from the darkness below or above. Whatever form she takes, however, she is rarely a silent presence: her voice emanates from the surroundings, from the waters, from the dark. When she does choose to take the form of a person-like figure, she generally appears as a younger woman with long, dark, tangled hair that covers her face, garbed modestly in a pale white dress. Sometimes at these times she has the tail of a fish, and sometimes the legs of a bird, but most often she has a deceptively human appearance and walks barefoot. The exception is her eyes: when she lifts her head and reveals her face, they stare outwards from her blank expression like dark pools of water. Her heralds resemble scavenger birds of the sea: she has a particular affinity with the albatross.

Khobel is generally referred to using male pronouns (he/him), though he sometimes takes on a feminine appearance and on these occasions seems to prefer they/them. He sometimes uses the sobriquet ''Queen-of-Nothing'', a variation on one of his usual names. Tavah generally seems to use female pronouns (she/her) or is referred to using it/its: this tends to reflect the degree she is representing herself as something primal and unknowable.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ArchmageEmatius.jpg|caption=One of the final acts of '''Ematius Ankarien''' as Archmage of Winter was to establish contact between the Empire and Khobel Tavah.|align=right|width=250}}</div></div>

==History==
Khobel Tavah was broadly unknown to the Empire prior to the events of 387YE. They have never been close to the Empire and are only somewhat familiar with it. Individual Imperial magicians and covens have formed a closer relationship in the past, but never for very long. They have had some involvement in many so-called “fear cults” over the years both within and outside the Empire. After Nicovar's burning of the libraries, knowledge of them nearly faded completely.

Since the destruction of the Shining Pillar and the Lighthouse at Nikephoros, the raising of the Barabbine wrecks, and the return of infant kraken to the Bay of Catazar, their attention was drawn to the Empire once again. There was a growing number of omens of doom spreading particularly around the [[Bay of Catazar]], often involving reports of sunken bells tolling in the deep. Strange magical object began to surface along the bay, and among the flotsam and jetsam recovered by the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster]].

Many citizens began to investigate the possibility of a long-theorised winter eternal associated with the sea. '''Rebekah of the Cenotaph''' reported on her findings from analysing one of the magical object and inquiries with Leviathan. '''Staurakios''' and '''Xanthippe''' of the Lighthouse-that-was produced an analysis of the Story of a Marriage which was circulating Anvil. '''Suspiria i Riqueza''', '''Caleb of the Cenotaph''' and '''Gancio di Catazar''' also helped the [[Archmage of Winter]] '''Ematius Ankarien''' so that he could prepare a [[archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] to the eternal, while '''Allegra i Riqueza''' took the lead on encouraging the Empire to investigate the connection with Lighthouses. Most of the lore the Empire has discovered about Khobel Tavah is a result of this work and the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed|parley that followed]]. The civil service have done their best to collate this information and compile it with what little is available from other sources, but interested citizens are well advised to track down these people if they wish to find out more.

==Concerns==
<div style="float: right; max-width: 500px; width: 40%; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''The Two who are One'''<br>
Unlike the Thrice-cursed Court, who enjoy maintaining an ambiguity whether they are one eternal or three, Khobel and Tavah are quite clear that as far as they are concerned they are a singular eternal, Two-Who-Are-One, bound by their wedding-oaths. While this may or may not be strictly true - in theory the Conclave could attempt a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment]] on one without the other, and it is anyone's guess whether this would work - doing so is likely to anger both of them. They would not support the creation of a ritual that tried to draw on the power of one of them without the other.
</box></div>
Khobel Tavah are a frightening pair, and fear is their watchword. In fact, they apparently claim that it was on the day they swore their wedding vows to each other that fear entered the world - that before that time mortals lived in ignorance, incapable of courage because they had nothing to compare it too, but when their marriage was sanctified the world itself was moved, and knew fear in its heart forever more. They seem to take very little satisfaction in frightening mortals for the sake of it, as unlike some winter eternals they are not particularly inclined to cruelty for its own sake. However, they simply are terrifying by their very nature, and without a source of spiritual strength it is hard for a mortal to stand in their presence without fear completely overwhelming them.

They both believe strongly in fear's capacity to strengthen, ward, and preserve. While neither values the conscious knowledge of experience as [[Wise Rangara]] does, they do value the wisdom that fear brings: in their view, the wise are able to act quickly and intuitively on instinctive feelings of fear. The fearful mind knows how to act before the thinking mind catches up with it. They disagree on whether it is important or not to be able to act on your fear to prevent your fate: Khobel believes that fear wards, whereas Tavah believes it can preserve but cannot ultimately protect. Fear leads one to struggle even in the face of death, and it might give one the strength to survive when one might otherwise perish. Sometimes, however, your doom cannot be averted: but then your fate and the fear of it are a warning to others.

Khobel is interested primarily in fear as a warning and an omen: he speaks of the value in listening to the hair that raises on the back of one’s neck, and of observing the horrible fates of others and feeling fear that drives you to avert that fate for yourself. He approves of the way the Druj wield fear as a weapon of control against their slaves and vassals, in this sense: fear is a solid thing that prompts them to necessary action. He has a dour manner, occasionally tending to the nihilistic. He seems to possess a dry sense of humour, and a single well-told joke may tease out a sharp, rare laugh, but for the most part he is morose and somewhat standoffish.

He is a prophet, or enjoys pretending to be, and often issues cryptic warnings and prophecies of dooms to come. He seems to expect them to neither be understood or listened to: however, he acts quite hurt if people actually complain about his obscurantist tone. In general he is sensitive to criticism and it is normally best to avoid even implying criticism: conversely, he responds well to praise. It is not entirely clear if he truly always sees the future or if he acts to ensure his predictions come about. Those who show the wisdom to understand what he foretells, interpret his ominous pronouncements, and act to avert disaster will often win his favour. He is interested in the way that those who look out to sea can often spot bad weather on the horizon even days before it comes to shore, and he speaks often of the “wisdom of the sailor’s eye” in this sense. He is warmest when speaking of his wife, which he does with a devoted affection.

Tavah, on the other hand, is particularly interested in the fear people feel when it is too late for them to do anything about the peril they are in, such as the fear the drowning feel in the last moments of their life, or someone trapped in a cave-in from which they cannot escape. The sinking feeling of terror at a certain fate is something that fascinates her, and she will pay rapt attention to personal accounts of experiencing this: she will sometimes offer her aid to speak with the spirits of the dead in order that they can relay such tales.

She has a somewhat easier, friendlier manner than Khobel, despite her generally inhuman and fearsome appearance, but sometimes an element of threat or irritation creeps in her lilting tone. She jealously guards her time spent alone with Khobel, and those who try her patience too long by tarrying in their company may stir her into wrath. She enjoys talking to those whose fate is sealed or who stand on the precipice of disaster that they cannot avert: she will never offer to save such people from their fate, but she can be persuaded to prolong the time in which they exist fearful of their doom. She is protective of Khobel: the ''King-of-Nothing'' can be sensitive when criticised, and she will viciously oppose any who she perceives as hurting him.

There seems to be a genuine love between the two of them. It is the old, tested love of a marriage that has weathered much and endured it all. They are quite dependent on one another in a way that is distinctly unnerving at times, and to the extent they ever express fear themselves it is the fear of losing the other. Love so intense and selfish that it destroys everything the lovers care about except each other is of great interest to them: to the extent that any Winter eternal understands love, it is them, but only in this terrible aspect.

They both share an interest in oaths which seems to stem from the solemn commitments they made to each other when they wed. In particular, they are interested in oaths sworn between small groups of people or couples, and strongly approve of banners, sects and covens who keep their membership limited to a tightly-trusted circle. They will not witness such oaths or sanctify them - this is, they say, outside their domain - but they consider those who are bound by such oaths to be most worthy of serious regard. They advocate strongly for the institution of marriage as a concept.

When it comes to the other eternals of Winter, they seem to have a positive regard for [[Wise Rangara]] and for [[Kaela]], who they claim were both present on the day they made their vows to each other as witnesses: in some of their tellings there was also a silent officiant present, though the identity of this figure is not clear. They seem to strongly dislike the [[Thrice-cursed Court]] in a way that suggests a personal animosity, though they will not be drawn on the subject of the details of this. Khobel has a dislike of [[Sorin]] that Tavah does not share - it seems that it stems from some old rivalry between their two cities, which does not interest the ''Queen-of-the-Vast''. She finds ''[[Sorin|Devourer-of-Hope]]'' quite charming. Mentioning the ''Tomb King'' is one of the few ways to cause them to argue - which is rarely a wise decision.

They often send dire pronouncements of doom to major mortal nations: it is said Khobel himself warned the denizens of Umshalla of the fate that awaited them, to no avail. Atun was known to Tavah personally - or so ''Mary Bitters'' claims, and if such stories are to be believed she is one of a few mortals ever to forge a genuine if somewhat antagonistic friendship with ''The Dark That Drowns''.

They both enjoy preserved, pickled or salted food, especially plums, salted liquorice, or herring, or any food that might be offered as a funeral offering. The wise supplicant will always bring little gifts of this form for both Consorts when meeting with them. They will sometimes give minor gifts of food in return to those that attend them: these are often extremely salty or extremely sweet, and tend to cause terrifying visions in those that consume them.

==Boons==
The pair have not interacted with the Empire sufficiently for their common boons to become a matter of record. There is however some speculation, some information from the Two-who-is-one, and some from others who have a relationship with them particularly the [[Sarcophan Delves]] that provides some insight into what they may offer.

Khobel is particularly interested in warding, and the way solemn oaths and pronouncements solidify and reify their effect. He will offer boons to assist with the casting of any ritual which wards an area, extending the length of the effect or the size of the warded area. He will lend his aid to the casting of [[Wolves of the Hungry Sea]], and he is always happy to offer advice to those contemplating a journey by sea: he will certainly be able to list all the things that could go wrong during such a journey.

Tavah, in turn, has a particular interest in things that preserve, especially if they do so directly or indirectly through fear. She will often provide boons that assist with large castings of Fallow Fields and Dry Meat or assist with the casting of rituals that have a similar effect but across an entire territory. She is able to allow anyone to temporarily survive underwater, at least to the capacity that most merrow can, but anyone who draws on her boons in such a way will surely experience a constant state of overwhelming terror while they do so. Enchantments or curses associated with her often grant constant nightmares of drowning in a dark, still ocean. She is also interested in preservation more generally: she is fascinated by salvage from shipwrecks, and museums that display things lost to time that have been discovered.

Together they are interested in anything that seeks to use fear as a tutelary tool. The Consorts of Dark Water have little time for the foolhardy and the vainglorious, but have an appreciation for those who are willing to face and accept the reality of their fears. Sometimes, they will offer to “test” people’s courage, by cursing them in such a way that their fears are temporarily intensified. They both have an interest in curses that affect fleets and navies by drawing on the fearsome power of the ocean, and both of them are greatly dismissive of any sailor who does not show due respect to the dangers of seafaring life. They are both willing to assist in prophetic divinations of doom to come, but it is never possible to distinguish between doom that can be prevented and doom that is certain to occur.

==Further Reading==
* [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed|Has reared himself a throne]] - 387YE Autumn plenipotentiary where the Two-who-are-one spoke at length with Imperial magicians

<ic>
Once there was a Sailor-King, who ruled the City whose name is Nothing, on the edge of the great wastes where the forest meets the sea by the plains. The people of the City loved their King, because he had a keen eye for prophecy, and knew the secret signs of storms, and he watched over his people and shared with them the signs that he alone knew, and tolled a great bell when the sign of storms came. So it was that his people crossed the ocean only when the sea was languid and tideless, and fished the waters and ate well from it. They knew no fear, then.

One bright day, the King looked out from his belltower out onto the abyssal waters of the sea, and he saw them as if for the first time, and they stirred in his heart a nameless terror. The waters were vast, breadth beyond comprehension, and the sailors below so small against the sloe-black sea. He looked at the open ocean and in his terror he knew he was in love, and would be so forever more.

In that moment was the City called Nothing lost. He cried out: "O, sea! O, Dark-That-Drowns! I am the Prophet of the Light! I am King-of-Nothing! Hear me! Look upon me, Bitter One! I offer forth this warning and this promise and this prophecy: in three days I will come again to your shore and offer you oaths of marriage. If I am pleasing to your eye, and it pleases you, if you wish to accept me as a gift, consume me! Or, if you wish, offer me your oath in return, and I will be your bride!" He knew that either one of these was a death. To love is to die. His heart twisted like old rope. A bell tolled from the deep.

The ocean deep looked at him, and found him pleasing to her eye. She enjoyed the way the light dappled on his shoulders, the way his crooked smile was shaped. She knew at that moment she was doomed to love him and to grow old with him, though she was ageless then as she is ageless still, and by loving him, she would not be as she had always been. To love is to change.

And yet she would make him wait as he had sworn to do. She spoke in a voice that was a thousand flailing drowning sailors screaming I love you one last time in breathless desperation hoping falsely that their left-behind loved ones would hear.

"I will hear your oaths in three days' time, and if they are pleasing to me, I will swear them to you in turn. But do not let us wed alone. A vow must be witnessed. Bring family." The sea fell silent.

The King-of-Nothing rode out that day, he who was Lord of the Last City, into the forest where his grandmother lived with her apprentice. He stood before her.

"Grandmother", said he. "I will wed the sea, three nights from now. Will you come to witness?" She picked at her teeth. "Young one, do you know that you will die, for so it is to love." "I know this," he said.

She leaned closer to him, eyes unseeing, seeing him. "Do you? Do you understand what it is, to be fear’s bride?" A smile, not kind, fled across her face. "I think you will learn from it. So too it is to love. I will come and witness you be wed."

"Thank you, grandmother."

The King-of-Nothing rode back to the Last City where he ruled. His people stopped him in the street, asking for his prophecy, begging him to light once more the Last Light, up in his tower, that kept his City from the depths. Today, when he came to answer them, he found himself answering only in riddles, for his twisted heart bound up his tongue. The people were afraid, then, for the first time. A bell rang, far above.

The next day, the King-Of-Nothing rode out to the empty fields of fallow earth where his sister rules as Queen. He stood before her.

"Sister," said he. "I will wed the sea, two nights from now. Will you come to witness?" She stared at him impassively from atop her throne, her guard standing watch beside her as ever they did. "One day, brother, you will die, and so will the terror you marry. I will witness that, too. Does that scare you?" He shook his head. "No. Death is where fear ends."

She nodded at this fact. "Good. Then you understand, brother-mine. I will travel south to your City, Nothing, and my Legion and I will witness your passing from the land unto the sea."

"Thank you, sister-mine."

The King-of-Nothing rode back to the Last City where he ruled. Once more his people asked him to prophesy, and once more he answered only in riddles. He knew that some amongst them would hear the warning of what was to come, and some did. Their fear carried them away; they fled Nothing, and were never seen again. The rest remained, afraid, yet uncertain. He worried for them. Yet he took no action to save his people, for his love for the Queen of the Vast that was a kind of terror ruled over all. A bell rang, below the waves.

The next day, the King-of-Nothing rode out to the cold wastes where no monarch rules, where his cousin dwelled alone. He stood before her.

"Cousin," said he. "I will wed the sea, one night from now. Will you come to witness?" She laughed, her smile a bloody maw. Hair matted with blood covered her body. "What’s the point? If you marry, you will still be alone. She will never know you. What’s the point in being her bride?" He frowned. "I will know her as myself. How could such a thing as you understand a vow to be with another until the last star falls?"

She narrowed her eyes. "I know that one. She will not be good for you. You know that?"

He replied, a cast of nobility upon his face. "I do, and yet I will vow."

She sneered. "Then go into folly. I will not witness. I know how folly ends."

The King-of-Nothing rode back to the Last City, where he ruled. On this day he avoided his people and went straight to his chambers, where he closed himself off and thought on the words of his cousin. Could he avert his fate? He had promised he would stand before the abyssal ocean, to be consumed or to be bound to her by solemn oaths. That oath was witnessed, as all oaths are. His fate was sealed. A fear settled around his twisted heart, and in it his love sprung anew. A bell rang, all around him.

The next day, the King-of-Nothing stood on his ship, called the Preserver of Life and also Ariel, dressed in all the symbols of his office. His sister stood at the shore in witness; his grandmother stood by his side in witness; the very silence itself stood witness. He looked towards the sea and saw the one that he would marry there, watching, waiting.

He opened his mouth and spoke solemn oaths of commitment to her until the day the last star fell. So it was witnessed.

The abyss rose about him, Tideless Scream was she, Queen-of-the-Vast is she. Again her voice, a drowning chorus, sounded. "Swallow you, or speak the oaths? I shall."

She spoke from outer darkness, from the deepest abyss, from the heart of fear, swearing solemn oaths of commitment to him, oaths to stand until the day the last star falls. So it was witnessed.

Both of them were one. To love is to change and die. They died, and changed: a rope that sinks. A bell began to ring: it is ringing still.

"Now we are wed", she said. "I will rise and swallow Nothing, and all who live within, and your ship, and those who sail upon it. Will you, too, give yourself in our love to my bitter depths?"

The King-of-Nothing spoke. "Take it all." He realised that he did not care for those who had not comprehended the warnings he had offered. Perhaps he would have done, before: not now. He looked at the watching crowds. "All drown with me."

And the sea rose, a tideless black sea, inexorable, drowning the buildings that made up the Last City, that which is called Nothing, and it swallowed up all the people and all the ships of that place into its depths. Grandmother Winter left, satisfied that a lesson had been learnt. The Black Dog marched her legions away, knowing that she would one day see the death of what had begun. In the lonely wastes, the hunter howled.

The King-of-Nothing sank into the Queen-of-the-Vast, and so began their reign.
</ic>

Feroz

2026-05-13T11:25:50Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta fell, so fell Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].
{{Anchor|Protectorate of Morajasse}}
===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''.

The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. In the Summer of that year, the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognised the Protectorate of Morajasse]] as foreigners, as long as they remained independent of the Grendel. While there is still tension between the Freeborn and the orcs many see as occupying Morajasse, for now at least Gallum Fiersach's forces seem content to keep to their castle, apart from regular patrols along the borders of Feroz aimed at protecting the territory from the Children of Wrecks - and the Iron Confederacy.
===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].
==Lost and Ruined==
{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shantarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.
{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Defunct)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.
{{Anchor|The Broken Shore Bounty}}
===The Broken Shore Bounty (Defunct)===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.
==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
The wide open spaces of Afarjasse were sparsely populated even at the height of Feroz's prosperity. "Sweet afar" was a phrase sometimes used to describe being in the middle of nowhere, or an area where there was nothing but grass as far as the eye could see. The only major settlement was the quiet town of '''Afar''', established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] [[tribe]], near a potent [[regio]] tied to the [[Realms#Night|realm of Night]]. The town was not hard to reach, but it stood alone in a sea of sprawling grassland, and never encouraged casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics were performed, Afar was often visible for miles around - great bonfires blazing and massive drums pounding out powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. Many of the people who once called the town home went into exile in [[Segura]] and [[Kahraman]] rather than endure Rahab's oppression. When the plains of Afarjasse were [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|liberated from the Grendel]] it was discovered that Rahab had established massive farms around Afar. The crops were tended by slaves, several hundred of whom were held at Afar in great dormitories, forced to work the fields until they fell, with the same heedless cruelty the Grendel apparently show to those who toil in their salt mines. These people were liberated by the [[Narwhal's Spear]] and the [[Fist of the Mountains]], who executed everyone responsible for their durance. Most were Imperial citizens, but maybe a hundred came from further afield, bought by Rahab from the slave markets of the Broken Shore. Those who are not already Imperial citizens were offered new homes in the Empire. The farms remain, but enthusiasm to work them is understandably low.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 387YE, a naval force belonging to the Iron Confederacy [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|assailed the Cazar Straits]]. They smashed the Children of Wrecks stronghold and claimed the islands for themselves. [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Initial diplomatic discussion]] of the fate of the islands was inconclusive.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous, in part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Two years of mismanagement by Lord Rahab coupled with raids by the Children of Wrecks [[Glass_and_flame#Fontargenta_and_Bramar_and_Afar|left the region devastated]], and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Protectorate of Morajasse, Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
Morajasse was once one of the richest parts of the Brass Coast, home to extensive spice gardens and renowned for its herbalists, [[surgical skills#apothecary|apothecaries]], and chefs. The largest town was '''Mora''', once simply a spice market, transformed the Lasambrian invasion of [[Segura]] in 363YE. The threat of the western barbarians prompted a burst of rapid militarisation in this previously peaceful settlement. Refugees streamed in from southern Segura: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans, in what the Senate has recognised as the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]] and the [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active here, dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens and traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier were abandoned, and while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the once-thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. It is the only place in Feroz that seems to have prospered under the Grendel occupation - for a given value of "prospered". The port grew in prominence and prosperity, serving as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab. Today the town is a mismatched mess of old Freeborn and new Grendel architectural styles, with the [[#Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Temple of Balo and the Black Bull]] further complicating the matter by being resolutely Asavean in outline.

Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The lighthouse was looted under Rahab's governance, and nearly destroyed by the Children of Wrecks. In 387YE however, the beacon was repaired and restored to full functionality. Today its light shines brighter than ever - in large part thanks to the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]] who helped provide a unique lamp to shine brilliant beams across the dangerous waters of the Cazar Straits and the misty Bay of Oran.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra was called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oranseri, the weavers and dyers here laboured for years under the yoke of the Grendel orcs. Many endured, however, and there is still [[Send_for_me#Inkworks_of_Joharra|potential to revive]] the industry here.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
* '''Cazar Straits have the Island quality which greatly complicates access by armies'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.

The islands of the Cazar Straits are separated from land by deep water, treacherous shoals, and the presence of juvenile kraken unleashed by the Children of Wrecks. Armies cannot move to, from, or through this region, nor can they attack it, unless transported by a [[navy]].
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Protectorate of Morajasse controls Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Feroz

2026-05-13T10:42:23Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like [[Madruga]] to the north has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and the south and the west are constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrolled the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of Madruga. The northern territory was the first settled when the Freeborn [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Conquest_of_the_Coast|left Highguard]], and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast once lived in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and even after two years of occupation by the Grendel it is still home to a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements. At the height of its prosperity, a great deal of the food and drink consumed on the Brass Coast was produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

Unfortunately, in recent years the territory has been hit by disaster after disaster. Repeated raids by the Grendel eventually gave way to a concerted invasion, and while it was pushed back, the barbarian of the Broken Shore did not abandon their ambition to conquer Feroz. In 383YE, a [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] ceded the territory to the invaders, and saw the vicious, greedy, and tyrannical ''Governor Rahab'' establish his dominion over Feroz. The Freeborn organised a [[The power behind our moves|grand evacuation]] that saw much of the population escape Rahab's hungry grasp and resettle elsewhere in the Coast, but the move came at a price. When the treaty ended, and the Grendel were (mostly) driven out, Feroz was left abandoned, wrecked, and heavily underpopulated, its former residents preferring to stay with the new lives they had built elsewhere rather than return. Worse, the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] were taken by the [[Children of Wrecks]], transformed into a stronghold for the servants of the eternal [[Siakha]]. They in turn were supplanted towards the end of 387YE by the [[Iron Confederacy]], who drove out the Wreckers and claimed the island for themselves.

On the mainland, the situation is a little better, but what was once one of the richest Freeborn territories still struggles with the weight of two years of exploitation by a money-hungry tyrant, and what many see as its abandonment by the Empire.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

In 386YE, the [[Senate]] commissioned an [[appraisal]] of Feroz that laid out many of the challenges presented by the newly reclaimed territory, and some potential solutions. Details are contained in the '''[[Send_for_me#State_of_Feroz|Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control. Barely a year later the town again came under serious attack, this time by the Children of Wrecks. Without the [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|prompt action]] of the [[orc|orcs]] from the [[#Protectorate of Morajasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]], Oran again might have been destroyed. As it is, the town remains intact but in a sadly impoverished state.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

{{Anchor|The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull}}
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell to the Grendel, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Governor Rahab's unhappiness. Several of those families were ultimately smuggled to safety in Madruga. Despite this, however, it was clear that the Asaveans were happy to work with the new owners of Oran - there were rumours that they quickly recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation was further exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

When Oran was [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|liberated from the Grendel]] in 386YE Autumn, the priests surrendered ''en masse'' and [[Glass_and_flame#Game_Information_:_Asavean_Diplomacy|asked to be repatriated]] back to the Archipelago. As of the winter of 387YE, the temple still stands but without tenants.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===The Spice Gardens of Feroz===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. The Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so the evidence is that they did not harm the legendary Gardens - but for many Freeborn the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves was particularly heinous. With Governor Rahab dead and Feroz liberated, the Spice Gardens remain out of Imperial hands as part of the [[#Protectorate of Morjasse|Protectorate of Morajasse]].

{{Anchor|The Scorrero Nets}}
===Scorrero Nets (Ruined)===
The Scorrero Nets were a [[Bourse]] resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].
==Lost and Ruined==

{{anchor|Shantarim}}
===Shantarim (ruined)===
In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] the town of Shantarim was one a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families were are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim had a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than made up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Prior to the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|peace treaty]] of 383YE, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs tied their hands, making it illegal to fight the Grendel, which became been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.

Towards the end of the ceasefire secured by the treaty, in 385YE, Shatarim was attacked and wrecked. Warships of the [[Asavean Archipelago]], allies of the Grendel occupation, engaged in a campaign of destruction across the Cazar Straits, and along with the Isle of the Osseini, Shantarim bore the brunt. Many corsairs who had endured the occupation of the Grendel were slain, and the town was looted and left in ruins. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, there was precious little left for the to wreck.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel. Unfortunately, when Asavean warships went on a rampage in 385YE, the first place they attacked was this enclave, putting the priests to the sword and burning the enclave. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the Grendel magicians still left on the island fled back to the Broken Shore. As far as anyone knows today, the island is abandoned.</box></div>

{{Anchor|Isle of the Osseini}}
===Isle of the Osseini (Ruined)===
At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of Freeborn priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of [[exorcism]]. Stories claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

The return of the justicars was short-lived. In 385YE, a fleet of warships from the Asavean Archipelago went on a murderous rampage in the southern Cazar Straits. Allies of the Grendel, they slaughtered the priests and burned the enclave before sailing north to Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks arrived, the remaining Grendel magicians fled back to the Broken Shore. By the close of 387YE, the island appears to be abandoned, although it remains to be seen what the Iron Confederacy plan to do with it.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the historic Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
For most of the Brass Coast's history, the islands of the Cazar Straits were dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement remains the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar''' - but in recent years it has changed hands several times and is a shadow of its former self. Built around a bustling dock, it served as a safe harbour and home port for many of the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both were lost to the Grendel, then to the [[Children of Wrecks]], and in the last months of 387YE, to the [[Iron Confederacy]].

Even before the Children of Wrecks arrived, several of the more southerly islands of the Straits had a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example were renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, then the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests. Towards the end of the peace treaty with the Grendel, however, a fleet of warships from the [[Asavean Archipelago]] slaughtered the justicars of Osseini and ruined the town of Shantarim. When the Children of Wrecks claimed the region, there was precious little left for them to destroy.

Today, the waters around the Cazar Straits remain treacherous. In part this is due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[A circle sewn with fate]] - 387YE Spring wind of war detailing the Wrecker attack on Oran
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

The game

2026-05-12T16:35:27Z

Dre: /* Difficult Choices */

{{CaptionedImage|file=WickerMan.jpg|width=100%|caption=Empire is a character-driven game - an open world that you are free to explore and influence.}}
==Overview==
This page is part of our introduction to Empire, explaining more about the game. It is intended for people who are new to live roleplaying as well as experienced live roleplayers who have never done Empire before to give you a sense of how Empire is designed and how it plays in practice.

==Character Driven==
Empire is a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandbox_game sandbox game] in the sense that you will be entering a completely open world that you are free to explore and influence. There is no grand narrative being created by us, rather the Empire campaign consists of the stories that emerge from the interactions of the player-characters who collectively run the Empire. You are part of a game with thousands of participants all playing together at the same time. You work with - and often against - other player-characters to determine what happens next. In this sense we strive to make Empire like the real world; there is no predetermined outcome and you are free to make your own choices within the constraints of the setting.

This means that it is really important to think about your character, their place in the setting, and what they aim to achieve. In many roleplaying games, your character's skills and abilities are crucial because they determine how you deal with the plot that is written for you. In Empire, your character's motivations and goals are crucial because they determine the story you create for yourself as you interact with others.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Senate.jpg|align=left|width=500}}
===Player vs Player Politics===
At its heart Empire is a game of politics that is quite deliberately [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Player_versus_player player versus player] (PvP). That means that if you are going to be active in the politics of the Empire then the protagonists that you encounter along the way will be other players. The game is deliberately designed to encourage many different forms of political rivalry, and the expectation is that you'll find yourself looking for allies to help you as you try to find ways to advance your agendas and defeat your rivals.

Although Empire has a strong emphasis on PvP politics, the setting has been deliberately designed to discourage physical violence between characters. The setting is a very lawful one, with magistrates and militia who will investigate any murder and try to execute those responsible. The aim is to make assassination the last act of desperation that is the result of a long-simmering political rivalry, not the first choice in any conflict between characters.

The setting encourages and supports a wide range of options for social interactions, offering many different ways in which you can harm your political rivals. For example, if they hold an [[Imperial title]] then you might try to get the [[Synod]] to [[revocation|revoke]] them or potentially even [[Writ of Excommunication|excommunicate]] them. You could arrange to have a rival magician [[Sorcery|declared sorcerers]] by the [[Conclave]]. You might fabricate or expose a scandal to undermine a [[Senator]] who is standing for reelection. Violence and murder are illegal in the Empire, but slander and blackmail are not.
{{CaptionedImage|file=PvMBattle.jpg|align=right|width=500}}

===Player vs Monster Battles===
The ongoing military campaigns against the barbarian enemies that surround the Empire complement the politics. These battles are [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Player_versus_environment Player versus Monster] (PvM). If your character chooses to take the field, then you will be facing off against five hundred plus hostile enemies who are "monsters" - volunteers who are playing a role just for that conflict, created and briefed by our team. They are there to give you a dramatic and difficult battle, where victory is possible but far from assured.

There are two big battles each weekend as well as many smaller quests and skirmishes. Taking part is completely optional - around half of our players do so each event. However, if you do take the field for a battle as your character, then you ''must'' volunteer to monster the other battle (we have to get our five hundred orcs from somewhere!). We strive to make monstering as enjoyable as possible, and we provide a mask and an armoured breastplate for our orcs, so if you're just starting out then all you need to monster is your basic costume and a weapon if you've got one.

Where the battles take place, who you are fighting and why, is decided by the [[general|generals]] and their advisors in the [[Military Council]]. Those decisions are strategic and political in nature - the Empire is surrounded by enemies and has limited forces at its disposal. The game is designed so that success on the battlefield at the event helps the Empire significantly in its ongoing wars, while defeat may give an advantage to the enemy.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Conclave2.jpg|align=left|width=500}}

===Player with Player Interactions===
Politics and battles are just part of the appeal of Empire for many players. A huge part of the game is focussed on the interactions between players which aren't directly political or confrontational. Empire has been designed to support as wide a range of character interactions which are broadly cooperative in nature. Beyond the cutthroat politics and the adrenaline of the battlefield, the Empire is a world you can live in.

Trade and commerce are an important part of the game, with many characters striving to make as much money as possible. There are many things to buy and sell, with a position in the [[Bourse]] as the ultimate prize - bringing prestige and wealth to those who can afford it. Characters can trade resources like [[Game_items#Mana_Crystals|mana]], [[liao]], and [[herb|herbs]] as well as crafted goods such as [[potion|potions]] and [[magic items]]. You might also use in-character [[Game_items#Coins|money]] to buy a cake, a bottle of wine, or a piece of jewellery that players make and then sell as their character. Everything is on sale in Anvil!

Religion and magic are just as important as trade. In addition to being politically powerful, the [[Synod]] is the starting point for many religious and philosophical conversations as characters debate the Virtues and the teachings of [[the Way]]. Magicians meet in the [[Conclave]] to decide matters of magic but they also share knowledge and learning and seek assistance to perform the more powerful [[rituals]].

Entertainment and culture provide yet more opportunities for players to interact with each other. You might attend a play at [[the League]] theatre, or join in the music and singing at the [[Navarr]] camp during ''Songs and Stories''. Every nation has its own festivities and every event there are festivals and celebrations. Anvil comes alive at night with parties and singing, there is even a group called ''[[Senate Motions]]'' that takes over the Imperial Senate building on Saturday evenings to host and teach formal dancing.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Aspirational.jpg|align=right|width=500}}
==Event Focused==
Profound Decisions run four Empire events each year; each event is a political summit held at [[Anvil]], the Imperial capital. Players portray the powerful figures of the Empire as they come together to make the crucial decisions that determine developments in the world for the next season. As much as possible, all the significant choices that affect the game world take place during the event.

Before each event we release the Winds of War and the Winds of Fortune as we update the [[recent history]]. These updates describe the consequences of all the actions taken at the previous event, along with any new developments created by our plot team. They represent common knowledge of is occurring in the world so you're free to choose how much of the details to read and have your character know - it can be fun to roleplay finding out the latest news from other characters at Anvil.

After each event, there is a period called [[downtime]] where we take all the decisions that have been made by the players and use them to determine what happens next. Then we update the game to reflect the changes the players have made - armies move and campaigns are fought, colleges of magic research new spells and characters generate income and items to use at their next event depending on their skills and [[resource]].

==Immersive and Aspirational==
Empire strives to be as immersive as possible - we want you to feel like you're actually in another world when you're at the events. To achieve that we need everyone who plays the game to have a shared understanding of the setting and a commitment to do their best to make it feel real. To help you get to know the world, the wiki provides detailed information on each of the ten playable nations, so that you can read up as much as you want for you character background. Everyone is encouraged to play characters that fit the setting, to have good costume and props, and discouraged from doing anything that would disrupt immersion. The more effort each person puts into making their character feel real, the better Empire becomes for everybody who takes part.

To help people get the right costume and kit there are look and feel guides for each nation. These are intended to give you a good sense of what the costume should look like. Getting a good costume can be an intimidating prospect especially as our photos often show off the best costumes on the field. The reality is that there are a wide range of different levels of costume on the field and all we ask is that everyone commits to be ''aspirational'' - to meet the minimum standards for the game but to aim to improve their costume over time to be the best that it can be. Our page on [[costume]] lays out our approach in more detail and is worth reading if you have any concerns in this area.
{{CaptionedImage|file=ImmersiveRoleplay.jpg|align=left|width=500}}
==Difficult Choices==
Empire is designed to be a game of difficult choices. Success is not guaranteed, and characters can fail simply because they didn't have the resources they needed to achieve their goals. Most situations that you encounter have no perfect outcome, someone always has to compromise.

It is possible to play a traditional hero in Empire, but it is a challenge. You aren't rewarded for your heroism by a sympathetic narrator. This is a deliberate design choice for the game - if the setting rewarded heroism the way a novel often does, then being heroic would be the easy option for everyone. Empire often rewards those that take the self-serving route precisely so that it is an achievement to play to a heroic ideal.

Although the setting includes a number of fantastic elements, such as the ability to wield magic and the presence of supernatural creatures, the role of magic is subordinated to politics and character interactions. Morality in Empire is complex and nuanced, not a binary split between good and evil. The game is about the politics of the Empire, not about saving the world from some apocalyptic disaster.


{{Introduction Links}}

[[Category:Introduction]]

Lepidean Librarian

2026-05-10T14:33:46Z

Dre:

<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Jared_Librarian.jpg|caption=The first Lepidean Librarian was the former Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast, Jared of the Suns of Couros |align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
The Lepidean Librarian is an [[Imperial title]] [[Appointment|appointed]] by the Highborn National Assembly. It was established by [[Construct Lepidean University|the Senate in Winter 383YE]] alongside the construction of the Lepidean University in [[Bastion]], following the [[Focused_and_methodical#Lepidean_University|plans]] of the esteemed Frederick di Sarvos, and subsequently [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Lepidean_Librarian|amended]] in Winter 387YE to grant it custodian of a valuable dose of [[Liao#True Liao|true liao]] each summit.

==Responsibilities==
The Librarian is responsible for the preservation of the Lepidean University and the historical accounts it contains. In practice, the day-to-day management of the library and its records is performed by the Heirs of Lepidus, leaving the Librarian free to devote their time to other matters if they so choose.

==Power==
===Historical Research===
The Librarian has the power to direct the research of the scholars of the University. This functions as an additional [[historical research]] request that does not count against the limit (currently one) that the Department for Historical Research is able to conduct each season. This research can only be used to investigate the lives of paragons or exemplars, or into the details of past life visions.

To use this power, the Librarian provides an [[Senate_announcement|announcement]] to the Civil Service, who present the decision to the [[Senate]]. No voting is possible by the Senate, as the power has been delegated to the Librarian. The [[Synod]] may, however, choose to exercise their [[veto]] over the Librarian's decision.

===Dose of True Liao===
Each season, the Librarian may claim a dose of [[Liao#True Liao|true liao]] from the [[Tribune of the Synod]]. This is the dose produced from the vast ''Garden of Atun'' surrounding the Lepidean University - if for any reason this dose were to stop being produced, the Librarian would no longer be able to claim it.

==Appointment==
The Lepidean Librarian is a national position which is [[Appointment|appointed]] by [[judgement]] of the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|Highborn assembly]]. Any Highborn citizen may hold this title.

The Librarian is appointed during the Spring Equinox each year. They can be revoked by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Highborn Assembly, and the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{RecentElections|Lepidean_Librarian}}
==Lepidean University==
The original Lepidean Library was constructed by the Heirs of Lepidus, a [[chapter]] of [[Steward of the Dead|stewards of the dead]] dedicated to finding and recovering records of paragons and exemplars. Initially founded by the Highborn ''Assembly of the Virtuous'' to identify inspirational Highborn, their efforts quickly expanded to include identifying potential paragons and exemplars among other human nations.

The original chapterhouse contained a considerable collection of writings and records relating to these historic inspirational figures, and was considered the most respected college for the study of the Way in the Empire. During the rampage of [[Emperor Nicovar]], the library was one of the earliest casualties, burnt to the ground along with centuries of archives, and the chapter relocated to much smaller premises in Woodbury.

For a time, the area where the chapter-house once stood was maintained as a public park, but following the grand designs of ''Frederick di Sarvos'', the Imperial Senate commissioned a restoration of the structure, including the ''Garden of Atun'', grounds dedicated to cultivating vinum and other resources necessary for the refinement of [[liao]]. So extensive is this operation that it produces an additional dose of true liao each season, which is given to the Librarian. Historically, this dose was placed into the [[Rewarding#Virtue Fund|Virtue Fund]] and assigned via the [[Assembly#General Assembly|General Assembly]] of the Synod, until the title was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Lepidean_Librarian|amended]] at the Winter Solstice 387YE.

Completed following the Winter Solstice 383YE, the newly-rebuilt University is dedicated to not just the study of philosophy, morality, and religion but other topics that exalt the human (and orc) spirit - the arts and humanities. The edifice stands as a new monument to the importance of the Way in Highguard and, indeed, the Empire.

==Publication==
Details of some of the historical research that has been carried out, including that commissioned by the Librarian, can be found [[Historical_research#Recent_Historical_Research|here]].
[[Category:Title]][[Category:Senate]][[Category:Highguard]]

Liao

2026-04-28T16:46:06Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=Liao.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
==Overview==
Liao is a purple powder that is used in [[religious skills|ceremonial rites]] performed by Imperial priests.

Liao is made from ''vinum''. Vinum is a white sap that was discovered by the [[Navarr]] to form a chewable confection that aids with deep, restful and dreamless sleep; and was often used to treat nightmares and night terrors. Refining vinum to produce liao is a costly and time-consuming process. In the Empire, the civil service purchases large amounts of vinum, and processes it to create liao which is then provided to everyone who ministers to a [[congregation]] [[Resource#Personal_Resource|personal resource]]. Thanks to centuries of experience and improvement the civil service are able to produce liao quite efficiently for a fraction of the cost that any individual could make it.

==Cards==
* '''Liao is indicated using a card'''
* '''Rip the card on use'''
Liao is indicated by a small card (85mm x 55mm), printed by Profound Decisions, that indicates the presence of the liao and includes the rules for using it.

To use liao to perform a ceremony, it can be:
* burned as incense and inhaled
* mixed with oil and used to anoint someone
* mixed into liquid and imbibed
* mixed into a small capsule and consumed

An appropriate phys-rep for liao is a small bottle or vial, such as might be used to hold a dose of liquid or powder.

===Effects===
Consuming liao without the use of a [[religious skills|ceremony]] causes a human to experience vivid, striking dreams the next time they sleep. An [[orc]] who consumes a dose of liao merely becomes dizzy and unwell, and often throws up shortly afterwards.

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=True Liao.jpg|title=One of the rarest substances in the Empire, many consider true liao to be the most sacred substance in creation.|align=left|width=500}}</div>

==True Liao==
*'''Also known as ''pure liao'' and ''Imperial liao'''''
During the maturing process that turns vinum into liao, around one dose in ten thousand matures to a radiant purple. This has come to be known as true liao, or Imperial liao. True liao is extremely rare, powerful, and valuable. The amount of pure liao produced each season varies; it has proved impossible to predict which doses of liao will mature into true liao. The most common use for true liao is to provide a human with a special vision of another time and place, which is held to be one of their [[past life vision|past lives]]. There are several other uses, however. It can also be used in place of ceremonial liao to significantly empower the effect of a [[religious skills|religious skill]], or used in the creation of an [[inspirational location]], for example.

Normal ceremonial liao is well known to make orcs mildly unwell and produce no notable spiritual effects that anyone has ever been able to distinguish. True liao, as essentially a stronger version of ceremonial liao, is likely to produce stronger side effects: whether these would be sufficient to kill the orc or simply make them very unwell is not known, nor has anyone ever seen fit to use a dose of the rarest substance in the Empire for such a potentially fatal investigation.
===Assignment===
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color:LightBlue;">'''Summit'''</td><td style="background-color:LightBlue;">'''Citizen'''</td><td style="background-color:LightBlue;">'''Bid'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 387YE</td><td>Asael of Reumah's Redoubt</td><td>62 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 386YE</td><td>Asael of Reumah's Redoubt</td><td>50 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 386YE</td><td>Idris Eternal</td><td>60 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 386YE</td><td>Gisli "The Provider" Baerson</td><td>110 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 386YE</td><td>Idris Eternal</td><td>85 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 385YE</td><td>Lorelann Thoress</td><td>70 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 385YE</td><td>Gisli</td><td>70 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 385YE</td><td>Naomi of Felix's Watch</td><td>80 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 385YE</td><td>Tancred de Coeurdefer</td><td>50 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 384YE</td><td>Herminius of the House of the Wanderer</td><td>75 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 384YE</td><td>Isolde Hannersdottir Tempest Shield</td><td>100 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 384YE</td><td>Landon of Longridge</td><td>100 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 384YE</td><td>Tylian of Hyrst Hall</td><td>55 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 383YE</td><td>Cormack Dun</td><td>55 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 383YE</td><td>Nessetta Constanta</td><td>70 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 383YE</td><td>Silvio di Tassato</td><td>65 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 383YE</td><td></td><td>85 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 382YE</td><td></td><td>110 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 382YE</td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 382YE</td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 382YE</td><td></td><td>90 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 381YE</td><td></td><td>100 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 381YE</td><td></td><td>60 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 381YE</td><td></td><td>80 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 381YE</td><td></td><td>70 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 380YE</td><td></td><td>45 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 380YE</td><td></td><td>32 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 380YE</td><td></td><td>45 thrones ([[380YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Synod_Funds|stolen]])</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 380YE</td><td></td><td>51 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 379YE</td><td></td><td>20 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 379YE</td><td></td><td>65 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 379YE</td><td></td><td>40 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 379YE</td><td></td><td>30 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 378YE</td><td></td><td>80 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 378YE</td><td></td><td>22 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 378YE</td><td></td><td>16 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 378YE</td><td></td><td>15 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 377YE</td><td></td><td>6 thrones, 4 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>Autumn Equinox 377YE</td><td></td><td>8 thrones, 6 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>Summer Solstice 377YE</td><td></td><td>5 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>Spring Equinox 377YE</td><td></td><td>2 thrones, 6 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>Winter Solstice 376YE</td><td></td><td>2 thrones, 7 crowns, 1 ring</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
The amount of true liao produced each season varies but it is one of the rarest substances in the Empire. [[The Throne]] is given the first portion as one of their [[The_Throne#The_Gift_of_Liao|Powers of Virtue]]. The second portion is auctioned to the highest bidder as part of the [[Auction of the Seats]]; the proceeds are added to the [[Synod|Synod's]] [[Rewarding|Virtue Fund]]. The table to the right shows the citizens who have purchased the dose of True Liao this way in the years since [[Empress Britta]] died. A third portion, available through the auspices of the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean Library]], is distributed by the Imperial Synod using the [[judgement]] of [[appointment]]. All additional portions are allocated by the [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]], representing the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Virtue assemblies]] of the [[Synod]].

Upon receiving the right to a dose of true liao, either through winning the auction or by acclaim of the gatekeepers, the dose can be claimed directly from the [[Tribune of the Synod]]. As soon as the dose is claimed, it becomes the rightful property of that citizen; they can do what they wish with the dose.

Some actions taken with True Liao remain illegal, however - the Senate [[Outlaw foreign True Liao trade|outlawed]] trading the sacred substance with non-Imperial citizens, and uses of it can still be condemned as [[Religious crime#Abuse of Powers|abuse of powers]] by the Imperial Synod.

===True Liao in Play===
*'''True liao is required to create a past life vision'''
*'''Some commissions require a dose of true liao to complete'''
*'''A dose of true liao can be used in any ceremony'''
*'''Occasionally opportunities require a dose of true liao'''
Under most circumstances, the phys-rep for true liao is provided by Profound Decisions. It is identifiable as a purple bottle bearing a ''true liao'' special item ribbon. The phys-rep should be returned to GOD once the item is used.

One of the most common uses for true liao is providing someone with a [[past life vision]]. If the owner wishes to use the dose for a vision then it should be given over to the Tribune of the Synod at least one event in advance.

The permanent auras created by the use of true liao can exert a powerful and long-lasting influence. Certain permanent religious structures, such as the [[inspirational location]] of an exemplar or paragon, require a dose of true liao to sanctify them. There may additionally be [[opportunity|opportunities]] that arise via the winds of fortune that can only be fulfilled by the use of a dose of true liao.

===True Liao and Ceremonies===
*'''Any aura created using true liao is both [[Aura#Durable_Auras|durable]] and [[Aura#Strong_Auras|strong]]'''
True liao can be used in place of common liao to perform any [[religious skills|liao ceremony]].
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Anointing]]</span><br>
{{:Anointing}}
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Consecration]]</span><br>
{{:Consecration}}
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Dedication]]</span><br>
{{:Dedication}}
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Excommunication]]</span><br>
{{:Excommunication}}
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Exorcism]]</span><br>
{{:Exorcism}}
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Hallow]]</span><br>
{{:Hallow}}
<br><br><span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold;">[[Testimony]]</span><br>
{{:Testimony}}

==Further Reading==
*[[The Way|The Way of Virtue]]
* [[Imperial Theology]]
** [[Liao]]
** [[Past life vision]]
** [[The Doctrines of the Faith]]
** [[Signs of the paragon and exemplar]]
** [[Schisms and Heresies]]
** [[Investigative Theology]]
*[[Synod]]
*[[Religious skills|Religious Skills]]
*[[Religious Crimes]]
*[[Recent history|Recent History]]

[[Category:Religion]]
[[Category:The Empire]]
[[Category:Ceremonies]]

387YE Winter Solstice winds of fortune

2026-04-22T14:24:41Z

Dre: /* Search High and Low */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Milestones.jpg|align=left|caption=Winter ends one year and begins the next.|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:500px; float: right; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[We are the storm]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/10/24"| 24/10 || Imperial address
|-
| [[Opening ceremonies]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/10/28"| 28/10 || Imperial arena
|-
| [[Mushroom, mushroom, mushroom]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/03/04"| 04/03 || Llofir
|-
| [[Mermaids in the basement]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/02/24"| 24/02 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Cold war]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/02/24"| 24/02 || Jarm and Commonwealth
|-
| [[My friends are my estate]] || 6 || data-sort-value="2026/02/27"| 27/02 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The truth but tell it slant]] || 7 || data-sort-value="2026/03/11"| 11/03 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The tune without the words]] || 8 || data-sort-value="2026/03/18"| 18/03 || Magic
|-
| [[The circle game]] || 9 || data-sort-value="2026/03/20"| 20/03 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Forever is composed of nows]] || 10 || data-sort-value="2026/03/23"| 23/03 || Appraisals
|-
| [[Ourselves and immortality]] || 11 || data-sort-value="2026/03/23"| 23/03 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[In the ground]] || 12 || data-sort-value="2026/03/30"| 30/03 || Marches and Adamant
|-
| [[The concisest tenant]] || 13 || data-sort-value="2026/04/03"| 04/04 || Rats
|-
| [[To fight aloud]] || 14 || data-sort-value="2026/04/18" | 18/04 || Sword Scholars
|-
| [[When peace was far away]] || 15 || data-sort-value="2026/04/05" | 05/04 || Jarm
|-
| [[The price is great]] || 16 || data-sort-value="2026/04/08" | 08/04 || Commonwealth
|-
| [[Flight of birds]] || 17 || data-sort-value="2026/04/08" | 08/04 || Wintermark
|-
| [[Figure of eight]] || 18 || data-sort-value="2026/04/08" | 08/04 || Religious Crime
|-
| [[A wild night and a new road]] || 19 || data-sort-value="2026/04/11" | 11/04 || Sarcophan Delves
|-
| [[Death leaves us homesick]] || 20 || data-sort-value="2026/04/11" | 11/04 || Axos
|-
| [[Search high and low]] || 21 || data-sort-value="2026/04/15" | 15/04 || Marches Highest Calling
|-
| [[Every path you know]] || 22 || data-sort-value="2026/04/15" | 15/04 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Invited with asperity]] || 23 || data-sort-value="2026/04/16" | 16/04 || Thule
|-
| [[Every day of your life]] || 24 || data-sort-value="2026/04/18" | 18/04 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[In harmony and unison]] || 25 || data-sort-value="2026/04/18" | 18/04 || Sevenfold Path
|-
| [[Locked runes]] || 26 || data-sort-value="2026/04/19" | 19/04 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[Each age a lens]] || 27 || data-sort-value="2026/04/19" | 19/04 || Orc diplomacy
|-
| [[Mirror and the flame]] || 28 || data-sort-value="2026/04/21" | 21/04 || Spiral
|-
| [[Poets light but lamps]] || 29 || data-sort-value="2026/04/21" | 21/04 || General diplomacy
|-
| [[The thing with feathers]] || 30 || data-sort-value="2026/04/21" | 21/04 || Magic
|-
| [[What regulates the wheel?]] || 31 || data-sort-value="2026/04/21" | 21/04 || Regio
|-
| [[Finding is the final act]] || 32 || data-sort-value="2026/04/21" | 21/04 || Sarvos
|-
| [[Shadow in the grass]] || 33 || data-sort-value="2026/04/22" | 22/04 || Sermersuaq
|}

Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations, and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune, or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.

{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:400px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Death leaves us homesick]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Each age a lens#Beoraidh|Each age a lens]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[The price is great]] and [[Cold_war#Commonwealth_and_Cold_Sun|Cold war]]
|-
| [[Druj]] || [[Each age a lens#The Mallum|Each age a lens]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Faraden|Poets light but lamps]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Each age a lens#Grendel|Each age a lens]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#The_Iron_Confederacy|Poets light but lamps]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Each age a lens#Jotun|Each age a lens]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Invited with asperity]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm]] || [[When peace was far away]] and [[Cold_war#Jarm_and_Cold_Sun|Cold war]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Mora's_Rock|Protectorate of Morajasse]] || [[Each age a lens#Protectorate of Morajasse|Each age a lens]]
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[A wild night and a new road]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sumaah_Republic|Poets light but lamps]]
|-
| [[Urizen#Cinion|Silver Flame]] || [[Mirror and the flame]]
|-
| [[Skoura]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Tsark|Poets light but lamps]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Tsark|Poets light but lamps]]
|}

As always, how much or how little of this information you choose to know in character is up to you. Part of the purpose of Winds of Fortune is to maintain the illusion of the Empire as a living, breathing place where things happen - and to make players aware of things their characters could know based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing for the past three months. It's perfectly acceptable to turn up to Empire having read only a few Winds of Fortune that directly interest your character; part of the fun on the field can come from learning about situations and opportunities in other parts of the game.

In each case, we've tried to tag the Winds of Fortune entry with the nations or political bodies to which it is most relevant. We've done this to help people who are interested only in events that are especially relevant to them. In no way are these tags intended to be exhaustive; the Empire is a complex place, and very little happens in isolation. We are also adding the dates that they were last updated (other than typos and correcting [[red links]]) in an attempt to make it easier to keep track of the newest releases.
__TOC__

==Winds of Fortune==
===We are the storm (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, celebrating Imperial victories over the [[Druj]], and calling on the heroes of the Empire to turn their attention to the [[Jotun]] - especially those in [[Bregasland]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[We are the storm]]''' wind of fortune.
===Opening Ceremonies===
* '''Imperial citizens; warriors and gladiators; Archmage of Summer; Imperial Apothecaries' Guild; others still to be revealed'''
* '''Last updated 19/04/2025'''
A new structure nestles on the outskirt of Anvil, drawn from the [[Realms#Summer|Summer realm]] with the aid of ''[[Adamant|King Stone's]]'' industrious ''koboldi''. Celebrating the friendship between the monarchs of Summer and the people of the Empire, the ''[[Barien|Lord of the Crossroads]]'' called the ''Drottningbjotha'' for the Winter Solstice - a challenge of arms between ten nations to delight Imperial citizen and [[Inhabitants of the realms|herald]] alike.

You can learn about the new Anvil Arena, and about most of what the ''Drottningbjotha'' involves, in the '''[[Opening ceremonies]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=LlofirArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>

===Mushroom, Mushroom, Mushroom===
* '''Navarr; Advisor on the Vallorn; Spring magicians; Imperial Conclave; People who dislike the Druj; Highguard, Urizen, and the League'''
* '''Last updated 04/03/2026'''
The [[Conclave]] appear to have [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Llofir,_Neutrality|declared neutrality]] with the [[eternal]] [[Llofir]]. Relations between the ''Rotlord'' and the Empire have been strained for several years, and the removal of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] represents a significant step by Imperial magicians. Llofir's heralds can now move freely about the Empire, which is a potential matter for concern, but it can't wield its power freely, as it could if it were granted [[Alignment#Amity|amity]]. The compromise this represents has prompted a response from the ''End of Empires'', whose servants have made it clear that it has not yet forgiven the Empire for the destruction of its garden, but it seems that there is cautious optimism for the future.

You can learn about boons offered by Llofir to Imperial magicians, and to the Navarr in particular, in the '''[[Mushroom, mushroom, mushroom]]''' wind of fortune.

===Mermaids in the Basement (Appraisal)===
* '''Imperial Senate; Brass Coast; Red Wind Corsairs and Burning Falcon; Urizen'''
The Imperial [[Senate]] has [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Bridges_in_Brass_Coast|called]] for an [[appraisal]] looking into the potential for constructing a bridge between the mainlands and the islands of [[the Brass Coast]]. ''[[Appraisal#Lutomysla_Niegoslava|Lutomysla Niegoslava]]'' was called on to investigate the possibilities, and has since delivered her findings which include some discussion of things that seem impossible, and some things that are at least achievable if not necessarily in the way the Senate has proposed.

You can find out about the appraisal, and how the islands may be reconnected to the mainland, in the '''[[Mermaids in the basement]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Cold Sun Art.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>

===Cold War===
* '''Imperial Senate, Military Council, Conclave orders; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Military unit captains; Generals of the Burning Falcon, Gryphon's Pride, Granite Pillar, Valiant Pegasus, Summer Storm, Autumn Hammers, Bounders, Drakes, Strong Reeds, Black Thorns, Quiet Step, Northern Eagle, Green Shield, Bloodcloaks'''
"''The Cold Sun has risen, and Lantir is condemned to history.''" These were the words of [[Leviathan]] spoken to the ''Wings of the Skywise'' at the end of the Autumn Equinox. Both the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], reached out to their opposite numbers following this news, offering Imperial aid if it were needed. Exact details are thin on the ground, but it appears that the power of ''[[Cold Sun|Oblivion]]'' has all but annihilated the capital city of Lantir and is spreading throughout that tiny nation far to the east. Given that Lantir is positioned between the [[Principalities of Jarm]] and the [[Commonwealth]], and is ostensibly the reason for their current ongoing war, the fate of that little kingdom might portend something even more disastrous.

You can read about the rise of Cold Sun in the east, and what it means for international politics, in the '''[[Cold war]]''' wind of fortune.
===My Friends Are My Estate (Appraisal)===
* '''Imperial Senate; League and Urizen citizens of Spiral, especially military unit, fleet, and business owners; League and Urizen assemblies; Oblivion Sentinel; Architect of the Crucible; the Legacy Bourse Seat; Dawnish questors'''
The second appraisal commissioned by the Senate during the Autumn Equinox concerned [[Spiral]]. For centuries [[Urizen]] heartland, now part of [[the League]], there has been significant conflict between the two nations in the recent past. Where the two sides have managed to cooperate, however, the results have been impressive. The [[Senator]] for Spiral, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', proposed a timely appraisal to build on these successes by looking "for ways to draw on the best of League innovation and Urizen wisdom to bolster Spiral's prosperity." The Senate agreed, and as requested [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] was dispatched to explore [[opportunity|opportunities]] in the south-eastern Empire. She has now submitted her findings for the perusal of Imperial citizens.

You can find out what Naomi has proposed, and how that might change the situation in Spiral, in the '''[[My friends are my estate]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Truth But Tell It Slant (Appraisal)===
* '''Printers' Guild of Tassato, Imperial publishers, Vigilance assembly, Chair of the Wolf'''
During the Equinox, the [[The_League_groups#Printers'_Guild|Printers' Guild]] of [[Tassato]] secured the right to serve as [[Patron_of_the_Beurteilung|patrons of the Beurteilung]]. They asked the [[Commonwealth]] academics to explore ways to expand the [[Technology#Printing_Press|printing]] empire of the Guild, especially to find ways to communicate their message to others outside the Empire's borders. After an enjoyable three months in the Twin City, Professor Gelberg and his associates have presented their findings, some of which have come a little from left field.

You can read about the proposals for the Printers' Guild, and some larger scale suggestions with regard to Imperial printing, in the '''[[The truth but tell it slant]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Circle Game (Appraisal)===
* '''Imperial Senate; Grandmasters, Ambassadors, Northern Trade Network; Cinderpath Custodian, Bargainer at the Iron Tower, Mistress of the Dust Parador, Reeve of Boar's Market, Broker of the Invisible Cord, Talon of Kauppahall; Bursar of the Conclave, Bursar of the House of Spirits, Kruidenkenner Trademaster, Master of Root and Stem, Apothecary of Orieb, Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market; League and Marcher assemblies; and assorted other folk with an interest in the Imperial economy'''
For the last six months, [[Appraisal#Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] of the [[Appraisal#The Prognosticators Office|Prognosticators Office]] has been engaged in an appraisal put forward by '''Fedelmidd Sydanjaa's Heart Floer''', the [[senator]] for [[Sermersuaq]]. Instructed to examine the [[ministry|ministries]] of the Empire, and in spite of her expertise, she has been forced to admit that there are precious few options that will fulfil the thrust of the appraisal. Frustrated, the prognosticator has tried to take a broader view and look at what she has ''guessed'', is the more fundamental problem - declining revenues for the Imperial treasury, using the time available to study the problem as thoroughly as possible. She has included the findings of that investigation as part of the overall appraisal.

You can learn about Graciana's work to locate alternate ministry opportunities, as well as her wider take on the Imperial economy, in the '''[[The circle game]]''' wind of fortune.
===Forever is Composed of Nows===
* '''Imperial Senate; the Throne; potential sodalities; Imperial Master of Works; Master of the Imperial Mint, Conscience of the Senate, Imperial Magus, Advisor on Orc Affairs, Imperial Consul; Patron of the Beurteilung'''
One of the powerful tools available to the [[Senate]] is the ability to commission an [[appraisal]]. There are limits to what the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]] can achieve however, and competition for their resources is often fierce. In recent months these resources have become a little stretched with retirements, in-depth long-term projects, and at least one sabbatical/disappearance. With that in mind, several opportunities have been discussed in those parts of the civil service responsible for establishing, evaluating, and presenting valuable [[opportunity|opportunities]] to the Empire.

You can read about some of the suggestions that have arisen from these discussions, and a few changes to the civil service, in the '''[[Forever is composed of nows]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ourselves and Immortality (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial magicians; Archmages; Conclave; Claudia Varkulova Remislav, william Guildenstern; warriors of all kinds; High Bard of the Empire; Grandmaster Fausta of the Silver Chalice, Senator Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian, Rafael Barossa d'Apulian, Mikael Reskovich (again), Morgan Waystone Path; Imperial Senate; Master of the Koboldi, Legion Engineer, Master of Rings, Chair of the Wolf; Imperial Master of Works; Joseph of the Ashen Flame'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Autumn Equinox, the eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. In a move that is almost unprecedented in recent years, ''seven'' of them have arranged some kind of parley during the Winter Solstice...

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ourselves and immortality]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBMarches.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===In the Ground===
* '''Marches, especially smiths, landskeepers, and mummers; Stone Smith and Keeper of the Golden Fields; Marches Assembly; Imperial Senate'''
[[The Marches]] are rarely numbered among the great magical powers of the Empire, but they are by no means deficient in that regard. Their [[landskeeper|landskeepers]] see to the wellbeing of the [[farm|farms]] and the [[Marcher household|households]], while [[mummer|mummers]] bring a little magic into the lives of villages and labourers, and the newly re-established [[smith]] tradition settles back into their old role of parley with the [[eternal|eternals]]. Since the Autumn Equinox, three kings of the [[realms|eternal realms]] have reached out to magicians of the Marches. [[Adamant|King under the Mountain]] responds to a message from the [[Stone Smith]] by sending one of his servants to speak with the smiths. [[Tharim|King in Chains]] sends his [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|herald]] to offer gifts to the landskeepers he believes helped him achieve rough justice for the murder of his lieutenant. And [[Sadogua|King of Wyrms]] celebrates his friendship with the Marches by offering particular support to the performing arts.

You can learn about the boons of these three kings, both for the magicians of the Marches and more mundane folks, in the '''[[In the ground]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBLeague.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Concisest Tenant===
* '''Temeschwar and the folk of the League; Dramaturges; League Assembly; Unfettered Mind; Imperial Senate'''
Throughout much of 386YE the city of [[Temeschwar]] was bedevilled by rats and rat-adjacent creatures. The situation was calmed in large part due to a municipal contract with an old [[guild]] called the ''Rat Kings''. This disreputable organisation catches vermin and delves the stinking sewers beneath the city for lost treasures. They are also now responsible for "protecting" the city from the rat plague. Some also point to the relocation of [[Empress Giselle]] back to [[Sarvos]] as having played a role in the quiescence of the rats. Yet there are rumours of something ''else'' living deep below the sewers of the old city. A creature that dates back long before there was an Empire, before there was a [[the League|League]], when this entire [[territory]] was part of [[Varushka]]. Perhaps these rumours have a little more of the ring of truth to them than many will be comfortable with.

You can find out about matters to do with rats in Temeschwar, and implications for other parts of the guild, in the '''[[The concisest tenant]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sword.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>

===To Fight Aloud===
* '''Urizeni; Imperial Synod; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Champion of Loyalty, Polemarch of Highwatch; General of the Argent Sword; Architect of the Crucible'''
* '''Last updated 18/04/2026'''
The re-integration of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] into [[Urizen]] and the wider Empire has never failed to be eventful. In the most recent development, the sword scholars split into two factions. One group who decided to forgo the teachings of [[Sulemaine]] and stay aligned with the Empire. The other group, under the ''nominal'' leadership of [[The_deepest_cut#Interred_With_Their_Bones|Severus of the Blinding Sun]], chose to withdraw from the Empire and remained committed to what they believe are the true teachings of the Paragon of Blades. Facing the risk of execution should Imperial law catch up with them, most have gone into hiding in the Urizen mountains. Last summit, a decisive blow was made that has completely unravelled the Disciples.

You can read about the fight against the followers of Sulemaine, and their response, in the '''[[To fight aloud]]''' wind of fortune.

===When Peace Was Far Away===
* '''Ambassador to Jarm; Imperial Consul; Fleets visiting Radosmo; Imperial Senate; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The Empire has five peers, five other nations that operate on a similar scale. The furthest east of these are the [[Principalities of Jarm]], a great magocracy locked in tumultuous rivalry with its neighbour the [[Commonwealth]]. Imperial relations with Jarm are currently tense; trade between them is subject to a mutual [[Tariffs#Embargo|embargo]] for example. Yet diplomats from both the Empire and the Principalities still exchange messages, and sometimes common ground can be secured.

You can learn about relations between Jarm and the Empire, including several opportunities, in the '''[[When peace was far away]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Price is Great===
* '''Ambassador to the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Highguard and Urizen; Voice of Liberty; Troubadours and priests of Dawn; Advisor on the Vallorn'''
Among the Empire's peers is the [[Commonwealth]], a nation that seeks to bring the entire world into their philosophy of the Common Good. Allies to the Empire through the [[Liberty Pact]], they are at war with their rivals in the [[Principalities of Jarm]]. Relations between Empire and Commonwealth are reasonably good, but there are always potholes in the road to understanding and sometimes they are deep enough to snap an axle...

You can read about relations between the Commonwealth and the Empire, as well as some opportunities related to their presence in the Empire, in the '''[[The price is great]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBWintermark.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Flight of Birds===
* '''Wintermark; Raven Seer'''
For some time now, the [[Raven Seer|mystics of Ishal]] have been travelling the length and breadth of [[Wintermark]]reading the omens. They have been guided in their journey by the [[Raven Seer]] as a way to try to focus their divinations on the things that matter most to Wintermark. Last season the Raven Seer asked the [[mystic|mystics]] to help with the creation of a new Wintermark army, a [[Kallavesi]] [[army]] to lift up the blade that was laid down by the heroes of the [[Fist of the Mountains]]. They have done what they can, but they feel they could have done more if their remit run wider - if they'd worked with all three people. To that effect, the mystics have put foward a proposal for the nation to consider. To work as one, they must be guided by the whole nation - and for that they need the Witan to speak...

You can learn about the plans to reconvene the Witan at the Winter Solstice, and about the mystics proposals for a new army, in the '''[[Flight of birds]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_General.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>

===Figure of Eight===
* '''Imperial Synod; Imperial Senate; Heretics, blasphemers, idolators, and desecrators'''
Almost a year ago a constitutional crisis was provoked when the [[Vigilance]] Assembly [[condemnation|condemned]] four members of the Assembly of Nine for their [[the final cut|public embrace of the malign spiritual presence of Peace]]. The resulting trial collapsed in dramatic fashion; the chief magistrates argued that a fundamental philosophical principle of Imperial jurisprudence was at stake. If the magistrates cannot determine if someone is guilty of [[blasphemy]] or [[heresy]], if the [[Synod]] can't agree what constitutes a [[religious crime]], how can ''any'' citizen be expected to observe the law? After a year of debate and discussion the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have completed their review of [[Imperial law]], drawing up and issuing new guidance. With that process now complete, the ball will return to the Synod's court to determine what happens next...

You can learn about the review of Imperial Law as it relates to religious crime, and what the ball in the Synod's court means, in the '''[[Figure of eight]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wild Night and a New Road===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Imperial Senate; Imperial fleets; Imperial Conclave; Imperial Apothecaries' Guild; Business owners in the League, the Brass Coast, and Highguard; League, Freeborn, and Highborn National Assemblies; Senator for Madruga, Senator for Sarvos; Bishop of the Navigators'''
It has been five years since the [[Senate]] helped the [[Sarcophan Delves]] establish their enclave at the [[Sarvos#Alivetti Estates|Alivetti estates]] and Burgemeester Vandersaar is keen to celebrate this fact. A celebration is planned! There's also a lot of other things going on with the Empires nearest great power neighbour; talk of mercenaries to help against the Children of Wrecks if they are wanted, for example, and overtures to the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]] that have pushed certain matters to the fore. And on top of it all, a cheerful enthusiasm by the moneymakers of the Sarcophan Delves for all things Imperial.

You can learn about diplomatic relations with the Sarcophan Delves, and the various offers and opportunities, in the '''[[A wild night and a new road]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Alikos Helio.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>

===Death Leaves Us Homesick===
* '''Ambassador to Axos; Military Council; Navarr assembly and military units; Imperial Senate; Voice of Liberty; Assembly of the Way; Singer of the Silence and Bursar of the House of Spirits'''
The [[Axos|Citadels of Axos]] are a foreign nation that always strive to punch above their weight. While they are members of the [[Liberty Pact]], their relationship with the Empire is tumultuous (to put it kindly). Right now, though, they fight alongside Imperial forces in [[Sarangrave]], and seem to be seeking closer ties with their mighty neighbour to the west. Which makes some recent developments regarding the [[vallorn]] particularly unfortunate...

You can read about general Axou-Imperial relations, and particularly about their concerns around the vallorn, in the '''[[Death leaves us homesick]]''' wind of fortune.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Marcher.png|align=right|width=150}}

===Search High and Low===
* '''Marches; Senate; Military Council'''
Last summit, Brother Rhaego declared that it was the solemn duty of [[the Marches|Marchers]] to work the land and nourish its people. [[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones, as the Marchers have it. The Marcher Assembly agreed that this was their [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], urging all to put aside other projects and focus on this. Attention is turned to the [[Keeper_of_the_Breadbasket|Imperial Breadbasket]] and the task of seeing it achieve its full potential.

You can read about the opportunities related to this highest calling, and to the Imperial Breadbasket, in the '''[[Search high and low]]''' wind of fortune.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Vallornguard sodality.png|title=Vallornguard|align=right|width=140}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Navarr.png|align=right|width=150}}

===Every Path You Know===
* '''Navarr; Vallornguard; Military Council; Senate; any nation interested in fighting the vallorn'''
The creation of the [[Vallornguard]] [[Eight_for_a_wish#Bound_by_Thorn_(Navarr)|was a little controversial]] in some corners of [[Navarr]]. The [[guide|guides]] of the nation came together last summit to speak with a clear voice, to commit their nation to aiding this nascent body as the newest ally in the fight. Even with [[a thousand years of longing|the recent revelations]], the plain truth is that the Navarr cannot defeat the vallorn alone. With the clock ticking, the Vallornguard is the perfect way to unite nations in common cause. The National Assembly have not merely thrown their moral weight behind the Vallornguard; they have declared support for the [[Imperial sodality]] to be the nation's [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], urging everyone to share an epoch of skills, knowledge, and experience with this new ally. Excited by the prospects of finally taking action, the Navarr have responded with fierce urgency.

You can learn about some of the opportunities presented by this highest calling, and how Navarr may support the Vallornguard, in the '''[[Every path you know]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>

===Invited With Asperity===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; High Bard of the Empire; Wintermark storytellers; military unit captains; Military Council; Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh; Varushkan military units; General of the Boyar's Hasta; Imperial Conclave; Heartwood of the Great Vale and Golden Trees of Seren Bourse seats'''
The [[orc|orcs]] of [[Otkodov]] - the [[Thule]] - live to the north of the Empire and share a long mountainous border with [[Wintermark]], the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], and [[Varushka]]. In recent years a series of treaties have secured peace - mostly by [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceding]] parts of the northern Imperial nations. It is not a universally ''popular'' peace, but for now it endures. The most recent [[Ratify_Thule_Treaty_Spring_387YE|treaty has been ratified]]; it is law. All that remains now is for the pageantry and theatre of a formal signing.

You can learn about the upcoming delegations visiting Anvil from the north, and a number of other diplomatic matters relating to Otkodov, in the '''[[Invited with asperity]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_ImperialOrc.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>

===Every Day Of Your Life===
* '''Imperial Orcs; Synod; Senate'''
The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Assembly have stated that their [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] is the creation of an "Assembly of the Ancestors" within the [[Synod]]. The judgement was controversial not leas because of the legal challenges it poses. It has affected many Imperial Orcs, reminding them of the importance that many place on their ancestors. It has encouraged many to look for ways to build on lost traditions and revitalise the links to those who have shown they have the strength to return over the Howling Abyss. With the help of the [[Illarawm]] in particular, Imperial Orcs are looking for new opportunities to embrace their ancestors.

You can read about the results of this controversial calling, and about the quest for closer ties with the ancestors, in the '''[[Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|title=Order of the Sevenfold Path|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===In Harmony And Unison===
* '''Sevenfold Path; Imperial Conclave; Imperial Senate; Highguard'''
Ongoing efforts to create a grand lodge for each of the [[Conclave order|Conclave orders]] proceed apace. The recently completed grand lodge of the [[Golden Pyramid]] in [[Mareave]] was briefly in danger from the orcs of the [[Grendel|Broken Shore]], but, thankfully, the intervention of the Military Council has secured it. At least for now. With the completion of the first grand lodge, the [[Conclave]] declared that the [[Sevenfold Path]] should be considered next. And considered they have been; proposals for a very ambitious grand lodge in [[Necropolis]], celebrating the idea of magic and virtue working in harmony and unison, have been presented.

You can read about the proposal for the grand lodge of the Sevenfold Path, and its benefits, in the '''[[In harmony and unison]]''' wind of fortune.
===Locked Runes===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
Each season the [[inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] of the [[Barien|Iron Duke]] come forth to issue [[Challenge the Iron Duke|challenges]] to the Empire. The ''Lord of the Crossroads'' is eager to test the skills and the wits of those brave enough to step forward. This season, Barien has only issued a single challenge as much of his time is taken up with preparing for [[opening ceremonies|the Drottningbjotha]].

You can find details of the challenge issued by Barien this season, as well as notes about the final team for the Drottningbjotha, in the '''[[Locked runes]]''' wind of fortune.
===Each Age A Lens (Orc Affairs)===
* '''Imperial Consul; Ambassador to the Grendel; Advisor on Orc Affairs; Imperial Senate; Fleet captains; Iron Osric; Golden Jarl; Imperial Conclave; Imperial Military Council; Vigilance Assembly; Sannite sept of the Imperial Orcs; Pathfinder Gaddak; Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard; Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves'''
Many of the lands bordering the Empire are home to [[orc]] nations. Some are barbarians, some are foreigners. In most cases, diplomacy with these disparate groups is the responsibility of the [[Imperial Consul]], perhaps advised by the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]]. In practice, many of these orc groups prefer to deal with members of certain nations with whom they have ties - the [[Jotun]] prefer to talk to the folk of [[Wintermark]] for example, while the [[Great Forest Orcs]] consider the [[Navarr]] to be their close allies. This season, five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire; some about matters of peace and trade, others about matters of war and dominion.

You can learn about orc diplomatic situations, as well as opportunities to treat with allied nations, in the '''[[Each age a lens]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; max-width: 300px; margin-left: 10px;">{{HoverImage|RegionsofSpiral.png|WiderSpiral.png|300px|align=right}}</div>
===Mirror and the Flame===
* '''Urizen and the League; Spiral; Conclave'''
[[Spiral]] has long been wracked by war. The territory returned to Imperial control, when [[Spiral#Overview|Salt Lord Kalliact]] defected to the Empire. Unfortunately that only plunged the land into further strife as [[Blue_flowers_in_the_snow#The_Rebels|Urizeni rebels fought the decision]] to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assign]] the territory to [[the League]]. They were placated, but part of that resolution saw one group of rebels recognised as foreigners within the Empire's borders. Recently these former rebels came to [[Anvil]] in search of restored access to [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial lore]]. Their request was rebuffed, and they were told they would need to make a credible offer for such a prize. Now it seems that the Silver Flame seek a new future: they consider themselves the true heirs to the heritage and history of Spiral, and heirs to the Urizen dream. What shape that future will take is still to be determined however, and the attitudes of Imperial citizens cannot help but play a part in its fashioning.

You can learn about the rebels of Spiral, their future and their past, in the '''[[Mirror and the flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Poets Light But Lamps===
* '''Imperial Consul; Ambassador to Faraden, Ambassador to Iron Confederacy, Ambassador to Sumaah; Imperial fleet captains; Hand of Guerra, Armarius of the Anvil Library, and Martin Orchard; Senate and Military Council; fans of Zemress; Wintermark and the Imperial Apothecaries' Guild; Senator for Mareave; Prosperity assembly'''
The Empire is but one nation among many. Some are great powers, like the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Others are smaller, neighbouring nations that nonetheless have the potential to influence Imperial politics - [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], [[Tsark]], and [[Skoura]]. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point. Regardless, there are negotiations to be made, opportunities to embrace, and threats to face.

You can learn about diplomatic and trade relations with these nations, and what they want from the Empire, in the '''[[Poets light but lamps]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Thing with Feathers (Winds of Magic)===
* '''Those interested in preaching Virtue; People interested in dancing and the Archmage of Day; Navarr in Therunin, Urizen Winter mages, and others with access to Treacher's Quill; Imperial Orcs, Heralds of the Reaper, and the Wolves of the Pale Raven; General of the Gryphon's Pride; Landskeepers, Smiths, and specifically ''Linley Weaver''; Speaker of the Vallornguard and vines; Candidates for the Shadowed Torchbearer; Foes of the Whisper Gallery, Magpies; Generals and those interested in the virtue of soldiers; Phoenix Rising coven of Dawn; ''Nicassia of Phoenix Reach'' and those who have mastered Fist of the Black Glacier; Hayaak's Champions; Those interested in auctions; and ''Edmundo of Damakan's Forge'''''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, eerie happenings, and even a conjunction through the [[Sentinel Gate]] taking place at the Spring Equinox 388YE.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The thing with feathers]]''' wind of fortune.
===What Regulates The Wheel? (Imperial Regio)===
* '''Imperial Magicians; Conclave; Imperial Seer, Grandmaster of the Shuttered Lantern, Grandmaster of the Unfettered Mind'''
Something very bad has happened at [[Anvil]]. There is something very wrong with the [[Regio#Imperial Regio|Imperial regio]], the site of countless thousands of [[rituals]] across the history of the Empire. The endless well of power it once represented has either run dry or something has blocked or diverted the flow of that magic. There are signs and portents, and a surfeit of mysteries, and no indication of what it may mean not only for those who have relied for so long on its ability to empower Imperial ritual magic, but for the entire Empire itself.

You can learn as much as anyone knows about the Imperial regio, and also about the Hall of Worlds and an unprecedented boon to Imperial magicians, in the '''[[What regulates the wheel?]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bell Icon.png|align=right|width=150}}</div>
===Finding is the Final Act===
* '''Highborn and League assemblies; Sarvosan chamber of commerce; spies and folk with an interest in espionage'''
[[Grendel]] expertise with espionage is well known. The [[Nightfall_in_Apulian#Turning_the_Ring|espionage ring]] in Spiral remains, though it was [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Destroy_Espionage_Ring_in_Spiral|damaged]] by order of the Senate. The Vigilance Assembly have rallied against this poison hidden in their fields, urging the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)|Silent Bell]] to investigate rumours of an espionage ring in [[Sarvos]]. What's more, the Highborn Assembly have also called on their people to support their cousins in Sarvos through peerless kinship. Then the League Assembly became involves as the [[Archbishop of Capodomus]] urged all citizens of the League to be vigilant in the face of this threat. So all eyes are on Sarvos - as are a considerable number of the Empire's spies.

You can read about the efforts to deal with the espionage ring in Sarvos, as well as some related opportunities, in the '''[[Finding is the final act]]''' wind of fortune.

===Shadow on the Grass===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:RegionsofSermersuaq.png]]</div>
* '''Residents of Sermersuaq; Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq and ''Maryc of House Orzel''; People who Hunt the Suaq Wastes; and those interested in Tsirku'''
[[Sermersuaq]], home of the [[Suaq]], has been through a lot over the past few years. Starting with the Jotun invasion, followed by the beasts of [[Agramant]] and the hunters of [[Hayaak]] being unleashed, and finally the rise of the Cult of the Falconer. Now, the territory has a chance to take a breath and try to make sense of what has happened.

You can read about the state of Sermersuaq, especially around the Cult of the Falconer and the travels of Big Icebarn, in the '''[[Shadow in the grass]]''' wind of fortune.

===Apparently with No Surprise (Visitors)===
* '''Highborn interested in Sarcophan funerals; Unfettered Mind and Rod and Shield; Farmers of Hahnmark; Alders of Mitwold; Seers, illuminates, stormcrows, and mystics; Speaker of the Highborn Assembly; Apothecaries Guild; Varushkans; ''Abreya de Lagriffe'''''
People visit Anvil for all kinds of reasons. Trade, wonderment, and a chance to meet with the movers and shakers of the Empire. It is no surprise that Anvil is seen as the place to be if you want to get anything of importance done.

You can find out more about some of the folk coming to Anvil this season, in the '''[[Apparently with no surprise]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Tune Without the Words (Winds of Magic)===
* '''Urizen magicians; residents of Feroz, Madruga, and Sarvos; Bregasland, Mitwold, Kallavesa, or people who have touched the Gullet; People interested in the Loom of Spells; People with an opinion about fears; whoever is appointed as Archmage of Winter; ''Eleri Bronwen's Rest'''''
* <span style="color:#0000FF">'''In Progress - This Wind of Fortune will be updated in the run up to the event with additional content; we'll remove this marker when the last information goes on it.</span>
* '''Last updated 22/04/2026'''
Magic comes in many forms; from the workings of wizards, from the skies above, from the depths of the earth. It changes what it touches, often in ways that are difficult to predict - especially when it is worked on a grand scale. Whether it is a confluence of [[Spring magic|Spring]] and [[Night magic|Night]] in [[the Brass Coast]], strange dreams in [[Wintermark]] and [[the Marches]], or rituals spread through [[Urizen]] by arcane means, magic is all around.

You can find out about strange magic of mortal origin, or whose provenance is mysterious in some way, in the '''[[The tune without the words]]''' wind of fortune.

===Bring You Jewels===
* '''Imperial Orcs; Golden Pyramid'''
[[Mareave]] is thriving. The grand aqueduct is complete, and Ruicraic's Redoubt proudly protects both it and the ruins of Eoradal. The enigmatic mountain-folk of Skoura seem keen to secure closer ties with their western neighbours. The independent city-state of Beoraidh still prizes its neutrality, but are clearly facing up the realities of living in an Imperial territory under "new management". The magicians of the [[Golden Pyramid]] have completed their Grand Lodge, and with it their year of investigations and investments looking for more opportunities to improve the prosperity of both the Unshackled and their own order.

You can find out about the state of Mareave, and the findings of the Golden Pyramid, in the '''[[Bring you jewels]]''' wind of fortune.

===Quietude===
* '''Dawn; Navarr; people interested in the Karass, the Great Forest Orcs, or the Rahvin'''
[[The Barrens]] is quieter than it has been in living memory. Not silent, not yet. [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[noble house|nobles]] and [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]] fan out across the [[territory]] in search of [[glory]] and they make plenty of noise. There are monsters in [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|the Bleaks]] and miners in [[The Barrens#The Fangs|the Fangs]] and they make plenty of noise. This season, there is good news from the Barrens, and there is bad news from the Barrens, and both make plenty of noise.

You can find out about the state of the Barrens, along with updates on the Karass, the Great Forest Orcs, and the Rahvin in the '''[[Quietude]]''' wind fortune.

==Other Events==
Here we round up things that are significant, but for whatever reason don't require a full wind of fortune.
===Walls of Holberg===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">[[File:GreatestCity5.png]]</div>
* '''The excavation of Holberg's embankment has been completed'''
* '''The Walls of Holberg are cemented as a wonder of the known world'''
During the Winter Solstice 386YE, '''Lula Kleist von Ennerlund''', as the newly ratified [[Citizens' Voice]], brought a motion to the Senate to [[Excavate_Holberg_Embankment|excavate the Holberg embankment]]. This excavation relied on [[The_greatest_city_in_the_world#High_Walls|plans]] drawn up by ''Steffan of Kirkby's Architects'' as part of celebrations of Holberg being recognised as the greatest city in the League. One year - and 500 thrones - later, the walls of Holberg stand higher than ever, and its garrison outnumbers the soldiers of most Imperial nations. The civil service is still compiling its report on the state of the walls, specifically on the half a dozen wonderful shops that have been established in the plaza.

'''OOC Note:''' We plan to add a page for the walls to the wiki that will include a description of the shops, the walls, and their history.

===Prosperity's Reward===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Architect of Prosperity'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Auction</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Can commission any structure that a [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]] can</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' All funds from the auction go directly to the Virtue Fund</td></tr>
</table></div>
{{SOP|statement=Senate (as expressed by Senator Holberg) has committed to an Appraisal to improve the value and resilience of the Virtue Fund, building upon the Virtuous work of Dialogos of the Isles of Spires and Saul, Exarch of the Stone Cliffs, within a year. With this Appraisal comes the promise to commission three Prosperous Counting Houses, begun already in Holberg. With pledges in hand, the Prosperity Assembly encourages the Prosperous to return to their work on Senatorial Commissions. Senators, as you stand on the floor and debate where the sweat, toil, and treasure of this Empire will go, take a moment and reflect. Reflect on your duty to the Empire, its people, and its Prosperity. Reflect on every hand that held the coins you dedicate to a cause. Reflect on what you can build that will carry over into your lives yet lived, wherever they find themselves.|by=Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Prosperity Assembly|vote=239-0|when=Autumn 387YE|size=small}}
* '''The faithful have returned to work following a statement of principle in the Prosperity Assembly'''
* '''The Senate could create a title with the power to commission with funds going directly to the Virtue Fund'''
At the Winter Solstice 385YE, the Prosperity Assembly upheld a [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_127|mandate]] raised by '''Luca i Taziel i Riqueza''' that called on the faithful to withdraw labour from the Senate until the issue with [[Forwards_and_Rewards#Fines_and_Funds|fines]] was resolved. Almost two years later, the Prosperity Assembly upheld the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_88|judgement]] raised by Luca, now serving as [[Cardinal of Prosperity]], that called on the faithful to once again take up their tools and work. ''Haravgi'', the young questor (still of no fixed abode), believes that the Senate could go even further and has spoken with the civil service about his plans - even managing to petition the Constitutional Court to get confirmation beforehand - and has asked them to be presented.

The Senate could, if they wished to, directly increase the amount of money going into the [[Rewarding#Virtue_Fund|Virtue Fund]], by creating a title with the power to announce a commission. Such a title, ''Architect of Prosperity'' perhaps, could be auctioned at the same time as the [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave|wayleaves]] each summit, but with the funds going directly to the Virtue Fund rather than the treasury. It would, of course, reduce the number of commissions available to the Senate each season, but it could drastically increase the amount of money available for Judgements of Rewarding. Rather than create a new title, the Senate could choose to redefine one of the wayleaves in the same manner instead, which would reduce the number of wayleaves to one, and thus the amount of money entering the treasury each season, but would redirect it to the Virtue Fund.

===Broken Shore Bounty===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Broken Shore Bounty'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives seven rings of ilium each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' Two thrones a season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Can be combined with Celesti Lighthouse Keeper, changing the election method of that title</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''With the completion of the repairs to the Celesti Lighthouse, the Senate can reestablish the Broken Shore Bounty'''
* '''The Senate can restore the Broken Shore Bounty in any Freeborn region with the coastal quality with a motion'''
Last season, the Senate voted to [[Repair Celesti Lighthouse|repair the Celesti Lighthouse]], a motion raised by '''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', [[Feroz|Senator for Feroz]]. Choosing to accept the offer from [[Kimus]], the design incorporated a ''watchstone'', the light infused with the [[Day_magic#Revelation|revelatory]] nature of the [[Realm#Day|Day realm]]. With the work completed, and the [[Celesti Lighthouse Keeper]] due to be elected for the first time in almost five years, the Senate have a chance to reestablish the [[Broken Shore Bounty]].

The offices were originally found in the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], but the [[Iron Confederacy]] drove the Children of Wrecks from that region over the past three months. Instead, the offices could be established anywhere in the Brass Coast, provided it had easy access to the sea. It wouldn't require anything more than a motion; any number of corsair families are eager to host the civil servants responsible for organising the seat. The seat would have to be a Freeborn position appointed by [[Tally of the Votes]] of the nation's [[fleet]] owners, with the first election happening at the Spring Equinox 388YE if the motion is passed this summit.

The Senate could instead choose to amend the Celesti Lighthouse Keeper to also receive the Broken Shore Bounty, but that would require changing the appointment method to Tally of the Votes. If the Keeper has already been elected at the point it is amended, then the incumbent would receive no ilium. Instead, it would be collected until the title was first appointed by Tally of the Votes. More information on this opportunity can be found on the '''[[For those in peril on the sea]]''' wind of fortune.

===Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial===
* '''The civil service has been alerted to the fact they missed fully amending a title'''
* '''The ''Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial'' will be up for election at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
* '''Going forward, the title will be elected yearly at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The current title holder is ''Sarah of the Suns of Couros'''''
The Senate voted to [[Amend title of Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial|amend]] the title of [[Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] during the Summer Solstice 381YE. The election method was confirmed as being by appointment of the Highborn Assembly, but the change to yearly appointment from tenure was missed. The title has now been changed to a yearly appointment, and the title will be elected at the Spring Equinox 388YE.

===Rumour Control===
* '''Some misconceptions have been corrected by the civil service'''
* '''There are Druj remnants in the Barrens, but they are only a skirmish-level threat'''
* '''Calvary’s End is a small settlement in the Barrens. It is an outlier, and is not a widespread problem'''
The Empire is wide and complicated. It's easy for a rumour to get out of control and become potentially damaging misinformation. If a misunderstanding spreads far and wide enough, there is a chance that it might provoke mistakes at the highest level. To avoid that, the civil service steps in to correct these misconceptions when they become aware of them. Since the Autumn Equinox, there have been two rumours in particular that have begun to circulate in terms that are increasingly misleading.

The first concerns the number of Druj in [[the Barrens]]. There are several small groups of Mallum orcs remaining in the wildest areas of the Barrens. This is also the case in [[Brocéliande]], [[Ossium]], [[Zenith]], and other territories that have had Druj incursions in the last few years. In fact, every territory in the Empire faces threats of this kind, whether it be brigands in the wilds of [[Tassato]], Druj partisans in Zenith or remnants of Cold Sun's forces in [[Hahnmark]]. These groups are not capable of capturing and holding territory, but they can threaten settlements and commissions. When that happens, it requires Imperial heroes passing through the Sentinel Gate to deal with them, or a similar force acting between summits.

The other rumour concerns the status of Calvary’s End, a small settlement in the Barrens. In terms of access to food, comfort, and overall competence of nobles, Calvary’s End is an outlier in the Barrens and the wider Empire. Under normal circumstances, almost every settlement in the Empire has access to sufficient food, schooling, and other things necessary to live a life of relative comfort under [[Imperial law]] following the principles laid out in the [[Imperial Constitution]]. Where this is not the case, the civil service draws attention to those situations and presents [[Opportunity|opportunities]] for the Senate, Conclave, and Synod to deal with them. Here, it seems that extraordinary circumstances, including the isolation of the settlement, allowed things to deteriorate to a worrying degree. That situation has now been fully rectified by Imperial heroes, with the inhabitants of the town finding new homes across Dawn.

'''OOC Note:''' We don't feel the need to step in to correct misconceptions or misinformation very often, and we make a concerted effort to try to do so only when it would be obvious to people in the world that something is incorrect. Here, the presence of Druj in the territory is useful for plot - be that at Profound Decisions events or as part of a sanctioned event - in order to threaten sinecures and other commissions - there is no secret army in the Barrens. Likewise, the assumption should be that every Imperial citizen enjoys “Dignity, Freedom, and Prosperity” in their day-to-day life. Where this is not the case, such as with the [[March on their belly|terrible harvests]] in the Marches, or more recently, the ongoing [[No_Peace#Stay_alive_(Conjunction)|support]] of the Greywaters in Bregasland, it is an active plot and not a change to the status quo.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FB_House_Stone_Banner_Artistic.jpg|caption=House Stone|align=right|width=250}}</div>

===Marcher Maritime Traditions===
* '''Interest in Marches maritime traditions has been inspired by a short pamphlet
Fleets are uncommon in the Marches, where people are inextricably connected to their farms and their lands. Marchers are not averse to sailing and both Bregasland and Mitwold have an extensive coast but beyond rumours of smugglers in Bregasland, few yeofolk pay much attention to those Marchers who put to sea. This changed in late 387YE when a short pamphlet entitled "Marcher Maritime Traditions" was penned in Meade and distributed freely in the Marches. It credits two Marchers - the late ''Quay Stone'' of [[The_Marches_groups#House_Stone|House Stone]] from the [[Mournwold]], and ''Jarvey "Strongoar" Oddsboy'' of [[Mitwold#Oddmire|Steward's Landing]] in [[Mitwold]] as having provided impetus for the publication, alongside the Marcher Assembly, with encouraged interest in the customs of the Marches' ships and sailors.

These customs have been practiced for centuries in some cases, though often discreetly when necessary. Now, though, they are becoming much better known in the Marches and beyond. You can read about the maritime customs of many Marcher sailors on the Marches [[The Marches culture and customs#Maritime Traditions|culture and customs]] page.

==Trade Summary==
* '''Imperial fleets can trade with ports in Axos, the Commonwealth, Faraden, the Iron Confederacy, the Sarcophan Delves, and the Sumaah Republic'''
* '''Production depends on the port chosen, and can be increased by upgrades and enchantments'''
Imperial fleets can [[Fleet#Trading|trade]] with a number of foreign nations who have chosen to open some of their ports to visitors from the Empire. The assumption is that a ship trading with a foreign nation makes enough from selling their cargo to cover their running costs, crew salaries and the like, but that there is enough profit to provide the character who owns the fleet with valuable goods of interest to the folk who attend [[Anvil]]. What goods are received for visiting a port is changeable, and heavily influenced by Imperial diplomacy.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Autumn Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Autumn Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Autumn Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].
===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Leakey Moss'']]</td><td>Intervene for the Strong Reeds</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[So_our_path_is_laid#Battle_Opportunity_%3A_How_Will_They_Rise_Up%3F|How Will They Rise Up?]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Amberlain P. Black''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Eisa Winterborn'' was killed and orders claimed; ''Ghodi Melker'' was killed and orders claimed; ''Seeker Alma'' survived</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Whisperwood, ''Uklead Groves'']]</td><td>Claim Whisperwood</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Even_darkness_must_pass#Battle_Opportunity_:_To_Deal_Out_Death_in_Judgement|To Deal Out Death in Judgement]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Eisa Ironlungs''' of [[Wintermark]]; miasma pillars destroyed and Whisperwood claimed.</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Redoubt|Redoubt, Naris, ''Tilphussian Approach'']]</td><td>Protect the Tower of Light and Shadow</td><td>Grendel & Winter Husks</td><td>[[To_ruin#Battle_Opportunity_:_All_That_is_Gold|All That is Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; shroud over Tower of Light and Shadow pierced and the tower destroyed; Winter spirits uncontrolled; ''Pinnacle'' remains in Grendel hands; fate of ''Muirgheal Cuindlis'' unknown; Tassatan gravegoods claimed by Grendel.</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Therunin|Therunin, Peakdge Song, ''Thorngroves'']]</td><td>Disrupt the Ettercap Nest</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Songs_like_trees#Battle_Opportunity_:_With_Doom_We_Come|With Doom We Come]]</td><td>Not taken; vallorn continue to advance; ettercap hive unharmed</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Liathaven, Liaven's Glen, Schogsfestward || [[Quartermaster General]] || [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Time_to_be_Gone_(Liathaven)|Rescue the defenders of Schogsfestnir]] || Jotun defeated and most defenders rescued
|-
| 2 || Mitwold, Meade March, New Old Sports Field || [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] || [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Reconquest_Cup_(Mitwold)|Take part in an exhibition match]] || The Reconquest Cup was won by Mournwold and the Old Pigs 5-4. The corpse of [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_159|Alf Alwen]] was later identified.
|-
| 3 || Kahraman, Gambit, Golden Copse || '''Iñez i Azul-Mar i Riqueza''' || [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Forging_of_a_Hammer_(Kahraman)|Kill Jarl Gorm Gillasbairn]] || ''Jarl Gorm Gillasbairn'' killed
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Iron Crossroads || [[Woundbinder of the Mark]] || [[Volumes_of_forgotten_lore#A_Highway_Robbery_(Sermersuaq)|Help the wounded merchants]] || Wounded merchants saved
|-
| 5 || Therunin, Sweetglades, Fluttering Canopy || [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Guild_Leader|Guild Leader of the Imperial Apothecaries]] || [[Songs_like_trees#Surprises|Investigate the nest]] || Nest investigated and treatment identified
|-
| 6 || The Barrens, Untrod Groves, The Red Hall || Nobles of [[Dawn]] (but it's complicated) || [[Best_beware_my_sting#The_Red_Feast|Attend a feast]] || The feast was attended. Nobles of Dawn might know more
|-
| 7 || Sermersuaq, Tanikipari, Plains of Cyneswith || '''Corrin Arrowsbane''' || [[Stand_amid_the_roar#Strengthening_Storm|Kill the Voice of Tanikipari and destroy the pillar]] || Voice of Tanikipari was killed and the pillar destroyed
|-
| 8 || Hahnmark, Northspires, Greyhearth Woods || '''Eanwyn Dunning''' || [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#An_Unlooked_for_Prize_(Hahnmark)|Bring ''Thurwolf'' to justice]] || ''Thurwolf'' was brought back through Sentinel Gate and executed by magistrates
|-
| 9 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Wulfhere's Meadow || [[Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] || [[Stand_amid_the_roar#Growing_Threat|Kill the Voice of the Wastes and destroy the pillar]] || Voice of the Wastes was killed and the pillar destroyed
|-
| 10 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Fount, Icelveld || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Stand_amid_the_roar#Gathering_Darkness|Kill the Voice of the Fount and destroy the pillar]] || Pillar was destroyed but Voice of the Fount survived
|-
| 11 || Brocéliande, Vale's Lament, The Singing Circle || '''Nathair Autumngale''' || [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#A_Peculiar_Opportunity_(Lashonar)|Visit the Circle]] || The Circle was visited, and an arcane projection was performed by several Navarri
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Sweetglades, Squamous Woods || [[Vallornguard#Speaker_of_the_Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Songs_like_trees#Cluster_of_Rosebuds|Disrupt the nest]] || Nest was successfully poisoned
|-
| 13 || Therunin, Sweetglades, Twitching Grove || [[Keeper of the Last Battle]] || [[Songs_like_trees#In_the_Night|Disrupt the nest]] || Imperials were repulsed before nest could be destroyed
|-
| 14 || Semmerholm, Axmure, Grove of the Thousand || Victors of [[Dawn]] and [[Wintermark]] || [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#A_Challenging_Finale_%28Barien%29|Complete the challenge]] || Wintermark were victorious in the grand challenge
|-
| 15 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Haunted Copse || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Even_darkness_must_pass#Traps|Destroy the tortured souls]] || Roughly half the tortured souls were exorcised. Imperial retreat
|-
| 16 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Grothnel Holt || [[Champion of Pride]] || [[Even_darkness_must_pass#Something_Flickers|End ''Flavia of the Guiding Lights'']] || ''Flavia of the Guiding Lights'' was not exorcised. Imperial retreat
|-
| 17 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Coppice of Despair || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Even_darkness_must_pass#What_Wise_Ones_Know|End ''Dmitriy Innokentievich'']] || ''Dmitriy Innokentievich'' was not exorcised. Imperial retreat
|-
| 18 || Sarvos, Riposi, Circle of Savagery || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Those_that_break_a_thing#Blazing_Beacon_(Sarvos)|Stop the wreckers]] || [[Thunderous Deluge]] was unleashed on [[Sarvos]]
|-
| 19 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Lamorak's Rest || [[Lions of Adelmar|General of the Lions of Adelmar]] || [[Even_darkness_must_pass#Two_Captains|Treat the wounded]] || Wounded successfully treated
|-
| 20 || Necropolis, Longbeach, Abigal's Orchard || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[Those_that_break_a_thing#Fan_of_Colours_(Necropolis)|Stop the wreckers]] || Wreckers were stopped from completing ritual
|-
| 21 || Skarsind, Solvhill, Broken Forest || [[Broken Shield Guardian]] || [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#What_Oaths_Can_Do_(Skarsind)|Defeat the rampaging husks]] || Husks defeated
|-
| 22 || Madruga, Calvos Sound, Mawrig's Point || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Those_that_break_a_thing#Talk_of_Debts_(Madruga)|Stop the wreckers]] || Wreckers were stopped from completing ritual. Imperial retreat
|-
| 23 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Ormgore's Spinney || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[Even_darkness_must_pass#Whirlpools_of_Colour|Treat the wounded]] || Wounded successfully treated
|-
| 24 || Therunin, Greenheart, The Three Stones || [[Archmage of Spring]] || [[Volumes_of_forgotten_lore#In_Three_Stones_(Therunin)|Visit the Three Stones]] || Three Stones visited; [[Dance of Navarr and Thorn]] performed; Archmage of Spring should know more
|}

The concisest tenant

2026-04-22T14:14:01Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"''"You wicked fiend!" snarled Giuseppe. "When were you going to put this unspeakable plan into operation?"''

Louisa was very proud of her impression of Senator Giuseppe. She also enjoyed being the centre of attention. The rest of the company were hanging on her every word, as she read the latest instalment of ''War of the Rats'' in a poky little pub in the stews of Temeschwar. She could see that some of the folk at nearby tables were straining to hear her words.

"''"Hahahaha my proud beauty!" laughed the villainous King of the Rats. "Do you mistake me for some Sarvosan theatricalist? I did it before you arrived, and now it is far too late for you to save your precious orphanage!"''"

There was a gasp and some baleful muttering from the company. Kiever slammed his fist on the table, shaking his head at the wickedness of the King of the Rats.

"''Senator Giuseppe lunged forward, rapier piercing the shadows like Ratibor's torch, but the King of the Rats was already moving. His cloak swirled like a whirlpool as he leapt toward the sewer grate and scrambled through. His crazed laughter echoed from the drain as he scurried away, to some even deeper subterranean lair. But there was blood on the tip of the rapier - the proud senator had wounded the vile malefactor at least!''"

"Yes!" Kiever crowed. "You show him senator!"

There was some laughter at just how into the story the scarred veteran of a dozen conflicts was. He smiled a little ruefully, sipping his half-full tankard and giving the rest of his friends the impudent finger. This caused more gentle laughter and a little banter.

"But what about the orphanage?" Emilio was the youngest of the gang, the newest recruit.

"Well we might all find out if you stop interrupting me," replied Lou a little primly. She found her place in the tatty little booklet, tracing the words with one finger stained dark grey with cheap ink.

"''Giuseppe made to try and follow the villain, but Bishop Vitore grabbed his arm. "There's no time senator! We have to get back to surface and warn the priests of the Little Mother! It may not be too late!".''"

Everyone at the table was agog.

"''"Surely not!," growled Senator Sanguineo. "You heard the fiend, he has already put his dreadful plan in motion!" The proud bishop shook his head, resolute. His eyes seemed to glow with virtuous light in the dim cellar. "We must not give in to despair!" he urged. "Do you think Ratibor would abandon the orphans to their fate because it might be too late? On the word of a villain such as this? No! A thousand times no! He would strive against any odds set against him, and if we follow his example I think we might still prevail. The future is not set and by our actions we can shape it how we will! Even in the darkest hour, the dawn may still come!" Giuseppe nodded, tears in his eyes. The two heroes clasped hands for a moment, then as one they turned and raced back toward the ladder. The King of the Rats would have to face justice another day because if there was any chance at all that they could save the children - and of course the beautiful priest of the Little Mother who looked after them - then they had to take it!''"

Lou was less convinced that she had the Bishop's voice right but she didn't really care. One of the drinkers at the nearest table, no longer trying to conceal his eavesdropping, muttered "yes" under his breath and then looked around suspiciously to make sure nobody had spotted him being drawn in by the tale.

"Will they be in time?" asked Emilio, eyes wide.

Lou smiled, and shrugged. "We'll have to wait until next week to find out," she said. "That's all there is for now." She turned the pamphlet to show her friends the "TO BE CONTINUED" written at the bottom of the page. There was a chorus of groans, that quickly gave way to spirited discussion of how ''they'' would have dealt with the King of the Rats if they were in Giuseppe's place.

Lou leaned back, pleased, and took a deep gulp of her beer. Something shifted in the corner of her vision, and when she turned to look she caught a brief glimpse of a long naked tail disappearing into a hole between two of the skirting boards. She frowned slightly, but decided it was not worth worrying about, and instead leaned into her role of the arbiter of what the King of the Rats would ''probably'' do in the scenarios her comrades came up with.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Dwarf rats sleeping.jpg|caption=The rats of Temeschwar are quiet. For now...|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Through much of last year - 386YE - the city of Temeschwar was bedevilled by rats and rat-adjacent creatures. The situation was calmed in large part due to a municipal contract with an old [[guild]] called the ''Rat Kings''. Fancying themselves one of the "founding guilds" of Temeschwar, this somewhat disreputable organisation makes its money catching vermin and delving the stinking sewers beneath the city for lost treasures. For the last year or so they have also been "protecting" the city from the rat plague - and in the process absorbed several smaller guilds in a similar line. Their influence in the city has waxed, but they seem broadly disinclined to do anything with it.

There are also rumours - this is the League so of course there are rumours - of an ancient rat-creature living deep below the sewers. A creature that dates back to the time when Temeschwar was first founded, long before there was an Empire, before there was a League, when this entire territory was part of Varushka. Ringblack periodicals talk in hushed, but nonetheless lurid, tones of [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereigns]], and include thinly-veiled pastiches of prominent Temeschwari citizens including most notably [[senator]] '''Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar'''. Some stories have them thwarting this malign "king rat" and some hint at dark bargains and terrible sacrifices. It's thrilling for the [[bravo|bravos]] and [[mountebank|mountebanks]] of the city to speculate about what goes on in the circles of the elite, after all. The truth is uncertain, but between the Rat Kings and whatever else is going on, the rats these days mostly come out at night. Mostly.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Intensity.jpg|align=left|caption=The Doctor is usually calm, albeit intensely focused. yet this is not the only guise the Doctor takes in dramaturgy.|width=300}}</div>
==Rat Doctor==
* '''The dramaturgical character of the Doctor appears to be influencing Temeschwar'''
* '''Temeschwari characters wearing an appropriate mask may draw on this influence to overcome some roleplaying effects'''
* '''League magicians wearing an appropriate mask may use three personal mana as crystal mana once during the summit when performing a Day or Winter ritual'''
There's been something ''going on'' in [[Spiral]] for half a year or more by this point. A [[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Something_Dramatic|wild tumult]] of [[dramaturgy]] that has League and Urizeni magicians both scratching their heads. As far as anyone in Temeschwar can tell that is all still going on. Or not. Spiral is a long way away. What's noticeable however is that for the first time it seems to be bleeding over into the city that is as far from Apulian as you can get and still be in the League. This being Temeschwar, however, it is taking its own particular form. Specifically, the form of [[the Doctor]] - and a unique one at that.

The Doctor is an esoteric figure. Calm, reasonable, and above all dedicated to the idea that sufficient knowledge can be used to overcome any problem. Confident in her own skills, the Doctor also knows her limits and when to seek aid and outside sources of knowledge. Most often she dispenses aid to others, whether they appreciate or ask for that aid or not. In street theatre, she is often a sinister figure who possesses secret knowledge. She is rarely the butt of a joke, and she may spell the doom of a foolish or unwise character, or the final punishment of a wicked character.

Commonly she combines the calm reason of [[Day magic]] with the sharp edge of [[Winter magic]] in a way that balances aid and understanding with the power of oaths and righteous vengeance. Her mask is usually hooked and curved like a beak - perhaps suggesting the carrion birds that feed on dead flesh and learn secrets thereby - but that is only the most common form the imagery takes. The ''rat'' is not a popular shape for the mask to take, but in recent years, especially in Temeschwar, it has become more common. Some popular plays that have fallen out of fashion - the steadfast soldier and the king of rats for example - have recently been dusted off and given a fresh coat of dramatic paint. This winter, there are five separate performances of the tale doing excellent business in the theatres of Temeschwar - with both traditional endings proving equally popular.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box>'''<big>The Steadfast Soldier and the King of Rats</big>'''
<p>This is an old, tragic story with roots in the distant past. Originally a Varushkan tale, it has a number of different interpretations but always contains certain key elements. A steadfast soldier ([[the Captain]]) who has returned weary from war. They have sworn a powerful oath, one that they are tricked into breaking. They come into conflict with a cold, ruthless opponent ([[the Doctor]]) who holds them accountable for their oath and actions in war.</p>

<p>The Doctor is privy to secret lore - sometimes they are vyig, sometimes a powerful wizard, sometimes they are a Merchant-Prince or Bishop. The two skirmish around one another with tragic consequences. Sometimes one or both figures are actual rodents. At the end one or both central figures die. Sometimes ballet is involved, and there are versions where either the Captain and the Doctor are represented by [[Ratibor of Temeschwar]].</p></box></div>
It's become apparent over the last few months in particular that a little magic is seeping into the city, specifically in regards to the mask of the Doctor, and most specifically of all to those who evoke the Doctor with the rat-mask.
<br><br>
<big>'''Participation'''</big><br>
During the Winter Solstice, any League character whose resource is in Temeschwar can draw on the power of the Doctor as a [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|source of spiritual strength]] to overcome any roleplaying effect that would cause them to become confused, afraid, or uncertain, or that would urge them to act compassionately. They may instead become cold and hard, suppressing uncertainty or empathy behind a steely resolve to act as they think best. You may do this at any time during the summit, as often as feels appropriate, but only if you are physically wearing a mask that is recognisable as that of the Doctor - the hooked beak mask commonly associated with the persona, or the rat mask that has become popular in Temeschwar.

In addition, if you are a League magician with knowledge of [[Day magic]] or [[Winter magic]] and wearing a rat mask during the performance of a ritual, you can invoke the connection to the cold, judgemental aspects of the Doctor to spend up to three points of personal mana as if they were crystal mana during a ritual of Day or Winter lore. This ability can only be used ''once'' by each character during the ''entire summit''.

==Rat Kings==
* '''Members of the Rat Kings guild are returning to Anvil for the Masquerade of the Reaper
The Rat Kings are one of the oldest guilds in Temeschwar, and yet they are rarely invited to parties. Possibly due to the fact that as well as dealing with rats and other vermin, they also maintain sewers and engage in ''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tosher toshing]'' beneath the city. As one of the oldest cities in the Empire, there is a lot to be found in the bowels of Temeschwar.

This year, they've let it be known that a number of them intend to attend the Masquerade of the Reaper at Anvil, wearing their traditional rat masks. They look forward to discussing the situation in Temeschwar and in particular their work dealing with the rat problem in the city which, while it is nowhere near as bad as it was a couple of years ago, remains under control mostly due to their efforts.

==Virtue's Respite==
* '''With Empress Giselle returned to Sarvos there is a question about what to do with her tomb
* '''The Guardian of Giselle's Tomb retains their title but it is a misnomer
* '''Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos is the current Guardian of Giselle's Tomb'''
Last year, '''[[Archbishop of Capodomus|Archbishop]] Estella Lucati''' arranged for the mortal remains of Empress Giselle to be [[Golden_light#The_Woman's_Work|relocated]] for what everyone hopes will be the final time. Carried with all due ceremony on a black-draped barge down the length of the broad banked Gancio back to [[Sarvos]], she now rests in a quiet courtyard at [[Archbishop of Capodomus#Capodomus Cathedral|Capodomus Cathedral]]. This had only a mild impact on the [[Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]], a post filled by '''Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos''' since the memorial was established in 381YE following the unfortunate [[The_sack_of_Sarvos|sacking of Sarvos]], the theft of her body by the [[Grendel]], and its subsequent recovery. Built by then-Senator '''Gant Archama''' ''[[Guardian_of_Giselle%27s_Tomb#Virtue's_Respite|Virtue's Respite]]'' is visited more often as a memorial to the history of [[the League]] and the successes of [[Temeschwar]] than it is the tomb of an Empress. Indeed, for the tomb of a dead [[the Throne|Throne]], the structure felt more like a tribute to the Senator's father Demitri Archama than it did a resting place for an Empress.

A year later and the stream of visitors to the site remains a thin, but consistent, trickle. The visitors come to see the memorial to the history of Temeschwar have been supplemented somewhat by thrill-seekers wishing to visit a location that in recent years has become synonymous with the [[Temeschwar#Rat Plague|Rat plague]] that fell on the city a few years ago. During the height of the plague there were several vicious verminous attacks by rodents against visitors here and while there have been no serious attacks since the body of Empress Giselle was reinterred in the south, one remains much more likely to encounter a rat here than almost anywhere else in the city. A popular tale suggests they are "keeping watch" - as if to make sure nobody sneaks the Sarvosan Empress' remains back in by stealth.

The title of [[Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] has not been reappointed since it was established, but the name raises eyebrows in several places. A local burgher has asked the Bishops of Temeschwar to consider supporting a local campaign to rename the position "Guardian of Virtue's Respite". A more ''earthy'' proposal that the place be renamed "Rat's Rest" instead receives a fair amount of support among [[bravo|bravos]] and [[mountebank|mountebanks]] and almost nowhere else.

Legally, changing the name of an Imperial title is something that would require a [[Senate motion]] and nobody is foolish enough to believe any Senator would waste their time on such a frivolous matter. So with that in mind...
===Pride of Temeschwar===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Amend Virtue's Respite'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Sinecure (Amendment)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Hanuri, Temeschwar</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases the income of the title associated with Virtue's Respite to four drams of liao and 7 crowns each season
* Allows Temeschwari congregations to use the ''Pride of the City'' lecture for six months
* Includes an opportunity to rename the Imperial title "Guardian of Giselle's Tomb"'''
</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Virtue's Respite could be remodelled as a memorial to Temeschwari history inspiring Pride in the cities achievements'''
* '''This would encourage a celebration of Pride throughout the city and potentially beyond'''
* '''Temeschwar congregations would be able to deliver the "Pride of Temeschwar" lecture (putting them in the Pride Assembly)'''
* '''If the League assembly uses a statement of principle to encourage it, the lecture will become available across the League, but it will bring out citizen's competitive instincts'''
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Pride.png|width=300|align=right}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_League.png|width=300|align=right}}</div>
''Bishop Jarek von Temeschwar'' has been at the forefront of the quiet movement to rename the Guardian of Giselle's Tomb. The Bishop, who regularly preaches on the importance of Temeschwari [[Pride]] and [[Ambition]], never made any secret of his distaste at the presence of "the Sarvosan Empress" in the city. Now that she is gone, he has spent the last year or so talking about the importance of celebrating Temeschwari achievements. His cause gained a fair amount of support when he was one of those who threw open their churches to help those injured in the rat plague, and his sermons are sometimes quoted in various Temeschwari broadsheets since then.

Jarek proposes that the Senate couple a change to the name of the title with a redesign of Virtue's Respite itself. The amphitheatre already contains friezes depicting various League successes - the raising of [[Caricomare]]; the liberation of [[Holberg]]; the rebuilding of Sarvos after the Grendel attack; and the escorting of the body of Giselle from Highguard to Temeschwar by a company of soldiers bearing the tattered gonfalon of the Brotherhood of Torn Banners, with the Brotherhood's Colonel Iacob Genoshu clearly identifiable as the figure leading the procession. Indeed the Brotherhood of Torn Banners are prominent in the other friezes as well.

With some additional investment and work, Temeschwari artists could be commissioned to create more friezes depicting uniquely Temeschwari achievements to add to these. The destruction of the [[Vyig]] (both recent and historical), the raising of the walls, the victory over the [[Into_the_woods|night terrors]] of [[Temeschwar#Metri|Metri]] and the like. Several more granite spaces could be left empty for future imagery celebrating Temeschwari successes yet to come. As such, Virtue's Respite would become a place that celebrates the Pride of Temeschwar.

Nothing else would change beyond the name, the scope of the memorial, and perhaps the removal of the empty tomb (although it could also be incorporated into the new decor). As it involves the amendment of an existing commission, however, this would still require a [[Senate motion]] to authorise the work and a small expenditure of money.

If that happened, then Virtue's Respite would remain a place of pilgrimage, but especially for Temeschwari returning home to remind themselves of their Proud history and the strength of their city. The income of the ''Guardian of Virtue's Respite'' would continue to receive 4 liao each season, but the income it provides would rise to 7 crowns each season - significantly more than the title currently provides.

Once the work were complete it would also provide an encouragement to Temeschwari bishops to speak about the history of their city. This would create a [[Congregation#Lectures|lecture]], ''Pride of the City'', that any Temeschwari citizen with a [[congregation]] could preach on for the next six months. The lecture would employ liao to incorporate anointings, consecrations, and hallows designed to increase Pride in Temeschwar's great history and its incredible achievements. The congregation would provide no liao at all, but would gain 2 additional votes in the Synod as their congregations grew in size with Proud citizens swelling the ranks.

In theory, such celebrations need not be confined to Temeschwar. If the memorial was remodelled then the League Assembly could use an appropriately worded statement of principle to encourage every city to draw inspiration from their own achievements. If that happened, then the Pride of the City lecture would become available to priests in every city in the League. There's just one problem... citizens in the League are notoriously competitive... There's simply no way to encourage every League citizen to celebrate their city's greatest achievements some of them immediately asking ''which'' city has the greatest achievements. Some thought that that contest was [[The_greatest_city_in_the_world|settled recently, when Holberg claimed the crown]] but which city is the greatest is an argument that the league will ''never'' settle...

It's impossible to know where such a competition will lead, but at least it will be easy to keep track of who is winning. The civil service already keep careful records of the size of every congregation along with sermons delivered, to determine what Assembly people are in and how many votes they should have. It will be trivial for them to determine the total size of all the congregations delivering the lecture urging fellow citizens to take Pride in their city's achievements. Once that gets out, it's bound to [[opportunity|create a reaction]].

===Rat Memorial===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Rat Garden'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Sinecure (Amendment)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Hanuri, Temeschwar</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Changes the income associated with the commission to four crystal mana and six crowns each season
* Creates an opportunity to learn more about the rats of Temeschwar and what lies beneath it
* Includes an opportunity to rename the Imperial title Guardian of Giselle's Tomb'''
</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=NBLeague.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderUnfetteredMind.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''Virtue's Respite could be remodelled as the Rat Garden, a memorial to the rat plague'''
* '''Doing so will provide insight into the rats of Temeschwar and their master'''
''Lorainne Brouat di Temeschwar'' is very much not a bishop - quite the contrary. A hard-bitten woman who wields a razor-sharp wit and a finely-honed blade with equal facility, she came up as a [[bravo]] from the streets of Temeschwar. A known associate of [[mountebank|people of dubious repute]] in the city, she and her coterie have been in the thick of every major violent event in the north from the war against the vyig to the raid on Isember, to fighting alongside the Varushkan armies in the conquest of Ossium. She's well respected by people for whom respect is won in blood and ruthlessness. She's also one of those supporting a slightly different interpretation of Virtue's Respite.

Her suggestion is to gut the place. It's the result of a clever stratagem, which should be remembered, but it's also a memorial to the rat plague. There's no need to rip out the friezes or anything, but it should be repurposed with a more ratty decor. People in the know, know that there is a spirit under Temeschwar, something that dates back to the days of the Vard and even earlier. The ''King of Rats'', the ''Eyes in the Sewer''. What the Varushkans call a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereign]] and what clever members of the League might call an ''opportunity''.

Evidence suggests the thing eats volodny, and that it has a peculiar affinity for the city and its people. It wanted Giselle gone because she was a ''foreigner'' squatting in Temeschwar. There's stories of a little cabal of people who honour this rat thing and try to curry favour with it - but that's the kind of thing ''Varushkans'' would do. Lorainne suggests that the League should take a different approach. Transform Virtue's Respite into the ''Rat Garden''. Add decorations celebrating the rat plague - the ratcatchers guild, the captains who answered the call to protect the city, the cleverness of the [[Unfettered Mind]], the virtue of the bishops who helped fight pestilence, all the rest. Instead of trying to keep rats out, welcome them with candle-wax, cheese, and bacon rinds.

The place would still be attractive to pilgrims - the kind of pilgrims who want a bit of a thrill along with their white granite statues. It'd also be an acknowledgement of the spirit under Temeschwar. Not a place to worship it - because the League doesn't worship dark spirits - but an acceptance of the fact it is there. By all accounts it is as ruthless, as relentless, as cold, and hard, and vengeful, as any scion of Temeschwar. And who knows, it might come in useful. More useful than another shrine dedicated to a senator's parent at any rate.

The visitors it would attract would be more esoterically minded, and would be prepared to make donations of crystal mana as well as small amounts of money. More relevantly, says Loraine, the rats themselves would appreciate the gesture and would share some of their wealth with Temeschwar. Trinkets, gold, things of that nature dredged up from forgotten corners and lost down sewers. Between the visitors and the rat gifts, the new ''Rat Gardener'' would get a 6 crown income each season easily. When asked why she seems to have such an insight into what possessed rats might want or do, the bravo repeatedly threatened to punch the querent in the face until they withdrew the question.

Interestingly, Lorainne and her fellow bravos and mountebanks are not the only people who are interested in the repurposing of Virtue's Respite in this fashion. Members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] who visited Temeschwar to [[Pitter_patter#Seers_and_Shitpipes|help address the initial plague]] suggest that an opportunity to study the rats of the city in a "natural environment" might prove valuable. Especially if the place attracted any of the more [[Pitter_patter#Rodents_of_Assorted_Sizes|exotic creatures]] that were associated with them. At the very least they could glean a little more insight into what exactly is going on beneath the city, and the nature of the rat spirit that seems to be involved in these events. Is it ''actually'' a sovereign? Or could it be an eternal? Or something else entirely! There are not many Unfettered Mind members in Temeschwar, but they are very excited at the possibility of learning more about magic related to murderous rats. Why, argues the Winter magician ''Heinrich von Hanuri'', further research here might help develop a ritual that causes rats to rise up and eat people in enemy cities. How cool would that be?

('''OOC Note:''' If the Senate chooses to make this change, when the work is complete the wiki would be updated with more information about the rat king of Temeschwar, and the Grandmaster of the Unfettered mind would have the opportunity to [[Concord#Guiding_an_Order|guide their order]] to do deeper investigations into the rats of Temeschwar in the season following its completion).

==Further Reading==
* [[Temeschwar]]

* [[Graveyard rats]] - 386YE Autumn wind of fortune about the rat plague
* [[Pitter patter]] - 386YE Summer wind of fortune about the rat plague
* [[They bit the cats]] - 386YE Spring wind of fortune introducing the rat plague

Bring you jewels

2026-04-22T13:35:18Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"It's nice but, it's not a walled city is it?" Said Inda

The two orcs stood on a low rise, gazing down towards the new fortress. The white granite of the aqueduct gleamed in the noonday sun. Gada swiped a sandfly away from their face and let out a long-suffering sigh.

"Inda, really? Really?" Gada shook their head. "It's a castle, Inda. An actual castle. The Grendel never built a castle here. But you're complaining because it isn't the right ''shape'' of castle?"

Their companion sputtered a little.

"It's just that if they were ''really'' planning to stay, they would have built a city, wouldn't they? Not just a fort. Anyone can build a ''fort'', especially on their frontier. Even the Beoraidhi have a ''fort''!"

"I love you, but I genuinely despair of you sometimes," said Gada, turning away. "It's a bloody castle, Inda. It's got a few thousand Unshackled armed to the teeth, ready to fight all comers, and there are armies down south fighting the damn Grendel as we speak, and you are genuinely complaining that it doesn't have streets? Honestly, there's no pleasing you sometimes."</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Mareave.png|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
The [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]] continues to prosper despite the best efforts of the [[Grendel]]. Their [[Lines of care and sorrow|attempt to recapture]] the arid lands have faltered and been [[Scarlet sands|driven back]]. Imperial armies clash with the warriors of the Broken Shore, and it is clear that the Empire has the upper hand. This victory, along with some egregious mishandling of the former Grendel [[orc|orcs]] in the territory, has gone a long way towards reassuring some of the more [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative|uncooperative]] septs that the Unshackled can deliver on their promises to build Mareave up into a jewel of the Empire.

Mareave is thriving. The grand aqueduct is complete, and Ruicraic's Redoubt proudly protects both it and the ruins of [[Mareave#Eoradahl|Eoradahl]]. The enigmatic mountain-folk of [[Skoura]] seem keen to [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Skoura|secure closer ties]] with their western neighbours. The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] still prizes its neutrality, but is clearly [[Each_age_a_lens#Beoraidh|facing up to the realities]] of living in an Imperial territory under "new management". The magicians of the [[Golden Pyramid]] have completed their [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Construct_Grand_Lodge_of_the_Golden_Pyramid|Grand Lodge]], and with it their year of investigations and investments looking for more opportunities to improve the [[prosperity]] of both the Unshackled and their own order.
==Golden Curtain Call==
<div style="float: right; max-width: 250px; margin-right: 10px;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Grand Lodge of Golden Pyramid.jpg|align=right|caption=The Grand Lodge of the Golden Pyramid stands as an example of Imperial wealth|title=Art by Anastasiya Lukashovna Volkov|width=250}}</div>
* '''The Golden Pyramid have completed their Grand Lodge
* '''The Lodge brings prestige to the region of Clisearn
* '''They have also completed their year of searching for opportunities in Mareave'''
The Grand Lodge of the [[Golden Pyramid]] has been completed. Despite some initial nervousness caused by the approach of Grendel armies, it stands strong in [[Mareave#Clisearn|Clisearn]], bringing [[Lit up#Golden Opportunity|many advantages]] to both the Imperial Orcs and the Golden Pyramid order itself. There is no doubt that this is a prestigious building - the heart of an entire [[Conclave order]] has been built in Clisearn - and this has the knock-on effect of granting prestige to the families of former Grendel that live nearby. There has been no open movement yet, but magicians of the Lodge recount informal approaches from all three of the major Clisearn families wishing to discuss opportunities for trade and advancement. Clisearn has consequently lost the [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative|uncooperative]] quality. The orcs here are not ''friends'' of the Empire or the Unshackled, but neither are they openly opposing them.

The completion of the Grand Lodge also marks the end of the year its members have spent talking to inhabitants from across Mareave in search of ways that both the prosperity of the territory and the Order could be improved. They have finished their investigations of the rich hills of Mareave and are, for the most part, looking forward to a rest ''not'' under threat from the Grendel. Assuming that the armies still in [[Mareave#Fleisardh|Fleisardh]] can be dealt with of course.

===What's Mine is Mine===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Expansion of Marr's Mine'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Nadir, Mareave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 8 wains of weirwood, 8 wains of white granite, 6 thrones, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title Patron of Nadir
* Improves Savurn Marr's opinion of the Empire
* Creates a bequeathment of one vial of prismatic ink for the Golden Pyramid
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Patron of Nadir'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial Orcs National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Can purchase ingots and mithril from the orcs of Nadir
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* Ensure continued good relations with the orcs of Nadir and represent the miners of Nadir if necessary
* Should the orcs of Nadir ever come under threat, Broker of Nadir would be in charge of defending them</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Wealth of the Hills'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 crowns</td><td>16 random ingots</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>24 random ingots</td></tr>
<tr><td>45 crowns</td><td>24 random ingots and one wain of [[mithril]]</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The mine of a local orc could be expanded, and the excess ingots purchased'''
The magicians of the Golden Pyramid have been exploring potential business deals with the orcs of the Broken Shore who have remained, and struck upon a potential agreement with a respected orc named ''Savurn Marr''. ''Savurn'' and his family have lived in the hills of northern Mareave for generations, and few can match their understanding of the terrain and its hidden wealth. The ''Marr'' are a little suspicious of the Imperial Orcs, but they have so far simply accepted that dominion over Mareave has shifted from Grendel to Unshackled, and broadly got on with their lives. Now, though, there is a lucrative opportunity for mutual enrichment and ''Savrun'' is singing a very different tune.

With the help of Golden Pyramid diviners, a rich untapped vein of metal has been uncovered in Savurn's own mine. If it can be opened up, there is significant potential for profit - there are even small deposits of [[mithril]] that could be mined here with enough investment. The mine belongs to Savurn, but if the Empire is willing to fund the expansion, they will provide an agreement for the Imperial Orcs to buy the additional output from him at heavily discounted rates. Furthermore, if there is sufficient investment, he will make a bequeathment of one vial of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]] each season to the Golden Pyramid, in thanks to the order for helping him find the lucrative new vein in the first place. Where he is getting the ink from is presumably a question for another time.

===Many Hands===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Stallion's Reward'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Sinecure]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Mareave#Clisearn|Clisearn, Mareave]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 20 wains of mithril, 60 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title '''Celestial Stable Hand'''
* Creates a sinecure that produces nine mana crystals and two pawns of vital honey, warm ashes, or hearthfire crystals each season
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Celestial Stable Hand'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Conclave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Declaration of Candidacy</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Receives 9 mana crystals per season
* Receives two vials of vital honey at the Winter Solstice
* Receives two pouches of warm ashes at the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes
* Receives two pots of hearthfire crystals at the Summer Solstice
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Should the Stallion's Reward ever come under threat, the Celestial Stable Hand would be in charge of its defence.</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Specials:'''
* If held by a member of the Golden Pyramid, then the Celestial Stable Hand will also receive two crowns each season
</table>
</div>
* '''Members of the order have drawn up a design to take advantage of the natural flows of magic in the territory'''
Over the last year, some of the more theoretically minded magicians of the Order have noticed something... decidedly odd about the eddies and currents of magical power that flow across the territory. Whether something ancient or something new, these flows of natural magic appear to correspond - more or less - with the constellation of [[the Stallion]]. With enough investment of [[mithril]] and a steady hand to keep a run of the things, the Golden Pyramid believe these energies could be focused into a confluence in [[Mareave#Clisearn|Clisearn]] that would make it produce mana crystals as normal. However, because of the peculiar shape of the flows, it will also produce an amount of [[vis]], the kind depending on the season.

The members of the order are happy to support the work necessary, but are insistent that the resulting title be appointed by [[Declaration]] of [[Candidacy]]. The good work of the grand lodge in Clisearn has ingratiated the order with the locals; if the title holder is a member of the Golden Pyramid, then they will receive an income of four crowns each season, from the ongoing relations with the orcs in the area.

==Build a Tower for Tomorrow==
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="float: right; margin-left:10px; width=50%; max-width:500px;">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Tower of the Immovable'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type: '''Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Eoradal, Mareave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 40 wains of white granite, 10 rings of ilium, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Removes uncooperative quality from Eoradal
* Provides an income of 216 rings to the Strategos of the Imperial Orcs
* Will establish a settlement in Mareave over the coming years</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Rucraic's Redoubt has been completed in Eoradal'''
* '''It is not possible to build ''another'' fortification in Eoradal'''
* '''Vranitas, herald of Cathan Canae, has suggested building a great tower to show they will not abandon the region'''
* '''It will be infused with adamant from the Summer realm'''
The [[fortification]] of [[We_all_stand#Storm_Lords_Sentinel|Rucraic's Redoubt]] has been completed, and a sturdy [[fortification|garrison]] recruited and armed. It now stands proudly at the Mareave end of the grand aqueduct, offering a place of sanctuary for the northern citizens of Mareave, and soldiers to protect the people all the way to the southern border. There is some discussion that the new fortification could serve as an excellent site for a [[embassy]] with [[Skoura]] if they could be persuaded to agree to such a thing.

The Redoubt is impressive, but it is not the same as creating a fortified town. Doing so was [[Here_to_stay#Not_Going_Anywhere|the original plan]] proposed by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater|Elian Sweetwater]] and the [[Tamazi]] for reassuring the septs of Eoradal that the Imperial Orcs were here to stay. They are surely impressed, but there are still a number who think that the fortress is a good start, but nowhere near sufficient to convince them that the Unshackled are serious about maintaining their dominion. There may, however, still be a way to get the advantages of both opportunities.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">
<quote by="Guineve du Couronne, on behalf of the Archmage of Summer">The Imperial Conclave, on behalf of the Imperial Orcs, accept the offer of Cathan Canae to send her heralds to Eoradal in Mareave to investigate a Summer fortification to the fortified town to be built there
</quote></div>
One way to achieve that would be to upgrade the existing fortification to incorporate the original plans for a walled settlement - but that would clearly be expensive. A different opportunity has presented itself in the form of ''Vranitas'', a [[Inhabitants of the realms#heralds|herald]] of [[Cathan Canae|The Immovable One]]. For the last few months, they have been knocking around Mareave, talking to both Imperial and local orcs, standing on hillsides looking moody, and kicking rocks and piles of sand. Their presence has gone unremarked until a trio of Golden Pyramid orcs literally bump into them in the ruins of Eoradal. According to the voluble Vranitas, they are here on the orders of their mistress to get a feel for Mareave and see how she might offer aid to the Imperial Orcs.

After discussion with the Golden Pyramid, Vranitas has suggested building a mighty tower at Ruicraic's Redoubt, something truly majestic that can be seen for miles. They believe this would demonstrate the intent of the Unshcakled to remain in a way that was tangible and visible to everyone in Eoradal - and that as a unique landmark it would serve naturally to draw people to the area. Both local orcs and Unshackled would come to the Redoubt, not only for water but also for companionship and the sense of security the castle brings. Vranitas has even offered to remain in the tower, providing his mistress' guidance, sparring with anyone who wishes to visit, and from the point of view of the Golden Pyramid providing a sign that the Immovable One supports the Unshackled intent to remain here.

If the proposed tower is built, then, over time, a new settlement will be established around Rucraic's Redoubt. It won't be a walled town, as originally planned, but rather a sprawling conurbation that might eventually grow to the size of a city. Rucraic's Redoubt could shelter people if the area was attacked and the landmark tower would give people confidence and certainty to settle here. Completing the Tower of the Immovable would remove the [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative|uncooperative]] quality from Eoradal.

Finally, the people drawn to the Tower and the Redoubt would provide funds to support the Unshackled nation, and especially the [[Strategos|Strategos of the Imperial Orcs]]. The Strategos is a figure whose duties plainly involve protecting Imperial Orcs lands - and the people who live on them. The tower would secure an income of 216 rings each season from donations, for as long as it remained standing and the region of Eoradal was controlled by the Imperial Orcs.

Opportunity

2026-04-22T13:06:59Z

Dre:

==Overview==
An opportunity represents a chance to do something that players could not normally do themselves. Opportunities are seeded into the game by our [[plot crew|plot]] team. An opportunity often brings with it the ability to do something at a reduced cost, or in a way that could not normally be achieved. For example, a group of talented armour smiths might offer to outfit several [[military unit|military units]] with light-weight armour, effectively upgrading them at a reduced cost in mithril - but only a handful of units can benefit from this opportunity.

A common type of opportunity is the chance to pass a judgement of [[mandate]] in the [[Synod]]; these often arise as a result of a [[statement of principle]] passed with a greater majority at an earlier event.
==Purpose==
Opportunities are intended to present the players with choices that they can make - or ignore. For example, the armour smiths above might also suggest that they could instead turn their attention to making a single suit of [[runeplate]] every Summer to presented to a specific general on the [[Military Council]], in return for a supply of mithril they can use to improve their forges. It would be up to the Imperial Senate which option they choose to exploit.

Opportunities generally present options or chances - they will usually not be framed in terms of things the players ''must'' do. In the example above, the players could decline the offer if they wanted to or considered the cost to be too great. Depending on the nature of the opportunity they might be able to take advantage of it at a later date, or it might be a one-time offer.

The parameters of the opportunity are often carefully set and while the players have some leeway in how to respond it is not usually possible to spread or increase the benefit being offered. In the example above, they could not, however, try to get the armour smiths to equip four armies at a reduced cost even if they had the mithril.
==Necessary Details==
Under normal circumstances, the player who raises a motion can define the [[Motion_wording#Necessary_Details|necessary details]]. With an opportunity, some or all of those details will either be predefined, or only a small number of options will be available.

This also applies to flavour text. With a normal construction you have a large amount of sway to basically write the flavour text for the shape and structure. Provided that the flavour text is consistent with the setting. With an opportunity much of the work will be being done by active NPCs rather than being overseen by a player - and that can significantly curtail their input. Instead of being the architect, the player is often in the role of a rich patron trying to get an artist to do what they want. Effectively, the player can make requests - but the artist has a vision - and they may or may not accommodate outside input.

For example, when taking advantage of the opportunity presented by [[Those_who_worship#Almodin_Okt.C3.ADstis.2C_Priest_of_the_Builder|Almodin Oktístis]], it is not possible to prevent him from adding [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] elements to any design he oversees. The player might be able to guide or suggest the broad outline of a commission, but ultimately the NPC determines the shape of a structure if he is involved in a construction.
==Building Opportunities==
* '''Building opportunities give unique advantages that cannot be achieved with standard commissions'''
* '''They require the commission to follow specific criteria laid down by the opportunity'''
The proposals that the Empire might commission the [[#Houses of Healing|Houses of Healing]], [[#Winewater Hall|Winewater Hall]], and [[#Greenwatch|Greenwatch]] are examples of building [[opportunity|opportunities]]. While they provide unique benefits, they also come with specific restrictions. It's not possible to get the benefits proposed without accepting the restrictions. It might be possible to negotiate with Ossegrahn to tweak some of these requirements; for example they might be persuaded to support the building of healing houses somewhere else. However, without the approval of the NPC power - in this case the eternal Ossegrahn - these commissions will do ''nothing''. They might still be built - in these specific opportunities it is not the building itself that is important but the people who will populate it - but the result would not be an [[Imperial title]]. Instead, they would effectively become an [[edifice]]. It might be possible to persuade Ossegrahn to support them after they are built, but this is by no means guaranteed.

The same considerations apply to the titles they create. In each case, Ossegrahn has specified that these titles must have specific responsibilities. It's not possible to create these titles without these responsibilities. It might be possible to add ''more'' responsibilities, outlined in the [[Commission#Necessary_Details|necessary details]] of the commission, but if they aren't broadly in line with the rest of the responsibilities, the eternal might withdraw their support again leaving the title with no powers.

==Amending and Improving==
It's usually not possible to amend, improve, or upgrade a commission that was created as part of an opportunity through the normal means. Many opportunities involve NPCs - trading partners, [[eternal]] patrons and the like. You generally can't make an eternal give you more [[vis]] just by throwing [[white granite]] at their statue, nor force a foreign merchant to increase the amount of trade goods flowing through your market. In cases like this, it requires another opportunity to improve a commission. One way to try and do this is through the same kinds of negotiations that can lead to an opportunity in the first place - contacting the NPCs and laying out your proposals for example.
==Creating Opportunities==
There are a number of levers built in to the game that may lead to opportunities. The most obvious is a statement of principle in the general assembly that receives a greater majority, or the appraisal power of the Imperial senate. It's impossible to dictate what the outcome of engaging with levers such as this will be - you can specify the problem you are concerned about for example but trying to ensure you get the answer you want will always lead to disappointment.

One route that won't work is contacting Profound Decisions to request an opportunity out of character. In fact doing so will make it less likely that the opportunity occurs! We're very very keen that opportunities arise as the result of plots or actions taken in game by players using the levers to hand. As a result we have to make sure we don't encourage players to email in asking by giving them what they want. We always direct any anyone inquiring towards the game levers - like appraisal - so you always have those routes. But asking means we're much less likely to spontaneously offer something like what you want as a plot!

==Availability==
* '''Most opportunities are only available for a limited time'''
* '''The default period, if nothing is listed, is one year starting at the event where the wind of fortune is published'''
* '''Any opportunity may disappear early, if there are significant changes in the ongoing campaign which would affect it'''
* '''You can email us at any time to check the availability of an opportunity if you believe that events may have overtaken it'''
In most cases, an opportunity will not be around forever. We will usually state how long the opportunity is available for - if we don't provide that information then you can email {{plot}} to check, but the default amount of time is a year from the event where it first becomes available. That means that if you don't take up the opportunity before the same event comes round next year, then it will no longer be available.

In all cases, the availability exists while nothing substantial changes. If the situation changes and other developments overtake it, then an opportunity may cease to be available earlier than promised. For example, if there is an opportunity to build a sinecure with the help of a sept of orcs - but the Empire declares them to be barbarians and attacks them - then the opportunity will no longer be available. It is always possible to email {{plot}} to check if an outstanding opportunity is available, but it is only necessary to do so if something significant has changed regarding the particulars.

[[Category:Senate]]
[[Category:Game Design]]

Apparently with no surprise

2026-04-22T10:35:04Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=All the way to Anvil.jpg|caption=Anvil, a city of tents, has many things available to the discerning individual.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
It is not just the great and the good of the Empire who come to [[Anvil]] each equinox and solstice. The tent-city that springs up around the [[Anvil#The_Forge|the Forge]] attracts visitors from all over the known world, and beyond. Some are drawn by the promise of wealth, some by the need to find the wisest and the bravest to help them resolve their dilemmas, some seek to influence those who wield true power in the Empire, and others come to celebrate and forge new relationships with those drawn to the heart of Imperial power.

Some who plan to visit Anvil are at pains to conceal their arrival, or their intentions. Others, though, make no secret of their intentions - indeed they often choose to send word ahead to ensure that those they hope to make contact with are prepared for them. Here, we talk about some of those who have been most public in their desire to meet those who throng to Anvil.

==Friday==
===And to Dust You Shall Return===
* '''The funerary procession of a Sarcophan notable is en route to Anvil'''
* '''Their journey has been delayed, and they expect to arrive at the Highguard Chapel at around 19.30 on Friday'''
[[Met_a_pilgrim_shadow#A_Casinean_Funeral|Last summit]], Sarcophan undertaker ''Bastiaan van Krommemuil'' attended Anvil to request hospitality and entertainment for a funeral they had been tasked with organising on Casinean soil. Highborn art and culture have become fashionable among a circle of Sarcophan socialites with unusual beliefs, since the construction of the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Cathedral_of_the_Navigators|Cathedral of the Navigators]], and the influx of Imperial priests that it brought. Commonly called the 'Collectors' in Imperial, they have a particular interpretation of the Sarcophan faith and have begun to incorporate aspects of Highguard iconography - though there is no indication that they have any interest in following the Way.

A procession organised by Bastiaan has been spotted arriving on Imperial shores and making its long journey to Anvil. Rough seas have seen them dock a couple of days later than they would have hoped, but they are now en route. The procession is made up of friends, family and mourners of ''Hester van de Moerassen'', an extraordinarily rich woman whose unexpected death came the very morning she was expected to take a seat at the great table of the [[Sarcophan_Delves#Politics|palace of beggars]].

Hester's loved ones, her preserved remains, and Bastiaan themselves expect to arrive at the Highguard Chapel at around half past seven on the Friday evening of the upcoming summit. Bastiaan has sent word ahead to request that those they discussed hosting the funeral party with could meet them there. They also remind those involved that Hester's gathered beloved would dearly love to speak to her one final time as part of the ceremony, and ask if it might be possible for [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] to be performed as part of the proceedings.

Additional information about the [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#The_Monument_Trade|sect of the Collectors]], and the problems surrounding [[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Polite_Correspondence|Sarcophan funerals]] can be found in the '''[[A wild night and a new road]]''' wind of fortune.

==Saturday==
===To Uncover a Reason===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderUnfetteredMind.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderRodAndShield.jpg|title=Order of the Rod and Shield|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Odd visitors are travelling to Anvil to attend the meetings of the Unfettered Mind and the Rod and Shield
* '''They plan to be at the Hub at 14:00 on Saturday
There are reports from across [[Casinea]] of folks even stranger than usual on their way to [[Anvil]]. There is, apparently, something about them that is a little off-putting although folk are seemingly unable to put precisely what it is into words. According to ''Abagtha, child of Mariam'', a [[magister]] from [[Casinea#Syrene|Syrene]], there's something decidedly "''off''" about the visitors and suggests that citizens should remain [[Vigilance|vigilant]] for any nefarious wrongdoings. Abagtha warns that they have claimed to be planning to visit the gatherings of the [[Rod and Shield]] and the [[Unfettered Mind]] on Saturday, though they reportedly refuse to give an answer on why, explaining to those who question them that they are simply travellers who are very interested in the two orders' recent actions and what they might have planned for the future.

===Sour Grapes and Wilting Flowers===
* '''A Sarcophan merchant who has an ongoing deal with the farmers of Hahnmark wishes to speak to them about their ongoing viezesmaak arrangement'''
* '''A rival merchant also wishes to speak to Hahnmark farmers about the draaikolkbloem some sold them during the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''Both merchants have independently asked to meet interested farmers at the Tree of Names in the Wintermark camp at 16:15 on Saturday'''
* '''It would likely be problematic if the two merchants spoke to each other about their business arrangements'''

The [[farm|farms]] in [[Hahnmark]] have bloomed in pink for some seasons now, as farmers have given over patches of land to growing crops for the narcotic Viezesmaak in a business arrangement with [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] merchants, the [[Waiting_for_the_worms#Brothers_Kraft|Kraft brothers]]. Although the brothers have sent associates to Anvil to speak to the farmers a few times over the past year, it has been some time since either brother has successfully made the journey themselves. They have promised to meet Hahnmark farmers this Anvil summit - though ''Gelder Kraft'' has sent word ahead that his brother ''Florian'' has suffered some injuries after a yellow lotus-fuelled altercation left him worse for wear, and is resting in a wayhouse some distance from Anvil. Gelder will finish the long journey himself and wishes to meet Hahnmark farmers at the Tree of Names to discuss their current business arrangement and whether it continues to serve the best interests of both parties. He expects to arrive at 16:15 on Saturday.

Gelder Kraft is not the only Sarcophan merchant en route to speak to the farmers of Hahnmark, however. Renaten van Zuredruiven, a renowned vintner, has visited the farmers in previous seasons to discuss a unique flower which was found within their harvest for the Kraft Brothers. Those flowers have wilted and died, but Renaten's cousin ''Bramme van Zuredruiven'' has announced their intention to travel to Anvil to speak to Hahnmark farmers about potential future trade. Bramme won't be able to draw up any contracts without the input of their cousin, Renaten himself, but they can listen to the gathered voices and report back. This is their first visit to the Casinean Empire, and their unfamiliarity with the route has slowed them down somewhat. They expect to make it to the Tree of Names in the Wintermark camp at 16:15 on the Saturday of the Winter Solstice.

A few experts in Sarcophan trade have raised some concerns about the coming meetings. It is extremely unlikely that the Zuredruivens and the Kraft brothers have deliberately arranged to meet at the same time and place as each other. Indeed, there is nothing to suggest that the Kraft Brothers are even aware that the Zuredruivens have approached Hahnmark farmers. What is known is that Sarcophans tend to nip business competition in the bud rather swiftly and aggressively. It should be expected that both meetings will go much worse for everyone involved if the Zuredruivens and Kraft brothers meet each other in Anvil.

===Voices of Authority===
* '''Alders of Mitwold are travelling to Anvil to speak about the defence of the territory'''
* '''They are planning on arriving at 17:00 and will go first to the Community Hall in the Marches'''
{{CaptionedImage|file=William Guildenstern.jpg|caption='''William Guildenstern''', General of the Drakes|align=right|width=400}}
The [[Rose grow the rushes o'|sudden and overwhelming assault]] by the [[Jotun]] on [[Mitwold]] has left some inhabitants of the territory in a state of shock. Not only is Mitwold teetering on the brink of being in Jotun hands, the city of [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]] itself, the pride of [[the Marches]], has been captured. Unsurprisingly, Mitwold folk are a bit anxious, so a group of [[The_Marches_economic_interests#Alder|alders]] have decided to take it upon themselves to make the great journey to Anvil to speak with folks there about what is being done to resolve the situation.

The alders are especially interested to hear from '''William Guildenstern''', [[Drakes|General of the Drakes]], given that the army is [[Drakes#Oathsworn|oathsworn]] come to their defence next season. They understand that a single army stands a dandelion's chance in a hurricane with just how many Jotun are doing ox-work to their fields. This isn't some normal incursion into a border territory like the Mourn or Bregas; they've hit proper Marcher homeland now, even losing Upwold wouldn't be as bad as this!

The Alders are expected to arrive on Saturday at 17:00 to share in some good food and fine company and learn about what preparations the Empire plans for the defence of its most important and valuable territory. They look forward to hearing oaths from those who will commit to coming to Mitwold's aid, whether Marcher or not.
{{SOP|statement=Far and further went the Fist of the Mountains in the service of the Empire. Easterly, southerly, to Urizen came they: beneath other mountains they fought to the last. And against that bulwark the Grendel faltered. Behind their bodies stand spires that would have fallen. Far-seeing, vision-guided, they were where they were needed, though none knew it until the hammer fell. Cold cannot compromise. They stood, as the mountain, until the end.|by=Yrkja Riansson Sigeing, Wintermark Assembly|vote=284-0|when=Autumn 387YE|size=small}}{{SOP|statement=Urizen recognises the Virtue and the Heroism of the Fist of the Mountains. Umarth Winter’s Flame Kannask - Savior of Elos: you know the lesson of the Mountain, that things are not easy, and we honour for the sacrifice you have made. I offer this oath to you, and to the people of Wintermark: Urizen will forever remember the gift you have given us, and we will honour it with our Ambition. We will build a navy. We will not let the Grendel and Asavean scum cow us and make us afraid. You have stoked our Courage, our Ambition, and our Loyalty. You have forged a chain between our peoples. The gift of the Mountain will never be forgotten.|by=Clytemnestra, Urizen Assembly|vote=264-12|when=Autumn 387YE|size=small}}
===The Deconstruction of Falling Stars===
* '''A group of Urizen are travelling to Anvil to speak with seers and illuminates, along with stormcrows and mystics'''
* '''The Spire of the Stallion's Volition plan to arrive in Anvil at 19:00 on Saturday and will go first to the Urizen camp'''
The National Assemblies of both [[Urizen]] and [[Wintermark]] noted the [[To ruin|ultimate sacrifice]] made by the [[Fist of the Mountains]] to defend [[Redoubt]]. This has inspired members of a spire who were close enough to see the last charge of the [[Army_qualities#Farsighted|farsighted]] army from their homes to visit Anvil. The ''Spire of the Stallion's Volition'' hope to see the chain forged between the heroes of the north-west and the masters of the high peaks.

The ''Spire of the Stallion's Volition'' are adept at the divinatory realms of Day, Night and Winter, who make great use of the tradition of astronomancy. The seers work with their illuminates to ensure that the information they glean from the stars is well-recorded and passed on to those who need to hear it.

A group of them intend to arrive at Anvil on Saturday at 19:00, and travel first to the Urizen camp to meet with interested [[seer|seers]] and [[illuminate|illuminates]], and from there, make their way to the Wintermark camp. At the Wintermark camp, they wish to engage in a cultural exchange of the different methods of divination with [[stormcrow|stormcrows]] and [[mystic|mystics]]. They hope that experiencing other forms of divination might help those who seek a closer relationship between the nations. Some of the apprentices of the spire have let slip that they are rather excited to be taught how to partake in [[Goosewhisper Infusion]], to the disapproving glares of their mentors.

===Whatever Happened to Mendicant Garev?===
<div style="float:left; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Speaker of Highborn Assembly.jpg|caption='''Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard''', Speaker of the Highborn Assembly|align=right|width=200}}</div>
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====Accessibility & Content Warning====
<div class='mw-collapsed mw-collapsible'>There is no combat intended in this encounter, but it will involve claustrophobia and, due to its nature, is unsuitable for participants who would struggle with navigating narrow spaces and potentially crawling over or under things.
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</div>
* '''A Highborn priest is stuck in a treacherous cave system near Casca's Fall'''
* '''This conjunction is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
*'''The incumbent ''Speaker of the Highborn Assembly'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for rescuing Garev'''
Many people come to Anvil, including mendicant priests who enjoy partaking in the local brews and ales. A few nights before the Winter Solstice, ''Garev'', a [[wayfarer]] returning from time spent in the Marches, was taking part in one of the gatherings that often occur in settlements close to Anvil as traders and the like prepare to receive visitors from across the Empire and beyond. Unfortunately, whilst returning from relieving himself, he managed to fall down a crevice. When his companions noticed his disappearance, they reached out and managed to inform a nearby host of [[Highguard egregore|Escon]], who confirmed that Garev is indeed still alive, apparently under [[Casinea#Casfall|Casfall]], in some distress, and rather badly injured.

A hasty effort was made to rescue ''Garev'', but the attempt had to be abandoned due to the treacherous nature of the caves and the utter darkness within. Garev's companions have asked that '''Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard''', the incumbent [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]], organise a small group of up to four Naga whose [[Naga#Luxuriant_Senses|keen senses]] will allow them to find their way in and out of the caves without getting lost. Woefully, the caves will still be very treacherous. Whoever goes will need to be able to get in, provide whatever medical attention the poor mendicant needs, and get back out again, all the whilst avoiding anything that might trigger a collapse.

==Sunday==
===A Decrepit Flower===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Owners of herb gardens in Highguard are travelling to visit the Apothecaries' Guild
* '''They plan to arrive at 10:00 on Sunday and will journey first to the Freeborn camp
A collection of [[highguard|Highborn]] herbalists is growing concerned with the amount of [[Winter magic]] being used to enchant [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The group, made up of several small [[chapter|chapters]] from across Highguard, are worried that potential overuse of [[Ruthless Vigilance, Healthy Crop]] might have unforeseen consequences. They believe that a potential replacement ritual could be found using [[Spring magic]], pointing at [[Woven Strands of Life]] in Urizen lore as a clear example. There are even rumours that one of the [[arcane projection|arcane projections]] tied to [[Ossegrahn]] that were gifted to the [[Silver Chalice]] and the [[landskeeper|landskeepers]] of the Marches, relates in some way to improving the bounty harvested from a herb garden, and that will still work even if Cupbearer has turned away from the Empire.

They plan to bring their concerns to the [[Apothecaries Guild]], and find out if there's any appetite within the sodality to search for change. If a new ritual can be found - or even [[College_of_magic#Ritual_Texts|codified]] - and a declaration raised to add it to Imperial lore, then the Highborn would be able to fund the cost of ten thrones. The magisters' chaptermates have been complaining about the lack of good-quality flavouring for their food, and the benefactors have offered to cover the cost on the understanding that the resultant ritual text won't kill off basil and rosemary.

===Strange Relations===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Charnel Lord.jpg|align=right|caption=The Charnel Lord is dual-aspected; a lord of battlefields and a lord of dark magic.|width=600}}</div>
* '''Representatives of the Charnel Lord are visiting Anvil to participate in the Feast of Looms'''
* '''They expect to arrive at 12:30 on Sunday and will journey to the Varushkan camp'''
Now that the 'feast' of the [[Iron Helms]] has concluded, the [[Charnel Lord]] appears to be turning its attention back to matters at home in [[Karsk]]. Boyars across [[Varushka]] have reported receiving messages from the ''Raven'' that he has dispatched a delegation to Anvil to take part in the [[Varushka_culture_and_customs#The_Feast_of_the_Loom|Feast of the Loom]]. It would seem from the missives that ''The King Beneath the Hill'' also wants to make sure that the citizens of [[Karsk]], especially those who make their homes close to [[Karsk#Broken_Barrow|Broken Barrow]], still value him as their protector. ''Battlefed'' is seeking a collection of [[magic items]], especially those fuelled by the power of an [[eternal]], and has said that he will consume their power to produce "''something''" to benefit the people of Karsk. Or, at least, those true children of Karsk who chose to stay rather than rush off into Ossium for the promise of riches.

The representatives of ''Irontooth'' are expected to arrive at 12:30 at the border of the Varushkan camp, to be welcomed in and led to the Loom.

'''OOC Note:''' If anyone agrees to offer items to these representatives, they will claim the ribbon from the item, leaving the phys-rep with the owner.
===Sular's Spyglass Inquisition===
{{SOP|statement=I call the sect of <u>Sular’s Spyglass</u> to inquisition and request the presence of <u>Oradora, Teresa and Apprendio</u> at the next summit of Anvil. As I am to understand, Azir i Shartha i Riqueza - the predecessor of my new position as Inquisitor of Ambition - tried to offer the sect a way to conclude their investigations without inquisition which has been refused. As such, it is my duty to investigate the alleged activity of the false virtue of vengeance within this sect|by=Abreya de Lagriffe, General Assembly|vote=Automatically upheld|when=Autumn 387YE}}
* '''Sular's Spyglass will attend their inquisition at 13:00 on Sunday, at The Hub.'''
* '''Recent changes to Imperial law may change the scope of this inquisition, but the inquisition itself is still valid.'''
At the Autumn Equinox, the [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]], '''Abreya de Lagriffe''', raised a [[387YE Autumn Equinox Synod judgements#Judgement_199|judgement of inquisition]] to call the Freeborn sect ''Sular's Spyglass'' to Anvil, alleging that they had refused other remediation. The sect has responded to say that they will come to the Hub at 13:00 on Sunday. Though they are intending to meet '''Abreya''' at the Hub, they would appreciate it if the inquisition itself could be held in more comfortable quarters.

''Theresa i Regalos i Riqueza'' assures the inquisitor that she will be there, and hopes to bring ''Oradora i Mentirosa i Riqueza'' and ''Malevola i Mentirosa i Riqueza'' with her. Regrettably, ''Apprendio i Veridad i Riqueza'' may not be able to attend Anvil at the moment, due to injuries sustained fighting the wreckers.

Even though the Constitutional Court has announced its [[Figure of eight|review]] of religious crime, the changes will not take effect until the end of the Winter Solstice. As such, the Synod has all the power available to it that it has employed for decades to shine a light on the sect's activities and potentially convince them to change course before any further crimes might be committed.

===New Season, Same Loom Of Spells===
* '''Access to the Loom of Spells will be auctioned at 14:00 on Sunday at the Imperial Regio'''
* '''The Loom of Spells continues to be controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''
Ritual codification is a complex process, usually undertaken by experienced specialists with long years of training and access to the finest reagents and tomes of recondite knowledge. Yet it seems that with a little help from the Autumn realm, a precocious child can achieve similar results! The Loom of Spells, a bizarre magical contraption owned by the [[Prospero|''Prince of Ties'']] but temporarily leased to the Church of the Little Mother, can weave arcane projections into rituals with surprising ease. Such is the power of the realms of magic. It's certainly giving the orphans of the Little Mother a strong magical education.

The Church continues to auction the services of the Loom of Spells to the great and the good (and the wealthy) of Anvil. As such, they will be sending a Bishop to the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday to take bids from those who wish to see their rituals codified. The Loom of Spells can only codify rituals of the tenth magnitude or lower, though [[Quick Study]] in Urizen lore can enhance this. The Church reminds people that they take bids in quantities of ingots and measures, and that they are willing to accept bids in mixtures of different materials, caring only about the amount of raw materials handed over.

What regulates the wheel?

2026-04-22T10:23:27Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>Aquillia settled herself down on the pillows she had pulled from the bed. Even though she had opened the windows wide, the room was full of shadows. The sun was setting outside, twilight creeping in. It had become her little ritual, to seek a vision when time hung between the day and the night. The only unnatural light in the room was a single squat candle, marked with tiny spots of weltsilver paint picking out the stars of the Phoenix and the Key over and over. She would need to buy a new one once she returned home, she realised.

Set over the candle was a beautifully delicate little pot of water, already steaming gently, held in place by a tripod of deceptively sturdy legs. She held her finger a few inches above the surface of the water, waiting until the steam was just the right temperature. She breathed in and out slowly, repeating a simple mantra over and over in her head that helped centre her thoughts on the days that were to come, putting aside the days that were past, locking the concerns of the day away behind an imaginary door wrapped in strong chains. Then, with quick and sure movements, she decanted four drops of thick midnight-blue liquid into the pot. As it slowly dispersed through the gently steaming liquid, she held the little clay bottle to her nose and inhaled deeply. Others found the acrid smell unappealing, but she privately found she enjoyed the way it made her nostrils tingle and her breath catch. It reminded her of the high peaks of home, where the winter wind could steal ones breath away.

Then she leant forward and breathed in the cerulean-tinged steam, drawing it deep inside her lungs. She held her breath for thirty seconds, counting them out slowly in her head, and then exhaled. She settled back on her cushion, and let the vision wash over her.

Three minutes later, Aquillia burst into the common room of the inn, eyes wide. There were perhaps a dozen people staying here - the inn was run by an Urizen who knew the importance of giving everyone a little space - and so she easily found Vaanes. She grabbed her friend by the shoulder, poise in tatters. Vaanes knew something was wrong immediately, his brow creasing as he looked up. He put his hand on hers.

"Aquillia," he said in his surprisingly deep voice. "What's wrong? What..."

She didn't wait for him to finish. "We have to leave!" she announced. "Right now. We have to get to Anvil before sunrise. Something... the behemoth shifts in its sleep! Mountains rise like talons from the waters! Do you see? Do you... the shepherd drowns, Vaanes! The wheel clicks, the key turns in the lock! Don't you understand? There is blood in the bowl, and the bowl is cracked, and the... flames! Flames on my face! All is..."

By now everyone was looking at her. When she had gone upstairs she had been the very picture of Urizen reserve, polite and well spoken, civil without inviting intrusion. Now she looked like another person entirely, eyes wide but seemingly not seeing the same world as before; lips and fingertips stained the palest of blues; barely coherent wrestling with an almost overwhelming tidal wave of fear.

"It's breaking!" she cried out at last, her voice splintering with despair. "It's all coming down!"

And then she collapsed, and chaos erupted around her.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Pillar and smoke.png|align=right|caption=The door to the Hall of Worlds has slipped away, forcing the civil service to erect two stones to mark its new location. Almost as if it were frightened to stay in the Imperial regio, one might say...|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
Something bad has happened at [[Anvil]]. The [[Regio#The Imperial regio|Imperial regio]], the site of countless thousands of rituals across the history of the Empire, seems to have cracked. The endless well of power it once represented seems to have run dry. There are signs and portents, and a surfeit of mysteries, and no indication of what it may mean not only for Imperial magicians, but for the Empire itself. At the moment many of its properties still seem to be intact but one key attribute has vanished, leaving magicians across Anvil anxious about what it might portend.

But we mustn't run ahead of ourselves, that will just increase the worry. Instead let's start at the beginning, two weeks ago, with the matter of the new entrance to the [[Anvil#The_Hall_of_Worlds|Hall of Worlds]]...
==Hall on the Run==
* '''The connection between the hall of worlds and the Imperial Regio has been severed'''

Previously the Hall of Worlds has always been accessed via the [[Regio#The_Imperial_Regio|Imperial regio]]. It was possible for any magician to use the [[operate portal]] cantrip to step out of the mortal world and into the chamber between the Empire and the eternal realms. Two weeks before the Winter Solstice, the constellations of [[the Door]], [[the Lock]], and [[the Key]] come into conjunction and that door... disappears.

Predictably this disappearance prompts a rising panic. The Hall of Worlds is instrumental to the operation of the [[Conclave]] and serves as a reliable way for [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] to enter [[Anvil]] from the eternal [[realms]]. Before things can spiral completely out of control, a [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] magician uses dowsing and [[Operate_portal#Identify_Portal|portal divination]] to rediscover the Hall. It seems that the portal that used to lead to the magical location has indeed separated from the Imperial regio, but it has not gone far. It lies a few minutes travel from the Imperial regio itself. To help magicians find it, the [[Civil Service|civil service]] have erected two obsidian standing stones marked with constellations to indicate the location of the new portal. It can be used to access or leave the Hall of Worlds [[Regio#The_Anvil_Portal|in the usual manner]], with the only difference being it is the marker stones that should be touched rather than the stones of the Imperial regio.

Preliminary divinations indicate that for purposes of rituals such as [[Pakaanan's Iron Shutters]], the door to the Hall of Worlds acts just like any portal to a chamber. Oddly, though, there does not seem to be a regio connected to this portal, which means it is not affected (presumably) by rituals cast on the Imperial regio. Just how independant of the Imperial regio this portal is cannot easily be determined at this time. It's not common but it's not unknown for a portal connecting a regio and a chamber to be offset within that regio, connected to specific structures, or even hidden. It may be that this portal is simply "offset" from the regio - but it may also be that the door has for some reason disconnected entirely.

Investigation of the portal is put on the back burner shortly before the Winter Solstice when something significantly more concerning occurs.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Blood Red Regio.jpg|align=right|width=400|caption=Strange things afoot at the Imperial regio.}}</div>
==Broken Regio==
* '''It is no longer possible to use the Imperial regio to empower rituals
The Imperial Regio, for nearly four hundred years, has been a centre of Imperial magic. It serves as the beating heart of the Empire's [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion|dominion]] over itself. Three days before the Winter Solstice, that changes. A Dawnish coven, early arrivals to Anvil, attempt to draw on the Imperial regio to [[enchantment|enchant]] several knights and discover that the traditional enhancement power offered by the regio is... just not there. Several other covens attempting to use the regio themselves report the same thing. By the time the civil service get involved, news has spread throughout Anvil and begins to run wildfire to those travelling through Casinea to attend the summit.

The magicians at Anvil are able to determine several things.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Mawrig.png|title=Rune: Mawrig|align=right}}
* The regio will still allow rituals to be cast more quickly; specifically those rituals that in other circumstances would require ten minutes to rouse the power and bind it to the magicians' wills can still be cast in five minutes.
* It is still a "strong regio", connected to all six realms of magic. Rituals that must be performed at a strong regio can still be performed using the Imperial regio, and it still remains connected to every Imperial territory. That unique property seems unchanged. If anything some of the covens report it as feeling stronger, somehow. Not in any way that facilitates the performance of magic but in a palpable way that anyone who draws on this property can feel. [[Urizen]] magicians are also able to confirm that it is also possible to use the Imperial regio in conjunction with the [[Citadel Guard]] to focus magic and channel rituals through the Urizen [[army]]. Again, the feeling of strong connection is palpable, and a coven who attempts to test this report receiving an odd sense of connection to the sentinels and magicians of the army that they have not felt before.
* Bargains with [[eternal|eternals]] that allow magicians to use operate portal to send or receive boons still seem to function normally although its not clear exactly ''how'' they are working. Some members of the [[Celestial Arch]] speculate it is because whatever else has happened the Imperial regio remains connected to all the magical realms. What the operate portal spell can't do is locate or open any gate at the Imperial regio leading to a chamber.
* Rituals that require the Imperial regio to work such as [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] will still operate normally.
* The biggest problem is that the key power that so many Imperial magicians have relied on for nearly four centuries seems to be inaccessible. Since it was first discovered, the Imperial regio has been used to enhance [[rituals]] cast within it. Harness its power allowed ritual magicans to improve their [[Magical skills#Ritual lores|realm lore]] to allow them to wield more powerful magic safely. This property does not seem to be available; attempts to draw on that power simply find... nothing.

Obviously, this is a cause of significant consternation. There are any number of [[enchantment|enchantments]], consumables, [[potion|potions]], and [[magic items]] that can be used to empower magicians to wield their realm lores more effectively but none of them are as easily available as the Imperial regio - and few of them can be acquired for free. It is likely that there will be a significant increase in the demand for [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] who can craft elixirs such as [[Tinctures of True Eminence#Dragon's Blood|Dragon's Blood]] or [[Decoctions of Hoarfrost#Sorrow's Mask|Sorrow's Mask]]. Covens able to enhance ritual magic with spells such as [[Sift the Dreamscape's Sands]] or [[Fire in the Blood]] may likewise find themselves in demand. If whatever is going on with the Imperial regio persists, it's likewise likely that there will be additional markets for [[:Category:Foci|magical foci]].
{{Anchor|Participation: Using the Imperial Regio}}
<br><br><big>'''Participation: Using the Imperial Regio'''</big><br>
Magicians who use the regio to target a territory in the Empire, experience a supernatural sense of connection. The magic seems to flow more easily, they feel a sense of confidence that they can handle the challenge of performing a ritual. They also experience an almost numinous sense of their position in the Empire and within Imperial society, and how they are connected to the territory that they target. If they are familiar with the territory memories of the locations they have visited there will flood their thoughts; even if they have never been there they will dream of visiting the territory next time they sleep. Anyone using the Imperial regio to target an Imperial territory is encouraged to refresh their memory of that territory on the wiki.

The same effect is experienced by anyone using the Citadel Guard connection to perform magic, but in addition they feel a physical connection to the Urizeni that make up that army. They may experience flashes of displacement that cause them to imagine for a moment they are a soldier in the army, or they may experience sensory phantoms related to the territory. The Citadel Guard are in [[Semmerholm]] at the moment - sensory phantoms might include the taste of good Dawnish wine or food, a chill scent of winter blossoms or a hint of snow in the air, or afterimages of a Dawnish castle or manor, or distant woods. These phantoms persist for a few minutes after the ritual is completed.

==Determined But Difficult==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderUnfetteredMind.jpg|title=Order of the Unfettered Mind|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderShutteredLantern.jpg|title=Order of the Shuttered Lantern|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Initial investigation of the Imperial regio has been cautious and limited
* '''It's proposed that further information might be discovered through the use of key divination rituals
* '''A powerful shroud lies over the regio, its source unclear
* '''The civil service have asked the Grandmasters of the Unfettered Mind and Shuttered Lantern to take the lead on supporting the investigation of the regio
So far the magicians at Anvil have restricted themselves to the [[detect magic#divination|simple divination]] allowed by the [[detect magic]] cantrip and attempting to cast simple rituals such as [[Strength of the Bull]]. Their detections have confirmed that there appears to be a shroud over the Imperial Regio - one that prevents detect magic alone from discovering anything useful. The Unfettered Mind are confident that the [[Hakima's Glass]] ritual could penetrate this shroud if performed at magnitude thirty, or it could be broken with [[Piercing Light of Revelation]] performed at magnitude sixty. Given that it isn't possible to draw on the regio to enhance these castings, it's clear that this is not going to be easy.

The main value of using the ''Hakima's Glass'' divination is that it can determine what other methods, if any, can determine information about the effect on the Imperial regio. There is a consensus that some rituals that might be of use include [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]], [[Shadowed Glass of Sung]],[[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]], and perhaps [[Wisdom of the Balanced Blade]]. Wilder speculation suggests [[Dreams in the Witch House]] or [[Eye of the High Places]] performed on [[Casinea]] could give some hints, given the Imperial regio is such a historic place. There is even more wide-ranging discussion of the possibility that more obscure rituals such as [[Skein of Years]] or [[Gralka's Gift to the Lost Seeker]] might find something. The main problem is that, without a successful divination first there's no way to be sure which methods will yield useful information. The second problem is that unless the shroud is first removed these rituals will need to be cast at serious magnitudes.

Realising that many of the Empire's most proficient magicians are arriving at Anvil for the Winter Solstice, the civil service are concerned about the Imperial regio devolving into a free-for-all as covens perform rituals that might be counterproductive or even dangerous. They have asked the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Unfettered Mind]] and the Grandmaster of the [[Shuttered Lantern]] to take the lead on keeping everyone calm; they have no legal power to prevent anyone performing rituals but at the very least they are in a good position to organise powerful covens to perform rituals to assess the situation and to ensure that whatever is discovered is made known to the Empire's magicians as quickly as possible.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Queros.png|title=Rune: Queros|align=right}}
==Bound Together==
* '''During the Winter Solstice covens can cooperate with other covens in their own nation without needing additional assistance
At the same time magicians are definitely not panicking about the situation at the Imperial regio, something else becomes apparent. [[Astronomancy|Astronomancers]] and sky-watchers have been observing an emerging conjunction of [[the Chain]], [[the Three Sisters]], and [[the Web]]. The day before the summit begins, these constellations move into alignment with one another and something unprecedented occurs.

In the past [[magic items]] such as the [[Web of Celestial Attunement]] or the ''Belt of Stars'' have been used to allow disparate covens within the same nation to cooperate when casting powerful rituals. During the Winter Solstice it appears that these items are no longer necessary. Any coven can work with any other coven or covens from their own nation without needing anything to facilitate it! News rumbles through Anvil quickly, and experiments support the rumour. Magicians can perform rituals with their fellows, apparently drawing on the subtle connections formed by their nation.
{{Anchor|Participation: Working Together}}
<br><br>'''<big>Participation: Working Together'''</big><br>
During the Winter Solstice, any number of covens from the same nation can work together to perform a ritual as if they were using the [[Archmage#Belt_of_Stars|Belt of Stars]]. Cooperative rituals count as a daily ritual use by each coven involved. While they may be performing a ritual together, they are still treated as separate covens for all other purposes (for example, a ritual that affects an entire coven will only affect one target coven). Each coven can use their own paraphernalia while performing this joint ritual. The effects of the [[Volhov's Robe]] seem to be unchanged; they still allow a magician who is not part of a coven to work with any other coven without difficulty.

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=LeviathanArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Sung001b.JPG|align=right|width=210}}
==Eternals==
* '''Sung confirms that Clear Counsel of the Everflowing River will function as normal
* '''Leviathan has let it be known that he will need to meet Imperial magicians at midday rather than one in the afternoon
As mentioned it still seems to be possible to use the Imperial regio to engage in trade with eternals. Two eternals in particular are connected to the regio via rituals they lend their power to - [[Swim Leviathan's Depth]] and [[Clear Counsel of the Everflowing River]] rely on [[Leviathan]] and [[Sung]] respectively. Sung has let it be known that she will continue to speak of mysteries as normal, assuming the situation does not get worse. "''Things can be seen as well as hidden,''" says her herald during a visit to the Imperial regio. "''Nothing goes unbeheld, and mortals will always seek to learn.''" Not especially helpful, as one civil servant opines.

Leviathan is less flowery. His herald indicates that the eternal will continue to swim the turbulent waters and connect to the Imperial regio as normal. Those waters are very difficult to navigate, however, even for one such as the ''Great Fish of Why''. For this reason, Leviathan has had to alter his itinerary for the Winter Solstice. He will turn his attention to the regio at midday, rather than at one in the afternoon as is normally the case. The reason for this appears to be that the waters around the regio are easier to navigate when the sun is at its highest, although even the herald has to admit they don't know exactly what their master is talking about. While it will hopefully only matter for the Winter Solstice, Leviathan is concerned this may be a permanent shift and hopes his associates in the Empire will understand the need for such a shift.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Diras.png|title=Rune: Diras|align=right}}
==Hidden Things==
* '''Two other magical effects have been connected to whatever is going on with the Imperial regio
* '''Every Penumbral Veil and Vale of Shadows across the Empire has collapsed
* '''Something is interfering with Imperial divinations
At the same time as chaos is slowly spreading through Anvil with regard to the Imperial regio, a group of [[stargazer|stargazers]] from Urizen are quickly spreading some equally unsettling news. It seems that at sunrise two weeks ago, on the same day that the Dawnish coven discovered the Imperial regio was malfunctioning, every [[Drawing the Penumbral Veil|Penumbral Veil]] and [[Vale of Shadows]] throughout the Empire collapsed. They've been unable to divine what happened, and it does not seem to have affected shrouds anchored with ilium. Likewise, the shrouds that are connected to the eternal Sung in Spiral seem to be fine. Other large-scale shrouding and concealing magic seems to have been wiped away in a single movement.

There's more to come. At sunset on that same day, while the covens at Anvil were discovering the change to the regio, something else settled not only over the Empire but over the entire area around its borders. Shrouds of magnitude 30 now cover every Imperial territory, and preliminary investigations suggest they are also settled over every territory adjacent to an Imperial territory. This includes [[Bregasland]] and [[Liathaven]], the entire [[the Mallum|Mallum]], almost all of [[Otkodov]], and all [[Jotun]] lands the Empire has maps of - [[Skallahn]], [[Tromsa]], and [[Hordalant]]. After spending some time talking with their colleagues in the Conclave, these stargazers put forward one possibility - it is as if the shroud is covering the Empire and Imperial magicians in some conceptual way rather than being anchored solely to the territories of the Empire. They're confident that these shrouds can be removed, but they suggest that before doing so the [[Imperial Seer]] consider trying to divine them directly to see if they can learn anything about where they came from.
==OOC Note==
The sheer size of the new site means that for the first few events at the very least, we need to move the entrance to the Hall of Worlds away from the regio for reasons to do with event logistics. We wanted the regio to be central for all players, but we need the Hall of Worlds closer to the crew area, so that we can run plot into it more easily. Given the layout we have, the best way to achieve that was to separate the entrance to the Hall of Worlds from the regio.

We've taken the decision to take advantage of the plot that is happening in this wind of fortune and use it as the in-character justification for that change. The changes affecting the Anvil regio are a consequence of player action and plot - they remain for player-characters to deal with. The shift in the entrance to the Hall of Worlds is a purely OOC rules update that we've taken for logistical reasons - there is no in-character way to put it back.

The thing with feathers

2026-04-21T21:14:49Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<ic>"I hope the next place is a bit bigger, my back's ''killing'' me!"

"I'm sure wherever it is will be perfectly acceptable, now chuck me the spare pick."

"Brother, I love you. But there's more to life than mining rock, processing the ore, smelting it down into easily usable ingots, and then selling those ingots to the highest bidder."

"Really, sibling, tell me a single thing that is better than what you've just described. That sounds like the perfect day to me."

"Well, spending it afterwards?"</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Feather2.jpg|align=left|caption=I've heard it in the chillest land - And on the strangest Sea -
Yet - never - in Extremity - It asked a crumb - of me.|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet to a degree share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

The Empire can reach out to the [[eternal|eternals]] through the powers of the [[Archmage|Archmages]] and the [[Conclave]], but the creatures of the realms may sometimes take the initiative themselves. The power of [[alignment]] allows the Conclave to make it easier or harder for them to touch the world, relationships shaped by the tension between true friends and dire enemies. Some desire that state of [[Alignment#amity|amity]], some revel in the [[Alignment#enmity|enmity]] they have earned, but none can deny the power of the Conclave to guard the borders of the Empire.

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ourselves and immortality]]''' wind of fortune.

Magical events originating closer to home are detailed in the companion wind of fortune, '''[[The tune without the words]]'''. There is also the '''[[Mushroom, mushroom, mushroom]]''' wind of fortune specifically on the renewed interest of [[Llofir]] in the Empire; and '''[[In the ground‎]]''' which has the response from [[Adamant]] to the Stone Smith, along with other eternals interested in [[the Marches]].

==Day==
===Rite of Way (Roshanwe)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=RoshanweArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''The heralds of the Elder Pharos will come to the Anvil Arena to host the promised challenge of ceremonies at 14:00 Saturday'''
* '''They expect the five teams that the volunteers have promised to organise, and as many spectators as wish to attend'''
* '''A small group of Sumaash präster will also attend - to participate, not to talk politics'''
The [[Roshanwe|Finder of the Way]], as the eternal of truth-seeking sometimes names herself, offered the Imperials the chance to win her boon at the [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Let_Every_Word_(Roshanwe)|last summit]]. The challenge was laid down for five teams to perform their most magnificent - or moving - [[Religious skills|religious ceremonies]]. Several Imperial volunteers gave their names to ''Miriam When The Rain Is Steel'', an adventuresome herald, and promised to organise the teams and ensure they all knew the rules of the challenge, which the herald ensured the Imperials had multiple copies of.

One wet day, a few short weeks before the summit, ''Miriam When The Rain Is Steel'' returns to the Hub. There they discuss the details with ''Jorgen'', the long-suffering civil servant with the unenviable task of talking to heralds. The dashing herald is fresh from fighting a many-headed monster deep in the inhospitable Desert of Sapphidy, and makes it clear that she is much keener to slay another than discuss timings and organisation, so the two quickly come to an agreement. ''Miriam'' also informs the rather harassed looking Jorgen that a delegation from the [[Sumaah Republic]] is on its way, by invitation of the Beachcomber, to participate. ''Miriam When The Rain Is Steel'' leaves at a run, but shouts over her shoulder that she will also attend to distribute the Wise Pioneer's gift to the participants.

===The Day Came Slow (Ylenwe)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ylenwe001.webp|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Two heralds of Ylenwe will arrive at the Hall of Worlds at 22:45 on Saturday'''
* '''Ylenwe has requested the Archmage of Day, or their representative, take them to experience dancing'''
* '''The current Archmage of Day is ''Skywise Gralka'' of the Imperial Orcs'''
A herald with shimmering blue and silver scales steps out of the regio on a brisk, late-autumn day. The herald walks with a light grace towards the Hub, humming a soft melody in time with their step. They find the place surprisingly busy, with harassed-looking civil servants trying to placate an incandescent Highborn farmer whose wheelbarrow of cabbages had been overturned by an overzealous herald of [[Rhianos]]. Seemingly unaffected by the chaos they've walked into, the herald offers a gentle smile to the civil servant at the desk and waits for them to finish their paperwork.

Ylenwe is curious about the mortal view on movement and music. The herald explains ''Zie of the Perfect Morning'' believes that dance could serve as the harmony between music and mathematics. A pair of zie's heralds will journey to Anvil at the upcoming Winter Solstice, to partake in different types of music and to understand how people move to it. The Dove asks that '''Skywise Gralka''', the [[Archmage of Day]], or her chosen representatives, welcome the heralds and introduce them to a variety of music.

==Winter==
===Heartbreaking (Agramant)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=AgramantArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''A group of Navarr from Therunin have claimed that Agramant considers the territory to be "''fair game''"'''
* '''Agramant has made an offer to any military captains in Therunin who are the target of ''Unleash the Beasts Within'''''
* '''Anyone performing ''Treacher's Quill'' asking for support in Therunin can also send 14 liao and receive a magical foci'''
On one particularly cold night before the winter summit, a haggard group of Navarr make their way across the border into [[Reikos#Chalcis Mount|Chalcis Mount]], having managed to overcome the horrors of [[Therunin]] and escape into Imperial territory once again. The ''Mourningstone'' have slipped through the lines to warn the Empire what the Howler is up to.

A number of their fellow Navarri have only managed to survive with the aid of [[Agramant|Dream of Famine]]. Cut off, with dwindling supplies and surrounded by ettercaps, people are finding it hard to resist Howler's aid. The only price he is extracting is a promise to spread word of his generosity far and wide. Wastewalker claims that out of respect for the Navarr Assembly, the ''Howler'' waited for the Empire to reclaim Therunin. The people of the territory were [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_215|told]] that aid was on its way... but that was a year and a half ago. And the ''Horned Manticore'' is done waiting when there are so many eager to be saved.

It seems that heralds of ''He who calls the Lost to Feast'' are now active in the territory. For the most part, they have been resolutely ignored - or beaten to death with extreme violence - but as time goes on, more Navarri are bound to be tempted. In an attempt to hasten that along, ''the Whisperer'' has made it known that any Navarr [[military unit]] based in Therunin that is enchanted with [[Unleash the Beasts Within]] at the coming summit will be supported further by his heralds. The ritual will provide an additional two ranks when [[Military_unit#Campaigning|supporting]] an army on campaign. Further, if the army is in Therunin, then the captain will also receive a [[Venture#Raid_the_Druj|Druj potion]], taken from the Druj remnants in the territory. The presence of the heralds of Agramant would be known to every Imperial taking part in the campaign, but not who they were attached to. ('''OOC Note:''' It would be mentioned in the winds of war, but it would not be clear which military unit they were supporting.)

Obviously, the ritual is in [[Urizen lore]], which means that any Navarri willing would need to convince a ritualist from that nation to help them. The ''Hunter in the Wastes'' offers a different gift to the Masters of the High Peaks; any Urizen magician who performs [[Treacher's Quill]] this season to ask for boons defending against the vallorn and reclaiming Therunin, can include with it 14 liao and a piece of jewellery. ''Old Bloody Teeth'' will return the jewellery as a boon, a [[:Category:Foci|foci]] that enhances a Winter ritualist's ability to perform the rituals in the [[Agramant#Childer_of_the_Black_Drop|Ceremonies of the Black Drop Society]].

If a magician found a way to send a dose of [[true liao]] with their jewellery instead, they would receive an incomparable boon, a powerful relic from the Howler for the magician and a boon to invoke Agramant's aid in defence of a homeland when attacked. Of course, it's not ''only'' the Urizen who have the ways and means to cast that ritual, the ''Carnivore Concierge'' has friends in all nations, and the same offer is open to others too.

===Moments of Silence (Sorin)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Sorin001.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''The Basalt Citadel has been called to Eoradal every season for the last year
* '''The Sepulchral Pontifex, herald of Sorin, will be visiting the Imperial Orc camp at 22:45 on Saturday
For an entire year, the ruins of Eoradal have hosted the Basalt Citadel of [[Sorin|the Empty One]]. Even when the [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|Frozen Citadel]] was called from the demesne of the [[Cathan Canae|Immovable One]], the '''Heralds of the Reaper''' drew the black stone fortress from the Silent Kingdom. This commitment to the defence of [[Mareave]] has drawn the grudging respect of the Monarch of the Silent Kingdom, who has dispatched the ''Sepulchral Pontifex'' to speak with the Imperial orcs to see what strength and wisdom they have gained over the conflict of the last year.

Should the answer please the Pontifex, and an appropriate level of respect and gratitude be shown, there is an offer the Tomb King wishes to make to the nation, though details of this were not shared with the civil service. The Sepulchral Pontifex has not visited the mortal realm in decades and will therefore be guided by an attaché, ''Noah of the Fallen Leaves''.

Finally, the Sepulchral Pontifex requests the attendance of one of the '''Heralds of the Reaper''' and one of the '''Wolves of the Pale Raven''', ideally '''Lenni Voittoson''' as their only [[Draughir|whelpborn]], to attend as well. There is some concern that the Heralds do not have a single whelpborn amongst them; they should find someone who is to speak on their behalf while they are there.

==Spring==
===The Pride of Gryphons (Irra Harah)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002a.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Irra Harah has asked the Gryphon's Pride to help the rebels build watchtowers in Nesustak Forest'''
* '''If supported by the Gryphon's Pride, the watchtowers will remove the under threat quality from the region'''
Two seasons ago, '''Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose''', [[Gryphon's Pride|General of the Gryphon's Pride]], met with heralds of Irra Harah to [[Can_you_hear_me%3F#The_Prince_of_a_Thousand_Foes|discuss]] how the people of Dawn understand the world. The outcome of that meeting is still unknown, but the general's orders from [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Military_Council_orders#Gryphon's_Pride|that season]] and the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Gryphon's_Pride|one following]] both make references to the children of ''Papa Otec''. A few heralds of ''Shackle-Smasher'' were seen around the army last season in the [[Sarangrave]], talking to the questing knights and war-witches of the army, and now ''Broadleaf'', herald of ''Warrenwise'', comes to the army with a request.
{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=175}}
The rebels of the Sarangrave are busy consolidating their hold on [[Sarangrave#Nesustak_Forest|Nesustak Forest]], but the region lies in the shadow of the [[Keeper_of_the_Last_Battle#Last_Battle_Wayhouse|Last Battle Wayhouse]] in [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|the Bleaks]]. The Bloodwater Spears have, with the support of the Prince of Beggars' heralds, drawn up plans for a series of [[edifice|watchtowers]] that will remove the ever-present [[Region_qualities#Under_Threat|threat]] imposed by the [[Navarr wayhouse|wayhouse]] on the region. However, the work will take years if the rebels have no outside help. ''Broadleaf'' has discussed the matter with Halyx Fireeyes, the young matriarch of the sept, and they have agreed to allow the soldiers of the Gryphon's Pride - and only the Gryphon's Pride - to help.

At the Winter Solstice, the General of the Gryphon's Pride can take a [[Army_orders#Defending|defensive]] order with wording to specifically support the rebels in building their watchtowers. If they do so, then the watchtowers will be completed by the Spring Equinox 388YE, and the under threat quality on Nesustak Forest will be removed. If there is no campaign during the season, then they will benefit from natural resupply, and [[Casualties#Emergency_Resupply|emergency resupply]] if any.

===The Stone Cried Out (Irra Harah again)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''A herald of Irra Harah has called for three landskeepers and smiths of Anvil to the Hare Stone'''
* '''''Linley Weaver'' of Goatsbridge Coven is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for visiting the Hare Stone'''
* '''This conjunction is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
{{InnocentPeoplePresent}}
Shortly after the end of the Autumn Equinox, the alder of [[Wildest_dreams#New_Longstwick_Market|New Longstwick]] is approached by a distressed-looking briar, ''Margie o' the Woods''. The [[briar|greenscar]] explains that there's something strange going on at the Hare Stone, and that a herald of [[Irra Harah|Prince with a Thousand Foes]] has told them to ask for smiths and landskeepers of Anvil to visit and "''work out what's what''". The briar asks that '''Linley Weaver''', as representative of the coven that most [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_interlude#Stone,_Branch,_Fen,_and_Ice|recently]] performed [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]] on Alderly. Linley Weaver is asked to arrange for six to come, ideally an even mix of landskeepers and smiths.

Margie says the Price doesn't mind if Linley is in the number but they should include at least one attending their first summit, and someone who knows the [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Rattle_of_the_Bones|history of the woods]]. ''Margie'' warns that the number shouldn't include any holders of Imperial titles, as that would apparently just make things worse; "''the protectors won't stop fighting and, frankly, they're fucking me right off''". Who the Protectors are and why they're fighting remains something of a mystery.

===Midwinter, Was It? (Llofir)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=LlofirArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''There is an opportunity to end the suffering of those fighting the vallorn
* '''The ''Speaker of the Vallornguard'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for ending the suffering of those in Eastring
* '''This conjunction is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat contained]] encounter
{{InnocentPeoplePresent}}
Shortly before the Winter Solstice, a herald of ''[[Llofir|the Wisdom of Dead Wood]]'' carefully shuffles its way into the Hall of Worlds and starts to speak to one of the magicians there. The towering herald - almost human if not for the coned cap in place of a head - gills undulating as it speaks in a gentle whisper, asks that a message be passed on to [[vine|vines]] and to the [[Vallornguard|enders of the wellspring]]. The vines have made an oath to "heal all those who would stand against the vallorn", and the herald explains that the ''Rotlord'' is aware of some who are suffering after fighting [[vallornspawn husk|vallornspawn husks]]. The Wisdom of Dead Wood asks that the [[Vallornguard#Speaker_of_the_Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] journey through the Sentinel Gate with the vines to Eastring, [[Therunin]], and end the suffering of those there.

The herald warns that there is a vallornspawn briar in the area acting strangely; it does not appear to be immediately aggressive. Indeed, it doesn't appear to care at all about the wounded folk, but the herald advises that anyone going close might cause it to lash out. The herald asks that '''Earl Percival Summerstrong''', as Speaker of the Vallornguard, work with the vines and the sodality to ease the suffering of those who cannot be saved and cast [[Turns the Circle]] to allow them to die peacefully and painlessly.

<big>'''Content Warning'''</big><br>
This encounter contains themes of suicide and assisted dying, such as with [[Surcease of Sorrow]], and will involve depictions of injuries. It is unsuitable for participants who might struggle with such themes.

==Night==
===Can You Hear It? (Janon)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Vanja Oddsbreaker, the former Shadowed Torchbearer, has vacated her position'''
* '''Janon has sent a ''Ring of the Oddsbreaker'' to the Prefect of the Conclave to be given to whoever is elected to replace her'''
* '''The Ring of the Oddsbreaker can be used to send a short missive to the Muse of Fire each season for a year'''
* '''Heralds of Janon have accepted an invitation to witness the Imperial Orc fighting pit for presumably unrelated reasons'''
Heralds of [[Janon|Shadowfire]] have been following the actions of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]] over the past eighteen months, and those abroad in the Empire have spoken of ''Blazing Blade's'' joy in hearing their tales. When word reaches them that ''Vanja Oddsbreaker'' of [[Wintermark]], the first Shadowed Torchbearer, has vacated her position, he is not perturbed. The ''Night Sword'' heaps effervescent praise on the work done by her friend. Yet ''The Pyre Of Hearts'' regrets that sie did not give zir representative a chance to speak with it. To prevent such a regrettable state of affairs from recurring in future, ''The Blazing Blade'' has dispatched the Ring of the Oddsbreaker to ''Abelard the Assiduous'', [[Prefect of the Conclave]], to be given to whoever is elected to the position at the upcoming summit.

The Ring of the Oddsbreaker serves as a piece of [[:Category:Jewellery|jewellery]] that allows the person bonded to it to send a short missive of no more than one hundred words to Janon each season. The herald explains that this should include at least some details on what the Shadowed Torchbearer has been doing to further the concerns of ''Freedom's Call''. Heralds of ''Shadowfire'' explain that whilst anyone could be bonded to the Ring of the Oddsbreaker, it is probably not a good idea for anyone other than the Shadowed Torchbearer to try using it to send a missive to the eternal.

'''OOC Note:''' The player of the character bonded to the Ring of the Oddsbreaker can email {{plot}} after each event before downtime closes with a missive of up to one hundred words to Janon.

Not everything is about Imperial politics. ''The Flame Of The Ancestors'' has apparently received an invitation to witness the passionate fire of the Imperial Orcs as they honour their ancestors in the fighting pit. The heralds will arrive in the Hall of Worlds at 17:00 on Saturday, and intend to go from there to the fighting pit as intended. ''The Voice Of Zorech'' has been very pleased with the reception that faer heralds have received in Anvil thus far. ''The Scribe Of Burning Names'' wishes it to be known that all those who desire blessings need only come to the heralds to have their innermost fires kindled. No clarification is offered as to what this mildly ominous statement might actually mean.

===Victory Against the Night (Whisper Gallery)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=WhisperGal004.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Attacks by heralds and agents of the Whisper Gallery against civil servants and researchers have fallen'''
* '''Attacks against the Magpies, and the sodality's supporters have risen'''

The [[Whisper Gallery]] have been a poisoned thorn in the side of researchers and civil servants since the [[Bloody murder|summer of 379YE]]. For almost ten years, the eternal's agents and heralds have threatened, attacked, and taken out bounties on the department of [[historical research]] and other places of discovery and learning. Two years ago, ''Ris Steelfist'' urged [[A_long_December#The_Fucking_Whisper_Gallery|urged people]] to hunt down the enemy and take the fight to them, launching the War of Whispers.

Perhaps the war has been successful? For the last six months, there have been no credible reports of attacks. At first some assume that the ''Court of the Shadowed Oracle'' have finally been silenced - at least, when not [[Ourselves_and_immortality#Only_Gossamer,_My_Gown|responding]] to a message from the [[Archmage of Night]]. Sadly that proves a little too optimistic - it seems the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne'' now has bigger fish to fry.

Members of the [[Magpies]] have reported figures in dark robes, dusky shrouds, and inky cloaks following them. One member, a would-be explorer called Vanya Heartsworn looking for lost [[Inga_Tarn#Signs|Avalanche]], was found close to death from several knife wounds, by their associates. There was no sign of the assailant, Vanya survived, but claims to have seen nothing of their attacker.

When one front closes, another opens it seems. Still, the Empire has successfully protected what remains of the department of historical records from the ''Shadow Courtiers'' poison Has the Empire managed to root out the last cultists of the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne''? Definitely not, but maybe it is winning this shadow war.

====Against a Threat====
{{SOP|statement=The Assembly of Vigilance REJECT the premise of a single threat or cause being "the most important". To only focus on the poison in one neighbours' field leaves us blind to the poison in another. We are all watchtowers, to build all our watchtowers in one place is the height of folly.|by=Irada Von Temeschwar, Vigilance Assembly|vote=310-102|when=Autumn 387YE}}
* '''The Imperial Archivist has requested that the Vigilance Assembly consider encouraging the faithful to seek out the agents of other eternals under enmity'''
* '''Doing so could make it easier to counter threats from Agramant and other eternals under enmity'''
* '''The cost is giving the Whisper Gallery more leeway to attack the Magpies'''

Last season, the Vigilance Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_104|statement of principle]] raised by '''Irada Von Temeschwar''' that rejected the notion of a single threat being [[The highest calling|the most important]]. The judgement did not manage to achieve a greater majority, but it piqued the interest of ''Leontes the Scribe'', who has asked the assembly to consider encouraging the vigilant to go further. If a [[statement of principle]] that directs the vigilant to seek out heralds of other eternals under [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] is upheld with a greater majority, then the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|War of Whispers]] venture will expand after the Winter Solstice.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=175}}
The Vigilance Assembly could choose a specific realm to focus on, which would change the venture's production to 96 rings, a pawn of appropriate [[vis]], one mana crystal.

Alternatively, and in keeping with the judgement raised by '''Irada''', they could call on the vigilant to seek out the agents of ''all'' eternals under enmity. This would change the production to 96 rings, one mana crystal, and either a vial of [[Vis#Vital Honey|vital honey]], a vial of [[Vis#Heart's_Blood|heart's blood]], or a pouch of [[Vis#Crystal_Fire|crystal fire]] (although [[Cold Sun]] is under enmity, its ''scions'' are few and far between in the Empire).

If the Conclave chose to change the alignment of other eternals, then it would also change the potential vis available in the venture. Of course, if the Assembly don't issue a call to action - or it doesn't pass with a greater majority - then the faithful will continue focussing their efforts on protecting the agents of the Whisper Gallery.

On the face of it, Leontes' proposal seems like a fair one - there is only one small drawback. Abraham points out that resources are limited, if the Vigilance Assembly refocus the War of Whispers away from the Whisper Gallery, it will help to counter threats from [[Agramant]] and other evils. But it will inevitably mean the Whisper Gallery has a freer hand than it has had to date. That means members of the Magpies will be at ''greater'' risk than they are now. Many of the Magpies are tough heroes of Anvil - not like the defenceless academics who report to Leontes - so they'll be fine right?

====Knife In the Snow====
{{CaptionedImage|file=Magpie Sodality.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Servants of the Whisper Gallery have attacked a group of Magpies near Gulnar's Depths in Hahnmark'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The Magpie sodality is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for selecting someone to take responsibility for the conjunction'''
* '''This conjunction is for sixty people at 18:30 on Friday ''at the next summit'''''
It appears the Empire may have an ally in their war against the Whisper Gallery. The [[Zakalwe|''Hunter of Tides'']] has little time for what it regards as "the capricious wickedness of Rainbow Mask". Delphysius, herald of [[Zakalwe]], has spent time studying the reports of the recent attack, almost certainly agents of the Whisper Gallery, on Vanya Heartsworn. After thorough divination of the Sentinel Gate, Delphysius believes they have identified a conjunction that could help, not this summit, ''but next''.

It is rare, but not completely unknown, for the Sentinel Gate to give up such secrets. Scholars who study the Gate claim that the conjunctions are a reflection of fate, and since fate is not fixed, they rarely occur far into the future. But rare is not never and the prognosticators have confirmed that the conjunction is real - and fixed - at least for now.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Zakalwe001.png|align=right|width=175}}
Working with Delphysius, the evidence seems overwhelming that the conjunction concerns the murderous attack on Vanya and presumably is linked to his personal quest to recover Avalanch, the famed rune-forged two-handed hammer, that featured in so many of the adventures of [[Inga Tarn]]. Most credible scholars think Vanya was off his rocker hoping to find the hammer in the valleys near Gulnar's Depths. Still he must have found ''something'', some secret, that provoked the Gallery to attack.

Given this is most definitely the business of the Magpies, the civil service have asked the sodality to use a formal vote to choose one of their number to take responsibility for the skirmish. Whoever the Magpies select will need to find sixty heroes of Anvil prepared to pledge to support them when they go through the gate ''at the Spring Equinox''. If there is some clue that might lead people to Avalanche, then they will need to be ready to fight the Whisper Gallery's minions.

==Summer==
===In the Fields of Glory (Eleonaris)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=EleonarisArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Seven armies were enchanted with Knights of Glory at the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''Soldiers in armies enchanted with Knights of Glory this season are becoming more attuned to the Summer Realm
As has been previously stated, the reign of [[Empress Brannan]] saw armies becoming reliant on Knights of Glory, which saw exposure to the glorious knights of the Summer realm having an unlooked-for effect on Imperial soldiers. Over the last year or more, the Empire has increasingly relied on Knights of Glory to empower its armies, especially (but not exclusively) in their fight against the Druj.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">
<quote by="Sakari Nightscale, Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield">Conclave witnesses the ongoing effects of the Summer realm on armies in the Sarangrave. We permit further castings of Knights of Glory, but will oversee the situation vigilantly</quote></div>
It's [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Splendor_and_Pennants_(Eleonaris)|been noted]] that [[Knights of Glory]] is having a lasting effect on armies enchanted with it, most clearly observed in [[Sarangrave]]. This may be because of the [[Druj miasma|oppressive aura of fear]] coupled with the feeling of confidence and personal power sponsored by exposure to the heralds of the [[Eleonaris|Fields of Glory]].

As per the '''[[Even_darkness_must_pass#Game_Information|Even darkness must pass]]''' wind of war, the [[Eastern Sky]], [[Gryphon's Pride]], [[Lions of Adelmar]], [[Granite Pillar]], [[Fire of the South]], [[Citadel Guard]], [[Golden Axe]], and [[Northern Eagle]] cannot take the [[Army orders#Cautious Advance|Cautious Advance]] or [[Army orders#Give Ground|Give Ground]] orders. Following the past season in the Sarangrave, the [[Summer Storm]] are included in that number. This effect persists until the army in question has spent an entire year without experiencing the Knights of Glory enchantment.

Only one army, the Golden Axe, hosted the Knights of Glory again this season. Further information on how the general might take advantage of the situation to reforge the army can be found in the '''[[Fire_and_the_flood#Participation:_Gaspare_and_the_Axe_of_Victory|Fire and the floor]]''' wind of war.
{{SOP|statement=Pilgrims of the Granite Pillar, your Assembly, supported by your general, now speaks. You have stood in battle beside the knights of Eleonaris, and your Courage is not in question for you fight for the Ambition of the Empire. Yet do not forget: these are beings from the realms, not of the Way. Do not disrespect them, but keep your distance, and do not mistake them for creatures of Virtue. Their purposes are not ours; do not allow their influence to determine your actions. Let your hearts turn evermore towards Virtue. Seek out the priests who march beside you; and use liao ceremonies, that you may overcome the temptations of the realms. Let Vigilance be your watchword and Courage your shield. For in the Mallum, danger hides everywhere, and the gifts of the realms often come with hidden chains. Trust not in power for its own sake, but in the Way alone.|by=Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament, Highborn Assembly|vote=772-0 (Greater Majority)|when=Autumn Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
====Standing in Defiance====
* '''The Highborn Assembly can enact a mandate to call soldiers of the nation's armies to turn away from support offered by heralds'''
* '''If enacted, Highborn armies would once again be able to take the ''Give Ground'' and ''Cautious Advance'' orders for the coming year'''
* '''If the affected armies were supported by heralds as a result of an enchantment or boon they would have 1000 less strength for the coming year'''

At the Autumn Equinox, two statements of principle were raised that addressed the situation with Knights of Glory. One, raised by '''Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below''' in the Loyalty Assembly, issued a call for the "''restoration of free mortal will''". This was upheld, but without a greater majority, so it has received little attention outside of Anvil. The other, raised by '''Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament''' in the Highborn Assembly, was upheld with a greater majority and so has received recognition across Highguard.

{{Mandate|mandate=Be alert to all dangers; within and without. We send (named priest) with 50 doses of liao to encourage our courageous soldiers to stand apart from these servants of eternals. Seek out falsehood and expose the truth.|assembly=Highborn Assembly}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Highborn.png|align=right|width=175}}
If this mandate is enacted, Highborn soldiers will deliberately keep their distance from any heralds or other servants of an eternal sent to fight alongside them. As a result, the General of the Granite Pillar (and other Highborn generals) will be able to issue orders to give ground or maintain a cautious advance for the coming year. Such distance comes at a price, however. Highborn armies that are enchanted with rituals [[Knights of Glory]] or [[Quickening Cold Meat]], or supported by the Knights of Tharim will also lose a thousand effective strength for all purposes during that year. Any ritual or boon that calls on an eternal to send creatures to fight alongside an army will be affected.

===Hope's Rest (Cathan Canae)===
* '''The Phoenix Rising coven of Dawn is three-quarters of the way to receiving a boon from Cathan Canae
* '''They need to perform Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae one more time at Hope's Rest in the Barrens
For the last three seasons, the '''Phoenix Rising''' [[coven]] of [[Dawn]] has been raising the [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] over the region of [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] in [[the Barrens]]. As well as offering protection to the [[territory]], the [[enchantment]] is [[Golden_magicians_fayre#Frozen_Strength|part of a test]] by [[Cathan Canae]] from whom the ritual draws power.
{{CaptionedImage|file=CathCane001b.webp|align=right|width=175}}
If a frozen citadel is raised in Hope's Rest during the Winter Solstice, then the task will be complete. At the start of the Spring Equinox 388YE, the ''Mistress of Blizzards'' will anchor a little of the essence of her [[Realms#Summer|domain]] in the [[Region_qualities#Hills|hills]] of the southern Barrens. The region will gain the ''Rimebound'' quality - the weather there will always be slightly worse than in the rest of the Barrens, with regular snowfalls and even blizzards in winter. But any casting of Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae on the region - or any other similar Summer enchantments - will be empowered. The ritual already summons a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|battalion of heralds]] from the demesne of the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness''; when cast at Hope's Rest she will provide one of her great captains and their warband to support the defence of the territory. The battalion will have a total strength of 3,000 towards determining victory and inflicting casualties, and take part in any military campaign in the territory, applying their fighting strength against invading enemies or fighting alongside friendly armies. At the same time, [[Stalwart Stand on Solid Ground]] will mean the fortification does not collapse until the ritual ends, no matter how much damage it takes.

The magicians of Dawn would also gain leave to use [[ilium]] to permanently summon a Frozen Citadel in Hope's Rest if they wish. Should they choose to do so, the ''Thane of the Rimebound Shore'' will petition his mistress to allow his personal castle to be summoned to the mortal world and bring his household to support it until such time as the Druj of the Mallum are permanently broken. The ''Citadel of the Rimebound Shore'' follows the rules for a [[fortification]] - the [[fortification#bastion|bastion]] would provide significant protection to Hope's Rest, and the Thane's personal retinue would [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] the territory, keeping guard against both the Druj and the [[vallorn]], as well as keeping a watchful eye on the wilder places of the Barrens.

With the willing support of the Thane and his mistress, this feat could be achieved with "only" 100 rings of ilium rather than the usual requirement of 300 rings. Furthermore, until the Druj are defeated or the Imperial Conclave declares [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] against Cathan Canae, the presence of the Thane and their warriors will mean the citadel has no upkeep unless the Empire chooses to [[Fortification#Improvement|improve]] it in some way. This offer of a permanent citadel remains until the start of the Spring Equinox 389YE.

====Broken Fist====
* '''The Fist of the Black Glacier can no longer be cast'''
* '''The assurance on the ritual was broken at the Summer Solstice 387YE'''
Two years ago, at the Winter Solstice 385YE, three generals were [[Begins_where_it_ends#Cathan_Canae|invited]] by a castellan of the ''[[Cathan Canae|Queen of Ice and Darkness]]'' to discuss the strategies behind the conquest of [[Ossium]], [[Sermersuaq]], and [[Zenith]]. '''Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''', as the [[Citadel Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]], won the competition and was rewarded with a ritual text to call on the Fist of the Black Galcer. The ''Castellan of the Spire of Unbroken Notes'' visits the Hall of Worlds following the Autumn Equinox with the sad, but firm, news that with the [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Decommission_the_Eastern_Guard|decommissioning]] of the Eastern Guard, the assurance on the ritual has been broken.

It is unclear how the ''Lady of the Frost'' feels about the situation: clearly, the Senate must have had a reason for decommissioning the fortification, but it is a demonstration that the Empire does not share the same concerns as the ''Immovable One''. If the [[Archmage of Summer]] wants to explain the reasoning to the eternal, then their power of [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] is available.

===Champions of a Champion (Hayaak)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Hayaak001b.png|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Those who championed Hayaak during the Icy Crag tourney have received their rewards from Hayaak'''
* '''Hayaak remains as the patron of the Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun'''
During the Summer Solstice 387YE, the [[Hayaak|Peregrine Knight]] became the patron of the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]]. The Outlaw Prince had to [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#College_of_Magic_(Hayaak)|delay]] providing rewards to his champions, but has dispatched his heralds to '''Nimue de Rondell'''; '''Arlen Foreman-Smith'''; and the Master of Ice and Darkness himself, '''Alexander Tallstag'''.

To Nimue, he has sent a [[:category:Paired Weapons|set of blades]] taken from an overthrown queen. The blades are similar to the [[Earthquake Drummers]] known to Imperial artisans, and the corrupt queen of an unknown realm used them to slaughter her own people until she was overthrown.

To Arlen, he has sent a set of [[:category:Mage Armour|mage armour]] taken from a twisted king. The armour is similar to the [[Twilight Pauldrons]] known to Imperial artisans, and the deceitful king of an unknown realm used them when spreading malice and suffering to his people until he was cast down.

To Alexander, he has sent a piece of [[:category:jewellery|jewellery]] taken from a fallen monarch. The jewellery is similar to the [[Abraxus Stone]] known to Imperial artisans, and the crooked monarch of an unknown realm used it to swindle their way into power, until he was deposed.

Hayaak has exerted his will to infuse the items with fresh power; their restored enchantments will last a year.

==Autumn==
{{stub}}
We've temporarily removed the section on Callidus, while we fix the mistakes with it.

===Fire and Stone (Estavus)===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Office of Fire and Stone'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Iteri, Zenith (at the Crucible of Fate)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 [[white granite]], 20 [[mithril]], 10 rings of ilium, 90 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates the title of ''Architect of Hammers''
* Allows heralds of Estavus to enter the mortal realm at the Office of Fire and Stone regardless of alignment</td></tr>
</table>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Architect of Hammers'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Urizen or Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes or Declaration of Conclave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Can make a single announcement in the Senate each season, either:
** Repair or upgrade to an existing commission utilising the labour of the House of Iron and Stone. This does not count towards the limited number of commissions available to the Senate.
** Assess a bourse seat that produces mithril or white granite in a region controlled by the Empire, utilising the expertise of the Architects of Iron and Stone.
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the Office of Fire and Stone; liaise with heralds of Estavus on behalf of Urizen or the Empire as a whole, depending on appointment method</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Investigated resource'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Produces'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Brilliant Star]]</td><td>Mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Pride of Ikka's Tears]]</td><td>Mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Vigilant Swan]]</td><td>White granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have finalised their proposal for a permanent office in Zenith
In the Autumn, [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Sculptured_Ivy_and_Stone_Flowers|draft proposals]] were set forth by the [[Estavus|City of Fire and Stone]] regarding offices built at the [[Zenith#Crucible_of_Fate|Crucible of Fate]]. As per the previous request, the intent of the offices is for them to serve as a legacy for the long and productive partnership between the denizens of the Autumn realm and Edmundo of Damakan's Forge's. A title is to be created to oversee the offices, the Architect of Hammers - but as of the Autumn Equinox, this was as far as planning had progressed. Representatives of the ''Architects of Iron and Stone'' , the faction within the City that put together the proposal, met with the Archmage and associates at the last summit to discuss the exact purpose to which the offices can be put.

Having completed their consultation, the expanded proposal for the Architect's powers is as follows. Once per season, the Architect will be able to [[Senate announcement|announce]] either of the following to the Senate:
{{CaptionedImage|file=EstavusArt.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
They may invite the ''Coalition of Stone and Struggle'' to repair or upgrade an existing commission. This will not count against the existing limitation on commissions as the labour will be provided by the Coalition, one of the greatest collections of [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|labourers]] in the ''City of Fire and Stone''. This can be any upgrade - either a standard one or one available due to an opportunity - with the exception that the Coalition refuse to work on projects sponsored or designed by eternals of other realms. Labour costs will need to be provided at the ordinary rate, though it is possible that the Coalition might occasionally request alternate forms of payment.

They may invite the ''Architects of Iron and Stone'' to assess a bourse resource that produces mithril or white granite, which has not already been assessed in this manner, and at the cost of ten thrones. The Architects of Iron and Stone will send their representatives to investigate how the resource might be improved. The following season, the heralds will present plans for an upgrade of that resource. This could be a [[Metal_and_stone#Expand_the_Quarry|straightforward plan]] to improve production, or the [[Metal_and_stone#Actual_Ambition|discovery]] of a hitherto-unexploited opportunity for side profit. It is even possible that, on rare occasions, there may be unexpected [[Metal_and_stone#Tempest_Miners|additional opportunities]] associated with the resource. The cost per assessment is set at five thrones until at least the Winter Solstice 388YE. The Architects will assess what profits they have made from the relationship after that point, and may change the price.

Poets light but lamps

2026-04-21T19:21:45Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Sumaah]] [[Category:Iron Confederacy]][[Category:Faraden]][[Category:Skoura]][[Category:Tsark]]
<ic>“Do you believe it?”

Tchinua Ganbatar, Liege of the Five Winds, gave a slight snort. “Which part?”

Mistress Karadragha looked down at her papers with a heavy sigh. “At this point? Any of it.”

“I’ll have no words of fear spoken in this meeting, Singhua.” The Liege leaned forwards to refill their cup of tea. “Give me focus, and don’t jump at shadows. What are we informally discussing today?”

“As you say, my Liege.” The Trade Advisor adjusted her spectacles before continuing. “To start with, rumours of the Asaveans involving themselves with the Cinders and other anti-Imperial factions.”

A quiet figure sat off to one side of the meeting room spoke up. “We have no intelligence to confirm the notion, but it would resolve some unanswered questions if it were true. The Cinders are surprisingly well-funded. Even after their condemnation scared off their moderate supporters they still seem to be active across the border. Foreign support would certainly account for that.”

The Liege stroked their chin thoughtfully. “It would also suit the interests of the Asaveans to use Faraden extremists to anger the Empire, especially if they can do it without getting their hands dirty or inviting censure from the Court. What evidence does the Ambassador present?”

“Divinations of the flame, mostly, which means presumably a great deal of interpretation is involved which at best makes them suspect and at worst...”

“Very well. Contact the wizards of the Faces in Fire. They write down all their visions, so see if they have anything that might support this Imperial claim. Let them know we are asking, and they'll see the advantage in being in our good graces. Especially with the matter of the entertainments for my birthday celebrations on the horizon. In the meantime, set your agents prying around any Asavean interests here, especially the quiet ones we might have overlooked. There’s no way that the embassy would be foolish enough to be caught out by this. What next?”

The quiet figure spoke. “Related to the Cinders, the Sansar bounty.”

“Remind me?”

“The Sansar sent three of their family to negotiate for another trade enclave within the Empire. Our agents discovered that one of the three had been radicalised by the Cinders and intended to murder the other two for associating with heretics. Imperial law enforcement identified the guilty party before he struck, and Solongo Sansar has issued a bounty against the Cinders for their actions against her kin. We could potentially convince her to stand down, but it would upset the priesthood and risk emboldening the Cinders further.”

The Liege scowled. “No. The Cinders encouraged kinslaying so let them face the consequences. Tell Solongo that we support her without actually saying the words, and make sure our functionaries at court spread the story as far as they can. We can’t drive the reactionaries away entirely, but we need to keep them isolated. Anyone who can stand up in public and say that they support this kind of treacherous behaviour can reap their rewards.”

The Liege’s companions nodded and made various notes. Mistress Karadragha spoke up again. “I’m hearing on the wind that the Imperial priests are sending dire warnings about Cinders mounting some kind of concerted attacks within Imperial borders. The ambassador didn’t mention it, do we know anything about that?”

The quiet figure responded. “It’s almost certainly true. Gossip and coded messages have been pointing to them planning something big. We haven't been able to identify any targets so far, but their attention being centred within Imperial borders that would account for the lack of information.”

"The ambassador has asked for any information we have," observed Mistress Karadragha in a neutral tone. Both turned their attention to the Liege, expectantly.

There was a long pause before they responded, which they spent carefully stirring a spoonful of honey into their tea. The tinkling of the little silver spoon sounded like distant bells.

“I think it is time for the Cinders to encounter a significant setback.” They drained the dregs of their teacup, winced at the bitterness despite the sweetener. “Retain as much distance as you can, but set your best agents to scouring known Cinder hideouts for information. When you find it, no matter how tenuous, even if it means nothing to you, make sure it reaches the Ambassador. It's the least we can do, and we will just have to trust the Pride and Courage of the Empire to do the rest.”</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Candles flame in the wind.jpg|align=left|caption=Peace is all too often a candleflame in the wind.|width=500}}</div>
==Overview==
There are six great powers in the known world whose influence and reach rivals that of the Empire. There also innumerable lesser powers who do not have the might to shake the world, but who are nonetheless important to those with whom they share a border. The ambitions of these nearby nations are no less relevant to the Empire. Sometimes diplomatic relations require in-depth analysis; sometimes there is an opportunity to catch one's breath and let the drama move slowly towards the next crisis point.

There are [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to some of these nations - the [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]], [[Axos]], the [[Thule]], and [[Faraden]] in particular. Other nations are dealt with by the [[Imperial Consul]]. Sometimes a neighbouring nation focuses on diplomacy with the Empire, and requires an in-depth discussion. The '''[[Death leaves us homesick]]''' wind of fortune covers relations with Axos for example, while '''[[Invited with asperity]]''' focuses on the [[orc|orcs]] of [[Otkodov]]. Sometimes however there is less going on and diplomacy can be part of a wider, more surface, roundup. For example '''[[Each age a lens]]''' covers nearly half a dozen of the orc nations that lie near the Empire.

Here we can read about several neighbouring nations to the Empire not covered in detail elsewhere - the [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and even the more powerful nation of the [[Sumaah Republic]].
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=A Yak.jpg|align=right|caption=The yak of western Faraden are like very hairy oxen but adapted to live at high altitudes and in cold weather. Their wool, milk, and meat is much prized.|width=400}}</div>
==Faraden==
* '''Faraden remains caught between Imperial and Asavean interests
* '''The Liege of Five Winds appears to favour the Empire but there are powerful factions in Faraden that prefer closer ties with Asavea
* '''Faraden and the Empire are at peace, and trade ties between them are being strengthened
The lifeblood of [[Faraden]] is trade, but it is also a country of canny wizards, courageous warriors, and proud (albeit heretical) priests. They currently do not share a border with the Empire, lying beyond the [[Jotun]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]], but that does not stop them sending their caravans to Imperial markets despite the high tariffs they must pay to pass through the lands between. Diplomatic relations between the Court of the Five Winds and the Imperial Senate are changeable - warm one moment cool the next - but it has never come to open warfare. Right now Faraden is squeezed between two competing interests - the Empire on one side and the angry Plenum of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] on the other - and they must walk a knife-edge between the two powerful nations.
{{Nation|nation=[[Faraden]]|port=[[Sea_of_Snow#Pelabuhan|Caitun]]|ambassador=Ebenezer of [[the Marches]]|status=Foreigner}}
The Faraden ambassador to the Empire is ''Mistress Singua Karadragha''. Mistress Singua advises the Court of the Five Winds on all diplomatic matters, and speaks on their behalf to foreign ambassadors. Her attitude to the Empire appears to be cool but professional, and heavily informed by the wishes of the Liege and their court, who seek more opportunities to trade with the Empire.
===General Diplomacy===
* '''Communications between Faraden and the Empire are civil and constructive
* '''The Faraden seek closer trade ties with the Empire as a route to shared prosperity
Ambassador Ebeneezer has raised the matter of the Cinders with Mistress Karadragha. As [[We give the future to the winds#Ashes On The Breeze|previously mentioned]], this sect of violent zealots have been condemned by the Liege of the Five Winds, and the organisation has been driven underground. Yet there is still concern that the Cinders intend to continue their vendetta against the Empire.

Mistress Karadragha confirms that wizards versed in the art of Flame have also offered warnings about the Cinders, but the problem is that their [[divination|divinations]] are fundamentally symbolic and need careful interpretation. No doubt the Empire's adepts of [[Night magic]] have encountered the same challenges. Regardless, the Liege of the Five Winds sees no reason not to share whatever intelligence the Faraden have about the Cinders' operations in the Empire. Several reports have been dispatched by special courier to help Imperial citizens plot the movements of the Cinders.

The Court of the Five Winds is apparently very pleased with the news that work on [[Wild_is_the_wind#Yakholme_Grange|Yakholme Grange]] [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_Yakholme_Grange|has begun]], and that there is a good chance Faraden [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#The_Richest_Wines|trade with Dawn]] may be moving forward. Prosperous trade ties with the Empire strengthen the position of the Liege of the Five Winds, and reinforce their pro-Imperial agenda. The fact that trade with the Empire can be undertaken without the need to trust to ships and boats and the dangers of the [[Sea of Snow]], as compared to trade with the Asaveans, which relies on long shipping routes, means it has particular appeal to the merchant-families of the nation.
===War and the Jotun===
* '''Mistress Karadragha declines to send Faraden mercenaries to fight in the Empire
* '''The Liege of the Five Winds is apparently in negotiation with another power to attack southern Reinos
* '''They propose that the Empire attack the northern regions of the Lasambrian Hills following the Winter Solstice
Ambassador Ebeneezer has clearly presented the idea that the Empire and Faraden could form an alliance against the Jotun. The current truce with the Jotun is the result of a treaty, but as Mistress Karadragha has [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#The_Hills_of_Reinos|already said]], that treaty is due to be renewed or renegotiated at the Summer Solstice. The situation has not changed; Faraden cannot afford to go to war with the Jotun, and as near as the Court of Five Winds can tell the Jotun would prefer to focus their efforts on fighting the Empire. The Ambassador's suggestion that Faraden troops might fight against the [[Druj]] or the [[vallorn|peculiar plant monsters]] that infest parts of the Empire are interesting, but unappealing; the distances are too great and the dangers are too unknown.

However, it may be that the Faraden and the Empire could both get what they want. The [[Iron Confederacy]] has reached out to the Court of the Five Winds and informed them that the Suranni intend to conquer southern [[Reinos]]. This is not the ideal situation, in that it swaps Jotun control of their trade routes to the Empire for Suranni control; but that is still preferable to the stranglehold the barbarian orcs have over them.

If the Empire is serious about a joint effort, then the Military Council could dispatch a force to attack [[Reinos#Ribeira|Riberia]] and [[Reinos#Pedreira|Pedreira]] after the Winter Solstice. A powerful force would be able to smash through the defences there and claim both regions. At the same time, the Iron Confederacy will be attacking in the south, catching Jotun defenders between the hammer and the anvil.

There are further benefits to the Faraden of course. If a serious force of soldiers were attacking the hills of Reinos they would be in a much better position to renegotiate or even abandon their treaty with the Jotun. The benefits to the Empire are less clear - but Mistress Karadragha points out that control of Pedreira would give the Empire control of the [[white granite]] quarry at [[Reinos#Cantera_Balanka|Cantera Balanka]] as well as protecting the entire western border of [[Segura]] from future Jotun invasion.
===Faith and Flame===
* '''The Gatekeepers have provided a dose of true liao to the Faraden priest Boorra Talighar of the Silver Tree
* '''The Temple of the High Flames will receive a true consecration during the Winter Solstice
* '''There are concerns that Asavean assassins may try to disrupt the ceremony
* '''If the consecration is successful, it will end opportunities for Asavean religion to spread in Faraden
Last season ''Boorra Talighar of the Silver Tree'', priest of the Five Flames, [[We_give_the_future_to_the_winds#Flames_and_Faith|petitioned the Synod]] for a dose of [[liao#True Liao|True Liao]]. Their intent was to use the true liao to create a [[Consecration#True_Liao|true consecration]] of the [[Auras_of_Pride#Partner_of_Greatness|Flame of Honour]]; a powerful aura to help anchor the true faith of Faraden in the face of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] syncretism. During the Equinox, the [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeepers]] met and discussed the matter, and ultimately [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Doses_of_True_Liao|chose to provide]] one of the seven doses available to them. With the particular aid of '''Nisha Strazcovich''', a former Gatekeeper of Pride who Ebeneezer notes as being instrumental in ensuring the dose was available, the Ambassadors office ensured the true liao was safely delivered to Faraden.

During the Winter Solstice, a grand ceremony marking the end of one year and the beginning of another will take place at the ''Temple of the High Flames'', the most prestigious seat of the Faraden faith. Mistress Karadragha believes representatives of all the [[On_Faraden_faith#The Priest Families|priestly families]] of Faraden will attend, whatever their individual attitudes to the Empire. it is, to put it mildly, a big deal for the faithful of Faraden. No outside priests will be present as this is a ceremony for the Faraden. The Faraden Ambassador, however, has let the Ambassador know that the Liege of the Five Wind has ensured that warriors loyal to them will be present to protect the festivities. There is some concern that the Asaveans might attempt to disrupt the ceremony; there are rumours of assassin-priests of the twin-gods of vengeance, Tlangg and Sanit being present in Faraden.

Assuming the ceremony goes off without a hitch, it will create a potent site of pilgrimage for the faithful of Faraden. The Temple of the High Flames is to the Faraden what the Basilica of Seven Doors is to the Highborn, or the marshes of the Sovennan are to the Winterfolk - a central location sacred to all denominations of their faith. There is no doubt that the true aura will serve as a powerful prophylactic against the influence of Asavean priests, sufficient to put an end to the spread of their influence in the western nation.

It is, of course, illegal for Imperial citizens to trade true liao to citizens of foreign nations; there is no suggestion that either the Liege of the Five Winds or the priest families of Faraden will offer any payment for the liao. All they can offer in return is the profound gratitude of those who take Pride in [[On Faraden faith|their faith]], and who welcome this return to the true values of their own historic religion.
===Fire Fighters===
* '''Zealous crusaders from Faraden have attempted to destroy the Azure Chorus, the docks at Fisk, and the docks at Meade'''
* '''Thanks to prompt warnings from the Imperial Synod two of the three attacks have been thwarted'''
* '''The Jotun have restored the Docks at Meade but made cosmetic changes'''
* '''These attacks have been widely condemned within Faraden'''
In the days following the Autumn Equinox, hasty warnings are carried to Wintermark, the Marches, and the Brass Coast. '''Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum''', the Cardinal of Pride, has issued a dire warning, backed by a greater majority of the Assembly of Nine: the Cinders, a violent group of ultra-conservative Faraden who decry the Empire and all its citizens as irredeemable heretics, have infiltrated the Empire, and intend to wreak havoc upon the innocent. The three targets – the docks at both Fisk and Meade, and the Azure Chorus – are of obvious symbolic value, each one serving as a site where the people of the Empire and the people of Faraden can meet in a spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Further hue and cry is raised in Marches specifically, as the statement of '''Father Edmund''' warns the people of Meade that the attackers have already infiltrated the city. Whichever statement people hear first, the warnings are the same: be Vigilant. Lives are at stake.

The situation in Fisk is well contained. A local magistrate, already visiting the town to try an unrelated case, moves quickly to deputise nearby citizens and take control of the Market Hall. While the Faraden workers there are initially outraged by the accusations that there may be violent fanatics among their number, the outrage turns to panic when one of the porters draws a knife and slashes the magistrate’s face. What follows is a brief, ugly brawl, as other infiltrators from the Cinders reveal themselves and attempt to break out and flee. An effort is made to take suspects alive for trial and questioning, but comes to nothing. Even after the Cinders are disarmed, they do nothing but hurl abuse at their captors and their fellow Faraden alike, refusing to cooperate. Aside from vague hints that there are more of them in the Empire and that there will be more violence to follow, they give nothing useful, and are executed on the spot.

Chaos reigns at the Azure Chorus. The densely packed tents of visiting pilgrims make conducting an orderly investigation all but impossible. Rumours spread through the camp like wildfire, leaving the Courageous and Vigilant citizens of the Brass Coast unable to take their targets by surprise. Some fear that the Cinders may simply flee, but the truth turns out to be much darker. A visiting priest comes running from the Parador of Wind and Flame, shouting that some Faraden pilgrims have barred the doors and begun massacring everyone inside, screaming condemnations again the “lovers of false flames.” The scene is set for tragedy, but nobody present is minded to accept such an outcome. Faraden and Freeborn alike take up arms and storm the Parador in defence of the priests and pilgrims trapped inside, fighting room to room and shedding blood to defend one another. There are many deaths, but fewer than might have been expected, given the grim circumstances.

Things go equally badly in Meade, where the situation is complicated by the the arrival of the Jotun. There is some question among those who stay behind as to whether or not to alert the Jotun to the plans of the Cinders. Would passing on such information be providing treasonous aid to an enemy, or acting with Vigilance to undermine a different enemy?

Unfortunately, the Cinders use the chaos of the invasion to attack before anyone can make a decision one way or the other. The dock front quickly descends into chaos as the Cinders fire the pier and try to murder the Faraden and Marcher merchants working there. Initially stunned by the madness, a Jotun patrol quickly composes themselves and within minutes Jotun and Marchers are fighting side-by-side to take the Cinders down.

At first the Jotun assume that the assassins are under some terrible Night magic curse. Three Cinders were captured alive during the attack - once the Jotun discover there was no magic involved they are appalled. A jarl is summoned and after the briefest trial imaginable, the three men are taken out into the bay and summarily drowned. It is apparently the worst death imaginable as far as the Jotun are concerned.

Once the Cinders have been dealt with, the Jarl gives orders to the Jotun for the docks to be restored. The work is done quickly, most of the docks can be salvaged and materials are shipped in to replace the parts that are too far gone. By the start of the Winter Solstice, the dock front is almost as good as new. Almost... because the Jotun artisans take it on themselves to add a monolithic stone carved in the likeness of an orc warrior - not the Jarl but an idol of [[Elite_Jotun_troops#Skjaldir|Skjaldir]], one of the Jotun faðir.

When word reaches the Faraden Embassy, the response is quick and firm: an absolute and total condemnation of the Cinders' actions. The Liege of the Five Winds had previously spoken out against the Cinders after their failed attempt on the life of the Champion of Vigilance, but this has ignited fury across all of Faraden society. Even conservative thinkers who have never truly reconciled with the differences of faith between the Empire and Faraden are forced to publicly acknowledge that this has gone too far. The Liege of the Five Winds makes a speech before their court, committing to personally pay for any repairs to the sites of the attack, a gesture that earns widespread praise for its even-handed measure of Pride, Prosperity and Justice.

Embassy staff supply one slightly testy clarification to public perceptions of the Cinders: they are not 'Justice cultists', any more than a devout citizen of the Empire is an 'Ambition cultist'. The Cinders follow the Five Flames, just as the people of the Empire follow the Imperial Way. The Cinders are not bad because they follow a specific Virtue, they are bad because they are violent xenophobes who decry the possibility of coexistence and mutual Prosperity in favour of a chauvinistic vision of total cultural purity. Excessive dwelling on religious differences is what led to this problem in the first place, and the last thing anyone needs is someone stoking the flames.

====Raking Over The Ashes====
* '''The infiltrators in Fisk, Meade and the Azure Chorus were not the only Cinders present within the Empire.'''
* '''The attackers will cause further havoc unless they are prevented from doing so.'''
* '''Questions remain over how the group were able to acquire their supplies.'''
In the aftermath, cooler heads begin to dig deeper in both of the locations still controlled by the Empire. What emerges in each case is a similar story. The Cinders arrived as individuals or small groups over the course of the last year, staying and quietly blending in with their countryfolk. They did not disguise their conservative religious views, but did not speak of their violent aims to anyone outside of the conspiracy. The reasons for this are not hard to determine. Not only has the Liege of the Five Winds condemned the sect for their exremism, but many Faraden actively disagree with their attacks on people who did not harm them first. It seems that the Cinders consider other Faraden who deal with the ‘lovers of False Flames’ to be just as bad as heretics themselves. The Cinders are not, it seems, especially good at blending in with the people around them.

Ambassador Ebeneezer's request to Mistress Karadragha has borne fruit with a series of missives detailing what Faraden investigators were able to determine from their own efforts to suppress the sect. In conjunction with Imperial scouts, the two nations are able to put together a list of targets. It seems that the groups already dealt with are not the only ones active within Imperial borders. It's clear that the Cinders have made good use of the resources provided to them - although there is some question about precisely who their rich patrons are. Rumour suggests it is agents of the Asavean plenum who have been funding the Cinders, wielding their hatred of the Empire as a weapon.

===Wildfire (Conjunctions)===
* '''The Cinders have been spotted moving to attack the House of Guerra, the Anvil Library Scriptorium, and Benson's Orchard.'''
* '''Imperial heroes have the opportunity to act before the Cinders can cause any serious harm.'''
The Faraden reports include coded letters that speak of Cinders agents spying out "the Orchard" in the Marches and it is a relatively simple matter to deduce that this is probably a reference to [[Pruning_shears#Benson's_Orchard|Benson's Orchard]], the memorial to [[Paragons and exemplars|exemplar]] of [[Vigilance]] [[Known exemplars#Joshua Benson|'Major' Joshua Benson]]. From the other reports the Faraden are able to provide, it becomes clear the last Cinders are planning to assault the [[Armarius_of_the_Anvil_Library#The_Library_Scriptorium|Anvil Library Scriptorium]] and the [[Hand of Guerra#House of Guerra|House of Guerra]].

By any analysis, these attacks are ultimately doomed to failure. The aura at Benson's Orchard was created with true liao, and there is no way that the Cinders have access to that most valuable substance. The Anvil Library Scriptorium sits in a fortified compound to protect against assaults from agents of the Whisper Gallery, and the House of Guerra is in Calvos town itself, surrounded by Kohan and Corsairs on shore leave. None of these sites are in danger of being destroyed. However, the Cinders are heavily armed and prepared to fight to the death. If they are allowed to work their will unmolested, they will kill a great many people and cause a lot of damage before they are stopped. Fortunately, with the advance warning provided by Faraden to Ambassador Ebeneezer, and the results of Imperial investigations, there is enough notice for the prognosticators to find conjunctions of the [[Sentinel Gate]] that heroes may be able to intervene and prevent loss of life.

====Burn The Books (Sarvos)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to destroy the Anvil Library Scriptorium'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* '''The ''Armarius of the Anvil Library'' is responsible for protecting the Scriptorium'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''

The Anvil Library stands dedicated to the cause of Wisdom and learning across the Empire, fighting back against the terrible losses inflicted by Emperor Nicovar and his book-burning ways. This cause elicits no sympathy from the Cinders, who decry Wisdom as the False Virtue of Doubt. They would love nothing more than to burn the books and massacre the scribes. The mercenaries engaged in the defence of the compound are trusted veterans, but even one enemy with a lit match could wreak havoc if they broke through.

The main group of Cinders are approaching fast along Vintner's Way in Foracci. It is the responsibility of '''Ricardo Glostari di Sarvos''', the Armarius of the Anvil Library, to cut them off before any damage can be done.

====Sever The Hand (Madruga)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to destroy the House of Guerra'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* '''The ''Hand of Guerra'' is responsible for protecting the House'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''
The House of Guerra stands as a testament to the Empire's commitment to taking care of those in need of shelter. Operated by a well-paid staff noted for their practicality and compassion, this thoroughly benign institution seems an odd target for the religiously-motivated Cinders. Things come into focus when the other duty of the Hand of Guerra is pointed out. Spreading the philosophy of Guerra is not especially controversial in the Empire, but rumours have persisted for a long time of her connection to the False Virtue of Anarchy, which the Cinders despise as much as any Imperial citizen. While the general consensus is that these rumours are historical fabrications, it is doubtful that the Cinders would listen if anyone tried to explain to them.

If the attackers are to be intercepted, the easiest place would be along the Corsair's Road in Calvos Sound. It is the responsibility of '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''', the Hand of Guerra, to prevent any harm coming to their charges.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Orchard One.jpg|align=left|caption=Brother Martin Orchard is a sometimes controversial, well respected monk from Pickham Monastery. in Upwold|width=400}}</div>
====Silence The Bell (Upwold)====
* '''A group of Cinders are trying to desecrate Benson's Orchard'''
* '''This is a combat highly likely encounter'''
* ''' ''Martin Orchard'', who carried out the consecration, is responsible for protecting the memorial'''
* '''There are [[Sentinel Gate#Imperial Law|no innocents present]] on this conjunction; magistrates advise that lethal force is fully justified'''
'Major' Joshua Benson is an aspirational figure for many dedicants of Vigilance, especially in the Marches. A man without flashy miracles and tall tales to his name, he simply defended his community with absolute and unwavering commitment. Jackie Longshanks, the Beater who was able to sneak up on the Cinders to eavesdrop on their plans, cited the Bellringer as an inspiration for her deeds. The Vigilant pilgrims coming to soak up the aura that surrounds the exemplar's resting place have taken up arms and are ready to defend the holy site to the death, but such a fight would be a bloodbath. If the Cinders should spill blood on such a sacred memorial, the response from irate pilgrims of Vigilance would not bear thinking about.

As the Cinders move to attack Benson's Orchard, they must first move through the area of Tower March known as Benson's Bawn. It is the responsibility of '''Martin Orchard''', the priest who consecrated Benson's Orchard, to thwart their malice before it can strike.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Delicacies.jpg|caption=The Faraden are proud of their own fine victuals, but also keen to bring the best food and drink from around the world to their tables..|align=right|width=450}}</div>

===Days Of Wine And Mooncheese===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Moonsong Market'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[The Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] or [[The Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]], [[the Barrens]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 [[weirwood]] and 30 [[white granite]], 180 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Raises the level of investment for farms in the Barrens by one
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Moonsong Reeve''
* Increases the taxation raised from trade with Faraden by 4 Thrones each season
* Significantly increases the number of Faraden travelling to and visting Dawn</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Moonsong Reeve'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees Moonsong Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To serve as a liaison between the Faraden visiting Moonsong Market and the people of Dawn; to encourage Faraden merchants to trade with the nation; to smooth over any disputes; to make decisions based on any opportunities related to Moonsong Market</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' If the Moonsong Reeve is not yeofolk, the great work benefits will be halved</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Moonsong Cheese'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 crowns</td><td>Three common mooncheese and one rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 crowns</td><td>Six common mooncheese and two rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 crowns</td><td>Nine common mooncheese and three rare mooncheese</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 crowns</td><td>Twelve common mooncheese and four rare mooncheese</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''A consortium in Faraden has established a potential deal to trade luxury food in the Barrens.'''
* '''Despite an attempt by the Cinders to sabotage this plan, the actions of Imperial Citizens have demonstrated that Faraden merchants are safe to trade with the Empire.'''

Even as further violence mars relationships between the Empire and Faraden, the siren song of commerce seeks to bring people closer together. Last season, merchants of the Sansar family came to Anvil to speak with the people of Dawn about setting up a trade enclave in the Barrens. Representing a coalition of smaller families, they sought to exploit the opportunities presented by providing rare goods to the eastern Empire and, in so doing, to raise their standing back home.

While the trade talks themselves seem to have gone well, confused reports from Anvil speak of three of the Sansar cousins attending but only two returning, and of drawn blades and plotted murders. When the surviving merchants returned home they apparently brought a tale of horrific treachery: the third of their party had been corrupted by the rage of the Cinders, and plotted to murder them on their journey back to Faraden! Only by the swift action of Imperial law enforcement was this plan foiled. The intention of the Cinders was clear, to scare merchants away from dealing with the Empire. Yet this plan has backfired spectacularly, as the Sansar have not only publicly recommitted to building closer ties with their Imperial friends, but have posted a bounty on all members of the Cinders in vengeance for their heinous acts.

Still, bloodshed makes for poor conversation over the negotiating table, so discussions with the Imperial civil service focus on business. The core of the deal is a pleasingly symmetrical arrangement: Dawnish cloth for Faraden cloth, Dawnish wine for Faraden cheese. Already Seneschals and vintners across Dawn are racing to discover the best wine pairings for the valuable Faraden Mooncheese, a development that is filling the cheesemakers of Faraden with Pride and confidence. There was also an unsurprising interest in purchasing Mithril, for which the Empire’s voracious appetite is well-known.

The plans drawn up off the back of these proposals are, in their most basic nature, similar to the Firewind Market in Holberg. The proposed Moonsong Market, named in honour of the famed Mooncheese, would take 30 wains of weirwood, 30 wains of white granite, and 180 Crowns in labour costs. The Sansar have requested that such a market be built in either [[The Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]] or [[The Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]] to be close to the well-defended centres of civilisation. Once constructed, the Moonsong Market would act as a [[great work]] increasing investment in farms across the Barrens. It would also create an [[Imperial title]] - ''Moonsong Reeve'' - that would be responsible for representing Dawn in any negotiations with the Faraden merchants, and smoothing over any issues that arise with their trade in Dawn.

There is one other matter - one that the Faraden are unaware of. As an economic position, the people of Dawn expect the ''Moonsong Reeve'' to be [[Yeofolk of Dawn|yeofolk]]. If the title is held by a noble, it will result in the benefits of the great work being halved as Dawnish farmers look askance at the Faraden merchants and their association with a noble demeaning the glory of Dawn.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorIronConfederacy.png|caption='''Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo''', Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==The Iron Confederacy==
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
* '''They have recently moved a major military force into the islands off the coast of Feroz
{{Nation|nation=The [[Iron Confederacy]]|port=[[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]]|status=Foreigner|ambassador=Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo}}
The Suranni lie to the south of the Empire. They are a secretive nation, bound up in tradition and suspicion. While they are currently at peace with the Empire, even accepting merchants and traders into their lands, they are certainly not ''friends''. Recent events have seen them, like the [[Faraden]], caught between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the pro-slavery Freedom Accord. Yet where Faraden feels it must play a delicate balancing act, the Suranni Dukes are more confident in their power and prepared to play Imperial and Asavean interests off against each other.

The Suranni ambassador to the Empire is ''Baroness Katerine Lavasse of Meore'', who operates from the Tour Lavasse in Chaubrette, a territory unknown to Imperial citizens that apparently lies to the west of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]]. A noble [[naga]], she replaced the significantly more dogmatic Jeanne de Hibernat, a High Priestess of the Suranni god [[Suranni_pantheon#Evra_the_Smith,_Maiden_of_the_Forge|Evra the Smith, Maiden of the Forge]]. She has already indicated that she is very much more pragmatic than her predecessor and more interested in compromise. She still reports to the Dukes of the Iron Confederacy, however, and so her apparent goodwill toward the Empire cannot be relied upon.
===Suranni Pleasantries===
* '''General pleasantries and diplomatic matters have been touched on
* '''The Iron Confederacy remains at peace with the Empire
Ambassador Tethros has apparently informed Baroness Katerine that the Empire intends to attack [[Skallahn]]. This receives a slightly mixed response; the Suranni ambassador is not herself familiar with northern [[Jotun]] lands. Her response is to congratulate the Empire on seeking to conquer [[orc]] lands, and indicates that the news was met with a great deal of interest among some of the more martial Dukes.

The matter of Faraden was also raised, and Baroness Katerine, perhaps a little surprisingly, agrees that Asavean influence over the neighbouring nation is less than ideal. While the Suranni are capable of keeping the agents of the Plenum at arms' length, and ensuring they gain benefits from their association without becoming tainted, they are less confident that the Faraden can achieve the same.

In somewhat delicate tones, Baroness Katerine writes that the Suranni obviously have their own relationship with Faraden - distinct from the Empire - and their own trade routes. They are exploring their own avenues to reduce Asavean influence, but at this time they are reticent about collaborating with the Empire. With the best will in the world, the Empire's tendency to - no offence - blunder in like a drunk in a glassworks, do not predispose the Suranni to share too much at this time. If the Ambassador can be more specific about proposals for joint action with regard to the Faraden that do '''not''' risk souring the Suranni relationship with the Asaveans unnecessarily, then the Dukes are certainly interested to discuss those plans.

With regard to trade, the Baroness is generally positive about trade with the port of [[Foreign_ports#Robec|Robec]] and entirely sees where the Ambassador is coming from when they talk of more secure overland trade routes. Suranni merchants have long seen the town of [[Feroz#Fontargenta|Bramar]] in Feroz as the ideal destination for those looking to trade with the Empire. From there the more adventurous could travel to [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]], or even further north across the [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep#The_Spider's_Dream|Spider's Dream]] bridge. However, as the Suranni understand it a recent natural disaster has severed easy trade routes between Feroz and the rest of the Empire. Is there any news of when these will be restored? That would likely be the first step toward securing a commitment to a trade [[ministry]] in the Empire.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kobol.PNG|caption=[[Suranni_pantheon#Kobol the Warrior, Maiden of Battle|Kobol the Warrior]] is the uncompromising [[Suranni pantheon|Iron Confederacy god]] of warriors and battle.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Cazar and the ''Wings of Kobol''===
* '''The Iron Confederacy has smashed the Children of Wrecks in Feroz
* '''Suranni forces have claimed the Cazar Straits for the Confederacy
* '''The Dukes intend to attack Free Landing after the Spring Equinox if the Empire has not dealt with the Wreckers by then
* '''While no treaty has been agreed, Freeborn citizens are free to leave the islands and ships from Feroz can pass through the waters
The Iron Confederacy has invaded [[Feroz]]; or rather they have attacked the Children of Wrecks on the [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]]. As laid out in the '''[[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|Red skies]]''' wind of war, the ''Wings of Kobol'' [[navy]] brought two Suranni [[army|armies]] across the border from Kalino and smashed the Wreckers' grasp on the island chain. Those pirates and raiders who were not defeated in battle, or captured and executed, have been forced to flee. Most have gone north to [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]], but some have apparently chosen to quit the [[Bay of Catazar]] altogether. The Cazar Straits are now under the control of the Iron Confederacy.

Following the attack and "liberation" of the islands, Baroness Katerine delivers a message from the Suranni Dukes. It has been too long since the pirates invoked the power of [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Dumon]] to help them seize the islands to the north of Arbonne, which they have been using as a base to attack the coast of the Iron Confederacy. Over a year ago they launched a raid against [[bay of Catazar#Axiom Prison|Axiom Prison]] and released many dangerous prisoners including a large number of corrupt wizards. While there has been some diplomatic attempt to find common ground for a joint effort against the Children, that have come to nothing. With this decisive action, the Iron Confederacy has shown that it will not tolerate criminals and pirates threatening their borders.

Diplomatic channels were used during the Autumn Equinox to inform Imperial officials of the Suranni intentions. During that time there was discussion of a treaty, but after due consideration the Dukes believe that it is too soon to commit to any formal agreement while there is still a major Children of Wrecks presence just north of their lands - by which they pointedly mean their new holdings in the Cazar Straits. The work done at the Autumn Equinox by Baronets ''Marquette Lavasse'' and ''Vauquelin Lavasse'', during which they met informally with multiple Imperial luminaries have indicated that there is certainly a foundation for a formal treaty to secure relations between the Confederacy and the Empire; but the time to discuss it is once the immediate threat is ended.

Baroness Katerine appears to be aware that the Empire planned their own assault on the Children of Wrecks following the Autumn Equinox, but apparently expected it to be aimed at Free Landing. Her missive lays out that the Dukes plan to take a season ensuring that the last corrupt elements are removed from the islands of Cazar. Then, if the Empire has not already dealt with them, they will attack the Wreckers in Free Landing with an eye towards dealing with them as they have their "friends" in the south. It is important for Ambassador Tethros to understand that if the ''Wings of Kobol'' are called on to free the Madrugan islands, they will likewise be considered part of the Iron Confederacy. After that, though, there will be plenty of time to discuss how to proceed. In particular, she wishes to commend [[Senator]] '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' whose passionate words went some way toward reassuring the Dukes that the Empire was in the process of dealing with the Pirates of Dumon and should be given a little space to do so.

The Baroness does however reiterate that as far as the Dukes are concerned, they have taken enemy territory away from criminals who made war on the Suranni people. The islands of Cazar are now ''theirs'', by right of conquest. This, says Katerine, is not a matter for debate - the facts speak for themselves. The same will be true if they are forced to deal with the pirates of Free Landing.

However, in recognition of the historic presents of the people of [[the Brass Coast]] here, there are certain humanitarian concessions the Dukes have instructed Baroness Katerine to lay out. Any Imperial citizen that was trapped in the Cazar Straits when they were conquered by the Grendel, and then seized by the Pirates of Dumon, is absolutely free to leave; indeed they are encouraged to depart. Suranni ships stand ready to repatriate them to the mainland, and there will be no bar to Freeborn vessels that wish to come collect their countryfolk.

The Iron Confederacy is also open to suggestions about how best to arrange matters with regard to Imperial ships leaving or entering Feroz. Obviously, with control of the Cazar Straits, the Suranni could potentially cut the Freeborn territory off from the Bay of Catazar entirely. There is no reason for them to do so at the moment; indeed Baroness Katerine expresses the hope that recent successes with trade can be built on to encourage Imperial merchants to visit the Straits. This means that there will be no disadvantage to the Freeborn busy rebuilding their homes in the ruined territory from the Suranni.

The [[Civil Service|civil service]] advise that this communication should not be taken entirely at face value. Reading between the lines, it seems that Baroness Katerine isn't ''completely'' happy with the decision of the Dukes. Over the last few years, she has demonstrated a preference for a more nuanced, diplomatic approach to relations with the Empire. At the end of the day though, it is the Dukes who make the decisions. The rulers of the Iron Confederacy are [[naga]], and while they can be [[Naga#Subtle|subtle]], they are still [[Naga#Passionate|passionate]] and [[Naga#Avaricious|avaricious]].

The proposal of a treaty once the Children of Wrecks are finally beaten seems genuine, and it is possible that one of the reasons the Suranni are not rolling straight into Free Landing is to give Ambassador Tethros a chance to put forward a proposal of their own.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Watt of Lambrook.jpg|caption='''Watt of Lambrook''', Minister of Historical Research|align=left|width=300}}</div>
===Marko and the March of History===
* '''Marko Siwarsbairn is ''still'' in the Iron Confederacy'''
The saga of Marko Siwarsbairn continues to drag on. Following the [[Bedight_in_veils#An_Imperial_Historian_in_the_Baronial_Court|dispute]] over the [[historical research]] the [[Wintermark]] scholar had been compiling on Iron Confederacy military history, the Ambassador passed along words from the [[Minister of Historical Research]] '''Watt Lambrook''': "''My researcher is correct that I hold the right to view such reports first. However, since this was understandably not known at the time I will oblige that this once you may also read the report Marko has written before he leaves.''"

Baroness Katerine thanks the Minister for their words, and understands that this is a concession. However as the Winter Solstice draws closer it seems Marko has ''still'' not returned from the Iron Confederacy. A late message to the Imperial embassy indicates that on reading the Siwarsbairn Report it was clear to the Baroness that there were several significant errors and misconceptions in the document. Rather than suggest Marko scrap their hard work and start again, Baroness of Meore has offered the assistance of some of her own staff to correct those errors. She is confident that the report will be much more useful as an artifact of truth, rather than something riddled with errors. She anticipates that unless anything else goes wrong, Marko will be safely back in the Empire with a well-researched document in time for the Spring Equinox.

The Minister need not worry; Baroness Katerine is more than happy to continue to serve as gracious host to Marko Siwarsbairn, and supply the support they need at her own expense. It is the least she can do as a student of history herself, committed to increasing understanding between her nation and the Empire. She also mentions that the gods clearly inspired Marko to make their errors; if they had set off from Meore on schedule this season they would doubtless have ended up caught in the events unfolding in Arbonne.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Dumon.PNG|caption=Dumon the Liar, the Wicked One|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Unfolding in Arbonne===
* '''Arbonne has been subject to a serious Winter curse'''
* '''The priests of the Veiled Shrine claim an oracle has implicated Imperial citizens in the curse'''
* '''Baroness Katerine asks the Ambassador to encourage Imperial citizens to track down those responsible'''
Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the dukedom of Kalino - which the Suranni call Arbonne - was struck with a [[I_wish_you_would#Wicked curses|blight]] that withered crops and saw vermin multiply across the territory. The priests of [[Suranni_pantheon#Kavol,_the_Veiled_King|Kavol]] quickly identified that this was a [[curse]] drawn down by wicked sorcerers working with the aid of the [[Suranni_pantheon#Dumon_the_Liar,_the_Wicked_One|Lying God]]. The curse ran its course, and despite some food shortages in Arbonne, the worst appeared to be over. This assumption was, unfortunately, premature.

Just after the Autumn Equinox another curse fell on Arbonne, and this was orders of magnitude worse than the blight that struck in Spring. The first sign was unseasonably bad weather than ruined crops before they could be gathered; it was swiftly followed by a wave of sickness that incapacitated the weak and the strong alike. Then, on the night of the first new moon, demonic angels of Dumon emerged from the shadows bent on murder and corruption. The worst of them took on the forms of dead orcs, the Lasambrians who had once squatted in the hills here. Their witchcraft brought more terror and destruction to the people and serfs of Arbonne. Worse, among their numbers were revenants that appeared in the form of dead Suranni and even in a few cases what looked to be Imperial knights.

This was again seen as a sign that the gods were angry with the Duke of Arbonne, but again the Priests of Kavol investigated the matter and determined that it was nothing more than another terrible curse from the servants of Dumon. This time, though, this reassurance has done little to quell discontent in the territory. Crops fail from time to time, as a test from the gods, but this unspeakable infestation of demons and revenants is an entirely different matter. The position of the Duke of Arbonne is extremely shaky; if a third curse strikes the territory they will have little choice but to step aside in favour of one of their heirs. Baroness Katerine confidently paints the heirs to the current Duke as competent, wise people but there is an edge to her words that suggests she is not entirely confident about what she is saying.
<div style="float: right; max-width: 200px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|Seven Locks 2.jpg|Master of Locks.png}}</div>
<div style="float: right; max-width: 200px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|WhisperGal004.png|WhisperGal005.png}}</div>
While the curse is bad, it would normally be a matter for the Iron Confederacy to resolve. Unfortunately, there is an unlooked for wrinkle here. Among the priests of Kavol there are some sects charged with specific duties within the Confederacy. The priests of the Veiled Shrine are charged to root out heretics and servants of Dumon who consort with demons. The Veiled God has sent a sign to them, warning them that while the curse comes from the servants of the God of Corruption, they could not have achieved this terrible working without aid. Specifically, through oracles and visionary dreams, Kavol has given a warning that the power to place the curse came from the Empire.

Baroness Katerine is not a fool; she doesn't believe the Empire has cursed Arbonne. There's simply no evidence of it. Unfortunately, the priests of the Veiled Shrine are adamant that there is Imperial entanglement in this event. She asks that the Ambassador do whatever it takes to find out who has provided the Hand of Dumon with the wherewithal to lay a curse of this magnitude on Arbonne. Given that working with the Hand is a crime in the Empire, she presumes that Imperial justice likewise has a vested interest in tracking down whoever it is that is supporting these monstrous sorcerers. The Dukes cannot countenance Imperial support for the Hand of Dumon, and if it comes out that Imperial citizens were flouting the laws made by the Senate in this regard it would shake confidence in those who pointed to the agreement as a positive step in international relations. Which includes Baroness Katerine of course.

Obviously, the one thing every Imperial citizen can be '''absolutely certain''' of, is that "the Veiled God" definitely did not tell the Iron Confederacy anything, ''given they don't actually exist''. However they note that Baroness Katerine refers to "angels" more than once, which is either a [[Astronomancy#Tulpas|tulpa]] or much more likely, a [[herald]] of some [[eternal]] that is up to no good. If it is the latter, the finger of suspicion must point at either [[Basileia]] or the [[Whisper Gallery]], either of which would sell the Empire out in a heartbeat. The City of Locks trades in treachery, espionage and secrets, while the Shadow Courtiers are literally obsessed with secrets. On paper, it is more likely to be the Princess of Weirs; since the Concilium of the Perjured Throne is under enmity, the only way they could be mixed up in all this is if that was being subverted by members of the Conclave.

It's unfortunate that the Empire does not have a workable map of Arbonne, so rituals such as [[Eye of the High Places]] will not be able to find anything useful. From the description, however, it seems that the curse might have been the result of a potent Winter magic ritual of high magnitude - at least eightieth and perhaps higher.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconSumaah.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==Sumaah Republic==
* '''The Sumaah Republic is an empire devoted to an orthodox interpretation of the Way'''
* '''The Sumaah Republic remain allies of the Empire in the Liberty Pact
The [[Sumaah Republic]] are simultaneously allies of, and rivals to, the Empire. Their shared practice of the Way both provide them with common ground, and divides them over questions of orthodoxy. As founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]], their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world. In gratitude for [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|major aid]] from the Empire in repulsing an Asavean assault against the port of [[Foreign_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]], the Sumaah have committed to sharing a dose of [[Liao#True Liao|true liao]] with the Empire every season "''until the Plenum falls and the Way is spread to the Archipelago''." Relations with the grateful Sumaash, which have been bumpy in the past, are now better than ever.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sumaah Republic]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sumaah_Republic_ports#Zemeh|Zemeh]]|ambassador=Accalon of [[Highguard]]}}
The Sumaah ambassador to the Empire is ''Oxtitocszin'', who holds the rank of Censor of wood, metal and stone and is a member of the High House of Pride (the Sumaah equivalent of the Pride Assembly, but with significantly more responsibility and leeway to pursue foreign diplomacy). They advise not just the Sumaah ''präster'', but the House of the People (the Sumaah equivalent of the Imperial Senate). By all accounts they are an even-handed, level-headed individual, and a devout practitioner of the Way.
===Liberty===
* '''The Sumaah are sending a representative to the Liberty Pact meeting'''
The Sumaah are, of course, sending an emissary to the [[Liberty Pact]] meeting. ''Oxtitocszin'' indicates the Sumaah attitude to the Pact has not shifted. They still intend to propose the amendment to the pact [[Drowned_in_tears#Liberty_Pact|mentioned last season]], to centre [[the Way]] in the approach of the Liberty Pact to defeating the evil of slavery. Apparently, the Sumaah representatives to the Pact are a little surprised that the Empire are not raising any amendments to the Pact themselves, but appreciate that this may simply be because the status quo serves their interests more effectively.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Accalon5901.jpg|caption='''Accalon of Felix's Watch''', Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|align=right|width=350}}</div>
Ambassador Accalon's words relating to the removal of Axos from the pact has not inspired them to revisit the matter but they wish the Ambassador to be apprised that they will vote with the Commonwealth on this matter. Unfortunately, Sumaah is not in a position to launch a full-scale invasion of the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. Were there any chance that such an attack might be practical, they would already be undertaking it. Oxtitocszin gently suggests that even if they were holding off for some reason, the Ambassador's proposal that the Empire would help remove Axos from the Pact would by no means be sufficient inducement for them to do so. The Sumaah Republic intends to let virtue guide their approach to the Pact and the Axou, as they do everything else. They would expect the Empire to do the same.

Further details of the Sumaah involvement in the Liberty Pact meeting can be found in the '''[[My soul at liberty]]''' wind of fortune.

===Gift of Pride (Redux)===
* '''The House of the People delayed their shipment of white granite at the request of Ambassador Accalon
* '''After the Winter Solstice there is an opportunity for Imperial fleet captains to escort the shipment to the Brass Coast
At the request of the people of [[the Brass Coast]], as relayed to the Sumaah by Ambassador Accalon, they have delayed the shipment intended to [[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|offer aid in rebuilding]]. The white granite is still in the Republic, waiting an escort of Imperial vessels to help it reach the shores of the Bay of Catazar. The House of the People recognises that dealing with the threat of the Children of Wrecks takes priority. The Cardinal of the House of [[Vigilance]], however does append a warning to the Freeborn not to allow the malign power of ''hevn'' to gain a foothold in their souls. "''Hevn''" is apparently an old-fashioned Sumaah term for the power of [[Malign spiritual presences#Vengeance|vengeance]] but with elements of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatered|Hatred]]. The Cardinal reminds their beloved Imperial cousins that to strike against enemies before they can harm you is vigilant but to pursue the destruction of those who have harmed you for selfish reasons is to invite corruption into ones soul.

Regardless, the House of the People have confirmed that the shipments of white granite await an Imperial escort. They warn, however, that they cannot afford to delay their gift for another season. The [[Asavean Archipelago]] already seems to have gotten wind of what is planned, and any further wait will surely see the Sumaah ships attacked and sunk regardless of the presence of Imperial vessels.

You can read about this opportunity in last seasons '''[[Drowned_in_tears#A_Gift_of_Pride|Drowned in tears]]''' wind of fortune.
{{CaptionedImage|file=IconZemress.png |caption=Icon of Zemress|title=Icons of Zemress are popular with sailors who must travel through dangerous waters - both those from the Brass Coast, and the distant Frieøyer.|align=right|width=300}}
===Inspiration of Zemress===
* '''A renowned Frieøyer captain has come to study at the Zemress Naval Academy along Sumaah sailors and shipwrights'''
* '''Their support has helped to unlock the full potential of the Academy and the Empire's naval forces'''
While [[Red skies|war rages]] in the seas of Sarvos and Madruga, a Sumaah ship appears at the docks in [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. It looks a little the worse for wear, showing signs of having sustained significant damage recently. It turns out to be the ship of ''Bjarna Xicot'' of the Frieøyer - the former pirates [[Zemress#A_Tale_from_Sumaah|inspired]] by the paragon [[Zemress]] - who has come to study at the [[Madruga#Zemress_Naval_Academy|Zemress Naval Academy]] along with a boatload of Sumaah students. Unfortunately, along the way, they fell afoul of Asavaean privateers and only just managed to escape with their lives and their vessel.

The Sumaah quickly make themselves at home; the Frieøyer among their number have all fought alongside Imperial fleet captains before, during the [[Two_suns_in_the_sunset#A_Bond_Between_Sailors|fight against Asavea]] last year. The others are a combination of pilgrims of [[Prosperity]], scholars, and shipwrights. Sumaah does not have anything to match the naval prowess of Asavea but like the Empire they have their traditions of building warships. Without them, the Asaveans would likely have conquered swathes of their coastline in the centuries of war.

''Bjarna Xicot'' brings with her a gift - or rather, she and her companions ''are'' the gift. A gift not from the House of the People or the High Houses of Virtue but from the Frieøyer themselves. It is in part a gift of gratitude for the Imperial sailors who fought alongside them, partly a gift of Pride, but mostly a gift to recognise the shared love of Zemress between the Frieøyer and the Brass Coast. The artisans and veteran mariners who accompany Bjarna are here to stay, they are eager to study at the Academy and learn what they can from the Freeborn masters of the sea, but they also bring knowledge and skills of their own, which they are enthusiastic to share. They bring with them a small library of plans and books dedicated to the art of the shipwright, translated painstakingly from their original tongue into Imperial.

Studying together, the two groups are able to achieve a breakthrough. The Academy has been steadily creating designs for new warships, trying to match the qualities of the navies of the [[Grendel]] and the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]]. The school has done a remarkable job building up Imperial expertise, but with the information the Frieøyer have provided has helped to ''complete'' that program of study. The academy has discovered everything they can - all that remains now is to put that knowledge into practice.

That means building some navies, but it also means spreading the knowledge they have gained far and wide across the Empire. Excited at the prospects of sharing what they have learned with everyone in the Empire, the Academy soon empties out, as people make arrangements to visit one or more of the other nations. After-all - "all that is worthwhile is shared with those who deserve it."

The main advantage of spreading this knowledge far and wide is that shipwrights will be able to build vessels better suited to a nation's ideals. Local shipwrights can build on the skills and learning shared by the staff of the former Zemress Academy to create something more in keeping with local traditions. Freeborn navies might be well-suited to plunder, while a Dawnish warship might be built for glory!

What that means now, is that any [[navy]] built by the Empire would have access to a set of three or more qualities just like an [[army]]. Going forward, similar to the [[Rules_update_2026#New_Army_Qualities|rules that cover army qualities]], the Senator who musters a navy will be given a list of qualities to choose from reflecting their nation and the narrative surrounding the navy's creation. These will be drawn from the list of standard qualities, but through [[opportunity|opportunities]] or [[appraisal|appraisals]], more unique qualities may be on offer.
<div style="float: right; width: 250px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Prosperity.png|width=250px}}</div>
====Legacy====
* '''The Synod lists the Krakens' Bane as a memorial to Zemress'''
* '''The Wreckers destroyed the beautiful seminary constructed in her memory'''
* '''The potential exists to create a truly inspirational memorial to Zemress'''
* '''Any edifice would be more inspirational if the General Assembly recognise Zemress as a paragon'''
The Zemress Naval Academy now stands empty. Its great work complete, the staff have fanned out across the Empire, taking the new learning with them. The power to develop qualities is no longer available or needed. However, the building still stands, and it still attracts the best shipwrights from across the Brass Coast and beyond. This is the site that raised Imperial naval traditions to the point where they could rival - at least in theory - those of the Grendel or the Asaveans. The Frieøyer came half way across the world to study here.

This incredible legacy should be preserved. When the [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress_(Destroyed)|Seminary of Zemress]] was destroyed, the ''Kraken's Bane'' was left untouched. It bears a [[Aura#Durable_Auras|true aura]] of Prosperity, [[A_time_of_plenty#Coin_that_Goes_Unspent|placed there by Gilah, daughter of the Chantry]] with the approval of the Assembly of Prosperity. The beautiful building that once celebrated the life of this iconic Freeborn hero was destroyed, but the potential exists to rebuild it into something even more inspirational.

No true liao would be needed, but a new [[edifice]] of some kind is needed. The more [[Edifice#Grandeur|grandiose]] the building, the more inspirational it would be. However, the other thing that would help to remind everyone of the importance of the site, is if the Freeborn were able to convince the General Assembly to recognise Zemress as a paragon. After-all... what more powerful a legacy could exist than the triumph of the Zemress Naval Academy?

Freeborn architects intend to bring a range of plans forward to create a new building to celebrate Zemress' life later this year. They want to give their fellow Freeborn time to persuade the Synod of the truth of their claims - that Zemress i Ezmara i Erigo has passed through the Labyrinth. If the Synod act to recognise Zemress as a paragon, they will publish their ideas before the next summit, otherwise they will publish them in a year's time.

===OOC Note===
The Zemress Naval Academy, and its approach to determining qualities for navies, was rooted in an earlier vision of how navies worked. As we've developed our approach to armies, it's become more clear that we should be treating navies in the same way we do armies - that they should have strong identities tied to the nation that supports them. As such, the existing abilities of the Academy to build up a small list of qualities based on the design of the ships themselves has become outmoded. The in-character rationale for the rules change is that the arrival of the Frieøyer has helped the Academy achieve its ultimate goals and allowed them to spread knowledge of advanced ship-building right across the Empire.

Rather than simply have the Naval Academy become a white elephant, we'll present an opportunity to build on the consecrated location dedicated to Zemress later this year, to give the Empire an opportunity to rededicate the site with a new purpose.

==Tsark==
* '''The people of Tsark keep the Empire at arms' length
* '''The Imperial Consul is technically responsible for diplomatic relations with the Mountains of the Moon
During the Autumn Equinox, a delegation from the [[Tsark|Mountains of the Moon]] visited [[Bedight_in_veils#The_People_of_the_Moon|visited Anvil]]. They spoke with a number of people, and by all accounts the discussions were somewhat fruitful. The people of Tsark - the [[orc]] nation that occupies the shallow basin surrounded by the Mountains - have so far kept the Empire very much at arms' length. Following their visit, however, they have made an approach to the civil service and asked their assistance in preparing some proposals to put before the Empire.

===Garden of the Perfect World===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of the Perfect World'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Ministry</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]], [[Zenith]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 15 [[weirwood]], 45 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a ministry and the title of ''Seeker of the Perfect World''
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Seeker of the Perfect World'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Urizen National</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Urizen National Assembly</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Oversees the Garden of the Perfect World</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To look after the Garden of the Perfect World, and to help the people of Tsark trade with the Empire</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Limitations:''' The benefits are lost if the Empire and Tsark are no longer friendly</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Wood and Stone'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>4 weirwood</td><td>4 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>6 weirwood</td><td>6 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>8 weirwood</td><td>8 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color: LightYellow;">'''Spirits and Stone'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>40 liao</td><td>1 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>90 liao</td><td>2 white granite</td></tr>
<tr><td>150 liao</td><td>3 white granite</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''There is an opportunity to build a ministry to trade for Tsark's white granite
Tsark resists the idea of an [[embassy]]. By all accounts they see the Empire as a place of chaos and turmoil, very much at odds with the ordered and harmonious life they lead in the high mountains east of [[Urizen]].For centuries they have hidden away from Imperial eyes, discouraging anyone from visiting their home with mighty fortifications and memory-altering drugs. Now, however, it seems that they are prepared to countenance some limited trade with Imperial citizens, with an eye toward acquiring substances that are rare or unknown in Tsark. With the aid of the civil service they have put forward a proposal for the grandiosely titled ''Garden of the Perfect World''.

The garden would be a special [[ministry]] built in the foothills of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] in southern [[Zenith]]. They expect the Empire to undertake the construction. Despite its majestic name, the actual commission requires only 15 wains of weirwood and 45 crowns in labour. It would take three months to complete. It takes the form of a meditative garden, built in the style of Tsark. Quiet chimes are hung from carefully selected trees, and what appears to be a traditional Tsark meeting hall stands along the southern side of the garden. The commission also involves beautiful flowering plants, some from Urizen and some from Tsark.

Once complete the Mountains of the Moon would create the title ''Seeker of the Perfect World'' to oversee it. They would be responsible for trading with the people of Tsark, and where the folk of the Mountains of the Moon reached out to the Empire they would be asked to facilitate any diplomacy or negotiations. It sounds a little like what they really want is an ambassador, but the leaders of Tsark are clear they do not. It seems they are concerned that they would have to build a reciprocal embassy themselves, and allow Imperial citizens into their lands, which they will not do.

The garden allows the ''Seeker of the Perfect World'' access to a ministry that lets them exchange their [[white granite]] from the [[Mountains_of_the_Moon#Kamen_Quarry|Kamen Quarry]] for Imperial [[weirwood]]. They are also interested in acquiring some amount of [[liao]] - a substance not found in Tsark - for use by the human citizens of their nation. They are aware that the quantities they are asking for are quite significant and understand if the Empire doesn't want to take advantage of the trade.

Obviously as a ministry supported by a foreign nation, the ability to trade resources with Tsark is entirely dependant on continued diplomatic relations. Aware that the Empire is, perhaps rightly, concerned about what will happen if Tsark chooses to close itself off from the world again, they have agreed that if they end their trade with the Empire for any reason they will provide 15 wains of white granite to the Seeker of the Perfect World before they do so to pay for the resources spent in the construction of the ministry. If the Empire ends trade, of course, they will not feel the need to provide any restitution at all.

The opportunity remains available until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE.

===Zaboravi===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Peaceful Quietitude'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Sinecure</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Wintermark]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 12 [[weirwood]], 36 crowns labour costs</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability: Open-ended</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a sinecure and the title of ''Seeker of the Perfect World''
</table></div>
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Seeker of Quietitude'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Wintermark National or Imperial</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Wintermark National Assembly or Imperial Apothecaries' Guild</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives 12 doses of zaboravi each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversees the Garden of Peaceful Quietitude; help cultivate zaboravi in Wintermark</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Tsark will help the people of Wintermark cultivate zaboravi
* '''The sinecure must be built in an alpine territory, in a region with hills and hot springs
The people of Tsark make use of an exotic drug called ''Zaboravi'' that has remarkable properties. Used correctly, it allows an individual to edit their own memories in a manner similar to [[Cast Off The Chain of Memory]]. According to the folk from the Mountains of the Moon, [[Night magic]] is a crude tool for altering one's memories, equivalent to a spade or a pickaxe - partly because of the raw magic involved and partly because the impetus to forget comes from outside the self. Zaboravi is a more gentle, harmonious way to alter ones recollections, because all it does is empower the one who uses it to choose how to shape their own remembered past.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBWintermark.jpg|align=right|width=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}</div>
There has been discussion of seeing if the plant that produces zaboravi will prosper in [[Wintermark]]; the farmers there have already had some success with cultivating ''viezesmaak'' for the [[Sarcophan Delves]], and there is interest in seeing if they might be able to do the same with the Tsark drug. There is talk of zaboravi being invaluable to [[surgical skills#Physick|physicks]] dealing with people suffering emotional or spiritual wounds caused by terrible events. Tsark is broadly positive about facilitating such a thing - they are not jealous of their control of zaboravi and see the value of using it to help those whose spirits are in discord find peace.

Again, with the help of the civil service, they have put forward a proposal for a [[commission]] in [[Wintermark]]. The ''Garden of Peaceful Quietude'' is a [[sinecure]] that will require 12 wains of weirwood and 36 crowns in labour to complete, taking three months to construct. It will create a title - ''Seeker of Quietude'' - who will oversee the efforts to cultivate zaboravi. Each season, the gardeners of Tsark believe it will produce 12 doses of zaboravi for the Seeker, presuming that the location is conducive and the gardeners follow their instructions to the letter. The initial proposal from Tsark is that the Seeker of Quietude be appointed by the Wintermark National Assembly - zaboravi is after all a spiritual substance. The civil service however have pointed out that as a unique herb it might be more appropriate to see the title appointed by the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]]. Tsark has indicated that it is happy either way as long as the drug is treated with the reverence they feel it deserves. Notably, once the plant is established, however, its continued cultivation will require no further interaction with Tsark, so it will not be dependant on good relations continuing with the nation.

The only real restriction they place on it is that for the zaboravi to prosper it needs three things; a cool climate, as much altitude as possible, and access to geothermal hot springs. Apparently the folk of Wintermark that the visitors spoke to were confident they knew just the place.

The civil service have assessed the proposal, and indicated that the plans the people of Tsark have provided could also allow similar gardens to be built in other alpine locations - specifically [[Skarsind]], northern [[Hercynia]], and northern [[Varushka]]. The main challenge would be finding suitable locations, which would require an [[appraisal]]. The only limitation would be that such an appraisal couldn't be undertaken until the Empire had a source of the plant itself - so not until the ''Garden of Peaceful Quietude'' was completed.

===Ushabti and Rice===
* '''Some folk in Tsark are interested in both Ushabti and the Golden Cascade
* '''Further discussion waits the completion of the Garden of the Perfect World
During their visit, the subject of both [[Urizen_economic_interests#Ushabti|ushabti]] and the [[Zenith#Proceris|Golden Cascade]] were raised. By all accounts the visitors from Tsark were interested, but cautious. The leaders of the nation have determined that while they are curious about both the odd constructs that seem to work best at high altitude, and the ambitious great work that provides food for much of Zenith and indeed the nation as a whole, any further discussion will have to wait until the ''Garden of the Perfect World'' is completed. Or not, as the case may be.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarquinius Ankarien.jpg|caption=Tarquinius Ankarien (left), former [[Ambassador to Axos]], has apparently been charged to speak with the Skourans by the Imperial Consul.|align=left|width=600}}</div>
==Skoura==
* '''The nation of Skoura lies to the east of Mareave
* '''While they are keeping the Empire at arms' length the two nations are at peace
* '''The Imperial Consul is responsible for diplomacy with Skoura
The message from Talker Garra, Delvemistress of Skoura, that arrives in Mareave midway through the season is neatly written on tough parchment. It begins by thanking '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' for their understanding - they would indeed prefer to deal with the [[Imperial Orcs]] as much as possible and would prefer that if the [[Imperial Consul]] chooses to delegate communication they do so with that in mind. The Unshackled are their neighbours, and there is still some distance to go before Skoura is entirely happy dealing with the wider Empire. The Delvemistress is happy to trust the good sense of '''Pathfinder Gaddak''' in this matter.

Establishing a permanent [[embassy]] would be a significant step in relations between the mountainfolk and the Empire - and one that they are not entirely sure they are ready to make. Accepting an Imperial [[ambassador]] would be a serious matter, and would mean that their interaction with Imperial citizens will have evolved beyond the point of a small number of trade agreements with the people of [[Mareave]]. The first question that Talker Garra has is, can the Imperial Consul confirm that the Empire is prepared to commit to appointing an Unshackled to the position, at least for the time being? The second question is, what form would the Empire expect an embassy to take, and what commitments would be required from Skoura? Obviously they would require any embassy to be built in Mareave; presumably the Empire would expect an embassy to be built in Skoura as well? In all honesty, writes Delvemistress Garra, the fact that the Empire changes its ambassadors often is seen as something of a problem with the more conservative members of their nation. Needing to re-establish relations each time a new ambassador is appointed represents a significant investment of time and trust.

The Skourans are pleased to hear that the Empire has no intention of sending spies into their lands. The Skourans are a private people - it is not that they have things to hide so much as that they would prefer to build their relationship with the Empire carefully, and on a foundation of mutual trust.

===Trade and Artisans===
* '''The Geltcourse Trade Security Council have confirmed they are willing to investigate further trade with the Imperial Orcs'''
* '''They require the Senate to recognise the Artisans Guild as an Imperial sodality before further plans are developed'''
There is one matter that could, apparently, increase Skouran enthusiasm for building that relationship more quickly. The ''Geltcourse Trade Security Council'' first visited Anvil six months ago, at the [[I_wish_you_would#To_Mahal_from_the_Mines|Summer Solstice 387YE]]. There, they discussed the nature of trade and the potential for long-term trade with the Imperial Orcs in Mareave. The Geltcourse Trade Security Council have finished their deliberations and is interested in a formalised arrangement.

However, the Geltcourse Trade Security Council are one and all respectful of the art of the [[artisan]], and the inherent strength that comes with a recognised central authority. As such, they are unwilling to go further with a formal arrangement unless the Artisans Guild is recognised as an [[Imperial sodality]] by the [[Senate]] and ratified by [[the Throne]]. The representative of the Geltcourse Trade Security Council makes clear that this is ''not'' a slight on the Unshackled; they sincerely hope to have future dealings with the orcs of Mareave. Unfortunately, this is a red line for the Geltcourse Trade Security Council if they are to cultivate trade with the Empire as a whole rather than just their neighbours on the lower slopes.

===Defensive War===
* '''Skoura is prepared to send 500 troops to support Rucraic's Redoubt following the Winter Solstice
* '''In return they require a payment of 50 measures of dragonbone
The discussion about armies and "defensive war" is interesting, and does indeed show how different the strategies of Skoura and the Empire have become. Most Skourans would see armies as something that supplements the sturdy [[fortification]] of a territory, an adjunct to the defence rather than the primary component. Fortunately, given that the Unshackled have completed [[Mareave#Ruicraic's Redoubt|Ruicraic's Redoubt]], it is that much more likely they will be able to resist the Grendel.

With that in mind, the Delvemistress offers to dispatch a cadre of Skouran war-engineers to Rucraic's Redoubt, to bolster the [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] there and help to fight the Grendel. After some further questions, the civil service determine that a "cadre" in this case represents a fighting strength of 500, equivalent to five military units. In return, the Skouran commanders require 50 measures of [[dragonbone]], delivered in advance by either the Imperial Consul or Senator Pathfinder. Given the situation, the Delvemistress mentions that if they are prepared to provide an additional thirty crystal mana as well, she will ensure that the cadre is suitable enchanted with the might of the mountains - sufficient to increase the strength they will contribute to 1000 force. ('''OOC Note:''' If the Consul or the Senator wishes to take up this offer, they will need to ensure the resources are handed in at the end of the event and then email {{plot}} to confirm they wish them to be transferred to Skoura).

The Skouran Talker suggests that while this military support is not great given the scale the Empire works on, it is as much about testing the waters as anything else. It will also give the warrior-engineers an opportunity to examine the stonework of Rucraic's Redoubt, which they apparently see as an additional benefit.
==Further Reading==
* [[Faraden]]
* [[Iron Confederacy]]
* [[Sumaah Republic]]
* [[Tsark]]
* [[Skoura]]

Mirror and the flame

2026-04-21T15:30:46Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>"Alexius, please do explain again from the foundation of your argument. I think there are things I am probably not ''quite'' understanding. What is the reason for the Tribunal subcommittee on vineyard cultivation? Why must they deliberate before action is taken? It seems as if the Agriculture Minister has all the information they need to make the necessary decisions." The voice emanating from the sphere spoke in a soft voice, somewhat choral in nature, and the light that seemed to make up its entire body modulated in time with the speech.

"Minister North-Ortho, we've been over this. The Grand Arbiter sets the overall day-to-day agenda, but the Tribunal sets the strategic direction of the Silver Flame. Now, the Agriculture Minister is appointed by Cae - the Grand Arbiter, and they are obviously in charge of setting the ushabti to work in the valleys and so forth. Nobody thinks that the Tribunal should busy themselves with that. However, wine-making is a different beast: the priorities of the vineyards are tied up with questions like: where are we going, as a... uh... as a tribunal, a polity? Vineyards are about the future. So the tribunal appoints the vineyard subcommittee and the Agriculture Minister will take their advice when acting, even though they work for the Grand Arbiter day-to-day."

"Hmm." Were it possible for a sphere of luminous awe to look disapproving, the Minister for Northern Orthocompletion would certainly wear such an expression. "This is all extremely inefficient. Why does the Tribunal not simply vest executive power where it will? Surely it trusts its Grand Arbiter to make decision on behalf of the Dominion?" It rolls in place, and an ethereal image of Grand Arbiter Caela projects from its being. "After all, is she not appointed on your behalf?"

Now it is Alexius' turn to wear a look of disapproval. "Minister North-Ortho, I do wish you wouldn't use that word, dominion. The Tribunal is still debating precisely how we wish to refer to ourselves. Let's not have that argument again, but please, do respect that - I know you think it's an appropriate name, but we must come to that on our own. Anyway. No, I do see your point. It is inefficient. To a degree, though, I think some feel that a measure of friction is healthy - it promotes opportunities for debate, arenas to perfect our ''arete'' in matters of rhetoric and governance."

The projected image of Caela winks out. "Many nations across the ages have attempted to integrate inefficiencies such as this into their structure to promote such values. Do you want to know how many of those nations succeeded in this regard? It is not many. Do you know how many of those that succeeded fell to issues caused by an acceptance of inefficiency? Nearly all." It lets out a somewhat performative sigh. "That Which Lives In Its Name has a historical perspective, you see, that I think you fleeting mortals struggle to appreciate. Still, we try, don't we? And there is much promise here in Cinion, to be sure. Much, much promise. So it goes. Now - before our digression into vineyard management, we were discussing the, ah, Casinean Empire, were we not? Our approach thereof?" Alexius brightens. "Quite so. So, here's what I think the approach needs to be..."

The sphere listens quietly. Occasionally its glowing form lets out a chime of appreciation, or a moment of choral song.</ic>
<div style="float: left; max-width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">{{HoverImage|RegionsofSpiral.png|WiderSpiral.png|400px|align=right|caption=The former Urizen rebels in Spiral seek to reconnect with their distant pre-Imperial heritage while still keeping alive certain ties to the Empire.}}</div>
==Overview==
By any reasonable standard, [[Spiral]] is an ill-fated territory. Wracked by war, it has suffered invasions from the [[Grendel]] and the [[Druj]]. It returned to Imperial control when [[Spiral#Overview|Salt Lord Kalliact]] defected to the Empire, but that only plunged the land into further strife as [[Blue_flowers_in_the_snow#The_Rebels|Urizeni rebels fought the decision]] to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assign]] the territory to [[the League]]. Over all of that, looms the oppressive dolor of the [[Black Plateau]]

But since the rebellion was settled, the city of Apulian, has enjoyed a period of explosive growth, even as it has [[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Something_Stressful|endured the attention]] of at least one [[eternal]] of [[Night]]. [[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Something_Dramatic|Magic abounds]] in the city, as the dramaturgical arts run amok. Perhaps it was unwise to bring so many magicians together in a place where magic has long held dominion, perhaps it was nothing short of inspirational. Time will tell.

Recently the rebels came to Anvil as supplicants hoping to wheedle access to Imperial lore. Their request was rebuffed and Caela's friends in Anvil made clear to her that she must make a credible offer for such a prize. Apparently access to Urizeni Lore was mooted, but that has proved impossible to negotiate. Phaleron is sympathetic to the situation, but, magically speaking, Urizen has but one meaning; it is that defined by the bond of nationhood within the Empire.

It seems it is this news from the Great Library that has prompted the Silver Flame to decisively seek a new future: they consider themselves heirs to the heritage and history of Spiral, heirs to Urizen, but while they can dispute matters of law and philosophy, magic is the highest principle. What is, is. A sword is a sword, and it is shaped like a sword.

==The Silver Flame of Unity==
The rebels in Spiral still cling to the cause, the dream, of an Urizeni Spiral, but nearly two years ago they [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_Urizen_of_the_Silver_Flame|made an uneasy peace with the Empire]]. As a result of that settlement, the leader of the rebels, Caela of the Silver Flame, controls the region of Cinion with her allies. As part of their determination to remain apart from the Empire, most of the rebels have severed their bond with Menos, the Urizeni egregore. They still embody Urizeni culture, but they are no longer Urizeni of the Empire - for now at least.

A key part of the peace agreement with the Empire, was that the rebels would trade with the Empire. The Silver Flame made an [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Ministry_of_the_Silver_Flame|offer]] of a market they could support; with a title able to purchase up to four [[Circlet of Falling Snow|Circlets of Falling Snow]] each season... or the senators could receive a [[:category:foci|foci]] the season after they were elected. The senators of Urizen agreed to the latter, and the [[Urizen_leadership#Foci_of_the_Silver_Flame|foci of the Silver Flame]] have been provided for almost a year now.

That seemed like the matter was resolved, until a few weeks before the Winter Solstice, ''Alexius of the Silver Flame'' appears in Apulian to inform their neighbours of a development, a plan and a proposal. The magician is accompanied by a peculiar herald, a floating silver orb about five hands in diameter. The creature glows with a pleasant light that fills the heart of those who witness it with firm resolve. The thing is apparently a herald of Sinokenon, it appears that the inhabitants of Cinion have found powerful new friends.

==A Development==
* '''The rebels have formed the Tribunal of the Silver Flame and appointed Caela as their grand arbiter'''
* '''Caela has appointed Alexius as Ambassador to the Empire and asks the Empire to reciprocate'''
* '''They would prefer the Empire not to build an embassy at this time'''

{{WingedMessenger|address=Alexius, Tower of the Silver Flame, Cinion, Spiral.}}
After a great deal of patient negotiation between the rebel spires, it appears they have created what sounds a lot like their own version of the [[Conclave]]. They have formed a body of magicians to discuss and agree policy, adopted the name the Tribunal of the Silver Flame, and appointed Caela as their Grand Arbiter. Caela, and those she appoints, are able to negotiate on behalf of the Tribunal, but any treaty or law must be ratified by a two-thirds agreement of the whole Tribunal (unless it represents an existential risk to Cinion, in which case a majority is sufficient).

It sounds a little pompous, given that the best estimates the Empire has is that there are less than five hundred magicians in Cinion. That's a lot of magicians for a talking shop, as any Conclave regular can tell you, but it's fewer people than live on some of the busier streets in Apulian. In less prosaic terms, what it really means is that Caela is effectively in charge of the Tribunal and she can negotiate directly with the Empire on behalf of her fellow magicians.

As an independent nation, the Tribunal expects the Empire to appoint an [[Ambassador]] to the Tribunal. They have already done the same: Caela has appointed Alexius Ambassador to the Empire. The new ambassador is at pains to stress that they prefer the Empire not to build an embassy at this time. Alexius is careful not to come out and say it, but reading between the lines the Tribunal don't remotely have the resources to build an embassy of their own, and likely don't have the people to staff it, even if they could afford it. Suggesting that neither side need bother commissioning a formal embassy is something of a face-saving measure.

Alexius is confident that both parties can [[Call Winged Messenger|exchange messenges]] to discuss any issues that need resolving. And should an in-person meeting be required, then the ambassador can make the appropriate arrangements and come to Anvil.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SinokenonArt.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>
==A Plan==
* '''The ambassador passes on that the Tribunal are planning to commission a fane to Sinokenon'''
* '''They expect it to take at least a year to complete the fane'''
* '''The speed of construction will depend how quickly they can acquire the materials they need'''
* '''It would be diplomatically expensive to coerce them to drop this plan'''

As part of their official business, Alexius announces that the Tribunal have agreed to construct a [[fane]] for ''The Apex Hyperion''. It appears that the eternal is willing to support the new nation, keen to assist with the challenges of governing the high peaks, but at present it is limited in what help it can offer. Constructing a fane will allow heralds of ''The Argent Mantra'' to freely come and go in Cinion. Once the fane is complete, there could easily be as many heralds in the region as there are Urizeni.

Alexius is at pains to stress that the fane will take time to complete. The Tribunal lacks key resources that they need to complete the commission, but they anticipate negotiating with their neighbours. The ambassador is clear that they do not intend to trade with the Grendel, out of respect for the Empire, but they point out that the Tribunal will have to get the resources they need from ''somewhere''.

The announcement is presented as a courtesy - the Tribunal of the Silver Flame claims dominion over Cinion and thus within their rights to build what they choose there. Still it is not difficult to imagine that the creation of a fane inside an Imperial territory would be a concern to the Conclave and the Empire. The civil service point out that the Tribunal are probably not as confident about their plan as they pretend - they've presented it as a fait accompli, but one that conveniently isn't completed yet. If this was ''just'' a courtesy, they could have informed the Empire when it was ''finished''.

There is an opening, should the Empire wish to exploit it. If the Imperial Senate do appoint an Ambassador to the Tribunal, whoever takes the title could coerce the residents of Cinion to reconsider their plan. That won't be easy - it would need intimidation or a suitable incentive - or both - and it would be costly. Alexius is quick to explain that the Tribunal believe they need the relationship with ''The Wheel of Light'' to flourish. If the Empire coerces them, it is going to damage the relationship. How much will depend on the skill with which the ambassador wields their pen.

Of course the Empire could take the other approach and encourage the Silver Flame to complete the fane. Such an approach would be welcomed by the tiny nation, but it would mean that the benefits of the fane went to them, while arguably the risks were born by everyone.

==A Proposal==
* '''The Ambassador has arcane projections for two powerful war rituals that draws on Sinokenon's power'''
* '''They want access to Imperial lore for one and ten wains of mithril and ten rings of ilium for the other'''

The treaty requires the Silver Flame to offer trades with the Empire and Alexius grandly claims that now they are ready to do exactly that. The Silver Flame needs materials for their fane and they greatly desire access to Imperial lore. The latter is a request that has been made before, but their friends in Anvil made clear that they must make a palpable offer to get this. Hence, they have come with just such a proposal.

At this point he allows his fellow herald to speak, so that it can be clear and explicit about what is on offer. The herald introduces itself as the Minister for Northern Orthocompletion. It explain, however, that the ''Sovereign Ministry'' has not bid it come here today for its own sake: rather, the ''Apex Hyperion'' is acting in concert with "The Dominion of the Silver Flame of Spiral". This it says with some pomp.

===The First Offer===
* '''Sinokenon offers the Empire an arcane projection to enchant an army with double the strength of Clarity of the Master Strategist'''
* '''The arcane projection is magnitude 120 and can be codified'''
* '''It contains an assurance granting the Silver Flame access to Imperial lore'''
It has noted that in recent times the Empire has seen that over-reliance on the poorly-disciplined troops of the Queen of the Fields of Glory can lead to a breakdown in good order in their ranks, and worse besides. Moreover it notes that help from the ''Strategist'' (and here it strikes a withering tone) is meagre and bound up with all sorts of moral rules that violate the Empire's right to respond with whatever lethal force it deems appropriate without question, as befits a sovereign state. ''The Wheel of Light'' cannot offer help with the business of savagery, but neither does it care whether or not the Empire engages in it. If the trade is agreeable to the Casinean Empire, it will furnish its magicians with an arcane projection that allow for the casting of the ''Panegyric to the Reticulum of the Echelon''.

This ritual, the Minister explains, is "twice as effective as any Clarity the ''Hunter'' will ever offer - so frightened is he that even his own magic will affect the individual right of the soldier to face war clear-eyed and with a free conscience". ''The Way of Hierarchy'', it states, trusts that the leaders of the Empire will make the right decisions for its soldiers. As a mark of goodwill, the arcane projection has been presented to the [[Prefect of the Conclave]], so that the Empire's magicians may examine it freely. The Empire is welcome to codify the ritual, if the terms are agreeable. The ritual is built on an assurance granting the Dominion of the Silver Flame of Spiral access to Imperial Lore - so it will not function until that is granted, and thereafter will function unless such access is removed.

The Conclave could use a Declaration of Concord to grant the Silver Flame access to Imperial lore. Alexius has asked the Prefect to give the arcane projection to the magician who raises the declaration.

===The Second Offer===
* '''Sinokenon offers an arcane projection to enchant a military unit with five additional ranks when on campaign with an Imperial army'''
* '''The arcane projection is magnitude 20 and can be codified'''
* '''The Silver Flame are hoping for enough money for the ritual to buy ten wains of mithril and ten rings of ilium'''
* '''Sinokenon requires the Imperial Senate to make a formal offer for the arcane projection if they wish to possess it'''
* '''It contains an assurance that the Empire will continue to recognise the sovereignty of the Dominion of the Silver Flame'''
The ''Throne of the Sun'' also offers access, via the Dominion, to another of its potent magics: that of ''Raising the Foundation''. This ritual enchants a band of trained warriors to enhance their ability to participate in organised military campaigns. Such a thing is not possible using Day magic without the assistance of an eternal, but it is a boon that The Apex Hyperion has been known to give before. This Arcane Projection is offered not to the Conclave but to the Senate - and the price is the sort of price the Senate deal in.

The Wheel of Light asks the Imperial [[Senate]] to make a formal offer of 60 thrones to the Dominion for the arcane projection. This would require a [[senator]] raise a [[Senate motion]], with funds presumably disbursed from the Imperial treasury. If that happens, the arcane projection will be given to the senator that raised the motion, if they choose to return the funds to the Speaker. They will then receive the Arcane Projection. The assurance on the arcane projection does not prevent it being cast before the price is paid - but the Argent Mantra is unlikely to be pleased if this occurs, and so the Speaker is not inclined to permit this.

The Minister explains that The Throne of the Sun is ''never'' stingy to its allies - unlike certain ''Generals'' it could name. As such, this is not simply a one-off boon: the ritual could be cast but again permission is granted also for it to be codified. Moreover, the ritual's assurance simply requires the Empire to continue to recognise the sovereignty of the Dominion of the Silver Flame - the Minister assumes this will not be a problem, given this is already the state of affairs.

The Silver Flame are clearly hoping to exchange the arcane projection for enough money to be able to buy ten wains of mithril and ten rings of ilium from the Empire. It is difficult to know how much room there is to negotiate with such a process. The Silver Flame are clearly hoping to use the money to finance their fane, but it appears to be the Wheel of Light that is offering the bill of sale. Does The Apex Hyperion haggle?... It is notable that when a civil servant asked the herald if Sinokenon would accept a private offer for the arcane project, possibly even a higher one, the answer was an emphatic ''no''.

===The Third Offer===
* '''Sinokenon offers a gift to the Throne'''
* '''The gift is offered without reservation'''
The Minister explains that the eternal has a third offer, "from one Throne to another". When the civil servant points out that it has not asked for a third thing, the orb lets out a tinkling laugh. Of course, it is impolite not to offer more than one asks. As such, it is making a gift to the Hierarch of the Empire - by this it seems to mean [[the Throne|'''Emperor Vesna''']] - of a ''Circlet of Supreme Authority'' - an item not unlike the [[Circlet of Falling Snow]]. It would ''suggest'' that this could be named part of the regalia of the position: if the Senate deems it appropriate, of course?

Apparently the Throne of the Sun has been extremely impressed with the decisive leadership his mortal counterpart has displayed of late, and wishes to offer congratulations and show its support. If the Imperial Throne wishes to receive the gift, they must simply go to the Imperial Regio at the coming Winter Equinox and cast operate portal, naming themselves by their title and asserting their authority over Imperial hierarchy. The circlet will then be delivered unto them.

===Permanence and Eternity===
* '''These offers are for one arcane projection of each type and a single circlet.'''
* '''It would be possible for more arcane projections or circlets to be offered, or even for the latter to be made permanent.'''
* '''This would require negotiation by the Archmage of Day using the power of plenipotentiary.'''
The Minister finishes by explaining that the Turning Mirror would happily provide more copies of these arcane projections --- if the Empire wishes to cast them immediately but also codify them --- or renew the magic of the ''Circlet of Supreme Authority'' (or even produce a version that will [[Ilium#Creating_Artefacts|endure into eternity]]). These would take more negotiation, however, and this is best performed by the ''Casinean Supremum of Sea and Sky'', which appears to be a somewhat grandiose title for the Archmage of Day. However, trills the Minister, they are confident that an arrangement could be struck if such a thing is desired.
==Further Reading==
* [[Sinokenon]]

Each age a lens

2026-04-19T19:05:21Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Jotun]][[Category:Druj]]
{{CaptionedImage|file=Advisor Frith.jpg|align=left|caption='''Frith''', Advisor on Orc Affairs|width=250}}
==Overview==
* '''Five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy of one kind or another with the Empire'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations. Not all are barbarians; the Empire has a long-standing peace treaty with the Thule for example (see the '''[[Invited with asperity]]''' wind of fortune for more details on Thule diplomacy this season). There are also communities of orcs within the Empire's borders. Some are part of Imperial nations - the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], the former [[Grendel]] of [[the League]], the free [[Jotun]] thralls of [[the Marches]]. Others maintain a degree of independence while still being at least ambivalent to the Empire - the orcs of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] and the protectorate of Morajasse - while still others keep to themselves and have an uncertain relationship with their Imperial neighbours - the [[Not_to_conquer#Rahvin|Rahvin]] in [[the Barrens]] for example, the septs of [[Mareave]], or the remaining orc septs in [[Ossium]] who declined to move to [[Skarsind]] when the offer was made.

In most cases, diplomacy with most of these disparate orc groups is technically the responsibility of the [[Imperial Consul]], currently '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]], perhaps advised by the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. In practice, many of these orc groups prefer to deal with members of certain nations with whom they have ties - the Jotun prefer to talk to the folk of Wintermark for example, while the Great Forest Orcs consider the Navarr to be their close allies.
==Jotun==
* '''The Jotun remain at war with the Empire'''
* '''Responsibility and authority for diplomacy with the Jotun falls to the Imperial Consul'''
The [[Jotun]] are a powerful, martial nation led by the Jarl of Jarls - Queen Yrsa Jansdóttir of [[Jotun#History|Kallsea]] and King Gudmundr Arason of [[Jotun#History|Narkyst]]. The Empire has been at war with them for most of its existence, although there have been numerous short periods of peace during that time. They encroach into Imperial lands - having conquered [[Bregasland]] and [[Liathaven]] (which they name ''Ashvale''). The Empire responds with an [[Rubies in the snow|attack on Skallahn]] that threatens to take control of [[Hordalant#The_Kongegőr|the Kongegőr]], the bridge that connects the northern and southern territories of the sprawling barbarian nation.

There is no ambassador to the Jotun. They seem never to have been especially interested in such a formalised relationship with the Empire. That is not to say that they are incapable of engaging in diplomacy or negotiation, merely that they tend to prefer to deal with individual nations rather than the Empire as a whole. Over the centuries they have had a "close" relationship with the folk of [[Wintermark]], for example, for all that the two nations clash constantly along their borders. In recent times, they have also shown a similar degree of respect for [[the Brass Coast|the Freeborn]]. When the Empire as a whole must deal with the orcs of Kalsea and Narkyst, however, the responsibility falls to the [[Imperial Consul]].
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Jotunarmy.jpg|title=Jotun banners often show the skulls of powerful creatures.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===A New Meeting Place===
* '''A new Meeting Place has been constructed on Gull Isle, a tidal island in the Gullet.'''
* '''The Wintermark National Assembly have encouraged their people to use this opportunity to build bridges with the Jotun.'''
While they are unreceptive to the more formal structures of an [[embassy]], there is nonetheless a long tradition of peaceful meeting on neutral ground between the Jotun and Wintermark. Once there was a [[Sermersuaq#The_Meeting_Place|Meeting Place]] just outside the borders of [[Sermersuaq]] where such meetings too place. Sadly in 382YE it was destroyed and defiled by a renegade [[Varushka|Varushkan]], infuriating the Jotun.

In recent years careful negotiations have been taking place regarding the creation of a new meeting place. The old stone is gone, but something new has been raised, with assistance from the Wintermark [[mystic|mystics]] and their "opposite numbers" among the Jotun, the ''[[Elite_Jotun_characters#Ghodi|ghodi]]''. A little common ground has been found, and there the Empire has helped build a great meeting hall where, it is hoped, Jotun and Imperial might be able to speak without the shadow of violence falling across them. This initiative had extensive support from the Wintermark National Assembly as seen in the [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_146|statement]] raised by Hayrin at the Summer Solstice, and supported by the Wintermark Assembly.

[[Construct Meeting Place|Construction]] has taken nearly a year, but it is finally complete. A meeting hall now stands on a wave-swept island in the waters to the west of [[Kallavesa]] where barbarian and human can meet one another to talk. There are still some decisions to be made about the place, however.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="For Ustigar Jarl of Keirheim, by Iron Osric, Hammer of the West">
Where march the war-bound, the bold-hearted brethren?<br>
Where flew the banners, the fire-bright spears?<br>
Far from the fray, he stood steadfast in duty,<br>
Bound to the crown, while his kin bled and fell.<br>
Steel-fast in service, he stayed through the seasons,<br>
Honour his harness, though hunger for war<br>
Burned in his breast like buried bright ember -<br>
To rise, to reckon, to rest in the red.<br>
But fate is a falcon, fierce in its turning,<br>
It flew to his field in the fullness of time.<br>
Sword-slung and shouting, he'll stride into battle,<br>
And die with the day, as doers of old.</quote></div>
===Rules of War===
* '''Iron Osric has spoken to Igya Olgafsdottir about a meeting to better define terms of war with the Jotun'''
* '''The message has been well received and a meeting proposed for the Spring Equinox honouring Tromsan traditions'''
* '''Negotiations will occur at the new meeting place; Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark, Osric, the Golden Jarl and the Imperial Consul are invited'''
* '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark will be [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for the meeting at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The thane and the jarl are both invited to bring a small entourage; the meeting will take the form of a feast where anger is put aside'''

Shortly before the Winter Solstice, a messenger leaves the Jotun territory of ''Ashvale'' (which the Empire calls [[Liathaven]]) and makes camp at the base of the burial mound that was once [[Kahraman#Fort_Braydon_(destroyed)|Fort Braydon]]. She sits under a flag of truce and waits. The [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] who speak to her learn that she is bringing a message from ''Igya Olgafsdottir'', hero-engineer and warleader of the Jotun. The message is quickly communicated to [[Tassato]] and to the office of the [[Imperial Consul]].

Apparently [[general]] [[Heroism#Iron_Osric|Iron Osric]] of the [[Green Shield]] has requested a parley to discuss the terms of the on-going war. In particular, "to try and agree what magic we will not employ, the banning of poisons or other foul things, the protection of innocents, where our armies will clash, the number of forces and how long the conflict will endure before the feasting time." There seems to be some uncertainty as to whether Osric is speaking only on behalf of Wintermark, or for the Empire as a whole.

What's clear from the reply is that the Jotun continue to view Iron Osric and a figure they refer to as "the Golden Jarl" in particular as exemplars of what it means to be an honourable warrior. As such they are minded to take his request very seriously. Igya proposes that it is long past time for such a meeting, and that she is eager to attend one as a representative of her Queen. A second representative will come to speak with the voice of the King, and each will bring a <u>small</u> honour guard of champions and godhi to speak for the warbands and champions of the west.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Iron Osric.png|caption=Iron Osric, General of the [[Green Shield]]|align=right|width=300}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=left|width=300}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Avisena i Ezmara i Guerra.jpg|caption=Avisena i Ezmara i Guerra, the Golden Jarl|align=right|width=300}}</div></div>
Olgafsdottir has called the meeting under the laws of hospitality of her home. In [[Tromsa#Tromsdalen|Tromsdalen]] when feuding warbands can stand one another no more and only blood will settle their anger, they engage in the ''hetjuveisla'' - the feast of heroes. Both sides bring food and drink, and bards to play music and tell tales. For a time the price of blood is set aside, so that a negotiation may be held in good faith to determine precisely how the battle-to-come will go. When the feast is over, the sun must rise and set again before violence resumes allowing both sides to safely return to their homes.

As long as Iron Osric agrees, she proposes that at the Spring Equinox - at the start of the year - Iron Osric, the Golden Jarl, and the Imperial Consul come to the new Meeting Place. Igya proposes that Osric and the Jarl each bring a small honour guard and the Consul an assistant. Both sides should bring food, drink, and bards. A negotiation will take place there that will bind both sides in agreement, and they will part peacefully.

News of this meeting is not met with universal approval. Both the Imperial Consul and Iron Osric are [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]]. The Jotun refuse to name the Golden Jarl, but it is definitely a reference to one of the Freeborn. Of [[the Marches]] in particular there is no mention - where the Jotun still dominate [[Bregasland]] - there are rumbles of discontent that Winterfolk and Freeborn will negotiate how war will take place between the Empire and the western barbarians. They're not alone - in [[Navarr]] there are a few undercurrents of unhappiness about this. While it is easy to see the sense of a general representing the [[Military Council]] and the Consul representing the [[Senate]], no-one is sure if this "Golden Jarl" even speaks for the Brass Coast. And who will speak for the other nations that must fight the Jotun?

===Virtuous Possibilities===
* '''The Jotun have constructed an ancestral shrine as part of the Meeting Place, and assume that the Empire will dedicate a space to the Way'''
* '''The Synod could pass a writ of consecration to create a true aura at the Meeting Place'''
* '''The effect would be dependant on the aura chosen, and whether it was a sacred site or a memorial'''
* '''The Jotun have requested that the Wintermark National Assembly endorse any such Consecration to soothe the worries of the Ghodi'''
* '''A true consecration will not lead any Jotun to convert to the Way of Virtue'''
With the new Meeting Place constructed, the Jotun have taken the message [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_128|spread]] by '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' to heart, and wasted no time in making themselves at home. Along with the wall-hangings, feasting tables, treasured ancestral weapons and other creature comforts they have brought with them, they have swiftly established dedicated spaces for their religious practice. One room of the Meeting Place has been established as a shrine to the ancestors, and is already being filled with small idols, painted images and relics of the honoured dead. As well as this, an outdoor space has been marked out as suitable for ritual combat. While raising a hand in anger against a guest or a host would be a terrible breach of hospitality, two or more warriors choosing to test their strength against one another in honour of their ancestors is not only accepted but encouraged as a demonstration of strength and piety.

Soon, word reaches the Meeting Place of a letter sent by '''Thane Erlend Gunnulfson''', who identifies himself as the person responsible for gathering the Empire's contribution of [[white granite]] towards this project. The letter bears a suggestion that the Empire might [[Consecration|consecrate]] part of the site. While most Jotun are broadly disinterested in the Way of Virtue (despite the best efforts of the Lasambrian orcs), the suggestion seems reasonable. If the Jotun can honour their ancestors, why not allow the Empire to honour their Virtues? There is agreement with the offer, at least in principle.

In practice, there are several ways that this could be done. The simplest would be to claim a specific space in the Meeting Place as a space for religious observance, and to consecrate it normally with a little [[liao]], renewing it season by season. This is how consecrated areas are maintained across the Empire, after all. This would incur no costs, lead to no downsides, and would allow the aura to be changed from season to season.

Of course there is a more costly, and more impactful, alternative. [[Liao#True Liao|True liao]] could be used to create a [[Consecration#True_Liao|true consecration]] within the new Meeting Place. One of the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Virtue Assemblies]] would need to uphold a [[writ of consecration]] as normal, and that judgement would need to be upheld by a [[greater majority]] of the relevant assembly. While multiple assemblies could attempt to pass a writ to consecrate the Meeting Place, such judgements would be considered to be [[Mandate#Competing_Mandates|competing]] with one another; only the greater majority judgement with the highest margin of success would be upheld.
{{SOP|statement=The meeting hall at Gull Island will be completed for the Winter Solstice. Yet until a meeting has taken place there it is just a hall. We send Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark with 25 doses of liao to spread word of the Hall both in Wintermark and in the lands of the Jotun. Let the Ghodi bring their people to join with the folk of Wintermark to see what bridge may be built.|by=Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark, Wintermark Assembly|vote=284-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
There are limits to the effect of such a consecration. Jotun living in, or visiting, the Meeting Place might visit the Imperial shrine out of curiosity or a desire to learn, but such things would have no wider effect on the Jotun as a nation - this would not convert the Jotun to the Way. However, a true consecration would reinforce how the Empire view their relationship with the Jotun. An [[Auras_of_Loyalty#A_Peerless_Kinship|aura of Loyalty]] for example, would remind everyone of the importance of service to others, and perhaps communicate that the Empire will always stand by their friends and allies. An [[Auras_of_Pride#Partner_of_Greatness|aura of Pride]] would encourage rock-hard self-esteem, and remind Imperial visitors that they are the foundation on which future relations with the Jotun will be built, perhaps resonating with Jotun ideas of honour and integrity. There would be a degree of interpretation involved on both sides, especially since the Jotun would react to the ''actual aura'' rather than the symbolism of the virtue. But such a potent site would be seen by the Jotun as demonstrating the kind of future that the Empire desires with them.

Normally, a writ of consecration would be passed with the intention of creating an [[Inspirational location]] dedicated to a [[paragons and exemplars|paragon or exemplar]]. With the Meeting Place, the writ could identify the Meeting Place as a [[Inspirational_location#Sacred_Sites|sacred site]] - significant but not associated with any particular individual, or as a [[Inspirational_location#Memorials|memorial]] dedicated to a renowned inspirational figure.

Consecrating the Meeting Place as a memorial could not help but send a much more specific message to the Jotun. The barbarians would interpret a shrine commemorating a specific figure from the Empire's past through the lens of their own faith, and likely see the inspirational figure chosen in such a way as an "honoured ancestor" of the Empire. This possibility was apparently met with a great deal of interest by the ''ghodi'' visiting the construction of the Meeting Place. Some, more open-minded ghodi, would be very curious about what figures the Empire looks to for guidance, and while some elements will doubtless be lost in translation, the Jotun will look to any memorial as a statement about who the people of the Empire desire to be. Any greater effect would be highly dependent on the figure chosen, but it will doubtless be deeply meaningful.

There is a note alongside this talk of open-mindedness, however. The ghodi are as divided and cantankerous as any group of Synod priests, and while they often show unity in the face of outsiders their internal debates are just as heated. More conservative voices are already raising criticisms of allowing the Empire such leeway in the practice of their faith. The missionary zeal of the Empire is well known, and some fear that this may be the thin end of the wedge. Indeed, there are undoubtedly Imperial citizens who would love nothing more than to spread the Way among the peoples of the Jotun, whether the Jotun wanted them to or not. In order to shut this debate down before it starts causing problems, the Jotun have suggested that their neighbours in Wintermark act as guarantors of the Empire's honour. The Wintermark National Assembly could pass a suitably-worded [[statement of principle]] endorsing a writ of consecration regarding the Meeting Place. Such a statement would need to be raised before the consecration was carried out, but if passed with a greater majority it would address the fears of the more suspicious Jotun.
{{CaptionedImage|file=shark.png|align=right|width=400|}}

==Grendel==
* '''The Grendel remain at war with the Empire
* '''The Ambassador to the Grendel is Starlight Starchaser of Urizen'''
The Grendel are the dominant power on Attar and the Broken Shore, and they remain at war with the Empire. They have conquered parts of Redoubt, and continue to fight Imperial forces defending Mareave. The [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] plenum offers significant support to the Grendel in the form of warships and resources, using them as proxies for their own war with the Empire.

Speaker Morna is the primary diplomat who deals with the Empire, and reports to the Salt-Lords Council directly. They are known to be cynical, arrogant, and self-indulgent, and while they obviously participate in the ongoing-knife fight that is Grendel politics, they were chosen for their fidelity as much as their diplomatic acumen.
===Misapprehensions===
* '''They request that further correspondence about diplomatic matters come from the Ambassador to the Grendel
A single [[Call Winged Messenger|magical missive]] arrived at the offices of the Ambassador to the Grendel, '''Starlight Starchaser''' of Urizen. The letter begins by welcoming the new ambassador, but then immediately goes on to correct a misapprehension. [[Bedight in veils#Peace and Storm|Last season]], Morna simply pointed out that any discussion of peace between Grendel and Empire must take place between themselves and the Ambassador to the Grendel. This has apparently been misinterpreted as a sign that the Grendel desire an end to the conflict with the Empire. That is not the case - Speaker Morna was simply reminding '''Abel the Rounder''' of how diplomatic relations between nations must take place.

If the Empire wishes to put forward their own plan for peace, they are welcome to do so. As long as the Empire's opening offer is serious, Morna will present it to the Salt Lords for consideration. At the ''absolute minimum'' it will need to include the complete withdrawal of Imperial forces from Mareave and Redoubt. The Grendel Ambassador will not waste the Salt Lords' time with anything less.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crab-traced-2.png|align=right|caption=It seems that many of Gallum's troops are Stone Born, the most heavily armoured and arguably the most disciplined of the Grendel [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Moridun|Moridun]].|width=350}}</div>
==The Protectorate of Morajasse==
* '''The Grendel controlling Morajasse have been recognised as foreigners by the Senate'''
* '''They have asked that the Imperial Consul handles communications with them rather than the Ambassador to the Grendel'''
While Feroz has mostly been liberated from the Grendel occupation, [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] remains in the hands of the master-strategist ''[[Fake empire#Gallum Fiersach|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]''. Ably supported by ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' - his partner and a master of the [[Autumn magic|lore of Sand]] - along with a significant number of veteran Grendel soldiers, they control the fortress of [[Feroz#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. They carefully protect the borders of Morajasse, and apparently have sufficient supplies to endure a drawn-out siege if needed.

They are not just protecting their own borders. They have shown themselves more than willing to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|fight the Children of Wrecks]]. After the battle at [[Feroz#Oranseri|Oran]], the [[Senate]] chose to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Recognise_Protectorate_of_Gallum_Fiersach|recognise]] Morajasse as ''a protectorate under the command of Gallum Fiersach, who will be deemed a foreigner as long as they remain independent from the Grendel''. So far, they seem to continue to be independent of the Grendel. Indeed, the protectorate has requested that all negotiations be handled by the [[Imperial Consul]] rather than the [[Ambassador to the Grendel]]. The [[Civil Service|civil service]] speculate that this request reflects a clear division between the protectorate and the Salt Lords' council... yet there are certainly other possibilities some of them quite intriguing. Given Wind Lord Saoirse has clearly mastered the art of commanding [[Call Winged Messenger|magical couriers]] its hard to believe they have not at least been in contact with the Salt Lords, but for now they appear to be operating in line with their agreement with the Senate.

Not long before the Winter Solstice, such a magical courier arrives at the Consulate in Tassato, again sent by Wind Lord Saoirse. The message is short and sweet. Commander Gallum is considering the invitation of '''Atte Arrowtongue''' to Anvil but at this time thinks he and his supporters should be focused on Feroz. Spring might be a better time to send emissaries. This would also present an opportunity for his partner to send one of her covenmates to speak with '''Khalil i Carno i Guerra''' and the Artisan's Guild.

More importantly, he wants to be clear to the Consul that while he and his soldiers only agreed to protect Feroz from the Children of Wrecks, they are also prepared to fight against the invading [[Iron Confederacy]] forces that [[Red_skies#Swords_of_the_South|currently occupy]] the islands of the [[Feroz#Cazar_Straits|Cazar Straits]], provided they are well paid. While there may be something of a ''détente'' between the Salt Lords and the Suranni Dukes, Commander Gallum Fiersach apparently sees no "legal" impediment to fighting as mercenaries against all comers.

===Ramparts of Sand===
* '''Wind Lord Saoirse is prepared to again enchant Mora's Rock if the Empire fears an attack from the Children of Wrecks or Iron Confederacy'''
Last season, Wind Lord Saoirse offered to support Feroz by drawing allied forces from the [[Realms#Autumn|Mercurial Archipelago]]. Indications are that she is referring to the enchantment the Empire knows as [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Ramparts_of_Ashlar|Ramparts of Ashlar]]. The Imperial Conclave declined to [[Endowment|endow]] her with the mana she requested, but she wishes them to know that the offer is still open. If the Empire is at all concerned about the intentions of the Suranni, or the risk of the Children of Wrecks retaliating, she will enchant the [[fortification]] to enhance its garrison as it protects the territory.
{{SOP|statement=The Grendel on Mora's Rock have stolen the wealth of the Brass Coast. As thieves, they are to be despised. To trade with them harms the Prosperity of the Empire. It should not happen. Let them wallow in their ill-gotten gains, shunned by the Empire. Trade instead with the Freeborn. Help the honest to earn an honest living, and build the Prosperity of the Coast.|by=Dragonet de Gauvin, Prosperity Assembly|vote=137-38|when=Autumn Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
===Supplies===
* '''The orc quartermasters at Mora's Rock have been attempting to buy provisions and supplies from the Freeborn of Feroz and Segura'''
* '''The entrepreneurial Freeborn remain suspicious and uncooperative'''
For several months now, the orcs at Mora's Rock have been making attempts to trade with their Freeborn neighbours in [[Segura]] and Feroz. To date, however, they have had limited success. It is hard for the people of the Brass Coast not to see the "protectorate" and remember the cruel tyranny of former Governor Rahab. They were, after all, still part of the apparatus that enforced the authority of the despised ruler of the territory. While the garrison merchants have crowns to spend, their wealth was mostly taken from the people of Feroz one way or another.

At the Autumn Equinox, '''Dragonet de Gauvin''' proposed a statement of principle condemning the orcs of Morajasse as thieves. The Prosperity assembly upheld the judgement, but not with a greater majority, so its impact has been negligible. However, given that the majority of the Freeborn seem broadly disinclined to trade with the Grendel, the status quo sees Commander Gallum's forces continue to find it next to impossible to engage in peaceful relations with their neighbours. The Freeborn of Feroz may, perhaps grudgingly, accept their protection but they do not accept their coin.

===Spies===
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">
{{CaptionedImage|file=Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo''', Imperial Spymaster|align=right|width=300}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=GMShutteredLantern.jpg|caption='''Tyburn Weaver''' (changeling), Grandmaster of the Shuttered Lantern|align=right|width=300}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Vigilance.png|align=right|width=300}}</div>
* '''There is concern that the Protectorate of Morajasse is being used as a base for Grendel spies'''
* '''A spy network could be used to gather information about both the Protectorate and the Iron Confederacy in the Cazar Straits'''
* '''If the Conclave sends mana to Morajasse, then the Shuttered Lantern could be employed to inveigle their way into the Protectorate'''
* '''A scouting army could investigate rumours of espionage rings and assess the military disposition of Gallum's forces'''
* '''The Silent Bell could be used to root out any collaborators in the area'''

Suspicion of the Protectorate of Morajasse is not restricted to matters of trade however. The Grendel are known to employ [[Rings_and_crowns|espionage rings]] throughout the [[Bay of Catazar]]. They spy on Imperial territories but they are also capable of taking direct action - a Grendel espionage ring aided the attack on [[A beacon of smoke|Siroc]] for example. Not much is actually known about the so-called Protectorate, and it is entirely possible that Commander Gallum is protecting Feroz simply to let a Grendel espionage ring dig themselves into the territory in advance of the orcs of the Broken Shore launching another attack.

There are any number of ''other'' conspiracy theories - some are looking at the request to be treated as a separate entity to the Grendel as a sign that perhaps Gallum and his forces are fractured from the Salt Lords for example. This is most likely wishful thinking but perhaps its noteworthy that they have not tried to seize ships and return to Attar.

Regardless of what one believes, there are rumblings in Feroz that what is needed is a better understanding of this Protectorate. So far, they have been reticent to travel to Anvil, and their borders are largely closed. Only the very small number of Freeborn prepared to deal with them are allowed entry and then only to a trading camp just over the border. Further information might help the Brass Coast, and the Empire, get a better idea of how to approach the Protectorate.

The [[Imperial Spymaster]] '''Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo''' (or the Senate) could of course create a [[spy network]] in Feroz. There are, after all, two non-Imperial regions in the territory now. If at least 1,000 strength were committed to the spy network it would be enough to get a general feel for not only the Protectorate, but also the Suranni presence in the Cazar Straits. If at least 5,000 strength were committed, it would be sufficient to get detailed information about what is going on in these regions and an insight into the politics of the two foreign groups. The drawback is that this is a slow process - building a spy network takes time as does using it to uncover information. If the Spymaster began immediately, there'd be no report before the Summer Solstice at the absolute earliest.

If the Empire wants information more quickly, then there are three potential opportunities any one of which would give some insight into the Protectorate, and each of which could provide additional information.

The [[Military Council]] could direct an army to the territory to take the [[Army qualities#Scouting|Guard the Gates]] [[army orders|order]]. As long as the general indicated in their orders that the army was particularly interested in the Protectorate, they could take advantage of opportunities to speak to the [[fortification#garrison|garrison]] of Mora's Rock as they patrol outside Morajasse. This would give insight into the Grendel, their attitude to Feroz, and the broader plans of the Commander. If that army were also enchanted with [[Bound by Common Cause]], they could also work with the people of Feroz to get a better sense of their attitudes, or become aware of any underhand activity sponsored by Gallum and his supporters.

Another possibility would be to look to the wizards of the [[Conclave]]. The [[Shuttered Lantern]] are adept at negotiation and infiltration where wizards are involved, but the Grendel are too canny to just welcome them into their homes. However if the Conclave passed a declaration to send mana to the Wind Lord, then members of the Shuttered Lantern would have the perfect cover they need to inveigle their way into the Rock. In that case, the [[Grandmaster]] could [[Concord#Guiding_an_Order|guide their order]], urging Freeborn and other members to visit Morajasse and try to get a feel for what is going on. This would require 20 mana from the font as usual, and would provide insight into feelings in the Protectorate and may reveal something of their plans. Salt-Lord Saoirse is a powerful magician, supported by a coven of adepts, so they are sure to have things to talk about.

Finally, the Synod could engage the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)|Silent Bell]] to root out any collaborators in the area. If there is an espionage ring here, it would at least confirm that, and may even provide some leads to help shut it down. If there are merchants profiteering from trade with Morajasse, it would enable the Synod to put a stop to that, if they so chose. If the Empire plans to isolate the former Grendel, then the Silent Bell might be the most effective tool in the long run.

Normally these opportunities might be exclusive, too many spies in one area would simply reveal the Empire's interest. As it happens, though, the three possibilities are each focused on different priorities. Each additional opportunity taken would provide less information overall, but would focus on different parts of the Protectorate and so still have some potential value.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|caption=Beoraidh is a tiny "nation" with great big ambitions.|align=right|width=400}}</div>

==Beoraidh==
* '''Beoraidh is a city state on the coast of Mareave that allegedly aims to remain neutral in the conflict between the Empire and the Grendel'''
* '''The Senate has recognised the orcs of Beoraidh as foreigners'''
The city state of [[mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] in [[Mareave]] is apparently committed to neutrality between the Empire and the [[Grendel]]. The former-Salt Lord Ehsan rules from the city there, and sees the place as a "free port" where traders from everywhere are welcome - provided they bring money or goods to trade. Recently, as discussed in the '''[[A_wild_night_and_a_new_road#Polite_Correspondence|A wild night and a new road]]''' wind of fortune, Beoraidh has come [[All_the_night-tide#Beoraidh|under the protection]] of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - something that has not sat entirely easily with their Imperial neighbours. Exactly what this protection means - and how much influence the Sarcophan actually have - is not entirely clear. At the last it implies that anyone attacking Beoraidh - Imperial or otherwise - will incur the wrath of the Delves and their warships.

===Prosperity===
* '''Beoraidh has aligned itself with the Sarcophan Delves, accepting the protection of the powerful mercantile nation'''
As an independent nation, recognised by the Senate, the city-state of Beoraidh falls into the purview of the Imperial Consul. A messenger arrives at the Consulate in Tassato bearing greetings from former-Salt Lord Ehsan. The first thing the missive announces is that the ruler of Beoraidh has taken the title "Ehsan, Lord of Sand". This is likely an attempt to mollify the Salt Lords of the Grendel, among whose number he is no longer counted.

The meat of the letter addresses the alliance with the Sarcophan Delves. Ehsan presents the decision to accept the protection of the Delves as a perfectly reasonable one prompted by reality. The Empire's Senate can be quite volatile, as can the Salt Lords. To accept the protection of one side or the other would be to risk being seen as aligned with them - something detrimental to the desire of Beoraidh to remain neutral. The Sarcophan Delves however are renowned for their refusal to pick sides, and the orcs of Beoraidh find that they have more in common with them than the Unshackled. Perhaps if the Empire had been more enthusiastic about the invitation to establish the [[I_wish_you_would#Shrine_of_the_Virtues|shrine of the virtues]], or had been more welcoming to the gladiators seeking Imperial investment, or had more decisively dealt with the armies invading Mareave, Ehsan might have waited a little longer. Whatever his reason, it is clear he feels the Sarcophan are simply offering his city the best deal going.

As such, Ehsan, Lord of Sand, wishes to formally inform the Imperial Consul that they have agreed a treaty with the Delves. An attack against their city, or the plains of [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]], will be treated as an attack on the Delves. However, the treaty is very clear that this agreement is not be an "exclusive" partnership. Both Beoraidh and the Delves are free to continue to pursue their own ambitions in the Bay of Catazar, with the Empire and the Grendel at the bare minimum. The tribute sent to the Empire, and the Grendel, will continue until such time as it can be renegotiated - as an assurance of Beoraidh's good faith as much as anything else. Yet the Lord of Sand is not shy about suggesting that Beoraidh will, eventually, want to discuss that tribute.

If the Consul is still interested in investing in Beoraidh, Ehsan lays out three possibilities.

===Investment of Salt===
* '''The opportunity to build a temple or basilica in Beoraidh is still available'''
* '''A previous Imperial Consul agreed to purchase land for the shrine of virtue'''
* '''Even if commissioned, work cannot begin until the money for the land is paid'''

The previous Consul proposed an agreement with Lord Ehsan to [[I_wish_you_would#Beoraidh|build a Temple of the Way]] in the city-state. If the new Consul is still interested in that, opportunities to do so remain available. Ehsan and his council have no interest in turning money and prosperity away, wherever it comes from. The invitation to build the shrine of the virtues remains. Either a temple or a grand basilica, depending on the level of investment the Empire wishes, can still be built. Provided the agreed on 20 thrones for the purchase of land is delivered, of course.

===Investment of Sea===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Investment in Beoraidh'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Beoraidh, Mareave </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 weirwood, and 90 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:''' Opens the port of Beoraidh to Imperial fleet captains</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Raises taxation in Mareave by 3 thrones and taxes from tariffs by 7 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Autumn Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The Empire is welcome to invest in the docks of Beoraidh'''
The Sarcophan are interested in investing in Beoraidh's docks, and Ehsan feels it would be remiss not to offer a similar opportunity to the Empire. He has, indeed, already offered this opportunity to the Grendel and his former colleagues in the council of Salt Lords seem cautiously interested. If the Imperial Consul is interested, then Ehsan proposes that the Empire participate in the expansion of Beoraidh's docks with an eye towards creating docks specifically for Imperial vessels to dock, and for their merchants to do business in the marketplaces of the city. Beoraidh still produces goods of its own, but the real draw perhaps will be the opportunity to gain access to goods imported from the Broken Shore.

A standard fleet visiting Beoraidh will be able to secure assorted valuable goods worth 72 rings, as well as two doses of consumable available to the orcs of Beoraidh, the Delves, or the Grendel trading there. An [[enchantment|enchanted]] or [[fleet#upgrades|upgraded]] fleet would receive proportionally more.

Ehsan intends to apply what he calls "[[Tariffs#Mercantilist|reasonable tariffs]]" and anticipates the Empire will apply the same tariffs to any Beoraidh ships visiting Imperial ports. Once the docks are completed there will certainly be Beoradhi merchants eager to do so. The [[Civil Service|civil service]] estimates that investment in the docks would also raise the taxable income of Mareave by 3 thrones each season - increased prosperity for Beoraidh will slowly trickle across to the businesses of the territory as a whole - and bring in an additional 7 thrones per season to the Senate treasury in the form of tariffs.

===Investment of Stone===
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Imperial Consulate in Beoraidh'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Embassy</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Beoraidh, Sinfoyard, Mareave</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, and 75 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 5 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides the Empire with some information on the factions in Beoraidh, local politics and recent developments
* Allows the Consul to purchase goods from Beoraidh
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''Ehsan proposes an Imperial consulate be built in Beoraidh'''
* '''This would not involve the appointment of a new ambassador'''
* '''The consulate would provide some limited information on the factions in the city and their machinations'''

Ehsan is not naive when it comes to diplomacy; he has decades of experience as a salt lord after all. After some discussion with his advisors, and with the Sarcophan representatives, he offers the Empire the ability to establish a consulate in Beoraidh if they wish to do so. This will give them a presence in the city, and cement diplomatic relations between the city-state and the great power. They don't want embassy - they'd rather continue to deal with the Consul. But a small cadre of civil servants in Beoraidh would be able to ease representation to Beoraidh.

The Grendel have already been approached, and now Ehsan makes the same offer to the Empire. A structure in the Imperial style, built near the ''[[Mareave#Palace_of_Chains|Palace of Chains]]'', with lodging for a dozen civil servants and visiting diplomats. The proposal is much more compact than a traditional Imperial embassy - only 25 white granite - but the labour costs are a little higher due to the limitations of Beoraidh.

If the new consulate were completed, it would not require the appointment of an ambassador to deal directly with Lord Ehsan. Instead the civil servants there would report to the Imperial Consul and could be instructed to acquire local goods for a small fee (assuming such things are [[The_circle_game#Diplomatic_Ministries|still acceptable]]). Perhaps more importantly, the Empire would have civil servants on the ground in Beoraidh who could assess what was happening in the city. It would provide some idea of factions within the city, what they want and any options that might exist to influence or antagonise them. It might also help the Empire to be more aware of what the Grendel and the Sarcophan were up to in the city...

===Retribution===
* '''A group of Beoraidh orc gladiators claim they were assaulted while visiting Anvil'''
* '''They are coming to Anvil to confront those they say attacked them'''

During the Summer Solstice, representatives of the Diamant Drakes [[I_wish_you_would#That's_Entertainment|visited Anvil]], to discuss opportunities for Imperial citizens to invest in the gladiatorial arena at Beoraidh. According to these orcs, while they were in Anvil they were assaulted by members of the [[Sannite]] sept of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]], accused of engaging in slavery. When the forces of law and order intervened, members of the militia flat lied about what had happened.

This obvious corruption of the Anvil militia doesn't particularly bother them - this group seem to have a very low opinion of those who enforce the laws and this has only enforced that. What the Diamant Drakes are angry about, is the beat down they claim they received at the hands of the Sannites. As news of it has spread through Beoraidh interest in visiting the Empire has declined significantly. The fact their attackers were [[Imperial Orcs]] has also soured some who were intent on seeking closer relations with their neighbours in Mareave.

After stewing on the matter for a few months, the Diamant Drakes have announced their intention to seek [[Grendel_religion#Retribution|retribution]] at the Winter Solstice. They haven't addressed exactly what this means but they're expected to reach Anvil around three in the afternoon on the Saturday of the summit, and head to the Unshackled camp to confront the Sand Vipers they are apparently holding responsible for the assault.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GeneralSeventhWave.jpeg|caption=Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard.|align=right|width=250}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorSarcophanDelves.jpg|caption= Dino i Riqueza, Ambassador to the Delves.|align=right|width=250}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Pathfinder Gaddak.jpg|caption=Pathfinder Gaddak, Senator for Mareave.|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Diplomatic Delegation===
* '''A delegation from Beoraidh led by Emissary Harailt intends to visit the Imperial Orcs at 11.00am on Saturday'''
* '''They are keen to speak to Pathfinder Gaddak, Senator for Mareave'''
* '''Ehsan has asked the Imperial Consul and/or Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard to ensure no unfortunate incidents happen'''
* '''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike has also asked the Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves to help ensure the meeting goes smoothly'''
During the Winter Solstice, a delegation from Beoraidh plans to visit Anvil. Their main intent is to speak to the Imperial Orcs within whose territory they live, and are especially keen to meet '''Pathfinder Gaddak'''. Gaddak is [[Senator]] for Mareave but was one of those involved in ensuring an endangered Beoraidh vessel safely returned to port. Their invitation to the folk of Beoraidh to visit Anvil was reasonable, and encouraged Ehsan that the experiences of the Diamant Drakes need not be representative.

Obviously the story of the Diamant Drakes makes them a little concerned about the kind of reception they will receive. In part this has inspired their decision to ask representatives of the Sarcophan Delves to accompany them given that nation's interest in smoothing relations between the city state and the Empire. To be on the safe side, Ehsan asks that the Imperial Consul meet the delegation either in person or via a trusted lieutenant to further ensure that there is no repeat of the recent assault. Alternatively or additionally, '''Melkior of Balthazar's Vineyard''' could serve a similar purpose - their sensible missive contributed to the decision to undertake this delegation after all. On behalf of the Delves, Bedellar Huisbaas Annike has asked the [[Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] to use their influence to ensure things progress smoothly.

The delegation has been entrusted to the leadership of ''Emissary Harailt'', an experienced negotiator and merchant and one of Ehsan's distant cousins. They anticipate reaching Anvil around eleven in the morning on Saturday of the coming summit, but a lot depends on their confidence with regard to their potential reception.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Druj Flag.png|align=left|width=300}}</div>

==The Mallum==
* '''The Druj demand that the Empire withdraw all troops from Sarangrave or they will unleash the vallorn of Béantal Dol
Unexpectedly, a message has also been received at the Consulate that appears to be from the [[Druj]]. If it is taken at face value, it is a message from a buruk tepel named ''Inkagoch'' who resides in the city of [[Salt Flats of Sanath#Leen|Leen]] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]]. It is fairly terse and wastes no time with clever language. According to this missive, the rulers of [[the Mallum]] demand that the Empire withdraw all of its forces from the [[Sarangrave]]. If they do not, then the [[Druj lore#Ghulai|Ghulai]] of the [[Druj_armies#Tainted_Basilisk|Tainted Basilisk]] will destroy the warding stones of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] and unleash the [[vallorn]] to claim the marshes. If the Druj cannot have the Sarangrave, nobody can...

The civil service advising the Consulate have no idea if the Druj are capable of making good on this threat but... the Tainted Basilisk are adept at [[Night magic]] so the fact the territory is largely under Imperial control may not present an obstacle to their ghulai reaching the stones. Everything the Empire knows about the [[Into_Béantal_Dol#The_Warding_Stones|warding stones]] that contain the vallorn suggests that if too many are destroyed the boundary will fail and the vallorn will explode out across the marshes like an unwinding spring. The Druj have clearly advanced their understanding of the vallorn in the last few years, as evidenced by their work in Therunin.

If they are not bluffing, the [[Sarangrave#Tower_of_the_Skink|Tower of the Skink]] is likely to be able to hold off the vallorn at least for a while but... the loss of life would potentially be apocalyptic. The vallorn would not spare anyone - rebel orc, Druj, or Imperial. This would be an absolute disaster for everyone in the Sarangrave and would mean the Druj could never recover the territory themselves. Are they really that desperate? Surely not even the Druj would be prepared to unleash such a catastrophe?

Surely?

==Further Reading==
* [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]]
* [[Ambassador to the Grendel]]
* [[Imperial Consul]]

* [[Invited with asperity]] 387YE Winter wind of fortune specifically dealing with the Thule

Opening ceremonies

2026-04-19T13:37:29Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Caroline had been volunteered to talk to the heralds again, given she had fought alongside them during the delve into the depths to install the Red Iron Door. They were in the middle of erecting a truncated pillar of blue-white stone that looked extremely heavy. A dozen little scaled ''koboldi'' straining on ropes to bring it vertical in the deep hole they had dug for it. The League bravo noted that the column was covered in runes, but had no idea what they might mean.

"Hold! Hold!" The ''koboldi'' surveyor had a piercing high pitched voice that cut through the hubbub like a greatsword through leather. The ''koboldi'' labourers did indeed hold, while the surveyor quickly examined the site with an oversized loupe and several references to a scrunched up parchment. Caroline peered over their shoulder (easily done given the stature of the ''koboldi'') and saw that it was an esoteric, arcane diagram of a structure of columns, a foundation, and some low walls. She was not an architect herself, of course. For all she knew the surveyor was holding it upside down and it was actually a roof.

"Perfect! Perfect!" piped the surveyor excitedly, and the workers released their ropes with a great cheer that nearly drowned out the sound of the stone column dropping into place. There was a certain amount of backslapping and yipping at what Caroline assumed was a job well done. The surveyor didn't waste any time on congratulations, but turned all their attention on the League citizen behind them.

"Can I help you?" Normally when Caroline was asked this kind of question there was an undertone of suspicion or challenge, but the ''koboldi'' seemed genuinely to be offering assistance.

"I hope so," she said, hunkering down slightly. "We were just wondering what was going on here?"

There were some more cheers and cries at the other end of the structure as another column was expertly guided into place. The ''koboldi'' surveyor nodded several times.

"Oh we're just building a frame," they piped. "It's nothing to worry about. It's perfectly safe."

As if to cast doubt on their words, there was an outbreak of yipping and shouting over the surveyor's shoulder as a vital rope snapped and a rod of blue-white stone nearly sheared through the middle of a group of labourers into one of the pillars. The labourers managed to get control just in time. The surveyor noticed that Caroline was staring aghast and followed her eyeline.

"Oh don't worry," they said chuckling. "All the stone is infused with adamant. It's almost impossible to damage."

"I was more worried about the workers," said Caroline. The surveyor frowned and blinked, then chuckled again and just looked expectant.

"Is all this approved then?" Caroline tried again. "Only there are rules about building things in Anvil..."

"Oh no need to worry about that either." The ''koboldi'' beamed at her. "The site's been carefully chosen, right on the edge of Anvil where the restrictions end."

"And the Master knows all about this then?"

"Oh absolutely, it was the master who instructed us to put this in place, very prestigious commission you know. Serious magic involved. Why, if one of the anchor pillars is more than a finger's width out of place the whole thing might collapse. Or explode, you know? Ha! I wouldn't want to be nearby if that was happening, let me tell you."

One of the other ''koboldi'' leaned in and whispered to the surveyor, who frowned again.

"Oh, you mean the Imperial Master! Dima Vasilyevna Novosad! Wonderful person, very proud to work with them. No, they don't know anything about this. This has come from the Master himself, The King Under the Mountain. Some arrangement with the Iron Duke, you know? But don't worry - the Conclave is friends with both of them so I assume they've sorted out all the permissions and things you people worry about so much!"

All the ''koboldi'' were smiling at her now, and a woman who had fought all four of the barbarian nations in her time found herself taking a step backward from all those on-display sharp ivory teeth. After a moment of consideration, she decided this was very much above her pay grade, and that she'd found out as much as she was going to find out, and so just nodded and muttered something about that all making sense before beating a hasty retreat.

Several of the ''koboldi'' waved goodbye as she departed and one of them called out "Have a lovely afternoon!" without the slightest hint of sarcasm.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Camock.jpg|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Barely a week after the Autumn Equinox, a gang of ''koboldi'' pass through the Hall of Worlds and emerge at [[Anvil]]. They carry large numbers of surveying tools and spend a cheerful afternoon exploring, taking measurements, and avoiding direct questions. Over the next month, they set to work pinning out a sizable area of ground; more and more ''koboldi'' arrive and bring with them building materials and construction tools of all kinds. Working at remarkable speed, over the next fortnight, they begin to raise a sizable structure on the edge of [[Anvil]]. Several wagonloads of [[white granite]] and [[weirwood]] are delivered to the site from Casinean warehouses, as the ''koboldi'' overseer ''Molibolt'' redeems a stack of very old wains some dating back as far as the reign of [[Empress Mariika]]. More and more ''koboldi'' arrive, swelling their numbers until some local residents are concerned an actual invasion from the [[Realms#Summer realm|Summer realm]] may be underway.

At first it is assumed this is some sort of arrangement with the [[Conclave]], the [[Archmage of Summer]], or the [[Master of the Koboldi]] but the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] themselves cheerfully explain that it is nothing of the sort. They are here on a commission directly from the [[Adamant|King Under the Mountain]] themselves. A commission they describe as "ever so exciting" to the worry of many.

==Barien's Gift==
* '''Adamant and Barien have collaborated to deliver a gift to the people of the Empire'''
* '''A new structure has been created on the margins between Anvil and Outer Anvil'''
With supernatural skill and speed, the servants of the ''Stone Dragon'' complete their work and, despite worries, return through the [[Regio#Imperial Regio|Imperial regio]]. It isn't at first clear what they have built - it seems to be less a building and more the skeleton of such. A large open space outlined by a series of support pillars. It looks incomplete, but when questioned Molibolt smiles secretively and says that they weren't commissioned to build the whole thing, only to construct "somewhere to put it."

The very next morning, the guards set to watch over the construction find ten heralds bearing the owl banners of the [[Barien|Lord of the Crossroads]] have arrived. They encircle the ''koboldi''-work building site and as the sun rises, they raise their banners high. Among their number are familiar faces - ''Revel'', ''Temper'', ''Flute'', and ''Bellows'' - and several who have never been seen at Anvil before including one clearly of [[orc]] appearance and draped in crimson and steel. It is clear from the exertion on their faces that whatever they are doing is no easy task, and they ignore all attempts to question them. Molibolt and her gang do their best, but their very technical explanation about what is happening leaves most who speak to them none the wiser.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box>'''The Tourneyground of Camock'''<br>Scholars among the [[Celestial Arch]] are aware of the ''Resounding Deep'' - a great chamber between the Summer realm and the mortal world where Barien is known to bring those who would challenge great beasts of the wilderness. The tourneygrounds there have been used in the past for several [[Challenge the Iron Duke|magical challenges]] between Imperial citizens and the ''Lord of the Crossroads''. The ''koboldi'' overseer Molibolt mentions in part of their explanation of what is happening that the arena was "easier to move" because it was already quite close to the mortal realm, but that the logistics were still "a proper headscratcher"</box></div>
At midday, there is a sound like all the strings of a great harp being plucked simultaneously and between one moment and the next under the late Autumn sun, a building appears. An arena, marked with age, but formed around the pillars and supports the ''koboldi'' provided. Beaded with sweat, the heralds of Barien lower their banners and in some cases practically collapse from exhaustion. It falls to Revel to explain what has happened here.

This, it seems, is a gift from Barien to the Empire in recognition of the challenges they have faced and those yet to come. A place for them to celebrate, to practice arts of war and peace alike, and for new challenges to be set under the watching eyes of Imperial citizens. In much the same way that the [[Cathan Canae|Lady of the Blizzard]] allows her great citadels to be called to the mortal world, Barien has moved the ''Tourneyground of Camock'' from his demesne to the mortal world. From its place on the edge of the Resounding Deep where the [[icewalker]] ''Saara Vartiainen'' once bested the terrible emerald dragon ''Saxesangwin'' in a contest of riddles, and ''Ser Cadacus'' moved Barien to tears with their bittersweet music, the tourneygrounds are now in Anvil. A sign that the ''Master of Revels'' recognises and exalts the enduring prowess of the Empire, and its heroes.
==The Anvil Arena==
* '''There is a new arena in Anvil, a gift from Barien to the people of the Empire
* '''The civil service have been lumbered with sorting out the details of how it will be used
* '''Barien intends to use the space for challenges but the rest of the time it is free for use by Imperial citizens
{{CaptionedImage|file=King Under the Mountain.png|align=right|width=200}}
When the heralds depart, the arena remains behind. Temper and Flute formally hand the structure over to the nonplussed members of the civil service, on the understanding that they will be able to "handle the paperwork". Bellows is the last to depart, and mentions in an off-hand way that some of Barien's reeves will be in touch before the Winter Solstice with a proposal of how to best celebrate the creation of the new arena. The only thing that the ''Iron Duke'' asks in return for his gift is recognition that the civil service give priority to the Summer realm when it comes to the use of the space - on the understanding that they will receive plenty of advance warning when such things are to take place.

Imperial magicians are quick to explore the structure. They are able to confirm that it is ''physically there'' - not the result of an ongoing enchantment. The foundations and several of the supports are imbued with something akin to adamant - the indestructible stone of the Summer realm - and while it is not impossible to harm the structure it would take profoundly potent magic to do so in any meaningful way. Ritual divinations are deployed by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]]. [[Shadowed Glass of Sung|Night magic]] suggests that there is an enigma regarding the place - "''What does it mean to be victorious, to triumph? What is the value of a contest with rules? What is the reward for those who do not win?''". Not precisely illuminating, but perhaps a riddle for mystics and philosophers to debate. [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River|Day magic]] is more forthcoming - "''This is the tourney ground of Camock that once stood in the Resounding Deep, where Imperial heroes bested and were bested by the powers of the Summer realm, given as a gift to the Empire by the ''Lord of the Crossroads'' at the end of 387YE in recognition of the willingness of Imperial champions to challenge themselves and the world.''"

The structure itself is relatively simple - a flat open space surrounded by tiered rows of seats with some small offices attached. It is sparsely decorated - many of the impossibly bright banners and standards hung here when it arrived dissolve into mist and seafoam as the sun sets. As well as having room for martial contests, it's clear that with a little projection and a willing audience it would also serve well as a performance venue for music and drama. The seating area might also work reasonably well as a place for passionate debate, reasonable discussion, or the delivery of studious lectures.

The civil servants entrusted with looking after the place have confirmed that they plan to operate a system similar to that which already exists with regard to other "Imperial" spaces - to schedule its use by Imperial citizens.
==Calling the Drottningbjotha==
* '''The rulers of the Summer realm have called the Drottningbjotha'''
* '''It will take the form of a grand tourney of the Imperial nations'''
It's been some eight years or more since the last time one of the monarchs of the Summer realm [[Calling the Drottningbjotha|called the Drottningbjotha]] (''Drott-ning-BEE-yo-thar''). As the Winter Solstice approaches, heralds of the monarchs of the Summer realm - of [[Adamant]], [[Cathan Canae]], [[Eleonaris]], [[Jaheris]], [[Meraud]], and [[Rhianos]] - let it be known that they intend to do so once again, to celebrate Imperial victories and the strong bond between the courts of Summer and the Empire. It falls to heralds of Barien to deliver the details of the challenge, which they do in discussion with the civil service.

The last time the Drottningbjotha was called, by the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness'', it was a test of endurance and fortitude as well as military prowess. This time, it is to be a test not of individuals but of bands of champions. Each nation of the Empire is invited to present a ten-strong warband of heroes, seasoned warriors and veterans of the Empire's battles against their enemies. They will contend against one another until only one remains and the warband - and the nation they represent - will receive the accolades of Summer. All who participate, however, will be granted a gift, commensurate with how far through the contest they get.
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=400}}</div>

Shortly before the Winter Solstice, Revel and the heralds of Barien return to Anvil. This time they are here to deliver the rules of the tourney to be held at the coming summit.

==Friday Evening==
* '''Opening ceremonies for the Drottningbjotha will take place on Friday evening in the arena, at 6:30pm'''
* '''The [[strategos]] of each Imperial nation is invited to attend, and to be responsible for assembling their nation's team'''
* '''Each strategos will be given a symbol of authority - they can pass the symbol to another if they prefer'''
* '''Each strategos will have a chance to address the crowd'''
* '''Enchanter Vesper Lucentia has also been invited to take part by the heralds''''
At '''6:30pm''', after the opening of the summit, the heralds of Barien will invite the strategos' of the ten nations of the Empire to come before them, and open the festivities of the Drottningbjotha. Where a nation currently has no strategos, Barien assumes that the [[general|generals]] of the nations involved will expedite the [[Strategos#Appointment|appointment]]. If they aren't able to, Revel will attend the nation afterwards to try and ensure an organiser is in place.

Each nation that wishes to take part must field a single team of ten contestants; no more, no less. Barien is asking the strategoi to choose their nation's champions. The Drottningbjotha will be as much a test of the strategos' skill and management as the champions themselves. They can choose whatever combination of steel clad fighters, archers and battlemages they prefer, but the ten they select are the only ones who can take part at each stage of the tournament.

Revel will provide each strategoi with a symbol of their authority. This denotes that they have final say over who gets to take part in the tourney; the heralds will defer to the holder if there are any disputes. If a strategos does not wish to take on the responsibility for any reason, they may pass the symbol to another in their nation to act in their stead.

The heralds don't offer any restrictions on how teams should be chosen; that is left entirely up to the strategos themselves. Of course the heralds would be delighted if some kind of tourney or challenge was implemented, but the ultimate decision lies with the organisers. Each strategos is welcome to include themselves as one of the ten champions, if they so wish, but there is no requirement to do so.

Once Barien's tokens have been distributed, each strategos will be free to address the crowd for a minute, in order to set the right tone for the rest of the weekend, of course. If for some reason the strategos isn't there, the heralds of Barien will seek them out later and deliver their mark of authority.

==Mustering the Warbands==
* '''The ten champions chosen for each nation must present themselves at the area at 4:00pm on Saturday'''
* '''Those who bear Barien's symbol of authority will have the final say on who is chosen to represent their nation'''
* '''An 11th team will also participate, comprising one champion selected by each of nine covens chosen by the Iron Duke'''
* '''Enchanter Vesper Lucentia is invited to lead Barien's team'''

The Drottningbjotha will open at '''4pm on the Saturday of the summit'''. The teams should present themselves to the heralds at that time, so they can ensure everything is in order. If there are any doubts who a nation's ten champions will be, then the strategos or whoever they have given Barien's symbol of authority to, will have the final say.

In addition to ten nations, an 11th team will enter the contest. At this summit, [[Locked runes|Barien has invited nine favoured covens to each choose a champion]] to take part in the tourney. The Lord of the Crossroads has offered '''Enchanter Vesper Lucentia''' the opportunity to lead this motley team, as the leader of '''The Coven of Golden Wings''', the coven with the most successful Iron Duke challengers of the last year. If fewer than nine champions are chosen by Barien's covens, Vesper will be free to choose additional contestants to add to their team in order to bring the total to ten.

Once all 110 champions are accounted for, the tourney proper will begin with the first round. All rounds of the tourney will be fought under the same rules of engagement.

==Rules of Engagement==
* '''Champions may benefit from enchantments, boons, magical items, and similar'''
* '''Consumable items including potions, herbs, and crystal mana are not permitted in the arena'''
* '''Champions may not receive aid from anyone outside their team once a bout begins'''
* '''A contestant is defeated when they can no longer rise, or they yield'''
* '''A contestant may not return to the fight once they are healed or leave the arena'''
* '''Enterprising citizens are welcome to take bets on the outcome or to sell refreshments to the crowd'''
* '''These rules apply to every round of the Drottningbjotha'''

The rules of this Drottningbjotha are straightforward. Contestants can bring with them as many enchantments or magic items as they wish but once the engagement starts there must be ''no use'' of consumables (including but not limited to potions, herbs, and crystal mana) until the bout is over. There must be no interference from outside the field itself; supporters must not provide spells, potions, herbs or similar to their team once their bout begins. Only the champions may affect the outcome of the challenge, and they must do so with their wits and prowess not with endless sacks of healing potions. In the event of any dispute about the rules the heralds of Barien will adjudicate, with advice from the [[Archmage of Summer]] (or their proxy) if they are present.

Contestants are welcome to being spare weapons and shields into the area to be used if their arms are shattered. These should be left at the edge of the fighting area; champions may only use spares their own team has brought in. This is not a fight to the death, a champion is defeated when they yield or cannot rise. Once a champion yields, leaves the arena or is healed after falling, they cannot return to that fight. They may participate in later rounds if their team is victorious.

A herald of Adamant has suggested that the [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild]] provide sufficient healers to ensure that wherever possible nobody actually dies. They will be the sole exception to the rule that only the contestants will be on the field - Healers may enter the field to get the fallen to safety and ensure their wounds are not fatal. They should place one hand on their heart to indicate they are not participating and should not be struck. Fallen contestants should be removed from the field and healed on the sidelines. Healers are free to use whatever resources they desire, but anyone healed in this way cannot return to the fray in this bout. They may rejoin their team in the next round if their team are victorious.

A query from a respected member of the [[Golden Pyramid]] order, about whether it is acceptable to take bets on the outcome, or to sell sausages on sticks to the audience, is met with polite incomprehension. The heralds of the Summer realm see no reason that what happens in the stands should be of interest to them or the participants in the Drottningbjotha. It seems that anyone with services to offer is more than welcome to make what coin they can from the assembled crowds.

===The Opening Round===
* '''The opening round of the Drottningbjotha begins at the arena at 4:15pm on Saturday'''
* '''It consists of five bouts, each pairing two nations against each other'''
* '''Pairings will be drawn randomly before the start of the bouts'''
* '''A team wins if their opponents have no champions left standing'''
* '''If both teams are still fighting after five minutes, the team with the most champions remaining wins'''

The opening round will consist of 5 bouts, each pitting one nation's warband against another. The heralds of Barien will draw lots randomly at the start of the round to determine pairings. Once underway, the fight ends when only one team has contestants remaining. If both sides are still in the fray after five minutes, the team with the most champions remaining is the winner. In the event of a tie, the heralds will call for the bout to continue, but whichever team loses the next champion, loses the bout.

===The Heroes' Round===
* '''After the first round is complete, a single hero from the five losing teams may enter the arena'''
* '''They will take part in a grand melee between these five heroes'''
* '''The winning hero's team will advance to the second round'''
* '''The round will be followed by a brief interlude to allow the winning hero to recover'''
* '''Barien invites the High Bard to arrange entertainment in the arena during this period'''

Once all the bouts in the first round are complete, Barien's heralds will invite each of the five losing teams to nominate a single hero to face off against the others. The decision of the strategos will settle any arguments. The five champions will enter the arena at the same time to fight in a grand melee. The team of whichever champion is left standing at the end will proceed to the next round, the others will be eliminated.

There will be a short interlude after the heroes round to allow the winner to rest and recuperate. Barien invites the High Bard to entertain the crowd during the interlude, or else nominate someone who can do so if they prefer.

===The Victors' Round===
* '''The victors' round will consist of 3 bouts between the 6 teams that won a bout previously'''
* '''Pairings will be drawn randomly before the start of the bouts'''
* '''It will be followed by a short interlude'''

The six winners from the first two rounds will be paired off in three bouts in the next round. Barien's heralds will draw lots again, but will make sure there no repeats of pairings from the first round. It will employ the same rules as the previous bouts.

The three winners will go forwards to the final round after another short interlude.

===The Final Round===
* '''The final round will be a single grand melee'''
* '''It will feature the three winners from the previous round and the team of the Iron Duke's champions'''
* '''The final bout will continue until only one team has champions remaining'''
* '''The final team with champions still standing in the arena will be crowned the victors of the Drottningbjotha'''

The three winning teams from the previous round will go enter the final round of the Drottningbjotha. They will be joined by the team of the Iron Duke's champions.

The final round will be a grand melee between the 4 teams, with no time limit. One team wins once all their opponents have no champions left standing. The winning team will be crowned the victors of the Drottningbjotha.

==Spoils of the Contest==
* '''Every champion eliminated in the opening round will receive a dose of Skop's Mead'''
* '''Champions eliminated in the victors round will each receive a dose of Troubadour's Glory'''
* '''The losers in the final round will each receive a dose of Champion's Honey'''
* '''Every member of the winning team will each receive an Iron Owl'''
* '''The nation that wins the contest will receive a boon from those kings and queens of the Summer realm who have amity'''
As befits such a grand occasion, those who demonstrate their skills will be rewarded according to their success. Each individual champion who takes part but is eliminated in the opening round will receive a single dose of [[Philtres_of_War#Skop's_Mead|Skop's Mead]] in recognition of their brave efforts. Those eliminated in the victors round will be given a flask of ''Troubadour's Glory'', a heady brew prepared by servants of the ''[[Eleonaris|Lady of Pennants]]'' which apparently has the same benefits as Skop's Mead but also restores three lost body hits to the imbiber.

Each of the brave champions eliminated in the final round will be granted a snifter of ''Champion's Honey'', a rare brew from the cellars of the [[Jaheris#Brews_of_Silverbrow|Moonsilver King]] with effects comparable to those of the [[Philtres_of_War#Elixir_of_Exalted_Puissance|Elixir of Exalted Puissance]]. Each of the ten winners will instead receive an Iron Owl, a powerful talisman enchanted by Barien themselves, which grants [[Heroic_skills#Extra_Hero_Points|one additional hero point]] to anyone bonded to it.

Perhaps just as importantly, a nation that wins the contest will also receive the boons of the Summer realm. Each of the [[Alignment#Summer|monarchs of the Summer realm]] who has [[Alignment#Amity|amity]] at the end of the Winter Solstice summit will find a way to bless the lands of the winning nation.

If Barien's champions are defeated in the final round, they will receive a dose of Champion's Honey like the other champions. If they are victorious, they will claim the Iron Owls, and the nation's prize will be claimed by Enchanter Vesper Lucentia on behalf of Dawn.

With that, the curtain will fall on the Drottningbjotha, though not on the arena. It might take another 8 years for the next Drottningbjotha to be called, but the Tourneygrounds of Camock will play host to many more scenes of challenge and spectacle at the summits in between.
==Out of Character==
* '''Our new site includes a large covered grandstand'''
* '''This is now part of the IC location of Anvil and can be booked by players for their use through liaison with the civil service'''

Our new site features a large grandstand, which we're keen to integrate into the field at Anvil. Our set team are hard at work already, adapting that to make it look as impressive as possible for the first event. We don't have any plans to run a grand tourney like this every event, but it will be the natural place for plots like this to run in the future. Having the grandstand means we won't have to take over the Dawnish Glory Square every time we need to run a large set piece of plot in the future - so that location can remain for the exclusive use of the Dawnish and for plot aimed at the Dawnish.

The space will be a normal part of Anvil, managed by the civil service, so players are welcome to [[Anvil#Booking_Civil_Service_Spaces|book the arena]] for anything they are planning that would benefit from open space and tiered seating.
<ic>
The great warrior shifted, wheeling in the sand, his spear spinning in his hands.

"Hiyaa!" He lunged forwards, the weapon a blur as it darted through the air, left then right. An orc went down clutching his midriff. The crowd gasped, as three more enemies leapt forward to take his place. "Booooooo!" the people in the stands catcalled the villains for daring to attack him three to one.

"Yeaarrgh!" He yanked the pole-axe back, loading the heavy head behind his head, then brought it forwards with devastating speed. It struck the sand with a boom so loud, the shockwave hurled everyone from their feet.

An arrow came flying out of the distance, a deadly needle aimed directly for his head. Stumbling back, he pulled the quarterstaff up, just in time to knock the arrow from the air before it tore his throat out. Triumphant, he spun the weapon in one hand, then snapped it back, the haft behind his back, the point of the bhuj held out to the side to meet the rays of the setting sun.

"Carlos i Diez! Stop messing around and get on with it!"

The voice of the great warrior's mum cut through the cheers from the grandstand. Carlos turned his back on the shout and screwed up his face in anger before the moment of truculence gave way to inevitable defeat. There was an hour of daylight left and he'd miss everything if the job wasn't done by then. He lowered the head of the rake, until the tines sank in to the sand. Resigned to the defeat, he dragged it backwards, smoothing out the very same marks that his own heels had left a moment ago.

People would be here soon. Mum reckoned it was a day, two at most. If he helped her get the arena ready in time, she said he could watch it. A great big battle, a real one... with proper weapons and everything... all the mightiest heroes in Anvil...
</ic>

In harmony and unison

2026-04-18T21:55:42Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"And this, children, is the ''exact site'' the paragon Atun landed with the first Highborn all those years ago. From here the First Empress would go on to found the Empire at Anvil in Casinea and introduce all the other peoples of the continent to the seven Virtues of the Way. Now, who thinks they can name all seven Virtues for me?"

"Uhm, Steward Shem?"

"Yes, Master Japheth?"

"Did, um. Was Mrs Ah-toon very afraid of the water?" Japheth had been standing notably further away from the shore-line than the rest of the children, some of whom had already been dipping in their toes during lunch-break.

"She may well have been, Japeth, but remember that Virtue can give us the strength to face our fears! Now, about-. Yes, Japheth?"

"Even with all the bad eternals in the sea like Sha-ka and Kobe...Kobe, um, Salty-Lungs?"

"Yes Japeth, but the Empire and the Imperial Conclave will protect you from all the bad eternals, there's no need to worry."

"Does, does that mean Mr Syrup is a good Eternal?"

One of the two greatsword-wielding warriors stood a little behind the group smiled and spoke up. "Oh yes Japeth, ''Prince'' Surut is a <u>very</u> good eternal. So good that your Senator and the Conclave expressly arranged for us to come and make sure you were all safe from all the bad ones." Steward Nimrod was not best pleased and re-asserted himself.

"Thank you, Warden. This is ''NOT'' magic class with Magister Shem, Japheth, this is our class field trip to Sanctuary Sands. I think it's just about time we packed up for the day anyway. Your homework is to draw a picture of Paragon Atun, including at least one of the tenets and symbols of Wisdom. Run along everyone!"

The rusted warden inclined their head to Steward Shem and continued their dutiful watch over the children and the coastline.</ic>
<div style="float: left; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|caption=Let all power be guided by virtue.|width=300px}}</div>
==Overview==
<div style="float: right; max-width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<quote by="Grandmaster Elagabala, on behalf of the Sevenfold Path">
The Conclave asks for plans for a Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path in Sanctuary, Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis. It would stand in remembrance of the magician-paragon Atun and their Virtue in voyaging to the continent, and looking to the horizon as a promise that this Empire will bring the light of Virtue to everyone, everywhere.
</quote></div>
The ongoing project to create a grand lodge for each of the [[Conclave order|Conclave orders]] proceeds apace. The recently completed grand lodge of the [[Golden Pyramid]] in [[Mareave]] was briefly in danger from the orcs of the [[Grendel|Broken Shore]], but, thankfully, the intervention of the Military Council has secured it. At least for now.

There can only be two ongoing projects at any one time, and with the completion of the first grand lodge, the [[Conclave]] declared that the [[Sevenfold Path]] would be next in line while the recently [[The shape of things to come|upgraded plans]] for the [[Silver Chalice]] are yet to be commissioned by the [[Senate]]. For the next set of plans to be prepared by Conclave, either the Silver Chalice or the Sevenfold Path must commission and finish building their grand lodges. Of course, the potential for an [[appraisal]] is still available.

==Homecoming==
The people of Sanctuary Sands are ''delighted'' to hear that the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path decided that the site of the landing (or at least, a little inland) would be the order's chosen place for their grand lodge. Virtuous magicians from across the Empire heard the call of '''Elagabala''' and began scouting out the prime location, with the best view, to prepare the designs. So what if it's directly on the coast? So what if it's an obvious target for the Grendel? So what if the heralds of [[Siakha]] find priests delicious aperitifs? This place is to be a beacon for the light of virtue! The gleaming fortress of [[Necropolis#Reumah's_Rest|Reumah's Rest]] stands overlooking the cliffs in Coursmouth! Besides, the Military Council have protected the grand lodge in [[Mareave#Clisearn|Clisearn]], they will surely manage any lesser concerns of the material world.
__TOC__
==Dreams come true==
There are seven true virtues, and not one of them is Subtlety. Plans for an enormous [[weirwood]] vessel come together, one large enough to host a full cadre of order magicians along with not one but two small shrines to the Virtues. The vessel will sit in the water next to a small but [[Edifice#Grandeur|impressive basilica]] dedicated to [[the Way]]. A pier extends out a little further into the Catazar for pensive walks along the shoreline while meditating on the paragon-magician Atun. Two masts of [[mithril]] are to protrude from the structure, displaying sails showing the emblem of the order, ever lit by lightstones strategically placed along both the masts.

Unsurprisingly, the presence of the grand lodge would provide a big benefit for the people of [[Necropolis]]. Such a powerful reminder of the crucial role of the Highborn in bringing Wisdom and the Way to the world would benefit every [[congregation]] in the territory. More it would remind the Highborn of their naval history, that their people were once masters of the oceans. That would spark renewed interest in Highborn naval endeavours, permanently raising the capability of the nation to support one additional navy.

As with the first two lodges, the Grandmaster would gain better rates for their ministry (unless, of course, the Senate were to abrogate it as discussed in the '''[[The circle game]]''' wind of fortune) and the Conclave would see a healthy increase in the mana crystals available in the [[font]].
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great Work (Grand Lodge)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 20 white granite, 15 mithril, 65 weirwood and 300 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 5 thrones</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Adds 15 mana crystals to the Conclave font each season
* Incorporates a [[Edifice#Grandeur|grand basilica]] dedicated to the Way
* Reduces the cost of mana purchases by the Grandmaster
* Raises the level of investment of congregations in the territory by one
* Allows Highguard to raise and support one additional navy over the current limits
* Provides a dose of true liao to the order's vaults at the Summer and Winter solstice
* Provides every member of the order with a single dose of liao for a year
* Adds the Voice of the Paragons to Imperial lore for as long as [[Net of Gossamer Chains]] is interdicted
* Can request a single relic linked to an important historical figure for the Winter Solstice after the grand lodge is complete
</td></tr>
</table></div>
What excites everyone the most, however, is what a confluence of the Empire's most advanced minds of the intersection of magic and virtue might achieve. By using a combination of the divinatory magics of the [[Day]] and [[Night]] realms and the experienced hands of those who spend a lifetime handling the [[liao|purple substance]], the able to examine imperial [[liao]] production to find doses with the potential spark to be developed into [[true liao]] that might otherwise be discarded. As a result, a single dose of true liao would be handed over to the Grandmaster at Summer and Winter Solstice, to use as she and her successors see fit. There would also be a little extra normal liao for everyone in the order for a year following the completion of the grand lodge.

==Props==
* '''Voice of the Paragons is a ritual focus that helps magicians cast Mantle of the Golden Orator, Silver Tongue of Virtue, and A Light That Moves'''
* '''The Paragon's Voice Chapter will add the focus to Imperial lore for as long as Net of Gossamer Chains is interdicted'''

Some enterprising benefactors from the ''Paragon's Voice Chapter'' are keen to encourage and reward this endeavour and have come to the magicians of the Sevenfold Path with an offer for when the lodge is completed. They specialise in unique [[:category:foci|focus]] that aids in the casting of rituals that enhance one's ability to [[Congregation#Downtime_Options|preach]], specifically [[Mantle of the Golden Orator]], [[Silver Tongue of Virtue]], and [[A Light That Moves]], though they've not had the opportunity to test that one yet.

They'd be willing to allow Imperial artisans to visit their chapter house to learn how to create this item in exchange for one concession. They are strongly of the belief that while the practice and mastery of mortal magic can be be pursued and celebrated as part of one's path to transcending the Labyrinth, no [[eternal]] has any place in the consecrated halls of a [[congregation]]. They will teach any Imperial artisan who wishes to learn how to make the foci for as along as [[Net of Gossamer Chains]] is [[Interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Provided [[Callidus]] cannot seek to corrupt and manipulate the teachings of the [[Synod]], the focus will effectively be in Imperial lore - it just couldn't be disseminated to anyone.

==Duets==
* '''The Black Tablet will seek out a single relic connected to a chosen historical figure suitable for casting Whispers through the Black Gate'''
The ''Paragon's Voice'' are not the only ones to have an offer for the grandmaster for choosing to build her grand lodge in the Necropolis. The ''Black Tablet'' have for some years now supported the work of the [[Imperial Necromancer]], and see their work as validation that magic that is often treated with suspicion and trepidation (that of the winter realm) can still be used for virtuous ends. Once the lodge has been built, if the Grandmaster is willing and able to pass a [[declaration]] of [[concord]] in support of the practice of necromancy, they will aim to provide some help to the magicians at Anvil.

In return for this support, they will look to the Conclave for direction towards a single past historical figure of great virtue for whom they may have some remnants in the Necropolis. They will see if they can find and prepare a relevant relic for someone who was in some way cotemporaneous, connected with or may have insight into that figure (if not the figure themselves) that is a valid target for [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] and provide it to the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path at the start of the next Winter Solstice following the completion of the grand lodge. If multiple declarations are passed, they will default to the first one raised by the Sevenfold Path.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atun.jpg|caption=Atun; paragon of [[Wisdom]] and magician, who led her people to safety when it seemed there was no sanctuary to be found.|align=right|width=400}}</div>
==Makeover==
* '''The impressive basilica could be consecrated with true liao, either as a basilica or as an inspirational memorial to Atun'''

The designs for the grand lodge include an impressive basilica. In theory, the plans could be expanded even further, but another 25 white granite would be needed to expand the central house of worship into a bona fide cathedral ('''OOC Note:''' Any Senate motion or announcement must be explicit if they plan to do this). Even a basilica would be impressive however, especially if it were consecrated with true liao. If that happened, there would be the potential for the Senate to create a new Imperial title to lead the worship in the basilica and minister to the needs of the magicians of the order. Such a position could be on a par with the archbishop of Capodomus Cathedral, though the Order would have to choose the virtue carefully... such a decision would naturally impact the whole Order.

The alternative might be to create an [[Inspirational_location#Memorials|inspirational memorial]] to Atun. The Paragon of Wisdom led her people to safety at Sanctuary Sand, she didn't remain here with them. According to the legends she never left her ship. On the fourth day she set sail again, allegedly alone, although most people believe that part is probably an ahistorical story. The new basilica could be consecrated to create a memorial to Atun's legendary status as a [[Paragons and exemplars|paragon]] of [[Wisdom]].

There is no requirement to use a precious dose of true liao in this manner - it is simply that the potential exists to do so, once the grand lodge is complete. The inherent grandeur of the structure would make a suitable housing for ether plan.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Elagabala Preaching.jpg|caption='''Elagabala ''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path|align=right|width=500}}</div>

==Movin' out==
* '''The shipwrights propose to name the vessel Elagabala's Vision'''
* '''It could set sail and travel anywhere on the Bay of Catazar in a single season'''
* '''It would be vulnerable to attack while at sea'''
* '''The vessel would move the level of investment in congregations to the territory the season after it arrived'''

The design for the grand lodge is built around the idea of massive sea-going vessel, in a style the architects imagine captures the historical tradition of Highborn seafaring. It is much bigger than a normal Imperial [[fleet]], closer in size to one of the Asavean warships currently threatening the Empire's coasts. The original idea was that the grand lodge would be built in the ''shape'' of a ship, but as soon as someone suggests that the rejoinder from one of the Order's Freeborn magicians is "Or... we could include an actual enormous ship!"

The designers propose to call the vessel ''Elagabala's Vision''. In fairness, it's not an uncommon strategy for architects and shipwrights who are eager to find a powerful patron who will authorise their work being built. The truth is that the vessel they have sketched would be ungainly and clumsy. It would be utter folly to risk it on an actual voyage in open waters far away from land, but it could waddle around the Bay of Catazar, clinging to the coastline, if it needed to. It would be vulnerable if the Grendel attacked (although the Grendel are often loathe to destroy valuable things), and it certainly wouldn't be a lot of use in battle. That said, it could accompany a Highborn navy if one were ever launched, providing spiritual succour to the sailors and soldiers fighting for the Empire. And if Sanctuary Sands were ever seriously threatened, the vessel could put to sea to save the lives of order magicians and local inhabitants if needed.

Once complete the grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path could give orders for ''Elagabala's Vision'' to sail to any territory on the Bay of Catazar currently under Imperial control. It would take a season to get there - it couldn't do anything in the season it was sailing and it will always be vulnerable to Grendel navies while at sea. But once it made landfall, it would allow the order to project their power and influence in whatever territory they had sailed to. There are few practical benefits to this arrangement - the only one the prognosticators can find is that it would move the benefits the grand lodge provides to congregations to the new territory in the season after it arrived. But half the grand lodge would definitely be mobile and who knows when that might come in useful?

==Further Reading==
* [[Sevenfold Path]]
* [[Lit_up#Grand_Lodges|Lit up]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune introducing the concept of grand lodges

Site safety

2026-04-16T19:58:26Z

Dre:

==Overview==
Please read all the following safety rules carefully. If you plan to take part in combat there are additional [[combat safety]] rules that you will need to read. Likewise, if you plan to use a bow or crossbow, you must read the [[bow safety]] rules. You must contact us in advance for permission before you engaging in any fire performance - and read the [[fire performance]] safety rules carefully.

==Vehicle Safety==
* '''Please update your vehicle registration and contact number on your account and display your PID in your windscreen'''
* '''You must observe the 10mph speed limit at all times once you leave the public road'''
* '''Use indicators as normal to indicate direction of travel, do not use hazard lights'''
* '''No vehicles are permitted on the IC field during the hours of time-in'''

If you are coming to the event by car, please update your vehicle registration and contact number on your PD account, so that we can find you to move your vehicle if needed for any reason. You must also display your PID in your windscreen while your car is on site. The gate team have paper slips available if you need one to write your PID on.

There is a 10mph speed limit in place all across the site. You must reduce your speed to 10mph or less as soon as you turn off the road. Use indicators as normal to indicate direction of travel on site, do not use hazard lights.

There are roads that go through the out-of-character camp, through Anvil and back. Vehicles are allowed to leave the road provided the conditions are acceptable, please check with a member of crew for further details when you are on site. No vehicles are allowed into the IC area while the game is running. See the site map for the [[events|event]] for a map of which parts of the site are accessible when. If you require vehicle access on the IC field, for example to leave site due to an emergency, go to GOD or speak to a member of crew with a radio who will arrange an official escort for you and your vehicle.

===Parking===
* '''Form straight rows when pitching and parking in designated camping areas'''
* '''No overnight parking in short stay parking'''
* '''No sleeping in long stay or short stay parking'''

To improve safety and security, please form straight rows when pitching and parking in designated OC areas. The traffic team will be on hand to assist at the beginning of the event. If you have any questions about where to pitch your tent or park your vehicle, please speak to the Traffic team who can direct you.

Please do not park in short stay overnight. This area is designated for people who are coming and going each day. We understand there may be exceptions as plans may change. Do not move your vehicle if you are intoxicated; your safety is more important. You are welcome to sleep in your vehicle in the pitch and park areas if you wish to do so. You must not sleep in the short or long stay parking areas.

==Tent Safety==
* '''Your tent must be securely pegged and guyed down'''
* '''You must follow tent safety instructions given by the site crew'''
* '''If your tent is unsafe, you may be asked to remove it'''
* '''If your tent presents an immediate danger, our crew will take necessary steps to secure it'''
* '''These rules apply to tents on both OC and IC fields'''
* '''Ensure your tent is a safe distance from other tents'''

All tents pitched at a Profound Decisions event must be pitched safely. Unsafe tents can be a danger to other participants as well as their occupants. Our team will always act, if needed, to remedy any situation where they deem a tent to be unsafe. Our tent team can provide advice and help to ensure your tent is secure and pitched safely if you need any assistance on the day. The [[costume]] page has guidance on [[Costume#In-Character_Tents|what tents are appropriate for the in-character field]].

Before travelling to the event, check that you have all the parts of your tent, including pegs, poles, and ropes, and that your tent canvas is intact. Replace or repair any damaged or missing parts in advance. If, once you are on site, you discover that your tent is missing parts, or not in usable condition, please first try to seek help or borrow materials from other players, before asking crew. Our team will do our best to help if necessary, but be aware that we have a very limited supply of spare tent materials. We will offer what assistance we can, but in most cases we only have parts which are interchangeable between different styles of tents, such as pegs.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Campstatue.jpg|caption=Make sure your tent is secure.|align=right|width=450}}
You must make sure that you pitch your tent carefully and safely. This includes pegging and guying down your tent securely to the ground. For most commercial out-of-character sleeping tents and in-character bell tents, all the materials you need to secure it will be provided by the manufacturer. You must use the guy-ropes supplied with your tent, or equivalent, even if you do not think the event will be windy.

Large tents such as marquees and garage tents must be appropriately secured and may require additional guys or storm-lashings. Garage and frame tents with solid metal structures can be very dangerous in high winds if not secured. We will usually ask that you secure these tents with storm-lashings which pass over the entire body of the tent and are secured with sturdy ground anchors.

Very lightweight tents, including some gazebos with aluminium frames, may require additional fixtures to keep them secure and prevent them blowing away in high winds. This may require pegs and guys beyond those provided by the manufacturer.

If you have been given a tent that has been erected by our site team, you must not alter the location of the guy lines without speaking with a member of the site crew first, as these may impact the stability of the tent.

An incorrectly pitched tent can present a danger to everyone. If our site crew (including camp planners) ask you to make any alterations to your tent, including taking it down or adding additional support, then you must follow the instructions given. If your tent cannot be made safe, we may need you to take it down.

In an emergency, if your tent presents an immediate danger (for example: we assess it is about to collapse or blow away), our crew will take necessary steps to secure it. This could involve adding additional supports, or partially or completely dismantling your tent. We will make best efforts to do this without damage, but we have to prioritise safety in these circumstances. If we need to make an alteration to your tent for safety reasons and we cannot find you, we will leave a note on your tent or at GOD explaining what we have done and why.

Tents should be far enough apart from each other that flames cannot easily spread from one to the next. The [[camp planner|camp planners]] can advise you when pitching your tents to support this.

All these rules apply to tents on both the out-of-character and in-character fields.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Pathway.jpg|caption=Make sure your tent does not obscure paths.|align=left|width=450}}
===Pathways===
* '''Do not stretch guy ropes into, or across, pathways'''
Whether you are camping IC or OOC please ensure that the location of your tent and the guy ropes do not stray into pathways as this can cause injuries, especially at night. If you are camping IC and are not sure of the location of pathways in your nation, speak with your [[Camp_planner|camp planner]].

===Mould===
* '''Treat any mould on your tent with a fungicidal wash'''
Mould can develop on tents if they are not carefully maintained. Mould is not just unsightly, it can lead to ill health and can damage the fabric of the tent.

You are strongly recommended to check your tent before the event and if there is any mould present to properly treat it with a fungicidal wash

===Fighting===
* '''Do not fight near tents'''
You must not attempt to fight near a tent. More details are on the [[combat_safety#General_safety|combat safety page]].

==Fire Safety==
* '''All campfires must be raised off the ground and in a suitable container'''
* '''You must make sure it is well away from flammable objects and has plenty of clear space around it free of trip hazards'''
* '''Take extra care when cooking at events'''

All campfires at PD events must be raised off the ground, in a suitable container - the container should be positioned away from flammable objects, trip hazards, and so that any thoroughfare is possible without getting unduly close to it. Remember that wheelchair users and event attendees with large costumes might require more space than you to move past an area.

Similarly, candles and lanterns should be held in suitable fixtures or containers, and placed so they neither risk being knocked onto something flammable, nor brushed into by accident. LED lights are always an acceptable alternative, and [[Technology#Lightstones|need not look like flame]].

If the fire is to be in or around your tent, consider having the canvas treated with fire retardant (you can apply it yourself with paintbrushes or a cheap garden sprayer), and keeping fire fighting equipment nearby. At the very least, a good pair of boots can let you stamp out sparks before they spread.

Any naked flame close to tent fabric increases the risk of an inadvertent fire. Please be aware of your surroundings when using cooking equipment and this includes understanding routes of escape if cooking inside a tent.

===Fighting===
* '''Do not fight near a fire'''
You must not attempt to fight near a fire. More details are on the [[Combat_safety#General_safety|combat safety page]].

===Supervision===
* '''If you light a fire, it is your responsibility to ensure it is supervised and not left unattended'''
* '''Don't use oil or similar on any open fires'''
* '''Any fire with a visible flame, or which is producing sparks or has unignited fuel on it must be extinguished before you leave it unattended'''
* '''Any fire you are responsible for must be completely extinguished each night'''

A fire with visible flame, one which is producing sparks, or one which has a hot bed of coals and unignited fuel on it, is a fire which presents an increased risk of igniting things around it. Such a fire should be supervised - that means having someone mature and sober enough to recognise danger and raise the alarm, that they should be within clear site of the fire near-constantly, and that they should be aware they have responsibility for it. Any fire you are responsible for must be completely extinguished each night.

By igniting a fire, you are committing to the idea that someone will be available to supervise it until it is extinguished or dampened. Don't use oil or similar on any open fire. It is always acceptable to declare yourself [[combat_safety#Non-contact|Non-Contact]] if combat or the threat thereof, would otherwise oblige you to leave a fire unattended. Always keep a bucket of water or fire fighting equipment, nearby to ensure that the fire can be put out at any time, if needed.

To make a fire safe, remove as much unignited fuel from it as possible, and then spread the burning material as widely as possible within the container it has been laid in. This will leave a bed of very hot ashes, but you will generally find it quickly stops having any visible flame, or emitting any sparks, which vastly reduces the risk of it spreading outside its container. At the end of the evening, douse the ashes with water, or put a suitable airtight lid on the container, to extinguish the fire completely.

Similarly, candles and lanterns should not be left alone when lit.

===Disposal Of Ashes===
* '''Hot ash disposal points are provided at multiple points around the site'''
* '''Do not put hot ashes in the normal waste disposal under any circumstances'''

Ashes remain hot far longer than you might expect. It is common for Saturday night's ashes to still be hot enough to melt straight through bin bags after time-out on Sunday.

It is not acceptable to put hot ashes in the normal waste disposal, nor to dump ash on the ground anywhere at PD events.

Instead, hot ash disposal points are provided for your use at multiple points on the site - before lighting a fire, know how you are going to get the ash to one of them. Ask at GOD if you are unable to locate an ash disposal point.

===Carbon Monoxide===
* '''Do not use a BBQ or similar solid fuel heater inside a tent'''
* '''Do not sleep in a tent with the remains of any sort of fire - this is a serious health hazard'''

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and toxic gas produced when burning fuels such as charcoal briquettes, wood or coal. It is not dangerous when properly ventilated but burning these fuels inside a tent increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide poisoning kills, and one source for it is fires and barbecues that appear extinguished. Do not use a BBQ or similar solid fuel heater inside a tent.

There have been tragic cases of campers at other events who have brought a "used" disposable barbecue into their tent overnight, and perished. Do not sleep in a tent with the remains of any sort of fire. The only exception to this would be a properly installed, enclosed, stove - with a flue that vents outside the tent. In that case, please ensure that you have a carbon monoxide detector located inside the tent.

===Candles===
* '''We strongly encourage the use of LED lights in Empire rather than candles'''
* '''Do not use a candle in any tent where people are sleeping'''

[[Technology#Lightstones|Lightstones]] are cheap and common in Empire - we encourage everyone to use LED lights rather than candles. Candles cannot be used in any tent where people are sleeping or in any modern fabric tents. They should not be used where young children are present, they should be placed away from children. They should be held in a sturdy non-flammable candle holder suitable for the task. Where candles are used in a tent the person in charge of that tent must ensure a suitable method of extinguishing fire is available. A bucket of water or sand is suitable. They must be extinguished when not supervised.

===Pyrotechnics===
* '''You may not use pyrotechnics at Empire without prior permission'''
* '''The only exception is for coloured flame effects'''

We don't permit participants to use loud pyrotechnics explosives or pyrotechnics with significant safety issues at Empire. Our crew may use pyrotechnics at times for special effects, but they cannot be used by players or any crew member who is not approved by our SFX team to use them.

There are a selection of commercial preparations intended to give a coloured flame effect in a campfire - they are often branded as "magic flames", "coloured flames" or "fire salts", and generally give a greenish-blue colour to the fire. The most common contain a mixture of Cupric Sulfate, Cupric Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride. While these are technically pyrotechnics, you may use commercial preparations of this nature, so long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions. This means that if you pass them to other event attendees, you must make sure they also have access to a copy of the manufacturer's instructions. You must only use these preparations with the knowledge and consent of the person who is currently responsible for the fire in question.

There are a range of small pyrotechnic devices such as smoke pellets, chimney testers, flash paper, vape-based 'smoke' effects which you can ask for permission to use in a personal capacity at the event. You can [mailto:fire@profounddecisions.co.uk email us] to discuss your request. If you are given permission to use a small pyrotechnic device of this kind, then only you may use it, you cannot give it to another participant to operate.

===If There is a Problem===
* '''Please report any problem to the first member of crew with a radio that you can find'''
* '''Do not tackle a fire unless you have suitable equipment available and it is clearly safe to do so'''
* '''If a fire has become a danger then shout FIRE! loudly to draw the attention of the nearest member of crew'''
* '''Withdraw from the area and stop shouting once a crew member arrives

Profound Decisions will never introduce any plot or encounter involving a fire spreading in Anvil, as such, treat reports of fire spreading as OC information, and react accordingly.

If you see a fire that is clearly in danger of spreading outside of its intended container, immediately take action to move yourself and anyone near it out of immediate danger, and then alert someone with a radio. The site crew will have access to firefighting equipment, and the local fire service will be alerted if the situation is severe enough. The event first aid team has specialist burns training and equipment available. If there is suitable equipment available and you are certain it is safe to do so, consider tackling the fire yourself, but err on the side of caution. Tents can be replaced; people cannot.

If you see a fire in a state that you believe presents an immediate danger to people or property, or that you think will develop into one, calmly and politely alert the person supervising the fire to that situation. If you cannot identify that person, or you do not believe their response has mitigated the danger, then do not take any further action yourself, or engage in protracted discussion - alert PD crew instead (by way of anyone with a radio), and let them handle the situation.

Do not attempt to fight a fire that has become well established - instead alert our crew as soon as possible. Alert the crew by shouting fire! as loudly as possible. Continue to do this until a member of crew equipped with a radio arrives on the scene. At that point stop shouting and withdraw from the area. The crew will respond to the fire.

==If You Need Help==
* '''Help is available throughout the event'''
* '''If you're not sure where to ask a question, GOD is the best place to start'''

If you require medical assistance - go to first aid, or ask anyone with a radio to contact first aid on your behaviour.

If you have site safety concerns- go to GOD, or ask anyone with a radio to contact GOD who will contact the appropriate team to respond.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious or distressed - speak to any member of crew, if they cannot assist you, they will contact [[participant welfare]].

If you have a conduct problem to report - go to GOD, or ask anyone with a radio to contact [[conduct]]. Or if you prefer, you can email the conduct team after the event.

If you have administrative or general queries - go to GOD and they will resolve them for you.

{{Safety Links}}

Master of Ice and Darkness

2026-04-14T19:49:27Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=IcyCrag.jpg|caption=The Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun is as much castle as college.|align=left|width=400}}
==Overview==
The Master of Ice and Darkness is an [[Imperial title]] in the [[Conclave]]. It grants the ability to direct the studies of the ''Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun'', a [[College of Magic]] specialising in [[Summer magic]]. The Icy Crag stands above the vale of [[Miekarova#Srodkoja|Volchitrava]], south-west of Olodny, in the territory of [[Miekarova]].

A college of magic allows the creation of new [[Formulaic_ritual|formulaic rituals]]. A formulaic ritual can take decades to complete, requiring extensive resources and many dangerous experiments. A college of magic speeds this process up dramatically by providing a forum for expert magicians and magical theorists to collaborate, providing them with good-quality equipment and the guidance of a single individual who directs their research.

When the college was first built, the [[eternal]] [[Cathan Canae]] served as a patron of the magicians and their students. She was followed under controversial circumstances by [[Meraud]], and later (following a [[Queens_and_kings#A_Tourney_of_Sun_and_Ice|grand tourney]]), by [[Eleonaris]] then followed in Summer 384YE, a [[Our_thumping_hearts|another tourney]] was held, won by champions of [[Jaheris]]. At the Summer Solstice 387YE, a [[Ice on the snow|new tourney]] was held, this time won by champions of [[Hayaak]] who duly became the patron of the college.

==Responsibilities==
The Master of Ice and Darkness has the final say in the research agenda of the Icy Crag. Other magicians may approach them and suggest areas which might benefit their particular areas of study, or serve the interests of the Empire. As with both the [[Provost of the Halls of Knowledge]], and the [[Dean of the Lyceum]], it is possible for a Master to indulge their own interests, or to demand payment from people wishing to use the college's facilities to formulate personal rituals. Nor is there any requirement that the rituals formulated at the Icy Crag become part of [[Imperial lore]], or be shared with anyone else.

In the event that the Icy Crag were threatened, the Master would be responsible for removing that threat.

==Powers==
===Guidance===
Ritual magicians from across the Empire come to study, debate, discuss and pursue arcane mastery at the Icy Crag. In return for maintaining a good standard of living, and access to the research of previous generations, these magicians are expected to perform ritual research and study for the betterment of the nation and the Empire as a whole. The Master is responsible for setting the direction that research takes.

The magicians of a college can be directed to research the [[Formulaic ritual|formula]] of a new ritual so that it can be mastered. The ritual must already exist in the form of an '' [[Spontaneous_magic#Arcane_Projection|arcane projection]]'', but there is no requirement to select one they have personally commissioned. A college can work on formalising one ritual at a time, and the research may take anywhere from a season to several years depending on the complexity and the resources available. The amount of time it takes to complete research into a ritual depends on the magnitude of that ritual.

It requires three months (one season) for every 10 ranks of magnitude the final ritual will have.

If research is not completed, the college keeps notes on their work so far, and may resume it at a later date from where it was left off.

At the completion, the master of the college receives a [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts|ritual text]] suitable for use in mastering the ritual. They may keep the knowledge of the ritual restricted to themselves and their allies, or through a [[Imperial lore|declaration of Imperial lore]] the [[Conclave]] can have that ritual added to the wider body of [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial lore]], making it available to any ritual magician in the Empire.

'''OOC Note:''' The Master selects the [[Spontaneous_magic#Arcane_Projection|arcane projection]] they wish to [[Formulaic_ritual|formulate]] by e-mail to Profound Decisions {{plot}} before downtime closes. The final magnitude of the ritual text is not guaranteed to be the same as that of the arcane projection.

===Mastery of the Lore of Summer===
The Icy Crag lacks the resources available to the [[Dean of the Lyceum|Lyceum]], but excels at the study of the magic of Summer. When the Master directs research towards a project that is part of the lore of Summer, the work proceeds at the rate of 15 ranks of magnitude each season.

The Master can increase the rate at which a ritual of the lore of Summer is researched by spending money to purchase rare materials, esoteric tomes and exceptional equipment. The first five ranks of additional research in a season cost 2 thrones. The next five ranks cost a further 5 thrones. The next five ranks cost a further 10 thrones, and so on doubling the price for each additional five ranks of research within the same season.

===Patronage of the Peregrine Knight===
Thanks to the patronage of Hayaak, whenever the Master of Ice and Darkness directs research towards any project that is a personal enchantment, the work proceeds at the rate of 15 ranks of magnitude each season. The Master can increase the rate at which a personal enchantment is researched by spending money to purchase rare materials, esoteric tomes, exceptional equipment, and certain materials of interest to the ''Peregrine Knight'' and his representative at the college.

The first five ranks of additional research in a season cost 2 thrones. The next five ranks cost a further 5 thrones. The next five ranks cost a further 10 thrones, and so on, doubling the price for each additional five ranks of research within the same season. This ability is ''not'' cumulative with the [[#Mastery of the Lore of Summer|Mastery of the Lore of Summer]] - when researching a personal enchantment of the Summer realm the Master cannot, for example, pay 4 thrones to increase the research speed by 10 ranks.

===The Master's Study===
The Master has personal apartments in the central keep of the Icy Crag. The highest point in the college is the Master's study, a circular tower room that allows clear views of the forests of Miekarova. Even at the height of summer, the apartments are chilly - but they are equipped with great furs taken from creatures of the Summer realm, given as gifts by the hunters of Cathan Canae and finely woven tapestries gifted by the weavers of Jaheris.
===Thule Warlocks===
A contingent of [[Thule]] warlocks live at and around the Icy Crag. They assist with the research taking place there which has the twin effects of reducing the upkeep of the college by 5 Thrones each season but also ensuring that the Dragons receive a copy of any ritual text codified at the college.

==Appointment==
The appointment, replacement, or removal of the Master is made by the [[Declaration#Declaration_of_Candidacy|declaration of candidacy]] as part of a [[Conclave session]]. Any Imperial citizen may hold the title. A specific candidate can Declare for the post of Master only once a season.

The Master serves until they are replaced by another magician using the Declaration of Candidacy. As a title in the Conclave, they cannot be [[Revocation|revoked]]. When a Dean loses their title, research on their projects ends although it is possible for a Master to return to earlier projects of interest and have them completed in their name.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MasterOfIceAndDarkness.jpg|caption=Luke of the Shattered Tower, first Master of Ice and Darkness,<br>attired for the Pledge Ball 381YE.|align=right|width=300}}

==The Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun==
The college takes the form of a white stone castle built atop a high hill overlooking the vale of Volchitrava. Not far from the border with [[Wintermark]], the vale is also home to the powerful Gremani family, [[Varushka_magical_traditions#Cabalists|cabalists]] with a long history of mastering [[Summer magic]].

The only approach to the college is a narrow climbing stairway carved into the side of the sheer cliffs, a vertiginous trek that is not for the faint-hearted. Whatever the weather, anyone approaching the castle on foot must contend with unpredictable cold winds that strike without warning, threatening to pluck the unwary from the stairs and send them tumbling down into the forest if they are not careful.

The four high towers that rise from the castle proper glisten in the sunlight as if they were sheened with frost. Even during the warmest summers, the temperature within the Icy Crag remains cool and wintry. At the heart of the college is a potent Summer [[regio]]. Ownership of this regio appears to shift depending on which eternal is serving as patron. It is currently tied to Hayaak, and it is not uncommon to meet with his herald, Ernreik , when visiting the college.

Work on the Icy Crag was commissioned through the Senate by the [[Navarr]] '''Llewellyn Leafstalker''', and the bulk of the materials required to complete it were provided by the Navarr and the Varushkans. In particular, the Navarr Eternal Family and the Varushkan Gremani families played a significant part in ensuring the edifice was built while a [[Construct_college_of_magic_in_Morrow|similar project]] in [[Urizen]] failed for unknown reasons.

Not all the magicians associated with the Icy Crag live within its glittering walls. It is perhaps unsurprising, given the relatively new status of the college and its somewhat isolated location, that many Summer magicians (especially those in the south) prefer to correspond with the scholars here rather than relocate their homes closer. Still, a number of [[Varushka|Varushkan]], [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]], [[Navarr]] and [[Dawn|Dawnish]] have moved their homes north and settled in the vicinity of the college to take advantage of its facilities and libraries.

Still, the halls of the Icy Crag are open to magicians from all corners of the Empire, as long as they are prepared to commit some of their time to assisting whatever research is being prioritised by the Master.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Thulebanner1.jpeg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
They also play host to a significant number of [[Thule]] warlocks from [[Otkodov]] following the [[Ratify_Thule_Treaty_Spring_387YE|treaty of 387YE]]. Living and working in [[Miekarova]], their good behaviour has been assured by the Dragons of the north; they will be kept on a tight leash and will do nothing which might offend Imperial sensibilities, so long as the agreement stands. If the treaty fails for any reason, Orobus expects the Empire to agree to give the warlocks safe passage back to Otkodov in return for a promise that they will remain peaceful throughout. The benefits for the Thule are clear - the warlocks are not just aware of any ritual being researched at the college, they are involved with the work. As a consequence the Dragons receive a copy of any ritual that is codified at the Icy Crag, at the same time as the Empire, as well as information about any [[arcane projection]] submitted but not completed for any reason. In return the Dragons agree to guarantee that the [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria#The_Maze_of_Zoria|Maze of Zoria]] remains under Imperial control.

As a college with an eternal patron, the magicians of the Icy Crag have a vested interest in maintaining good relations between the Empire and the Summer eternal in question. In particular, a reliable Summer [[archmage]] can only help the college to prosper over time.
{{RecentElections|Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness}}
[[Category:Conclave]]
[[Category:Title]]

Burgher of Ketsov

2026-04-13T22:11:56Z

Dre:

[[Category:Title]][[Category:Varushka]]
{{CaptionedImage|file=Vallornguard sodality.png|title=Vallornguard|align=right|width=240}}
==Overview==
Constructed [[Construct Ketsov Trade Exchange|by order]] of '''Irina Vasillova Dukov''' as the [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]], work on the construction of the Trade Exchange was completed shortly before the Summer Solstice 383YE. The [[opportunity]] [[A_strange_land#Deep_Pockets|arose]] as part of the conquest of [[Ossium]], and was requested by the inhabitants of the town of [[Ossium#Ketsov|Ketsov]].

The Senate voted to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Burgher_of_the_Ketsov|amend the title]], during the Summer Solstice 387YE, to change the election method to be appointed by the [[Vallornguard]]. More information on the situation can be found in the '''[[Eight_for_a_wish#Boyar_and_Burgher_(Varushka)|Eight for a wish]]''' wind of fortune.

==Responsibilities==
The Burgher of Ketsov is expected to ensure the [[Prosperity]] of the town by overseeing trade. If the Trade Exchange was ever directly threatened, the Burgher would be responsible for dealing with those threats - but also for making decisions about any [[opportunity]] related to the Trade Exchange.
__TOC__
==Powers==
Prior to the Summer Solstice 387YE, the Burgher of Ketsov was able to commission [[magic items]] from the [[crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] of the family. They could also purchase copious amounts of [[dragonbone]] and other [[forest]] materials home to Ossium from the [[karsk#Ketsov Mir Mozga|Ketsov Mir Mozga]] in the [[Karsk#Lestasny|woods]] of [[Karsk]].

The title will continue to have no ability to purchase magic items or measures until it is first elected by the Vallornguard.

==Appointment==
The Burgher of Ketsov is appointed each year by members of the Vallornguard.

Only a Varushkan citizen can hold this title. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|Varushkan Assembly]], the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{RecentElections|Burgher_of_Ketsov}}
==The Ketsov Family==
The [[Ossium#Ketsov|Ketsov]] were among the first humans the Empire really dealt with in [[Ossium]], even before the territory had been entirely conquered. Descended from [[Varushka|Varushkan]] settlers enslaved by the [[Druj]], they fared much better than many of the other former slaves by making themselves useful to their orc masters. By providing the orcs with weapons and armour and [[magic items]] they enjoyed a level of freedom and relative status practically unknown elsewhere in the territory.

They were, however, [[A_strange_land#The_Ketsov|very keen to embrace the opportunities]] presented by being freed from the Druj and becoming Imperial citizens. They were among the first people native to Ossium to become Varushkan citizens, and proposed the creation of the [[A_strange_land#Deep_Pockets|Ketsov Trading Exchange]] in their home town. This led to the establishment of the Burgher of Ketsov; the family is very keen to see the prosperity of their vale increase.

The family is not well liked by their neighbours, the former slaves of the Druj both human and orc alike. They warn that the Ketsov are not to be trusted. They cooperated with the Druj for generations, winning concessions and avoiding the worst of the horrors faced by those subject to their dominion. The Empire would be better having as little to do with them as possible, say these vales. The Ketsov sneer at their detractors. They simply did what any other Varushkan vale would likely have done - they made an accommodation with the dark powers that threatened to destroy them. There is no difference between bargaining with orcs who can snuff out your people and bargaining with some hungry spirit, bloodthirsty plaguewulf, or monstrous tree. If anything, it is the vales who ''didn't'' do everything in their power to reach some compromise with the Druj that have failed to live up to what it means to be Varushkan.

Regardless of this conflict, it cannot be denied that they are native Ossium Varushkans. The [[Blood_makes_noise#New_Vales|mandate of Konstantin Rabovich Bolotnikov]] upheld by the Varushkan assembly in Winter 383YE encouraged sellswords to help them build and establish their presence in Ossium just as much as it did the other former subjects of the Druj. The Ketsov have seized this opportunity with both hands, reinforcing the walls of the [[Ossium#Ketsov|town that shares their name]], and establishing forestry operations among the trees south of the [[Ossium#Bonewood|Bonewood]]. They are scrupulously careful not to stray too far north, but they also seem to be "courting" the [[Thule]] a little - offering a warm welcome to any of their merchants that come south.

They've also been looking for other opportunities to expand their wealth, and security. From a visiting wagon raider, they learned of the [[Karsk_spoils_of_war#Mir_Mozga|Mir Mozga]] in the forests of [[Karsk#Lestazny|Lestazny]] in [[Karsk]]. Since the death of Pyotr Kresnovich Triosny, the former master of the Mir Mozga, the forests near Isember had grown wild and chaotic. The family suggested that they would be the perfect people to establish a small new vale in the area. As Ossium natives, they argued, there was a certain symbolic rightness to allowing them to settle some of their people in a different Varushkan territory. After all, had not a great many western Varushkans come to their home, to Ossium, to establish new settlements? Is it not only right that they be encouraged to spread their family across their new nation likewise?

The Senate agreed - or agreed enough to allow the establishment of the [[Karsk#Ketsov Mir Mozga|Ketsov Mir Mozga]] in [[Karsk#Lestazny|Lestazny]] - several large families of the Ketsov now make their home and harvest the dragonbone. The majority of the dragonbone they produce is used or sold by the new vale but a portion of it would obviously be sent back to Ossium, enriching the Ketsov and their neighbours. They are quire prepared to share part of that bounty with their friends - the Burgher of Ketsov would gain the ability to buy dragonbone as part of their existing ministry. They're also keen to make ''new'' friends in Karsk - rather than export it themselves, the ''Ketsov Mir Mozga'' are sell some of the forest riches they gather to the [[Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks]] and are actively seeking closer ties with the western vale.

While they may not be popular, they are certainly effective. While establishing the Ketsov Mir Mozga, the family also provided significant support to help resolve the [[Blood_makes_noise#The_Isember_Problem|Isember problem]] - both in the form of armed soldiers and useful magic items.
{{Responsibilities Expectation}}

Feroz

2026-04-13T22:11:51Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofFeroz.png|title=Southernmost of the Freeborn territories, lush but threatened by barbarians over land and sea|caption=Regions of Feroz|align=left|width=500}}[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Grendel]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]
{{stub}}
== Overview ==
Feroz is the southernmost territory of the Brass Coast, and like Madruga has both isles and coastline. Here the climate is warm and humid, perfect for the cultivation of different plants. This is the home of the fabulous spice gardens of Feroz, a source of great revenue for the people of this territory. The seas are more treacherous here, and until recently the south and the west were constantly threatened by barbarians by land. As a result, many armed merchants patrol the seas, and groups of young warriors journeyed along the borders, fighting skirmishes against jealous foes.

There is a traditional rivalry between the families of Feroz and those of [[Madruga]] to the north. Madruga was the first settled territory of the Freeborn, and there is a popular stereotype that the people who live there are "stuck up". This stereotype is more humorous than hateful - the Freeborn move around too much to allow such prejudice to root itself too firmly in their psyche. Still, if a citizen of Feroz wants to insult a citizen of Madruga, they will fall back on accusations of arrogance and an over-reliance on tradition.

Some of the finest [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecaries]] on the Brass Coast live in Feroz - the art of [[potion]] making has been studied here for centuries and there are a great many [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. The mainland is a criss-cross patchwork of [[farm|farms]] and small settlements - a great deal of food and drink is produced here and exported to other Freeborn territories.

==Recent History==
Being on the [[Bay of Catazar]], Feroz has always been under threat from the [[Grendel]] [[orc|orcs]]. In Spring 383YE, the orcs [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|launched a naval invasion]], capturing [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] in short order and making significant inroads into [[#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]]. The Grendel installed a grizzled old orc named ''Lord Rahab'' as overseer of the conquered land; he took up residence in the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] and quickly set about attempting to bring the rest of Feroz under his control. Part of their plan appeared to involve the ghosts of the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]], but the scheme was countered by Imperial heroes travelling through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to exorcise the spirits and defeat the Grendel seeking to make use of them.

Undaunted by the loss of their supernatural weapon, the orcs kept up their assault. By Summer 383YE, they [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|sought to consolidate their gains in Fontargenta]]; they were opposed by [[Navarr]] and [[the Marches|Marcher]] [[Army|armies]], who held the Grendel at the town of [[#Fontargenta|Bramar]] for two days before being forced to retreat. They were able to slow the Grendel advance, however, leaving the orcs bogged down in Fontargenta and unable to press inland.

Following the engagement in Fontargenta, and battling under a powerful supernatural storm, the Grendel [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|brought even more force]] to bear in the territory. While the Imperial armies were reinforced by [[Highguard|Highborn]] troops, the orc navies disgorged a great host of their own warriors. The fighting was bitter, but in the end Fontargenta fell - and as Fontargenta falls, so falls Feroz. While [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] and [[#Afarjasse|Afarjasse]] remained free, the Grendel forces continued to mass along the coast.

During the Autumn Equinox 383, the [[Senate]] [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|ratified a peace treaty]] with the Grendel. Presented by the [[Imperial Fleet Master]], among other things it [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] the two remaining regions of Feroz to the Grendel, albeit with provisions allowing Imperial citizens still in Morajasse and Afarjasse to withdraw to safety. Following the Equinox, Lord Rahab's forces spread out quickly to bring the two western regions under his control; Feroz was now [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites|completely under Grendel control]].

Just before the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Imperial forces reconquered [[Glass_and_flame| reconquered Feroz]]. Possession of the territory is complicated by [[Children_of_Wrecks|Children of Wrecks]] as well as the remnants of the Grendel. Feroz has been run into the ground by Lord Rahab, eager to extract every drop of profit from the place, and it requires significant investment to return the territory to even a fraction of its former wealth.

== Major Features ==
===Oran===
The largest and most prestigious port was Feroz is Oran, on the northern coast of [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]]. Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc_(Ruined)|Siroc]] this thriving port specialised in high-value products such as fine wines and spice mixes. Unsurprisingly, given its position, for most of its history it has engaged in low-key economic warfare with its larger cousin to the north - Oran notably has cheaper dock fees than Siroc, and a number of entrepreneurs prefer to operate here as a consequence. It is especially welcoming to those merchants who are just starting out, and has a reputation for being more energetic than its competitors to the north and south. This energy has been significantly boosted by construction of the only open [[#The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull|Asavean Temple]] in the entire Empire; the surge of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] ships visiting Oran saw the town expand significantly to become the largest trading port in Feroz.

In Spring 383YE, however, Oran was [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|conquered by the Grendel]]. An orc governor, Lord Rahab, chose the town as the site for his court, converting the offices of the [[Scorrero Nets]] to his personal use. Among other things, this invasion saw the collapse of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]], the Scorrero Nets falling into orc hands, and the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull sealing its doors against the orcs while offering sanctuary to Freeborn families. Following the treaty signed during the Autumn Equinox, the Grendel opened Oran as a port [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|available to Imperial captains]]. This situation persisted until the peace treaty ended, and war with the Grendel resumed.

After the Summer Solstice 386YE, Imperial forces swept into Oranseri to liberate the territory from the Grendel. They [[Glass_and_flame#The_Siege_of_Oran|laid siege]] to Oran, and were quickly victorious. The [[Below_the_thunders#Objective:_Eliminate_Governor_Rahab|recent death of Governor Rahab]] in battle with the Empire's heroes left the garrison demoralised and disorganised. It was a grievous victory, however. The fighting that raged through the town, the overwhelming assault, the barrage of catapult stones, all contributed to the fact that many of the buildings have been left in ruins, and many more damaged. A fire at the docks threatened to spread through the town and only the valiant actions of League soldiers managed bring it under control.

Proposals have been put forward to [[Send_for_me#Wharfage_of_Oran|rebuild Oran]], but it remains to be seen what the future holds for the port town.

===The Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
During the Spring Equinox 380YE, permission was granted to the people of the [[Asavean Archipelago]] to construct a major temple to their gods in [[#Oranseri|Oran]]. Initially, construction was expected to be completed shortly before the Autumn Equinox 380YE, but the temple did not actually open its doors until shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The town is seeing an influx of Asavean shipping bringing white granite and architects to the Brass Coast, as well as throwing crowns around like water to secure local labour to complete their project. Relations between the people of the Empire and the priests of Asavea are monitored by ''[[El oficial de enlace imperial con los sacerdotes de Balo y el toro negro]]'' ("The Imperial intermediary to the priests of Balo and the Black Bull"), who among other things is able to [[ministry|buy Asavean goods]] at a reduced price. During the Summer Solstice 380YE, the Assembly of Nine supported Abaddon de Rondell in [[Temple_of_the_bull#Resolution|denouncing]] the temple as an idolatrous affront, making it significantly harder for the Asaveans to find labourers prepared to work on the construction and both delaying its completion and laying a significant economic burden on the foreign priests.

The temple remained extremely controversial among Imperial priests. When Oran fell, however, the priests at the temple [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Sand|offered sanctuary]] to a number of Freeborn families in spite of Grendel unhappiness. In the following months, several of those families were smuggled to safety in Madruga, although an unknown number remain as guests at the temple. Despite this, however, it is clear that the Asaveans are more than happy to work with the new owners of Oran - indeed there are rumours that they have already recognised a Grendel as the [[Imperial Delegate to the Temple in Feroz|Delegate to the Temple in Feroz]]. This situation is no doubt being exacerbated by the Summer 383YE [[Through_my_sails#Ruined_Buildings|attack]] on the "sister temple" to the Black Bull, the temple of the Way in Nemoria.

'''OOC Notes:''' More details on the construction of the Temple of Balo and the Black Bull can be found in the winds of fortune, specifically [[Seven_lords_of_virtue#Temple_of_Bahlo_and_the_Black_Bull|Seven lords of virtue]], [[Those who worship#The Black Bull|Those who worship]], and [[Distant deeps]].

===Shantarim===
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In the southern islands of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] stands the town of Shantarim, a [[corsair]] stronghold. The families here are known to engage in fierce competition with their northern rivals, not only in Madruga but also in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]] and even the other islands of the Straits. Smaller than the town of Cazar, Shantarim has a reputation for being somewhat less cosmopolitan than the other towns of Feroz - visitors from mainland families sometimes encounter prejudice and suspicion. The families of Shantarim more than make up for their relatively small size with the enthusiasm with which they opposed the orcs of the Broken Shore. Prior to the peace treaty, they were loud supporters of the [[Freeborn Storm]], and the various raids against the Grendel. The signing of the peace treaty with the southern orcs has tied their hands - its no longer legal for them to fight the Grendel - which has been a major source of dissension in Shantarim.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Justicars'''<br>The priests who previously lived on the Isle of the Osseini called themselves ''justicars''. Specialist exorcists and inquisitors in the pre-Imperial history of the Brass Coast, they specialised in driving out malign spirits or cleansing unpleasant auras from people, places and objects. Never particularly populous, their sanctuary on the Isle of the Osseini was all but wiped out by the Grendel. A handful remained elsewhere, and during the Autumn Equinox 383YE the Freeborn assembly [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_22|called on them to come together to preserve their traditions]]. A small enclave of justicars was established on the Isle of Osseini at the sufferance of the Grendel.</box></div>

=== Isle of the Osseini ===
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At the southern tip of the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], the island was known for its heavy sea fog, its ghosts, and for a small sect of priests famed for their knowledge of the arts of exorcism. Foreigners claimed the Isle was haunted by those who had died at sea at the hands of the corsairs of Shantarim, but most Freeborn had no truck with such foolishness. In 383YE, however, it became clear these tales of ghosts were more than just idle gossip. During the Spring Equinox of that year, a [[Grendel]] shaman attempted to unleash a ghostly legion of drowned orcs bound in some fashion to white granite pillars on the island against the defenders of Feroz. Before they could do so they were [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|thwarted by Imperial heroes]] who reached the isle via the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Once the heroes retreated, the status of the island, the pillars, and the remaining priests was unknown.

Then in Autumn 383YE, as part of the negotiations that led to the peace treaty with the Grendel, a contract was negotiated with the orc diplomat regarding the Isle of the Osseini. In the wake of that agreement, a small group of priests were allowed to visit the Isle with a Grendel escort. There they discovered the remaining priests were dead, the ghost-binding pillars had been destroyed, and the island was in the hands of a coven of Grendel magicians. The orcs had already constructed a permanent residence there built around a particular Winter regio, and were less than welcoming to the Freeborn. Further negotiations followed; in the end the Freeborn were allowed to establish a small enclave here, under the careful watch of the Grendel.

'''OOC Note:''' You can learn more about the Isle of the Osseini in the [[Bones in the ocean]] wind of fortune.

=== The Spice Gardens of Feroz ===
In western [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] stand the legendary Spice Gardens of Feroz - a set of heavily-walled enclosures covering several acres where the finest spices in the Empire are grown. A rich source of trade for whoever controls the gardens, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] has changed hands between families only a handful of times in the last few centuries, and the bargaining leading up to a new appointment has regularly involved the whole nation.

The peace treaty of Autumn 383YE that ceded control of Morajasse to the Grendel saw the Spice Gardens fall into the hands of the orcs. If there is any solace to be taken from this development, it is that the Grendel appreciate fine spices as much as any Freeborn so it is unlikely that they will want to harm these legendary Gardens. On the other hand, some Freeborn find the idea of their beautiful spice gardens being operated by Grendel slaves particularly heinous.

===The [[Scorrero Nets]]===
The Scorrero Nets were a Bourse resource located in [[#Oranseri|Oranseri]], seized by the Grendel in Spring 383YE as part of their conquest of Feroz. Custodianship of the Nets was an [[Imperial Title]] that brought with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. In Winter 384YE, a [[Drums_beat_in_my_head#The_Scorrero_Nets|daring plan]] was proposed to "steal" the nets by establishing the [[Cerevado Nets]] upriver in [[Segura]]. As a consequence, this Bourse resource ceased to exist, much to the chagrin of the Grendel governor Rahab.

===The Broken Shore Bounty===
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] was a Bourse resource that was technically located in the [[#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]] inasmuch as the holder of the [[Bourse]] seat has the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar. The actual [[ilium]] that the seat provided was sourced throughout the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all ilium claimed from the nets of Freeborn, [[the League|League]], [[Highguard|Highborn]], and [[Urizen|Urizeni]] nets is claimed as part of the Bounty. It produced 7 rings of ilium each season and was allocated during the Spring Equinox.

When the Cazar Straits fell to the Grendel, they also seized the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty. Despite a [[Four_strong_winds#Broken_Shore_Bounty|proposal to move the offices]], the resource fell into disarray, the ilium ending up split between the Imperial Fleet Master and the Bourse Auction. With the ratification of the Grendel peace treaty, this title and resource effectively ceased to exist.

===Mora's Rock===
Built as part of the grand project to create [[fortification|fortifications]] across the southern Empire in response to the threat of the [[Grendel]], Mora's Rock in [[#Morajasse|Morajasse]] was completed in the months following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of 383YE]]. The fortification squats above the town of Mora, guarding against invasion from [[Segura]], and providing garrisons and scouts who can offer resistance to assaults from the sea.

When Morajasse was ceded to the Grendel in Autumn 383YE, they took control of the fortification and later expanded it significantly. The fortification resisted the [[Glass and flame|liberation]] of the territory, and as of the beginning of 387YE remains under the control of the Grendel. The garrison is led by ''[[Glass_and_flame#The_Shadow_of_Mora's_Rock|Commander Gallum Fiersach]]'', ably supported by his partner, the ''Wind Lord Saoirse''. The garrison there includes a warband of veteran [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Stone_Born|Stone Born]], and the remainder appear to be very experienced soldiers. These Grendel are enemies of the Empire, obviously, but that did not prevent them acting to [[A_circle_sewn_with_fate#The_Battle_of_Oran|protect Oran]] from the Children of Wrecks in early 387YE. There has been some talk of encouraging the Grendel to continue to protect the beleaguered Feroz from raiders. Whatever else is true about the orc garrison, they appear to be a very disciplined group of soldiers with little love for the servants of [[Siakha]].

==Regions==
===Afarjasse===
'''Qualities:''' [[Region_qualities#Abandoned|Abandoned]], [[Region_qualities#Underpopulated|Underpopulated]]<br>
In the middle of nowhere, on the plains of Afarjasse, is the quiet settlement of '''Afar'''. It was established by [[hakima]] with close ties to the [[Guerra]] tribe near a potent [[regio]] tied to the realm of Night. It is a faraway place dedicated to the practice of [[rituals|ritual magics]] that support the Freeborn. It is not hard to reach, but it stands alone in a sea of sprawling grasslands and does not encourage casual visitors. On nights when powerful magics are performed, Afar is visible for miles around - great bonfires are built and massive drums used to build powerful rhythms to help raise (or draw down, or both) the passionate energy for powerful workings.

As with the rest of Feroz, Afarjasse spent two years in the hands of the Grendel. The governor, Lord Rahab, made it clear that the hakima here would not be permitted access to their potent regio - they were after all an important strategic resource. The region has been liberated now, but is in the same dire straits as the rest of the territory.

===Cazar Straits===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished, Island, Underpopulated<br>
The islands of the Cazar Straits are dominated by [[corsair]] families. The largest settlement is the port town from which the islands take their name - high-cliffed '''Cazar'''. Built around a bustling dock, it is a safe harbour that often serves as home port for the [[fleet|fleets]] that protected the Bay from barbarian ships. The holder of the [[Broken Shore Bounty]] used to have the use of a fortified villa in the hills near Cazar, and the civil service offices that oversaw the resource were based here. Both are now in the hands of the Grendel.

Several of the more southerly islands of the Straits have a reputation for peculiarity. The corsairs of [[#Shantarim|Shantarim]] for example are renowned both for their enthusiastic rivalry with all other corsair families, and the zeal with which they waged war on the Grendel. The [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] is also found here, once home to a sect of strange priests, allegedly haunted by the ghosts of drowned pirates, and now the site of an uneasy truce between orc magicians and Freeborn priests.

The waters around the Cazar Straits have become treacherous due to the presence of dozens of immature kraken hatched in the waters by the Children of Wrecks. As a result, the region has gained the '''island''' quality, it cannot be attacked by armies unless each army is accompanied by a navy capable of conveying the soldiers across.

===Fontargenta===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
The trading port of '''Bramar''' stands on the coast here. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, its bountiful cornfields once competed with [[the Marches|Marcher]] grain in markets across the southern nations of the Empire, and their vineyards were justly famous. Before the Grendel invasion it served as an important hub for the Imperial wine trade, with many excellent vintages passing through its docks - both from the Brass Coast to the rest of the world, and from the rest of the world to the Brass Coast (and thus the Empire). Lord Rahab has left the region devastated, and it remains to be seen if the farms here will ever recover.

===Morajasse===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Impoverished, Underpopulated<br>
The largest town in prosperous Morajasse is '''Mora'''. Once simply a spice market, the barbarian invasion of [[Segura]] saw a burst of rapid militarisation of this peaceful settlement. Refugees are common here: some supported by their families, others looking to work in the market. With the liberation of the western territory, a strange reversal took place - the pool of desperate labourers has largely dried up with refugees returning to their homes.

Immediately following the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bravado|invasion of Feroz]] in 383YE, work was completed on a [[fortification]] at the town of Mora, [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]]. The fortification served the defenders well, but with the ratification of the peace treaty it was taken over, and expanded, by Grendel troops. It now serves as the base of operations of ''Wind Lord Saoirse'' and her partner ''Commander Fiersach'', as well as a sizable force of Grendel veterans.

Western Morajasse is the site of the great [[#The Spice Gardens of Feroz|Spice Gardens]]. The [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] was often quite active in Feroz, occasionally dealing with agents of the Spice Gardens or traders from the Jewelled Isles. Following the Grendel treaty, the offices that supported the Vizier with easy access to reasonably priced herbs has dried up - while they are still notionally the owner of the miraculous satchel that gives them their name, their ability to support the nations' apothecaries and physicks has been greatly reduced.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Oran_by_the_Sea.jpg|caption=The Celesti Lighthouse sits high on the headland overlooking Oran.|align=right|width=400}}

===Oranseri===
'''Qualities:''' Abandoned, Coastal, Impoverished<br>
Across the bay from billowing [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] stands the thriving port town of [[#Oran|Oran]]. In recent years, the port has grown in prominence and prosperity; it served as the seat of power for the Grendel governor Lord Rahab during the Grendel occupation of the territory. Just outside Oran lies the great [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], originally constructed during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]] and recently repaired and restored to full functionality. It, too, was in the hands of the Grendel for several years but has now been restored.

West of Oran is the ''Scorrero Crossing''. The river Scorrero is wide and deep between Feroz and Madruga. During the Summer Solstice 383YE, the Grendel invaders attempted to take advantage of this by taking control of both bridges that connect the two Freeborn territories. Had they been successful, it would have been significantly harder for Imperial forces to move between Siroc and Oranseri. Their attempts were stymied, and ultimately became moot once the Scorrero [[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|burst its banks]] and carried away all the existing bridges.

'''Joharra''' is a port south of Oran, considered much more stable than its northern cousin, and better known for its industry than its trade. Famous throughout the Empire for its cloth and dye-work, Joharra is called '' the Rainbow'' by coastal sailors who mark their progress round the coast with the first sight of the great billowing cloths hung out to dry on tall wooden frames along the low cliffs. As with the other settlements of Oran, the weavers and dyers here now labour under the yoke of the Grendel orcs.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The damage to the bridges along the Scorrero prevents movement between Feroz and Madruga'''
The damage to almost all the bridges along the Scorrero means that it is effectively impossible for an [[Army|army]] to move between Feroz and [[Madruga]] (or vice versa). More information can be found in the '''[[Where_the_river_rises#Crossing|Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Garviel i Abrira i Erigo.jpg|caption='''Garviel i Abrira i Erigo''', Senator for Feroz|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Feroz|Territory=Feroz|Season=Summer|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Winter Solstice 387YE, the Iron Confederacy control the Cazar Straits, the Grendel control Morajasse, and the Brass Coast controls Afarjasse, Fontargenta, and Oranseri. Feroz is an Imperial territory
* [[#Mora's Rock|Mora's Rock]] is a rank two fortification controlled by the Grendel.
* The status of various titles and resources located in Feroz is outlined in more detail in [[To_curb_those_raging_appetites#Lost_Opportunities|To curb those raging appetites]], a Winter 383YE wind of fortune.

==Further Reading==
* [[Red skies]] - 387YE Winter wind of war about the Iron Confederacy invasion of the Cazar Straits
* [[Send for me]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune about the rebuilding of Feroz
* [[Glass and flame]] - 386YE Autumn wind of war about the liberation of Feroz
* [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Spindrift|Winds of War 383YE Spring]] - Detailing the Grendel invasion
* [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_World_is_Not_Enough|Winds of War 383YE Summer]]
* [[383YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Bronze|Winds of War 383YE Autumn]]
* [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE#Treaty|Treaty]] - the Autumn 383YE treaty with the Grendel
* [[To curb those raging appetites]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the situation for Freeborn in Feroz
* [[Everything has a price]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that details the general situation with the Grendel, and has several notes about their presence in Feroz
* [[Bones in the ocean]] - a Winter 383YE wind of fortune that specifically deals with the [[#Isle of the Osseini|Isle of the Osseini]] and the justicars

Overseer of the Gloaming Road

2026-04-13T22:11:43Z

Dre:

This title was [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Abrogate_the_Overseer_of_the_Gloaming_Road|abrogated]] by the Imperial Senate during the Autumn Equinox 386YE, and no longer exists
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Butterfly.JPG|caption=Brightly coloured fabrics are vital to Faraden culture, and iridescent gloaming is key to their production.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
The Gloaming Road was a trade route that crossed the dusty Lasambrian hills between [[Faraden]] and [[Segura]]. Once just another nameless path through the arid wilderness, its prominence dramatically increased after a pernicious blight laid waste to the [[Mundane_beasts#Iridescent_Butterfly|iridescent butterfly]] population of the [[forest|forests]] of northern Faraden in Autumn 380YE. Merchants of that nation then brokered a trade deal with the Freeborn, exchanging precious mithril for vast amounts of [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming|iridescent gloaming]] from the Empire. The Gloaming Road bustled with caravans hauling valuable goods, and Faraden requested an overseer be appointed from among the Freeborn to manage the exchange.

When it was first created the position of overseer of the Gloaming Road was ''not'' an [[Imperial title]]; rather it represented a [[Resource#Campaign_Resource|campaign resource]] appointed by the [[Ambassador to Faraden]] and their opposite number ''Lady Saretta of the Red Moon''. During the Autumn Equinox 384YE, [[The_sweetest_of_songs#Gloaming|following the wishes]] of the newly appointed [[All_in_red#Change_Comes_Suddenly|Liege of the Five Winds]], Overseer of the Gloaming Road became an [[Imperial title]], appointed by [[Auction of the Seats]]. This removed the current Overseer, and led to the first auction taking place at the Winter Solstice and thereafter following the usual pattern of Autumn elections alongside the other [[mithril]] producing seats and ministries.

In the lead-up to the Autumn Equinox 386YE, then [[Ambassador to Faraden]] Ebenezer of the Marches passed on concerns about the profitability of the trade route. While the merchants participating in the Gloaming Road were unconcerned, Mistress Singua referenced the fact it would be ''much'' easier for the Empire to secure Faraden mithril via a port such as [[Butterfly_in_reverse#A_Port_in_a_Storm|Caitun]]. In the end, the [[Senate]] voted to [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Abrogate_the_Overseer_of_the_Gloaming_Road|abrogate]] the Gloaming Road. Faraden merchants still make the risky trek through the Lasambrian hills to the Brass Coast, but they do so without any assurance that their mithril will be easily traded for iridescent gloaming.
{{Anchor|Responsibilities}}
==Former Responsibilities==
The change to Imperial title did not change the responsibilities of the Overseer. They were expected to ensure the continued exchange of iridescent gloaming with Faraden. Numerous minor, independent Imperial and Faraden merchants took advantage of the thriving trade route to do business, but it fell to the overseer to handle the bulk of the trade taking place - and to ensure that it continued unabated. This was further complicated by the presence of the [[Jotun]] in the Lasambrian hills - while there was an agreement to allow Faraden traders to pass untouched, no such arrangement existed for Imperial merchants. As a consequence, Imperial gloaming traders congregated at the [[Segura_spoils_of_war#Kabalai_Palace|Kabalai Palace]] and dealt with the weary Faraden when they arrived in [[Segura]].

Shortly before the Autumn Equinox 385YE, news reached Anvil of the [[Ship_to_wreck#Closer_to_Home|renegotiation of the treaty]] between the Faraden and the Jotun allowing merchants to pass through the Lasambrian Hills. The price to purchase mithril was increased by a further fifth over what it was in previous seasons; the Faraden caravaners were having to pay through the nose to travel through the Lasambrian hills.
==Powers==
{{Anchor|Ministry}}
===Ministry (Abrograted)===
<div style="float: right; max-width: 450px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total iridescent gloaming provided</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Wains of mithril received</td></tr>
<tr><td>60 iridescent gloaming</td><td>2 wains of mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>138 iridescent gloaming</td><td>4 wains of mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>220 iridescent gloaming</td><td>6 wains of mithril</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
The overseer could provide large stocks of iridescent gloaming to the merchants of Faraden, in return for which they received a significant amount of mithril. This functioned in the same manner as a traditional [[ministry]]. The production of the ministry was entirely dependent on Faraden's ongoing need for iridescent gloaming from outside its borders, and the continued provision of the magical material by the Empire.

The price of mithril fluctuated regularly during the time the Gloaming Road operated, being effected by the [[Ratify Liberty Pact|imposition]] of [[Tariffs#Sanctions|sanctions]] on trade with [[Faraden]]; the [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Faraden_Treaty|treaty]] with the Faraden that saw the Faraden returned to a [[Tariffs#Mercantilist|mercantilist]] trading standards; and negotiations between the western merchants and the Jotun controlling the Lasambrian hills.

Following the Spring Equinox 383YE, [[Sadogua]] provided the Faraden with a number of blight resistant grubs, putting an end to the [[Through_my_sails#The_Gloaming_Blight|blight]]. The amount of mithril available for trade was reduced as the demand for gloaming from outside the borders of Faraden returned to what it was before the blight struck.
{{Anchor|Selection}}
==Previous Selection==
As with the other [[mithril]] Bourse seats, the holder of the title was determined during the Autumn Equinox. As an Imperial seat, any Imperial citizen could participate in the auction and hold the title.

The Overseer of the Gloaming Road title was retained for a year, or until the citizen holding the seat dies, or steps down. As a title appointed through the Bourse they could not be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Synod]].
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>'''Regarding the Gloaming Road'''<br>
This title had some additional restrictions. The mithril it produced was provided by Faraden merchants eager to acquire Imperial iridescent gloaming. In the event relations with Faraden collapsed, or the [[#Gloaming Road|Gloaming Road]] were to be closed, the title would still exist but would not be able to purchase mithril.</box></div>
{{Anchor|History}}
==The Gloaming Road==
During 380YE, a disease crept into Faraden from farther lands and swept through the iridescent butterfly populations therein. The results were disastrous for the carefully-cultivated forests where Faraden silk-harvesters worked, shattering the production of iridescent gloaming over a few short months. Desperate for gloaming, the Court of the Five Winds authorised merchants from several key families to approach the Brass Coast and discuss the large-scale trade of the material in return for mithril. An initial exchange during the Autumn Equinox of 380YE was successful, and an ongoing trade agreement between the two nations was formalised during the following Winter Solstice. ''Antonio i Carno i Guerra'' was appointed in Winter 380YE to serve as the first overseer of the Gloaming Road

Brightly coloured fabrics are vital to Faraden culture, and iridescent gloaming is key to their production. While the effects of the gloaming blight continued, the nation's hunger for iridescent gloaming remained strong. The situation changed with the [[Ratify Liberty Pact|ratification of the Liberty Pact]] which placed additional [[tariffs]] on Faraden mithril - but even that was nothing to the damage done to the profitability of the trade route when the [[Conclave]] effectively [[Through_my_sails#The_Gloaming_Blight|ended the gloaming blight]] in Summer 383YE.

In Autumn 384YE, following the ascension of ''Tchinua Ganbatar'' to the Seat of Five Winds, the Gloaming Road was made an [[Imperial title]] as part of the same [[Ratify Gloaming Treaty|treaty]] that saw [[Tariffs#Sanctions|trade sanctions]] for the [[Faraden]] lifted. This also made the [[Senate]] responsible for maintaining roads and bridges that form the western part of the route, incurring a cost to the Imperial Treasury of 5 thrones each season.

Ultimately, the Gloaming Road failed due to diplomatic and economic pressures. It remains to be seen what form the trade of mithril for iridescent gloaming takes in the future.
{{RecentElections|Overseer_of_the_Gloaming_Road}}
{{Responsibilities Expectation}}

[[Category:Foreign Nations]]
[[Category:Bourse]]

Spiral

2026-04-13T22:11:36Z

Dre:

<div style="float: left; max-width: 500px; margin-right: 10px;">{{HoverImage|RegionsofSpiral.png|WiderSpiral.png|500x500px|Caption1|Caption2|Caption3|Caption4|Caption5|Caption6|A rising city in the shadow of the {{Black Plateau}}}}</div>
==Overview==
Spiral is a hard place to live; its arid and rocky valleys mean that the majority of food needs to be imported in from Highguard, the Marches, and Dawn. Where there is vegetation it is more often than not light scrubland except in [[#Apstrus|Apstrus]] and [[#Cinion|Cinion]] which are home to light rolling woodland and a tangled mess of [[Beware_my_power#The_Rejuvenation_of_Cinion|vines and trees]] respectively. And at the heart of the territory sits the oppressive malignancy of the {{Black Plateau}}.

Spiral has always been isolated, and has always had a haunted reputation. The [[Urizen]] lived here long before there was an Empire, although the main focus of pre-Imperial Urizen settlement was in [[Morrow]] to the north. The two territories were connected by a tenuous "bridge" of spires stretching across south-western [[Zenith]]. At some point in the far distant past, before even the Urizen lived here, powerful magic was enacted in Spiral. At the heart of the territory is the {{Black Plateau}}, a great plateau of volcanic glass with a dire reputation. Artefacts from the {{Black Plateau}} are often considered haunted or touched by malign evil, and are generally destroyed when they are encountered. Since being [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29|roused to full wakefulness]], its oppressive miasma penetrates the entire territory, inescapable save in scattered oases bound with magically infused mithril.

Spiral has always been a battleground, most recently between the Empire and the Grendel to the south. Where it was once an Urizen territory, it is now part of the League. A clever political stratagem saw the Grendel governor of the territory, Salt Lord Kaliact, split from the orcs of the Broken Shore and become an Imperial citizen. The repercussions of this profound change to Urizen and the Empire are still being felt. Today Spiral is home to citizens of [[the League]] - a mixture of immigrants from the other cities, former Grendel [[orc|orcs]], and former Urizen who chose to embrace city life - as well as many Urizen who [[A_question_of_loyalty#Serve_Your_Cause|refuse to abandon their loyalties]].

==Recent History==
Spiral was lost to the Empire over fifty years ago. In 331YE, barbarians from the [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|Broken Shore]] came up through [[#Apulus|Apulus]] along the coast, and with weapons fashioned from the glass taken from the {{Black Plateau}} overran the defenders of Spiral, resisting all efforts to throw them back. Refugees streamed into [[Morrow]] and [[Zenith]], and many of them - and their descendants - remain in their new homes.

During Winter 377YE there was a concentrated effort to shore up the defences of [[#Ruins of Fort Mezudan|Fort Mezudan]]. Identifying a weakness in the Grendel supply lines, a [[378YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Dawn|concerted campaign of seaborne raiding]] was followed in Autumn by the invocation of a [[378YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Tempest|cataclysmic tempest]] that devastated the docks at [[#Apulus|Apulian]]. Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 379YE the Grendel responded in kind when a [[379YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Ruin_of_Fort_Mezudan|powerful magical storm]] left the fort in ruins.

In Spring 381YE, the Grendel orcs launched a [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Patterns_of_Force_.28Spiral.29|major offensive]] on all fronts that saw Imperial forces driven back to Cinion, and the territory again fell into barbarian hands. Over the next year, war raged relentlessly across the territory, accompanied by the slow rousing of the {{Black Plateau}} in [[#Screed|Screed]]. The situation came to a head shortly after the Winter Solstice 381YE when the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] army of the Iron Helms were [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29|unleashed against the Grendel]]. During the Battle of Solen's Doubt in [[#Apstrus|Apstus]], three Grendel armies were permanently destroyed as a wave of madness swept through both Imperial and orc forces that culminated in the awakening of the {{Black Plateau}} - an event whose repercussions are still not entirely understood.

The [[Cambion#Stubborn Will|stubborn will]] of the [[cambion]] lineage has proved to provide a measure of protection from this oppressive atmosphere. As such, [[Urizen]] cambions are increasingly in demand as messengers between the [[spire|spires]] of the south-eastern [[territory]] and are often sought out to perform scouting, support, or rescue missions here, although the very quality that makes them so useful also means they tend to be [[Cambion#independent|frustratingly intractable]] and prone to embarking on unrelated side quests that they have decided are more important

The Senate ratified a peace treaty with the Grendel during the [[Ratify treaty with the Grendel Autumn 383YE|Autumn Equinox 383YE]] that saw the Empire cede the regions of Ankra, Cinion and Ateri to the Grendel. Over the next three months [[From_the_sieve_of_your_hands#The_New_Boss|Salt Lord Kaliact]] established herself as the new, almost reasonable, ruler of the territory. Over the next year the new inhabitants of Spiral engaged with the Empire, helping to create the position of [[Spiral Envoy]] to encourage trade with the people of Apulian. The Senate voted against [[Ratify treaty with Salt Lord Kaliact|ratifying a treaty]] with Kaliact that would see the territory treated as a separate entity to the rest of the Broken Shore. Undeterred, Kaliact tried again and a season later, in [[Ratify_treaty_with_Salt_Lord_Kaliact_Spring_385YE|Spring 385YE]], the Senate voted to ratify a historic treaty that ceded the territory to the Empire and saw it [[A tide in the affairs|claimed]] by the [[Wolves of War]] shortly after.

During the Summer Solstice 385YE Merchant Prince Kaliact and the rest of the Apulians swore to [[League Egregore|Guise]] and [[Windfall|joined the League]] as full Imperial citizens. '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', one of the many immigrants from the other cities, was elected as the first League senator of Spiral. Now, with the Empire once again [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Declare_war_on_the_Grendel|at war]] with the Grendel, the territory looks south to the [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|Broken Shore]].

==Major Features==
===Apulian===
Standing on the coast of [[#Apulus|Apulus]], the fortunes of the town of Apulian have waxed and waned in recent years. A centre for sea-trading, as well as a regular destination for [[the League|League]] and [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] vessels operating in the eastern [[Bay of Catazar]], it was a jewel of the Urizen coast. This changed with the Grendel invasion. Perhaps the worst casualty of the barbarian invasion, the '''Lighthouse at Apulian''' was a [[great work]] that served as both a spire dedicated to foreign trade and a beacon for all the Urizen fleets based in Spiral. The last Keeper of the Lighthouse, Hadrian of Apulian, burst the entire structure apart once it became clear it would fall to the orcs, shattering the magical stone (a gift from the [[eternal]] [[Kimus]]) that served as the light. The white granite tower exploded in a thunderous detonation, the echoes of which were reportedly heard as far away as [[Sarvos]] and the island of the [[Madruga#The_Lyceum|Lyceum]]. The release of magical power incinerated several hundred orcs, along with all the defenders of Apulian. Some refugees from Spiral attempted to have Hadrian declared an [[Paragons_and_Exemplars#Exemplars|Exemplar]] of [[Loyalty]], but received little support from the [[Synod]]. Most of the survivors are dead now, of course.

In 378YE the [[378YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Tempest|invoked devastation]] finished what Hadrian of Apulian had started - the rebuilt waterfront at Apulian was smashed to pieces. Then in 380YE, during a [[Tree_of_ice_(conjunction)|conjunction of The Fountain]], powerful ritual magic sank the entire coastline of Apulus into the Bay, transforming the region into a stinking mire. Many of the remaining buildings collapsed and sank in the marshes, leaving the entire area in ruins. Since then, Apulian has switched between Urizen and Grendel control several times. The Grendel seem to see it as a prize, rebuilding the docks and many of the buildings. When Merchant Prince Kaliact took control of Spiral, she spent [[white granite]] like water to restore Apulian. Reports say that she had the support of both local Urizen architects, and [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] magicians in not only building the city but also establishing a [[fortification]] here.

Apulian is now the "''City of Nets''" and an established city of the League, equivalent to [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]] in the Marches or [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] in distant Skarsind. It boasts strong walls of solid granite, extensive docks, and a melange of architectural styles both Grendel and Urizen. All the newer structures have been built with the aid of Urizen scholars, and incorporate mithril weaves that protect those within from the worst effects of living in Spiral; the intricate designs give a certain continuity of theme to the otherwise disparate building styles, and have led to the name "City of Nets." The beautiful, well-fortified palace takes pride of place near the docks. '''OOC Note:''' The Palace of Apulian is a rank one fortification.

===The {{Black Plateau}}===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px;"><box>'''The Plateau Ascendant'''<br>
Shortly before the Spring Equinox 382YE, the {{Black Plateau}} became active to a degree unprecedented in the history of the Empire. This has a number of effects, many of which are not yet clear. What is certain for the time being however is:
* Every army fighting in Spiral takes 25% additional casualties
* It is impossible to receive natural resupply in Spiral
* Any army that sends the season in Spiral will lose 5% of its maximum fighting strength over the course of that season even if it is not engaged.
* [[fleet|Fleets]], [[military unit|military units]], [[business|businesses]], and [[farm|farms]] have their production reduced by a quarter. The nightmares and the oppressive power of the {{Black Plateau}} encourages any living person in Spiral to leave. Only the completion of [[#The Block|the Block]] allows other [[Resource#Personal_Resource|personal resources]] to prosper, and creates safe havens for citizens to live here.
* The mithril in the Legacy appears to shield the workers there somewhat, but there are few workers prepared to make the trip to Ossuary given the recent history of the mithril mine and the constant threat of the {{Black Plateau}}. As a consequence, the upkeep of the Legacy has been doubled for the foreseeable future.

Over the last few years there have been several magical rituals designed to deal with the {{Black Plateau}}. None of those rituals will have any effect, for good or ill, on the active {{Black Plateau}}. Indeed, it is highly unlikely that ''any'' ritual magic will be effective against the {{Black Plateau}} in its current roused state.</box></div>
A great plateau of volcanic glass with a dire reputation. Artefacts from the {{Black Plateau}} are often considered haunted or touched by malign evil, and are generally destroyed when they are encountered. Scholars have established that while many of the artefacts recovered from the {{Black Plateau}} date back to the days of distant Terunael, and to pre-Urizen Spiral, there are occasional artefacts that reach back even further - they cannot agree on the exact age of the plateau but the volcanic glass may date back to a period before human history.

Barbarians armed with weapons fashioned from the glass taken from the {{Black Plateau}} overran the defenders of Spiral, resisting all efforts to throw them back. There are no permanent settlements or spires in the area [[#Screed|around the {{Black Plateau}}]] - attempts to establish them ended in tragedy without exception. For the last four decades there have been stories of wild, bestial humans - presumably the offspring of Urizen left behind when Spiral fell to the barbarians - who live on and around the plateau. Their motivations, assuming they even exist, are unknown.

The plateau feeds on and amplifies negative emotions - especially hate, rage, fear, and despair. Those fighting in the territory when it became active also reported hallucinations and oppressive, malign thoughts causing them to dwell on past failures, insults, and suspicions. In some cases, these thoughts led to tragic action. Shortly before the Spring Equinox 382YE, the {{Black Plateau}} was [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29|roused to full wakefulness]] with dire consequences.

Interestingly, it seems that those of the [[cambion]] [[lineage]] are particularly resistant to this oppressive influence; they still experience the urges, thoughts, and visions but rather than giving in to them they tend to become stubborn, obdurate, uncooperative, and self-contained. This means that those with cambion blood are very much in demand to serve as scouts and messengers between isolated settlements not connected by the Heliopticon - but the very quality that makes them so useful also means they tend to be frustratingly intractable and prone to embarking on unrelated side quests that they have decided are more important than the mission given to them by their "superiors".

In 386YE, the [[Vigilance]] assembly encouraged some of the virtuous to travel to Spiral to explore various threats there; they provided a comprehensive report at the Spring Equinox 387YE paying particular attention to the ''people'' who help make the plateau such a threat. This report can be read in the '''[[Our_eyes_in_Spiral#The_Black_Plateau|Our eyes on Spiral]]''' wind of fortune.
===Oblivion's Edge===
Today, the plateau is watched over by the [[Oblivion Sentinel]], from the old spire of [[Oblivion_Sentinel#Oblivion's_Edge|Oblivion's Edge]]. Part of the dominion of the [[eternal]] [[Sung]], the old spire is [[The_fate_of_the_many#The_Serpent's_Edge|wrapped in obfuscating power]] providing two significant benefits. The watchful eternal provides advance warning of any significant threats posed by the {{Black Plateau}}, but more immediately valuable is the magical pact that allows any Urizen living in Spiral to use the [[Vale of Shadows]] to draw on its obfuscating power to help hide their home and create a mystical connection with the rest of their nation. This required the creation of two mithril sculptures, one at the northern end of the Twilight Gate in southern Proceris and one above the Brilliant Star in the peaks of Optarion in Redoubt. Once they were in place they aligned with Oblivion's Edge focussing the mysterious [[Night magic]] Sung was already employing there. This allowed Urizen citizens to continue living in Spiral without suffering the usual disadvantages folk of one nation encounter when living in a territory belonging to a different nation.

{{Anchor|The Three Passes}}

===The Passes===
Before the [[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Game_Information_-_Spiral|Autumn Equinox 381YE]], the Grendel engaged in a program of collapsing the passes through the western and the northern mountains out of Spiral. At this time there are four major passes still open that are large enough to allow a campaign army to pass through them without difficulty.
* The '''Onyx Path''' linking [[Redoubt#Optarion|Optarion]] and [[Spiral#Ateri|Ateri]]. The western end of the pass is guarded by the [[Redoubt#Court of the White Fountain|Court of the White Fountain]], while the eastern end emerges near the ruins of Fort Mezudan.
* The '''Crow Road''' linking [[Redoubt#Willstone|Willstone]] and [[Spiral#Cinion|Cinion]]. The western end of the pass is watched by the resourceful sentinels of Willstone spire, while the eastern end emerges in the hills above the area that was once home to Damakan's Forge
* The '''Twilight Gate''' linking the plains of [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] and the northern [[Spiral#Ossuary|Ossuary]]. This "pass" is wide enough that it would be extremely difficult to close it without constructing a [[fortification]]. The Grendel attempted this with the [[#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]] but with limited success.
* The '''Apulian Way''' links southern [[#Apulus|Apulus]] with northern [[Bay of Catazar#Mareave|Mareave]]. This "pass" runs through the foothill, along the coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]], and has been widened a little of late by [[Grendel]] caravans bringing [[white granite]] into the territory from the [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|Broken Shore]].
These passes are a significant [[#Strategic Considerations|strategic consideration]] when discussing conflict in the territory. There are several smaller, higher passes still intact of course that can be used by small groups or caravans - but these are not suitable for a [[Army|campaign army]] to use. Of particular note, the mountains of southern [[#Apstrus|Apstrus]] contain no passes through to the Grendel territory of [[Bay of Catazar#Mareave|Mareave]] that are suitable for use by an Imperial army. Without an opportunity it is only possible to enter Mareave through the Apulian Way.

===Ballaghadruh===
Begun shortly after Merchant Prince Kaliact took control of Spiral, the Ballaghadruh is a [[fortification]] built at the southern end of the [[#The Tree Passes|Twilight Gate]] in [[#Ossuary|Ossuary]]. The initial plans apparently intended to close the entire pass with a wall of white granite, but the structure as it currently stands consists of a solidly built keep and several garrison towers across the mouth of the pass. One reason for the less ambitious structure is likely the amount of mithril required to protect the inhabitants from the effects of living and working in Spiral. The fortress itself was completed in only six months thanks to magical assistance from well-paid [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] magician-engineers. '''OOC Note:''' Ballaghadruh is a rank one fortification.

===The Block===
Not far from Ossen's Spire in [[#Cinion|Cinion]] stands the Block, a vital construction that helps alleviate some of the impact of the {{Black Plateau}}. Proposed in Winter 382YE by a group of [[Urizen_religious_beliefs#Illuminates|illuminates]], [[The_path_that_winds#The_Block|the Block]] is positioned within a circle of blasted and burnt trees that seems to be a powerful locus of [[Winter magic]].

Following their suggestions, the Imperial Senate [[Construct_Mithril_Block|approved construction]] of a carefully shaped block of mithril, aligned with the [[The Oak|Oak]] and the [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|Lock]] and used to harness the power of the [[regio]] that lies at the heart of the blasted grove. The block now emanates waves of magic across the territory following the old heliopticon paths. While it is in no way powerful enough to impact the emanations of the {{Black Plateau}}, any spire built in the territory with the correct web of mithril nodes is able to focus that energy and protect the inhabitants of the spire from the worst of the Plateau's influence. The protection offered by the block means that people can live in Spiral despite the curse of the {{Black Plateau}}, allowing for a slight increase in the rate of recovery for the territory and its contributions to Imperial coffers.

Unfortunately the power of the block is not sufficient to deal with all the problems encountered by those ''outside'' the warded spires or [[#Apulian|Apulian]]. The penalties to armies, in particular, and the increased upkeep of the Legacy, are not affected. Likewise, the wilderness outside the spires continues to be extremely dangerous.

There is also some concern that the Block lies in the area of Spiral conceded to the Silver Flame rebels - the "non Imperial Urizen" who separated from the Empire over the decision to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment|assign]] Spiral to the League. So far the rebels have shown no interest in interfering with the Block - they rely on its power as much as anyone else does - but the fact it lies outside Imperial control is enough to give some people pause. While relations remain good there is little to worry about; if they deteriorate then it is not impossible the Silver Flame might threaten the Block and there would be little Imperial forces could do about it.

=== The [[Legacy]] ===

This vast mine complex is mostly played out today, but still manages to produce significant quantities of mithril for whoever controls it. According to legend the site was part of a great gift to the Urizen people but who gave it to them, and why, are details lost to time.

The Legacy is a national [[Bourse|Bourse position]] which produces mithril. Control of the Legacy is assigned by national auction at the Autumn Equinox each year. This Bourse position produces 22 Imperial wains of [[mithril]] every season.

This Bourse seat has changed hands numerous times. As of the Winter Solstice 385YE it is a national seat of the League auctioned to the highest bidder.
===Bridge of the Air===
The [[Morrow#Bridge of the Air|Bridge of the Air]] was constructed in [[Morrow]] to help transport [[white granite]], but the mithril cables and lifts also spread through the adjoining territories to create a transport network that has greatly improved travel particularly in northern Redoubt. A true wonder, the Bridge transports both people and trade goods, smoothing travel through the dangerous mountains and between the mountains and the lowlands. Lifts help transport travellers and cargo from the lowlands to the highlands, and conventional roads and bridges have been employed where they are most useful. The ''skyways'' are concentrated in the mountainous regions, but the roads included as part of their construction have linked up with Curstag's Way to greatly improving the ability of travellers and traders to move across the territory.

===Curstag's Way===
[[We_all_stand#Trade_Routes|Curstag's Way]] is a broad highway that runs through southern Spiral, connecting [[Redoubt]] and [[Mareave]]. The road is a major lifeline to the [[Imperial Orcs]] in the arid south-eastern territory but has also improved prosperity across Spiral. The road is officially named for the first League orc to die in battle for the Empire - Curstag von Apulian Crimson Way - but is also known in some quarters as the ''Calumo-Sheeva-Nightshadow Road'', or the ''Greater Apulian Way''. The road itself is valuable, but what makes it particularly effective are the establishment of several mithril-woven rest-stops along the route that offer protection from the malign effects of the {{Black Plateau}} to those wishing to trade with Apulian, or the orcs of Mareave.

===Ruins of Fort Mezudan ===
The [[fortification|fortress]] Fort Mezudan - also known as the Fist - was under construction at the time the barbarians attack, but workers and guards refused the order to destroy the walls. When the original defences against the barbarians fell, the workers armed themselves and held the semi-completed fortress for two weeks until Imperial reinforcements arrived. For that reason the stone-crafters guild were always considered to have nominal control of this small fortress, and no decade went by without some major renovation or improvement being undertaken.

During Winter 377YE, the [[Imperial Master of Works]] arranged for emergency supplies and many wains of white granite collected by Marcus of Endsmeet to reach the stone-crafters guild of Ateri. While Imperial forces occupied the invading orc armies, the final months of work were [[Fortify_Ateri_in_Spiral|completed]] at a feverish rate that burnt out almost the entire ushabti work force. By the middle of Spring 378YE, the Fist was complete, ready to serve its intended purpose as a bastion for Imperial forces against the invaders of Spiral.

Unfortunately, shortly after the Autumn Equinox 379YE, a [[379YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Ruin_of_Fort_Mezudan|powerful magical storm]] struck the fortress, which had already been damaged as part of the [[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Siege_of_Fort_Mezudan|renewed Grendel offensive]]. The Fist was completely destroyed.

===Ruins of Ankarien===
On the slopes of [[#Ankra|Ankra]] stood the Spire of Ankarien. One of the oldest and most prestigious of the Urizen spires, it was home to perhaps the finest library in the Empire. The infamous [[Emperor Nicovar]] was born here, and lived much of his early life at Ankarien; this did not spare the library from his destructive wrath as he descended into madness. What Nicovar did not quite achieve, the barbarians almost managed. As they drew near the librarians carried much of the contents to [[Zenith#Endsmeet|Endsmeet]]. The Spire of Ankarien now lies in ruins, the remainder of its books and scrolls destroyed or stolen by the barbarian plunderers.

==Regions==
===Ankra===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The mountains of Ankra are the site of some of the oldest spires in Urizen, including the ruins of one of the most prestigious - the library of [[#Ruins of Ankarien|Ankarien]]. The most well known settlement was the Spire of Endless Horizen; home to the architect ''Tiborion'' who is one of the ring leaders of the [[A_question_of_loyalty#Urizen|secessionist Urizen]].

===Apstrus===
The lower slopes of the Apstrus peaks are covered in rolling woodland, carefully cultivated by ushabti and at one time produced a great bounty of [[forest]] materials, especially [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming|iridescent gloaming]]. The ''dreaming spires of Apstrus'' (as they were often known) were dedicated to philosophical thought, their forest-bounty providing the inhabitants with lives of comfort despite their location on the very eastern edge of the Empire. One of the most prestigious was '''Solen's Doubt'''. Dedicated to experimental philosophy, it was a place for solitary study and thought. Unsurprisingly, it was overrun during the barbarian march to conquer the territory. The Battle of Solen's Doubt shortly before the Spring Equinox 382YE saw Imperial and Grendel forces clash here for the final time during the campaign. Three Grendel armies disbanded due to the actions of the Iron Helms, and the {{Black Plateau}} became fully active. Five hundred Imperials died in the very instant the plateau awoke; both forces withdrew in disarray in the wake of the calamity.

Of special interest to the Urizen, the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon|Heliopticon]] tower for Spiral stood on the northern slopes of Apstrus, the heart of the communication network. The defenders held the tower for several months against the barbarians, allowing the rest of Spiral additional warning of army movements, and relaying desperate messages for aid to Morrow and Redoubt. Though the tower finally fell, it is still unknown if the barbarians destroyed the specially calibrated mirror and the light-source (a glowing stone infused with the magic of the realm of Day), or stole them away. Some recent rumours suggest these two components might have been hidden by the defenders, and only uncovered recently, but the facts are unclear - and idle speculation has no place in the study of history.

===Apulus===
*'''Quality:''' City, Coastal
Before it was taken by the barbarians, Apulus was the gateway to adventure for the people of Urizen and, to a degree, the Empire. Expeditions south into the wilds of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Mareave|Mareave]] would rest here before undertaking their quests into the unknown wilderness. Ships from across the Bay of Catazar docked at the coastal spires here, with [[The League|League]] and [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] adventurers in particular being regular visitors.

The jewel on the coast here is the city of [[#Apulian|Apulian]] whose fortunes have been extremely mixed in the years since the original Grendel invasion. What started as a minor frontier settlement that was the last resting place for adventurous citizens journeying south has now blossomed into a thriving city on par with [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]] and [[Hahnmark#Kalpaheim|Kalpaheim]]

===Ateri===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
[[#Ruins_of_Fort_Mezudan|Fort Mezudan]] once stood on the slopes of the mountains here before its destruction by Grendel magic. The Onyx Path is one of the [[#The Passes|three passes]] wide enough to allow an [[Army]] to move between Spiral and the rest of the Empire. The eastern end of the pass was guarded by Fort Mezudan, while the western end is protected by the [[Redoubt#The_Court_of_the_White_Fountain|Court of the White Fountain]].

===Cinion===
* '''Quality:''' Silver Flame
The wide valleys of Cinion are lush and covered in rolling woodland. Until [[Beware_my_power#The_Rejuvenation_of_Cinion|Winter 380YE]] the region was littered with ruined spires, most long since looted by the barbarians. Several of these spires stood over plentiful [[mine|mines]] and there were many rich veins of [[Materials#Tempest Jade|tempest jade]] and [[Materials#Weltsilver|weltsilver]]. The mines remain, but almost all the ruined spires are now gone. Those that survived the [[380YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Fire on the Mountains|supernatural fires that raged across the mountains]] in Spring 380YE were consumed by [[Beware_my_power#The_Rejuvenation_of_Cinion|trees and vegetation]] invoked with powerful Spring magic designed to rejuvenate the area.

One small area proved resistant to the magic released to heal the wounded hills. A grove of blasted and burnt trees, no more than twenty-feet across, remains devoid of greenery to this day. Magicians who have visited the area suggest that it is infused with the power of [[Winter magic]] and that it forms the locus of a [[regio]] tied to the [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court|Thrice-cursed Court]]. A small group of [[Urizen magical traditions#Illuminates|illuminates]] have committed to keeping an eye on the place; their suggestion in Winter 382YE lead to the creation of [[#The Block|the Block]] that now occupies the blasted grove and provides magical protection to the spires of Spiral against the influence of the {{Black Plateau}}.

The [[#The Three Passes|Crow Road]] is one of the three passes that connect Spiral to the Empire, linking Cinion with [[Redoubt#Willstone|Willstone]] in [[Redoubt]]. The eastern end of the pass is watched by the resourceful sentinels of Willstone spire, while the eastern end emerges in the hills above the area that was once home to [[Zenith#Crucible of Fate|Damakan's Forge]].

===Ossuary===
Ossuary takes its name from the large number of giant bones regularly unearthed in the mines here. Scholars are at a loss to explain them - some claim they may be the bones of great [[Mundane_beasts#Drakes|drakes]] or perhaps even [[Legendary_beasts#Dragons.2C_Wyverns_and_Wyrms|dragons]]. Many of these bones have been exported to other parts of the Empire where they are studied or presented as curiosities.

The [[#The Legacy|Legacy]] is in Ossuary; a vital resource that once provided mithril to the people of Urizen, and now serves to support the ambitions of the League. It was lost to the Grendel in Summer 379YE, and traded hands between them, the Empire, and the Druj for many years before being [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Allocation|allocated]] to the League in [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Allocate_the_Legacy|Autumn 385YE]]

From northern Ossuary, the [[#The Passes|Twilight Gate]] connects Spiral to [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] in [[Zenith]]. This "pass" is wide enough that it would be extremely difficult to close it without constructing a [[fortification]] at one end or the other.

===Screed===
*'''Quality:''' Accursèd
The [[#The Black Plateau|{{Black Plateau}}]] occupies most of Screed. Even when the territory was held by Urizen, Screed was largely deserted apart from temporary camps of scholars studying the plateau and its artefacts. When the region was held by the Druj they used scavenging teams - some supplemented with human slaves - here to source new instruments of cruelty. Now, small encampments of daring Leagueish adventurers are dotted across Screed, but likewise have avoided creating any permanent settlements.

==Strategic Considerations==
The {{Black Plateau}} has major strategic implications for any conflict in the territory. As well as the effects mentioned above, whenever armies have clashed in Spiral the influence of the {{Black Plateau}} has made everything worse in an unpredictable fashion. Any extended campaign in Spiral will need to take that into account.

The mountains that surround Spiral have a direct impact on how [[Army|armies]] can move into and out of the territory. The only easily accessible routes are via the passes. Entering or leaving Spiral is ''only'' possible between [[Redoubt#Optarion|Optarion]] and [[Spiral#Ateri|Ateri]] (the Onyx Path); [[Redoubt#Willstone|Willstone]] and [[Spiral#Cinion|Cinion]] (the Crow Road); [[Zenith#Proceris|Proceris]] and the northern [[Spiral#Ossuary|Ossuary]] (the Twilight Gate); and [[Spiral#Apulus|Apulus]] to [[Bay_of_Catazar#Mareave|Mareave]] on the [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|Broken Shore]] (the Apulian Way).
<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorSpiral.jpg|caption=Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian, Senator for Spiral|align=left|width=350}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Spiral|Territory=Spiral|Season=Summer}}
==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Summer Solstice 386YE, the [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_Urizen_of_the_Silver_Flame|Silver Flame]] control Cinion. The League, and by extension the Empire, controls the rest of the territory.
* Shortly before Spring 382YE, the {{Black Plateau}} awoke to full malignancy. Its influence is felt across the entire territory.
* [[#Apulian|The Palace of Apulian]] is a rank one [[fortification]] in Apulus
* [[#Ballaghadruh|Ballaghadruh]] is a rank one fortification in Ossuary
* [[business|Businesses]] in the territory benefit from the Bridge of Air and Curstag's Way and produce an extra 72 rings each season.
* [[mana site|Mana sites]] in the territory benefit from the Bridge of Air and produce an extra mana crystal each season.
* Following the Summer Solstice 385YE, the Urizen National Assembly sent '''Lepidina''' to [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_67|enact a mandate]] urging Urizen residents of Spiral to avoid cooperating with the new inhabitants. This included refusing to share the secrets of [[#The Block|the Block]] with them which led to an increase in construction costs and the need for additional wains of mithril. During the Summer Solstice 386YE the Urizen Assembly sent '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' to [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_96|enact a mandate]] urging the Urizen who still live in Spiral to use the Block to help protect the minds of all citizens from the malignant {{Black Plateau}} removing the need for additional construction costs and wains of mithril. Further details can be found in the '''[[The fate of the many#A Precious Secret|Fate of the many]]''' and the '''[[The_city_below#The_Block|The city below]]''' winds of fortune.

[[Category:The League]][[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial_Territory]][[Category:Urizen]]

The Brass Coast history

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{{CaptionedImage|file=BrassCoast.jpg|align=right|width=350}}[[Category:History]]
==Three Sisters of Highguard==
Long before the formation of the Empire, three [[Highguard|Highborn]] sisters - [[Riqueza]], [[Erigo]], and [[Guerra]] - lived in the city of [[Necropolis#The Necropolis|Pharos]]. Sisters in spirit if not in blood, each was the head of a patrician family, part of the elite council that ruled the nation of [[Highguard]] then. Despite their power and status, the three idealists grew weary of the restrictive nature of Highborn life and resented the venal corruption of that age. Their nation was entering a period of political and spiritual turmoil as it became clear that open conflict between the corrupt Patrician Council and the virtuous [[chapter|chapters]] was inevitable. The sisters were sickened by the nepotism and malfeasance of their fellow patricians, but found the austere isolationism of the chapters equally unappealing.

Instead they dreamed of founding a new nation, one based on ideals where people would be free to live honest lives. They would set sail from Pharos and find a new land to conquer, just as Atuman and their forebears had done. Far from the decay of Pharos they would be born again, free to chart a new destiny.

==The Exodus from Highguard==
Interest in the plans of the Founders drew many like-minded Highborn to their side, and initial plans to purchase ships and sail across the [[Bay of Catazar]] became unworkable as the numbers grew. Instead, the three sisters, their households and their supporters set off on foot from Pharos. Their ultimate destination was the western coast of the Bay, a land that their divinations had revealed would make the perfect place for their new beginning. Purchasing many caravans and oxen, their great caravan moved slowly west until it reached the city of [[Sarvos]].

Ruled in theory by the Highborn Saravos family, but in practice governed by a council of wealthy merchants, Sarvos welcomed the pilgrims with open arms. With winter on the horizon, the caravan weathered the winter outside the jewelled city and renewed their supplies while the Founders drew up plans for the conquest of Madruga. They hired Sarvosan mercenaries and bargained with Patrician Benedict forming an alliance with the city to attack the Naguerro [[orc]] stronghold of what today is the town of [[Sarvos#Bocche|Trivento]]. The port was a major thorn in the side of Sarvos as it was home to a significant number of Naguerro vessels, including some notorious pirate ships that regularly attacked Sarvosan shipping. After a decisive battle, the Freeborn and their allies seized the port, capturing almost the entire fleet.

Their Founders refused the entreaties of their League allies to remain in Trivento. Sarvos was still part of Highguard at that time, and even this far from home they would still have been subject to the rule of the Patrician Council. So as agreed, they left Trivento and its riches in the hands of their allies, and instead they took command of the Naguerro fleet. There were many slaves held at Trivento who the Founders insisted on freeing. Some returned to grateful friends and family in Sarvos, but many chose to join the Founders as they sailed south to the island of [[Madruga#Atalaya|Atalaya]] to began the conquest of their new homeland.

==The Conquest of the Coast==
Their first destination was Free Landing, specifically the island that is now home to the town of Atalaya. The waters in this area are notoriously treacherous, especially on the approach to what is now Atalaya, and as a result the island was uninhabited at that time. The Founders used powerful magic to divine a safe route through the difficult waters and brought all but one of the ships safely to their new home. They named the island Free Landing and announced that this would be the Freeborn's new home. The dangerous seas and the captured fleets would make the island a safe haven that would protect them from any harm. From here they would build their strength and eventually conquer the entire Brass Coast.

From Atalaya, Erigo led those who had a thirst for battle in a series of daring raids against the orcs, attacking settlements up and down the length of the Brass Coast, and capturing any ships plying their trade in the waters. The resources were brought back to Free Landing, along with something more valuable. Where the Freeborn attacked, they freed any slaves they found. Those who wished to join them were brought back to Free Landing along with any wealth they could carry off, to start a new life as a farmer or to join the swelling ranks of the corsairs who sailed with Erigo.

Over the next decade, they conquered the islands off the coast of what is today Madruga and Feroz and once their position was secure, they took the fight directly to the Naguerro stronghold that stood on the site of modern-day [[Madruga#Lightsea|Quzar]]. From there, they eventually spread out to claim all of Madruga and Feroz, driving the orcs west and south into the hills of Kahraman and Kalino.

==The Kindling of the Flame==
Each of the three sisters was an idealist. While they broadly agreed with one another, they each had their own ideas about what was most important. Riqueza wanted a nation where individuals could celebrate life, and explore their personal connection with the divine. Erigo wanted a secure homeland where everyone would be free to pursue their own prosperity. Guerra wanted a just society, free from authoritarianism and slavery. As the Freeborn established themselves, they began to divide into three distinct groups, each supporting one of the Founders and viewing their new freedom in terms of that sister's ideals. Over time three tribes were formed, each named for one of the sisters. While most peoples' first loyalty was to their extended family, they all looked to the inspiration of the Founders for what it meant to be Freeborn and to guide them toward living a moral, prosperous life.

While the Freeborn were conquering the Brass Coast, the Patricians murdered the Last Navigator, and plunged Highguard into civil war. Eventually the chapters were triumphant, but in the wake of the tragic conflict another wave of emigrants fleeing the turmoil came to the Brass Coast. This same conflict saw the cities of Sarvos and Tassato likewise declare their independence from Highguard. In the decades that followed, the virtuous assembly of Highguard made several overtures to the Freeborn, some seeking to encourage them to return home while others suggested that they accept the rule (and the protection) of Highguard. These requests were quickly rebuffed by the Freeborn; they had turned their back on Highguard and forged a new nation for themselves. Few had any interest in returning and none had any desire to submit to Highborn rule. The responses were blunt and made it plain that Highguard should not regard the Brass Coast as part of its dominion.

Individual Highborn missionaries received a warmer welcome however. The Founders and the families had carried some knowledge of the Virtues with them. As the years passed, the Way steadily gained traction in the Brass Coast, though it never took the position of authority it enjoyed in other nations. The Freeborn were fiercely independent, their spiritual beliefs shaped by their ideals and a deep suspicion of authority and they resisted efforts to allow the virtue assembly of Highguard to dominate their understanding of the spirit, reincarnation, and the Virtues.

==The Empire==
By the time the Empress began her crusade to unite humanity beneath her banner, the Freeborn were much as they are today – a disparate people of sprawling, extended families spread over three tribes, with each tribe seeing themselves as descendants of one of the three founders - whether literally via birthright - or spiritually for those who choose to join the tribe whose Founder's ideals most align with their own. While each family and each tribe treasured their individual freedoms, they were bound together into a loose nation by the Founder's ideals and by carefully negotiated contracts and treaties.

Initially, the tribes were suspicious of the Empress and hostile to the interests of the powerful Highborn priests who backed her. After a long negotiation between the Empress and prominent tribal leaders, they agreed to join the nascent Empire. The Freeborn had demands, however. Their negotiators were instrumental in slavery being outlawed, at least for humans. It was at their insistence that each nation would set the means to select their own senators, rather than a single method being applied to everyone. Perhaps their best-known contribution, however, was the creation of the [[Nationality#Egregore|egregores]], spirits created by magic to ensure that every nation was able to preserve its traditions. To this day, the Freeborn are enormously proud that their influence ensured that their ideas of individual liberty and responsibility became a central part of the Empire's identity.

They also influenced the formation of the Imperial Synod. While they were unable to convince the priests of other nations to acknowledge the central role of [[honesty]] in a virtuous life, they worked with priests from [[Navarr]], [[Wintermark]], and [[the Marches]] to ensure that the nascent Synod would not simply be an extension of the Highborn assembly of virtue. They helped to ensure that the [[Imperial Constitution]] granted each nation an assembly of equal authority, and that only the [[Assembly#The General Assembly|General Assembly]] would wield the most impactful powers of the faith.

==Imperial History==
Through the last four centuries, the Brass Coast has been at the forefront of any Imperial project that has involved ships or the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Modern corsairs continue to protect the southern coast of the Empire from the [[Grendel]], as they have done since the earliest days of the Empire. During the reign of [[Empress Deanne]] in particular, the sailors of the Brass Coast were instrumental in breaking the Grendel invasion of the southern nations. More recently, they played key roles in mapping the bay, evacuating the Isle of Zemress, and protecting the southern fishing fleet from the depredations of orc pirates.

The Freeborn are a mercantile people - on land no less than at sea. Since the beginning of the Empire, the Freeborn have been able to present themselves as traders backed by the full weight of the Empire. It is something they use, sometimes shamelessly, to their advantage when dealing with foreign powers. The stability provided by the Empire has allowed the Freeborn to reach far beyond their native territory, bringing in great wealth to all the nations. At the same time, they presented a pleasant, honest face to the Empire's neighbours and more distant rivals establishing themselves not only as traders but also as diplomats. Close to home, the Freeborn established reasonably good relations with both the [[Faraden]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]] - and even today the bulk of all trade with these two nations passes through the Brass Coast.

The Freeborn enjoyed a renaissance of a kind during the reign of [[Emperor Barabbas]]. The ship-obsessed [[the Throne|Throne]] worked closely with the corsair families to build his armada, and the Brass Coast's ill-fated Golden Fleet was the first [[navy]] ever commissioned. While several families accrued great wealth under the [[Highguard|Highborn]] Emperor - others lost everything during his ill-starred plan to invade [[Bay_of_Catazar#The_Broken_Shore_and_Attar|Attar]] that claimed the three navies of the Barrabine Fleet. Not until 379YE would the Empire build another navy - and again it was the Freeborn who took the lead with the tragic [[The_Brass_Coast_military_concerns#The_Freeborn_Storm_.28Destroyed.29|Freeborn Storm]].

All too often, historians to overlook the role the Brass Coast has played in maintaining the ideals that led to the creation of the Empire. Throughout its history, Freeborn [[senator|senators]], [[general|generals]], [[archmage|archmages]] and priests have worked behind the scenes to preserve the freedom, dignity, and prosperity of Imperial citizens regardless of which nations they hail from. Their influence waxes and wanes, but whenever the Empire has begun to stray down paths of excessive dogmatism or slip into authoritarianism, the Freeborn have rallied, found allies, and tirelessly worked to ensure that the Empire continues to serve its citizens, rather than striving to rule them. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the role [[Emperor Ahraz]] - the only Freeborn [[the Throne|Throne]] to date - played in bringing the [[The_Orc_Rebellion|Orc rebellion]] to an end, and strengthening the Empire with its first new nation in over three centuries. While Ahraz is often overlooked by Imperial scholars, his reign also brought the ideals of [[Guerra]] to the forefront and arguably helped lay the groundwork for the modern abolitionist movement.

==Freeborn on the Throne==
There has only ever been one Freeborn Emperor, '''[[Emperor Ahraz|Ahraz i Contero i Guerra]]''', who freed the orc slaves and was instrumental in bringing them into the Empire. The Freeborn believe that it is in the Senate that true power lies and that the best Emperors have accepted this and served as figureheads and administrators rather than policy makers. Popular prejudice paints the Freeborn as poor politicians – a slur that several of them embrace. Their blunt frankness combined with a tendency to want to get to the point of any argument does not endear them to their political opponents, but they make up for this directness with a tendency to produce powerful and impassioned orators.

{{Brass Coast Links}}

Caricomare

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{{CaptionedImage|file=Miroslav.png|title=For thirty years Caricomare was abandoned by the Empire - punishment some still say for the excesses of Empress Giselle.|caption=Senator Miroslav, hard at work during a summit at [[Casinea#Anvil|Anvil]].|align=left|width=250}}
==Overview==
Caricomare is a district of [[the League]] city of [[Sarvos]]. In 348YE it was devastated by a terrible tempest; in 378YE it was restored and reinvigorated thanks to the generous donations of the citizens and the tireless work of its Senator.
==History==
Caricomare was a vibrant trading hub for the empire, famous for its miraculous quays. Ships from across the Bay of Catazar, and the wide world beyond, were regular visitors to the City of Masks and their engagement with League society often began there.

The tomb of the [[Empress Giselle]] once stood in the ruins of the Alivetti guild estates here (before being moved to [[Temeschwar]]), but the ward was better known as the site of the wondrous Caricomare Quays, a great marvel unmatched elsewhere in the world. The mechanical quays were devastated by the storms that flooded this part of the city. The repairs were considered too costly and the floods created a displaced populace, compounding the overcrowding in the city. Caricomare spent three decades as an abandoned, dangerous place, a maze of flooded streets and waterlogged buildings, but it was said that riches could still be found in the depths, for those brave enough to investigate.

==Destruction==
In 348YE, the city was struck by a terrible tempest that did significant damage to many coastal parts of the city and led to the flooding and eventual sinking of the southern district of Caricomare. Reclaiming the ruined quarter of the city was deemed "too expensive" by the Senate - a move that some bitter Sarvosans believe to have been intended as a punishment for the League and the city of Sarvos in particular, in the wake of the unpopular Empress's death.

==Rebirth==
It seemed as if Caricomare was doomed to remain a haunted ruin forever. But in 378YE a [[Drain the flooded streets of Caricomare |decision]] by the [[Senate]] saw the beginning of a major reconstruction effort in Caricomare, to drain the flood and to appoint a [[Mayor of Caricomare|Mayor]] to oversee the district. Thanks to these efforts, the area is once again a thriving district of Sarvos despite thirty years of neglect. Many sections had to built over, using the sunken ruins as the foundations for new structures, but great pains were taken to include as much of the original architecture as possible. The '''tomb of [[Empress Giselle]]''' in the Alivetti guild estates was one such area; painstaking raised from the waters and returned to its former glory. Other historic buildings have also been raised and restored or rebuilt in their previous image with numerous families and Cartas reclaiming lost property throughout the district.

Some of the sunken roads have been left underwater and cleared of wreckage, leaving simple water ways that serve as canals and as a memorial to those who were lost to the storm. Many of the bridges build to span the waterways are adorned with memorial plaques and mementos. The districts of the Caricomare have been redesigned to keep trade, the districts life blood, flowing smoothly. Wide roads and canals now run through the district from the quayside like the spokes of a wheel, allowing people and goods to get where they need to be quickly.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MiroslavAward.jpg|title=Many in Caricomare believe the regeneration could not have happened without the tireless campaigning of Senator Miroslav.|caption=Senator Miroslav, receiving the 378YE Pledge Award for Best Imperial Senator.|align=right|width=500}}
Among the many new additions is the Notturno district, the official home of the '''Caricomare Night Market'''. During the day it is another bustling market place, however as the sun sets it really comes alive. Some outrageous claims have been made that the Night Market is lit by more lights than there are stars in the sky, but it cannot be denied that the grand marketplace is an unceasing riot of colours and sounds whether it is noon or midnight. Anyone and everyone is welcome, whether they want to trade, entertain or be entertained.

The quayside is trading again, but the mechanical quays are still too badly damaged to function and whole sections had to be dismantled in the restoration process. Until the docks are fully rebuilt the Caricomare won’t be the trade hub it once was.

An obvious new addition is the gleaming white statue that adorns the quayside depicting Senator Miroslav of Sarvos, who championed the rebuilding in the Senate and now watches over the results of his hard work.
==The Mystery of the Shifting Statue==
Over the Winter of 378YE, the statue of Miroslav underwent a dramatic, unexpected change. The statue itself was quickly concealed behind a wall of scaffolding and dust-sheets ... but not quickly enough. Gossip initially suggested that the entire statue had warped and shifted like hot wax, changing from a depiction of the proud Senator into an effigy half-goat, half-serpent with twisted features, cloven hooves and impious horns.

Even with a few guards preventing access to the statue, any number of urchins and interested citizens have uncovered the truth - the statue has "only" changed so that the facial features reflect those of a snide naga. Rather than gazing out across the bay, the statue leans slightly forward, whispering conspiratorially behind one raised hand, forked snake-tongue protruding and an expression of malicious glee. Casual examination by magicians suggests this vandalism is not the result of a mundane attack; a weak aura of Night magic could be easily discerned around the sculpture for the first month or so.

The sculptor who was initially engaged to create the statue, Anatrice di Sarvos, has made little secret of the fact that she is not interested in returning to a finished piece and considers the fact that the statue has altered to be "not my problem." In private she has amended this to "not my problem - I've been paid."

The statue remained covered until the [[The sack of Sarvos|Grendel invasion]] of Spring 380YE. The [[orc|orcs]] removed the tarpaulin, and there was allegedly some interest in removing the sculpture as a gift for one of the Salt Lords. In the end, the Grendel left the City of Masks without the statue. Then, during the celebrations following the coronation of [[Empress Lisabetta]], the statue underwent a second marvellous transmutation.

Losing all its ophidian characteristics, the statue instead took on the mien of smiling triumph and went from whispering behind its hand to mounting a set of stairs. It now bore an oddly reflective coin in one hand and a lantern in the other. No sculptor claimed credit for the alterations, and so it has been simply chalked up as yet another miraculous occurrence by the residents of Caricomare. Rumours quickly spread - two, in particular, have proved popular with the citizens of the League.

One says that if you gaze into the surface of the metal coin by moonlight, you can gain a glimpse of your heart's desire - that goal or thing that would be the finest expression of your ambition. The other says that the statue itself measures the fortunes of the Empire (or the League, depending on who one asks) and that where it once suggested dark conspiracies and treachery, it now reflects an Empire entering a new age of ambitious destiny. Indeed, priests who preach the path of [[Ambition]] have already begun to congregate in the square on market days, and deliver sermons from the steps at the base of the statue.

==A Little Doom After All==
Following the curse of [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Skathe|the Hag Queen]] that shattered every mirror in Sarvos, there was a great deal of worry that the city was now [[The DOOM that came to Sarvos|doomed]]. In particular, there were real concerns of [[The_DOOM_that_came_to_Sarvos#Rising_Waters|another flood]] ruining Caricomare. In the end anxiety about rising sea levels turned out to be nothing more than a few high tides caused by a full moon and a conjunction of [[the Drowned Man]]

In the months following the Autumn Equinox 383YE, however, the city was plagued by a series of seemingly random fires. Several important buildings were badly damaged, but the efforts of the city's firefighters are enough to keep the blazes under control. A few weeks later, just as the final work is being completed on the new school of couture, the source of these terrible fires was revealed. Three [[bravo|bravos]] working for the Carta du Incendio were apprehended attempting to set fire to the [[College of the Liberated]] in [[Sarvos#Bocche|Trivento]]. As the would-be arsonists were caught in the act, the college suffered only minor damage. On questioning it soon transpired that the Carta du Incendio had been deliberately setting fires in Sarvos in the hopes of ensuring that contracts for their firefighting skills would be forthcoming. All the criminals involved were quickly apprehended and tried by magistrates, both the bravos and the Carta's leaders who put them up to it.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief that the Doom of Sarvos has been averted. People were finally able to relax and celebrate, especially in Caricomare. For a month all was good and then, two weeks before the Winter Solstice... a stevedore accidentally knocked a bucket of burning coals over while unloading timber on the Caricomare docks. The coals were scattered into a pile of broken packing crates that the dockworkers were planning to burn to keep warm. The fire caught,spread, and burnt for five hours before it could be brought under control. By the time that happened, half the waterfront was gone.

In the cool morning light it became clear that the damage is not as bad as it could have been. The docks still function - albeit under a pall of heavy smoke and a patina of ash. It could have been so much worse. There are a few jokes about Caricomare being ''the cursed district'' but they fall flat. This time the waterfront was damaged, but if the wind had been blowing in a different direction there's no doubt the fire would have swept inland, potentially turning Caricomare - and perhaps parts of the city proper - into a burnt wasteland.

==The Mayor of Caricomare==
With the restoration of the district, the [[Imperial title]] of [[Mayor of Caricomare]] has once again become available. Responsible for overseeing the district and representing its cosmopolitan citizenry, the Mayor enjoys the largesse of the people of Caricomare.
==The Blood Red Quays Art Gallery==
Built toward the end of 380YE the [[Lorenzo's_Legacy#Blood_Red_Quays_Art_Gallery|Blood Red Quays Art Gallery]] was commissioned by Magdelena Alanga di Sarvos and paid for by The Bloody Butchers Guild of Temeschwar. In addition to serving as a gallery to display fine works of art, it provides inspiration to, and serves as a source of [[Pride]] for, the citizens of Sarvos.
[[Category:The League]]

The Brass Coast religious beliefs

2026-04-13T22:11:12Z

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{{CaptionedImage|file=FreebornSutannir.jpg|align=right|width=400|title=Sutannir Karim I Hazana I Guerra of the House Hazana sect in a rare thoughtful moment.|caption= Freeborn religious beliefs emphasis celebration rather than sermonising.}}

==Overview==
Organized religion, in the sense of a study of doctrine or the creation of sites of communal worship is not common in the Brass Coast. This reflects their history - the motivation for the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Exodus_from_Highguard|exodus from Highguard]] was not just to escape from the venal corruption of the patricians but also to leave behind the confines of the ascetic religion being pushed by the Highborn chapters. The founders of the nation were passionate idealists; they rejected the austere religious practices of Highguard, believing that people should be free to celebrate all the joys of life.

Still, it is wrong to think that the Freeborn are neither devout nor virtuous. Rather than study or debate the virtues, they try instead to embody them in their lives. ''"The Urizen think it, the Highborn believe it, we '''live''' it"'' is a common Freeborn retort to those who mistake their impiety and irreverence for a lack of virtue. In particular the Freeborn prize [[honesty]], the ideal of a life lived openly and without shame. Many see embracing a virtuous life as the essential prerequisite to achieving a state where you can be honest about the things you have striven for and the things you have accomplished.

==Dust, Flame, and Glass==
The Freeborn believe their people are shaped from the elements of dust, flame and glass. The eternal wind-blown dust of the plains is their history, the loyalty for family and continuity of their people. The ferocity of flame is their burning passion for life and their bright and unquenchable spirit. The purity of glass is their soul, the reflection of their transparency and once broken can never again be mended. Dishonesty and wickedness shatter your soul and pieces of it are lost with each act of deception.

This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.

Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn often seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. These priests embody the Freeborn ideal that the way to follow the path of Virtue is not to preach it but to live it. Rather than deliver sermons on the virtues, they encourage others to ''experience'' them first hand and where some priests will affect a sombre or serious demeanour, sutannir are renowned for encouraging people to celebrate Virtue. In addition to leading important ceremonies such as a coming of age or a wedding, some sutannir make a living organizing spectacular celebrations and festivities that are designed to bring the whole community together to recognise some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.

<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>

==Orthodoxy==
The Freeborn have great respect for the [[Paragons and exemplars|paragons]] and [[The Way|the Way of Virtue]], but they have little time for the priests and [[Synod]] that exist to mediate – or dilute - their message. The Synod, with its [[The Doctrines of the Faith|doctrines]] and [[Schisms and Heresies|heresies]], is often seen as being full of pomposity and self-importance, whereas a truly faithful person understands what is true and what is false in their soul. Rather than look to the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies|Freeborn Assembly]] for edicts and guidance, people expect them to embody the ideals of virtue, to lead by example, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

The view of most Freeborn is that following the Way is simple but challenging. Simple in the sense of being uncomplicated - few Freeborn believe the virtues need much in the way of explanation or commentary. The tenets can help identify what is truly virtuous, but attempts to seek deeper meaning or complexity are viewed with suspicion, especially if they appear to be self-serving. Such sophistry is seen as an attempt to obfuscate simple truths so as to justify a failure of virtue.

People fail to act virtuously, not because the Way is hard to comprehend, but because it is challenging to live up to the ideals it lays out. If you practice [[honesty]], if you can be honest with yourself, then you already know what the virtuous path is, the difficulty is in having the moral fortitude to act on your beliefs. Thus the role of a priest is not to tell you what to do, but to help you find the strength to do what you already know to be right. The celebrations of the sutannir are not simply an expression of the virtue of [[Prosperity]], they serve to reward the virtuous and thereby encourage others to emulate them.

==Heterodoxy==
More so than any other Imperial nation, the Freeborn tend to be open to the idea that as long as someone isn't hurting anyone, they should be free to believe what they want. This speaks to a problem that has dogged the priests of the Brass Coast since the foundation of the Empire. The Freeborn prize liberty above all things, it is the founding ideal of the nation. They often cite the line from the [[Imperial Constitution]] that guarantees ''"dignity, freedom, and prosperity"'' to all citizens - and they laud [[Emperor Ahraz]] as the greatest [[The Throne|Throne]] of all for his emancipation of the [[Imperial Orcs]].

As a result, the Coast has often struggled with outbreaks of the spiritual force known variously as [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy|Anarchy or Freedom]]. During the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Empire|founding of the Empire]], sutannir who embraced Freedom were among the vocal opponents of the [[First Empress]] and her grand vision. They saw the Empire as a machination of the [[Highguard|Highborn]] priesthood, seeking to enforce their limited view of virtue on all humanity. Even the Freeborn who followed other virtues were concerned that the way of life they had established might be swept away. To address those fears, the [[hakima]] of the Brass Coast created the [[egregores]] and convinced the nascent Empire to adopt them. Support for Anarchy was largely suppressed in the Coast after the first Synod forbade it - but not without bloodshed.

It has resurfaced many times since then. For example, those priests who had never completely given up on the virtue of Freedom were buoyed by what they saw as the success of [[the Orc Rebellion]]. In 324YE this inspired Crescencia i Marusa i Riqueza, a sutannir of [[briar]] lineage, to begin openly urging her followers to live their free of the restraints of law and authority, without the need to be inhibited by the disapproval of others. She attracted large numbers of followers which ultimately led to the events of the [[Freedom Heresy]]. Her eventual capture and execution on charges of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy|blasphemy]] was broadly supported by the Freeborn Assembly, though it was noted that they picked their words with great care, criticizing Crescencia for the failures of [[Freedom_Heresy#The_fall_of_Montane|Montane]] and the death of her followers, rather than dwelling on her heretical views.

To this day, a belief in the enduring ideal of liberty remains common throughout the Coast and many Freeborn have been passionate opponents of slavery. Janeia i Zaydan i Guerra was a regular foil to [[Emperor Frederick]], a friendly rival who switched between heated debates on the need to free orc slaves and denouncing the Emperor in the Synod. Scholars point out that some of the arguments in the early chapters of ''Anarchy and Liberty'' are either founded on, or clear refutations of, Freeborn arguments about the need for a person to be "free to choose virtue" and that slavery as a consequence is an unforgivable crime against the soul. Unsurprisingly, [[Emperor Ahraz]] enjoyed the support of the abolitionists in the Brass Coast, especially among the priesthood, although he sometimes had to distance himself from their more zealous outbursts during the orc rebellion.

The last prominent Freeborn to be executed for blasphemy relating to Anarchy was Liliana i Hora i Riqueza who had been the [[Conscience of the Senate]] for a year in the time of [[Emperor Hugh]]. She admitted to her devotion to Freedom when confronted on it by the [[Gatekeeper]] of [[Vigilance]] on the steps of the Senate. When challenged at her [[inquisition]] as to why she had kept her beliefs hidden for so long she only laughed at the court and said ''"If we were looking to hide our devotion, we wouldn't call ourselves the Freeborn"''. If any Freeborn priests are devoted to the malign presence of Anarchy today, then they are careful to keep it hidden well away from the prying eyes of the Synod's inquisitors.

==Reincarnation==
Many Freeborn take a relaxed view of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation|Doctrine of Reincarnation]]. A popular old tradition says that those lost at sea take new form as dolphins who will guide and guard lost ships. While few claim to really believe it these days, it is a stock element in many stories involving sea travel. When questioned on it, the Freeborn tend to shrug - does it really matter if it's true?

This response reflects their view of the Labyrinth more generally. The Freeborn accept that human souls reincarnate; but they often argue it is a mistake to obsess over it. The teachings of [[Riqueza]] - generally held to be the first [[sutannir]] - said that ''"nobody is born virtuous"''. The inference is that what you did in your past lives is unimportant - all that counts is what you do in this life. One should focus on living an honest and laudable life, guided by the virtues, and let reincarnation look after itself. Freeborn might leap at a chance to experience a past life vision - who knows what such an experience will bring or what knowledge it will reveal? But few put much importance in who they were in a previous life - what matters most to the Freeborn is who you are now.

Perhaps as a result, most don't see death as a reason for sorrow. Death is usually [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Funerals|mocked as a figure of fun]] and funerals are treated as the final opportunity to celebrate the life of the deceased.

==Feast of the Broken Wheel==
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Brass Coast Assembly, Summer 384YE, Upheld (184 - 0 Greater Majority).">Pride conveyed by words alone is vain boasting; proclaim it by how you conduct every part of your life. Those who embrace the Festival of the Broken Wheel should demonstrate their Pride in this traditional festival by donning a white head scarf, robe or similar. We send Luca i Taziel i Riqueza with 25 doses of liao to urge Freeborn citizens to dress in such a way that everyone knows who is celebrating the Festival.</quote></div>
Sutannir try to support as many celebrations in the Brass Coast as possible. However, there is one festival they do not endorse: the Feast of the Broken Wheel. Known by many as Fool's Day, during this festival the Freeborn turn virtue on its head and celebrate the contrary. The festival takes place on the second day of the Autumn Equinox, and starts at sunset and lasts until midnight. The proud become humble, ties of loyalty may be ignored, the prosperous become ascetic and the wise act as fools. It is a time of foolishness, pranks and trickery that begins with a symbolic chase, where effigies of the paragons are chased from the camp in a gleeful and chaotic parade. Everyone is encouraged to try harmless skills like juggling and music – the more terrible the performance the more it is applauded. On Fool's Day, even the most moral Freeborn try their hand at telling untruths and lies - often with comical degrees of success.

The festival is considered blasphemous by some, but it has never been condemned. However during the [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_165|Summer Solstice 384YE]], the Freeborn National Assembly passed a [[mandate]] in response to [[To_see_what_you_sell#Breaking_Wheels|the concerns of the Zemress Islanders]] and others. Since then everyone taking part in the Broken Wheel is strongly encouraged to wear a white piece of clothing for the duration, often a white headscarf, hood, or tagelmust, but in many ways the more white the better. White cloth is always avoided in the Brass Coast, wearing undyed cloth suggests the wearer cannot afford exotic dyes. It fits with the Festival of the Broken Wheel, since the point of the festival is to turn traditions on their head, and it also serves as a good way to distinguish those who enjoy the festival from other Freeborn who find it distasteful.
{{CaptionedImage|file=BrokenWheel.jpg|width=900|title=This whimsical effigy of Aldones de Sarvos simultaneously pokes fun at that paragon of Ambition, and at Varushkan traditions, but is all meant in good humour.|caption=The Feast of the Broken Wheel is as exuberant as it is irreverent.|align=center}}
{{Brass Coast Links}}

Why Sulemaine Walked Away From The Baker

2026-04-13T22:10:52Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=Sinister Ethically Challenged Wizard.jpeg|caption=The Empty One|align=left|width=300}}
==Rules==
{{Season|Winter|80}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|10}} {{Imperial Reduction}}

This ritual targets an [[Army|Imperial army]]. The [[Military Council|general]] responsible for the army (or the [[egregores|egregore]] if the general is not at Anvil) must be present throughout.

{{enchantment}}
===Effects===
At the completion of the ritual, the general used as the focus for the ritual becomes subject to [[Calls#VENOM|VENOM]]. This condition can be removed in the normal way. The army led by that general falls under a potent Winter [[enchantment]] that bolsters soldiers' ability to [[Winter magic#Survival|survive]] the hardships of battle, as well as hardening their resistance to venoms and infections. This protection provides several interrelated benefits:
* During a military campaign it reduces all [[casualties]] inflicted by enemy forces by one-tenth, provided the army is not taking an [[army orders|order]] that would increase casualties taken.
* It completely protects the army from the casualties inflicted by passing through or fighting in a [[territory#region|region]] with the [[Region_qualities#Poisoned|poisoned]] [[Region qualities|quality]].
* It provides a degree of protection from the [[Vallorn#Vallorn_Miasma|vallorn miasma]] although the precise nature of this protection has yet to be tested.
* It may have additional beneficial effects when the army, or the [[military unit|military units]] attached to it, are fighting in areas tainted with poison or cursed venom.

While the army is enchanted, the general experiences a [[roleplaying effect]]: ''You easily fall prey to colds and sniffles, and experience rheumatic aches, joint stiffness, stomach upset, and headaches. You suffer short-lived pangs of serious hunger, thirst, fever, or chills that occur sporadically through the day. When you sleep you are prone to nightmare-like dreams of being poisoned, being in places where you experience crippling hunger or thirst, being hunted by venomous monsters, or of being forced to endure sickness or bodily infirmity.''

These effects are particularly pronounced and disturbing for a character with the [[draughir]] [[lineage]].

{{Season Duration}}
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><ic>'''Sulemaine and the Baker'''<br>It is said that one day, long ago, the Sword Scholar Sulemaine turned up at the spire of an Urizeni baker. When the baker came out to greet her she asked him ‘What is it that you wish of life?’ The baker replied ‘To be the best baker I can possibly be.’ ‘Well then,’ replied Sulemaine, ‘I shall return to this spire one year from today and if you do not feed me the tastiest pastry that ever I have eaten then I will cut you in two’ and she swished her sword around dramatically to emphasise the point.

The baker was greatly afeared for he had heard of the reputation of Sulemaine for cutting people in half at the drop of a hat, so he immediately set to work trying to perfect his art. For a season he practiced and practiced baking his pastries. He became very good at baking, but he knew that it would not be enough. Over the next season he travelled to other spires learning how the best bakers in Urizen baked their pastries, but he knew that it would not be enough. In the third season he travelled the Empire, learning the techniques of baking from many nations, especially those of Karov in Varushka where they are famous their baking, but he knew that it would not be enough. In the fourth season he collected recipes and techniques from many foreign nations. All the while he became rich and famous for the quality of his baking, and people came from all around to buy his pastries, but he knew that it would not be enough.

Then one day, a year from her first appearance, the Sword Scholar Sulemaine returned to the spire of the baker and demanded to sample his pastries. Eating one she proclaimed ‘This is indeed a very fine pastry master baker, but it is not the finest I have ever tasted.’ The baker replied ‘I knew it would not be enough, for there is more to such things than the art of the baker and the quality of the ingredients. The tastiest of pastries is made so by the memories that accompany it – baking in the kitchen of one’s parents, the joy of eating one’s first flaky pastry as a child, and so forth. Because I knew it would not be enough I have also spent the last year becoming a supremely skilled poisoner.’ With that Sulemaine laughed heartily, clapped the baker on the back, and finished her pastry. Relieved that he had not been chopped in two, the baker went into his spire to fetch the antidote, but when he returned he found that Sulemaine had walked away.

In his speech to Conclave placing the ritual into Imperial lore Simargl claimed to have been visited by Sulemaine in a dream and set the task of answering within a year why she had walked away from the baker. The ritual was offered by way of an answer.</ic></div>

==Description==
The original research that led to the creation of this ritual was undertaken by Palaphon during Spring 381YE. His original research was eventually codified at the [[Dean of the Lyceum|Lyceum]] under the guidance of the Dean, the Empty One, occupying the attentions of the entire Lyceum through much of 382YE. Work was completed, in spite of threats from the [[Grendel]], shortly before the Autumn Equinox of that year. The name of the ritual changed several times during the process of codification, but in the end the Dean settled on ''Why Sulemaine Walked Away From The Baker'', apparently in reference to some story about the controversial founder of the [[Sword scholar|sword scholar]] movement in [[Urizen]].

In addition to the work performed by the usual arcane scholars and magical theoreticians, the staff of the Lyceum were granted additional assistance by a number of “friends” of the eternal [[Sadogua]], dispatched by the Brother of Wizards at the behest of the Dean. Most of these “friends” were Imperial magicians normally disinterested in academic pursuits, primarily from [[the Brass Coast]], [[Wintermark]], and [[Navarr]], but included a handful of actual heralds of the Father of Bats. With their assistance, the ritual was codified significantly more swiftly than would be expected for such a powerful enchantment.

The ritual has a profound effect on the soldiers of the army on which it is cast. While their general is wracked with minor aches and pains, unseasonal colds, and bad dreams the soldiers feel hale and hearty. They do not become sick, and prove especially resistant to poisons and venoms of all kinds. They can still be injured by an envenomed weapon, but they recover quickly from anything except a fatal blow. Furthermore, the soldiers find that they can eat almost any food without becoming ill. In a manner [[Draughir#Carrion_Feaster|similar]] to a [[draughir]], they can consume stale bread, brackish water, or spoiled meat without ill effect.

While it is not traditionally seen as a [[Winter magic#Resonance|resonance]] of the [[Winter magic|Winter]] realm, the concept of "suffering" is closely tied to the eternal [[Sorin]]. Yet to cause suffering in another without a purpose is merely [[Winter_magic#Cruelty|cruelty]]. While the Winter realm can be cruel this does not mean that all suffering is cruel in its nature. For Sorin, and for some scholars of Winter magic, suffering is a means to an end. By enduring privation – hunger, thirst, exhaustion – an individual can become inured to the effects. By exposing the general to venom, they symbolically pass the ability to endure that venom to their soldiers.

The ritual draws on two key resonances of the [[Winter magic|Winter realm]]. The first is [[Winter magic#Survival|survival]] - the urge to live is a powerful instinct, enhanced by Winter magic. The realm is effective at weaving enchantments such as [[Unyielding Constitution]] or [[Fight Tooth and Nail]] that help the beneficiary endure pain. The enchantment of ''Why Sulemaine Walked Away From The Baker'' draws on this resonance specifically to allow the soldiers affected by the magic to survive the effects of venom, poison, and disease.

The other key resonance utilised in this ritual is that of [[Winter magic#Preservation|preservation]]. For all the darker powers commonly associated with the realm, Winter has a predilection for keeping things as they are – for opposing change even if it leads to stagnation. In the case of this ritual, in keeping with the resonance of Survival, the Winter magic works to preserve a state of “good health” in the target. It should not be taken to mean that Winter is adept at healing, or would be as effective at creating an enchantment to allow one to endure wounds. Rather, the idea of Preservation is tied somewhat to a third resonance: [[Winter magic#Weakness|weakness]]. Normally, the Winter realm is preoccupied with ageing and especially with the weakness and infirmity that comes from old age. Yet the magic of weakness need not be solely aimed at a mortal body. Winter magic will also weaken objects and structures. In this case, the weakness is aimed specifically towards the poisons, diseases, and venoms that attempt to overcome the soldiers of the army.

==Common Elements==
The ritual resonates with the theme of the endurance that is mastered and tested through suffering. As such, the general who is the focus for the enchantment may be threatened with privation, torment, or injury by the coven; they are expected to remain stoic throughout enduring the descriptions of suffering without flinching.

The Dean originally suggested that the ritual should require an invocation of Grandmother Winter, Clever Spider. Other [[aspect magic|aspects]] might also be appropriate, especially those known for their great strength or endurance – the stag, the bear, or the boar.

A suggested element is the use of a strengthening or heartening draught infused with poisonous herbs, consumed by the general at the mid-point of the ritual. Another suggested element is the painting – or for a [[blood magic|blood magician]] cutting – of a symbol representing the poisonous thorns of a winter plant on to the target.

Some experimentation with [[astronomancy]] suggests that [[the Oak]] and [[the Stallion]] are both good constellations to use with this ritual.

<small>Additional text about Sulemaine from The Empty One</small>
[[Category:Warfare]]
[[Category:Winter Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Into the valley

2026-04-13T22:10:46Z

Dre:

[[Category:Recent History]] [[Category:384YE Summer]] [[Category:Military Council]]
<div style="float:left; width: 600; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Dawn War-Witch.jpg|caption=It's been a long time, but the armies of Dawn have returned to the Barrens.|align=right|width=600}}</div>
{{Audio|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B8ubb82LtU}}
==Three Long Years==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Garravaine De Rondell, General of the Gryphon's Pride">Soldiers of the Pride! We return to the Barrens once more. Let us carve our way south through the Druj to give us the opportunity to support anywhere on the front we are needed. We assault Carmine Fields and seek to push through and rendezvous with Imperial Forces in Hope's Rest. Should we encounter less resistance than expected, then we assault Bitter Strand.</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Tancred De Coeurdefer, General of the Hounds of Glory">We march on the Carmine Fields to drive a causeway south that we may honour our loyalty to the people in Zenith. Let us push through the fields - a steady conquest towards our later goals.</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Zoran De Orzel, General of the Golden Sun">Glorious Citizens of Dawn, the time has finally come back into The Barrens. We go in song and virtue, in Glory and Love. We go to fight the Druj and drive them before us. Break them under our Grinding Advance. We try to punch through them to open a route to the south to connect Dawn to the south of the Empire. Allowing Dawn to join the Eastern Sky in Zenith to liberate it for Urizen.</quote></div>
{{Audio|link=https://youtu.be/_B8ubb82LtU}}
It's been three years, more or less, since Imperial armies fought in [[the Barrens]]. Three years since [[Druj]] treachery saw the [[The_Barrens#Towers_of_the_Dawn_.28ruined.29|Towers of the Dawn]] fall, and the [[orc|orcs]] of [[the Mallum]] spread their hegemony once again across the deep forests and the bloody fields. Now, the Empire has returned. From the north, from out of [[Holberg#The Morass|the Morass]] in [[Holberg]], come the [[Golden Sun]], the [[Gryphon's Pride]], and the [[Hounds of Glory]] with their [[Varushka|Varushkan]] allies, the [[Golden Axe]]. From the south, up through the Tarn Valley, out of [[Therunin]], come the other Varushkan armies - the [[Iron Helms]] and the [[Northern Eagle]]. With them are the [[Wolves of War]] supported by a great many Varushkan [[Varushka_military_concerns#Wagon_Raiders_and_Sell_Swords|wagon raiders and sell swords]], as well as [[Temeschwar|Temeschwari]] bravos keen to wrest some profit from the war against the Druj.

Their strategy is simple; to "cut the Barrens in half" by seizing both the [[the Barrens#the Carmine Fields|Carmine Fields]] and [[the Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]]. If they can take both regions, then the Druj will find it difficult to hold [[the Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]], [[the Barrens#Murderdale|Murderdale]], and the [[the Barrens#Heart of Peytaht|Heart of Peytaht]]. Their armies will be restricted to the eastern half - to [[the Barrens#Bitter Strand|Bitter Strand]] and [[the Barrens#Saltmarsh|Saltmarsh]] and [[The_Barrens#The_Untrod_Groves|the Untrod Groves]]; to the [[The_Barrens#The_Bleaks|Bleaks]] and the [[the Barrens#The Plains of Teeth|Plains of Teeth]].
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Sigismund Vladislav Kestovia, General of the Golden Axe">Soldier, we are needed south in Zenith. We march through the Barrens while our cousins march to meet us. We will Take the Land of the Druj We will make them suffer and bring freedom to Zenith</quote></div>
It is a risky strategy, however, for any number of reasons. It requires the Imperial forces to establish not one, but two beachheads in the territory. Until one force conquers their target region, they will be unable to help the other. Each must contend with the defences of the Barrens alone. Worse, the entire territory labours under the influence of malign Druj magic. Not the familiar [[Druj miasma|miasma of dread]] that infests other territories under the control of the Mallum orcs - but the equally familiar [[curse]] that infests all water in the territory with sickening, pestilential [[Spring magic]]. The [[Rivers Run Red|rivers in the Barrens are choked with poison]], and even water carried by the invading armies quickly acquires that slight crimson tinge that marks it as accursed. Injuries fester; wounds that might otherwise be serious but not life-threatening quickly drain out the life of those who do not receive immediate treatment.

The Empire has its own magic; the soldiers of the Gryphon's Pride and the Hounds of Glory fight with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist|supernatural clarity]] that allows them to make and execute strategic and tactical plans more effectively. The Wolves of War - as always - find it easy to incorporate the mercenaries and [[Military unit|independent captains]] that fight under their banner to their [[Bound by Common Cause|common cause]]. Those two thousand additional soldiers operate much more effectively under the guidance of the League captains than they might alongside any other armies.

And this season at least, it appears that the Imperial armies are the only ones in the territory. When the first Druj turn up - several thousand swift moving warriors with leather masks and curved spears - the initial assumption is that they represent a true army. It quickly becomes apparent that they are just the vanguard of the garrison of the citadel that rises in the east of the territory. The Towers of Dusk, as the Empire christened them long ago, were destroyed by thunder and lightning and the bravery of Imperial heroes. They have not only been rebuilt, but extensively reinforced. Cruel battlements, studded with spikes of metal and shaped bone, glower over the Plains of Teeth, and in their shadow nothing grows.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Alderei the Fair, General of the Iron Helms">Iron Helms, we are not ones to sit and wait for progress. We march on the Barrens. We will rip and tear into the Druj. Our Merciless Onslaught upon Hope's Rest will make us the Hammer, and the armies coming from the North the anvil.</quote></div>

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka, General of the Northern Eagle">Northern Eagle, we march to the Barrens. We must soften the pressure on our Urizeni Cousins, and we can see Dawnish Loyalty repaid. This will be a reunion, for we march with the Iron Helms to meet the Golden Axe in the Heart of the Druj. Greet them warmly as we all will have killed for this moment of kinship.</quote></div>

<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Gabriel Barossa, General of the Wolves of War">We must keep pressure on the Druj. Hit them where it hurts - in their homes and in their treasuries. Force the Druj to come north to face us and next season we can cut their legs out.</quote></div>

These Druj are further supported by the enchanted defences the orcs favour. The forests of the Barrens are fat with deadly insects of unnatural size. The trees are inhabited by hateful spirits drawn from the realm of Spring, and with dreadful beasts that strike from the shadows without warning to carry away anyone who strays within their reach. For the Empire, travel through any overgrown area is impeded - the vegetation shifts when there is nobody to see it - while the Druj move effortlessly through even the densest undergrowth.

If the forests are bad, the marshes are even worse. Scouts report that the stagnant pools and salt flats of Saltmarsh teem with stealthy flesh-hungry lizards, with pale lambent-eyed orc spirits that mesmerise the unwary and lure them to their death, with shifting quagmires, and with a dreadful low-lying fog that misdirects and confuses. Again, anyone who strays too close to marsh ground in the Barrens risks falling afoul of these [[Night magic|night-woven]] protective enchantment.

==A Steel Causeway==
There are over thirty-five thousand Imperial troops in the Barrens and while the garrison of the Towers of Dusk take every opportunity to use the advantage offered by their defensive enchantments, they are absolutely no match for the Empire. The problem for the Imperials is that they rarely, if ever, allow themselves to be lured into a open battle, striking suddenly and then melting back into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks almost before the Empire's armies know they have been attacked. The weakness in their tactics is that they are only effective at slowing the Imperial advance, not stopping it. When a Dawnish soldier suddenly stumbles and falls, a barbed arrow sunk into their shoulder, there is a Varushkan physick at their side almost before they hit the ground. When a League scout falls afoul of a deadfall, there are two yeofolk on hand to drag them back to safety and ensure their wounds do not have time to fester.

It would be a different matter if the Empire was fighting in the woods or the marshes... but the Carmine Fields are fertile grasslands, and while there are plenty of wooded copses in Hope's Rest, a little caution ensures that they are unable to claim Imperial lives. The frustration of the Druj becomes almost palpable as the Summer Solstice nears; there are some deaths, but casualties can be counted on the fingers rather than tallied in the kind of grim butcher's bill that is so often the price of war against the Mallum.

Despite their growing anger, though, the Mallum forces are still able to make the Empire fight for every foot of land. The rough terrain in the south slows the advance and while the strategies employed there are effective, they are not focused on claiming territory. While the Wolves of War plunder the Druj garrisons and strike against the scattered orc settlements in Hope's Rest and the nearby forests, the Iron Helms methodically make examples of every Druj warrior that falls into their hands. They are merciless, seeking every opportunity to trap and dispatch the orc warriors, and the Druj know it. By contrast the Northern Eagle take a more cautious approach, eschewing risky tactics and ensuring that they carefully conserve their strength. The individual armies are tactically effective, but their splintered focus means that it slowly becomes clear this strategy will not be enough to capture the region; by themselves, the three armies would have failed to claim Hope's Rest.

Fortunately, they are not by themselves. The northern faction of the Empire's forces fight in open ground - the kind of fighting the Druj loathe - and the Dawnish armies remember this territory well. With the Gryphon's Pride and the Golden Axe in the vanguard, and with the Hounds of Glory and the Golden Sun grinding steadily forward, the Empire's advance proves irresistible. Defended camps are established across the region and then the armies continue to push. The Druj defenders are caught between an anvil to the south and a steel hammer from the north and left with the choice of being crushed, or retreating.

As the days become longer, and the nights become shorter, and the Summer sun rises triumphantly over the forests of the Barrens, the soldiers of the Northern Eagle and the Golden Axe greet one another in the foothills of northern Hope's Rest. The Druj have failed; Empire has driven a steel causeway right through the centre of the Barrens.

==Game Information==
The Empire's risky strategy has been successful. The Imperial forces have conquered the Carmine Fields and Hope's Rest. As per their stated intent, this means any of the armies in the territory at the moment can leave to either the north or the south - into Holberg or Therunin - should they wish to do so.

The only Druj forces in the territory have been those provided by the eastern [[fortification]] and the enchantments they raised in the woods and marshes. As a consequence, despite the presence of the [[Rivers Run Red]] curse, there have been no appreciable casualties among the Empire's armies.

Two of the armies involved in the assault undertook particularly notable orders. The Iron Helms have undertaken a ''[[Army qualities#Cruel|merciless assault]]'' in the Barrens; this strategy is obvious both to their Imperial allies and to the orcs of the Mallum. The Wolves of War have undertaken the ''[[Army qualities#Foraging|plunder]]'' action; the general will receive the gains thereof in their pack prior to the event.

Thanks to the [[mandate]] [[384YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_76|enacted]] by Tobias Field, during the Summer Solstice any Dawnish [[general]] can issue the [[Army_qualities#Indomitable_Glory|''triumphant charge'' order]] while campaigning in the Barrens. If any Dawnish army issues orders to conduct a ''forced march'' to reach the Barrens, or issues a ''triumphant charge'' or attacks ''no matter what the cost'', while fighting here, then the option to order a ''triumphant charge'' will be available following the Autumn Equinox as well.

==As the Water's Dripping Down (Battle)==
* '''A major conjunction has been identified in the Barrens'''
During the Summer Solstice, it seems that there is a [[Sentinel_Gate#Major_Conjunctions|major conjunction]] connecting the [[Sentinel Gate]] to the vicinity of Dourfell Keep in the Barrens. Details are light at the moment, but it appears it will allow access to a Night [[regio]] that, with some preparation, the Empire might be able to [[Align the Celestial Net|manipulate]] to perform some powerful [[enchantment|enchantments]] or [[curse|curses]] that could affect the Barrens. Perhaps more significantly, there is also an opportunity to secure the Imperial presence in the Barrens - whether the Empire's armies intend to remain or not - and possibly even to mend some broken fences and cement an alliance aimed at liberating the Barrens from the Druj once and for all.
===Key Objective===
* '''If the Great Forest Orcs conduct a ceremony of reconciliation with the Dawnish generals at Hope's Rest the orcs will begin to forgive them for the conquest of the Barrens'''
* '''If successful, the Spears of the Pines, the Great Forest Orcs military force of a thousand strength will fight alongside any Imperial army liberating the Barrens'''
* '''If successful, the Great Forest Orcs will guide Imperial army moving through the Forest of Peytaht, allowing them to travel into or out of the Barrens safely'''
* '''If attempted, the Great Forest Orcs will establish a free spy network in the Barrens for the Empire to use for the coming year'''

There is a major conjunction in the Hope's Rest area, to the site that was once the home of the "freedom Briars" - the descendants of survivors from the ill-starred attempt to start a secessionist haven in the Barrens for those who embraced the malign spiritual force of anarchy. The centre of their community was [[The_Barrens#Hope.27s_Rest|Dourfell Keep]] - a fortified haven in the hills of the southern Barrens. It was destroyed in 380YE during the [[Conflict_in_the_Barrens#The_Barrens_Falls|fall of the Barrens]]. Whatever happened to it was quite catastrophic in nature - the keep was utterly destroyed along with the Druj who were attempting to storm it. All the defenders died - the only survivors were those who fled south with the Great Forest Orcs before the Druj attacked.

Located somewhere in the expansive woodlands is a small shrine. It was built by the Dourfell Keep briars to commemorate the first meeting with the orcs who would later go on to rise up against the Druj. The Dourfell Keep briars were instrumental in uniting the defenders of the Barrens - the independent orcs who originally drove the Druj out of the Barrens for that brief period of time before the Empire and the Mallum orcs split the territory between them. Driven by their commitment to Freedom, they provided neutral ground for the rival septs to meet. That meeting ultimately led to the alliance between the Great Forest and the Rahvin sept of orcs that broke Druj power in the Barrens.

The Great Forest Orcs blame the Dawnish for the return of the Druj, the subsequent collapse of their alliance with the other septs, and the deaths of thousands of their people. However, more than anything else the Great Forest Orcs wish to return to their traditional home beneath the Eaves of Peytaht. The Steel Causeway presents a glimmer of hope - that the Druj might again be driven from the Barrens. That the orcs will be able to return to their homes. When they first emerged from the woods they offered to help the Navarr fight in the Barrens; yet in the years since many of their number have explored the Empire among the stridings. They understand how large the Empire is and how varied its people are.

With that in mind, Chief Vallack of the Great Forest Orcs and Galahad Weaver of the briars present a possible route to put the past behind them and focus on the future. If the Empire will escort three Great Forest Orc elders and Galahad to the shrine where the first alliance to drive the Druj from the Barrens was sworn, they will perform a ceremony of reconciliation. This is a traditional ceremony among the Great Forest Orcs in which people lay aside the desire for hate and vengeance in the name of the greater good. It involves each participant accepting the accusations of the other, acknowledging their wrongdoing, and pledging to create a better future. It was this particular ceremony that formed the first part of the original alliance. Conducting a new ceremony at the historic site would provide a basis to overcome the conflicts of the past.

Performing the ceremony is apparently quite straightforward, but it will require representatives of each of the Dawnish armies who took part in the original invasion of the Barrens to be present and to wholeheartedly take part. Each participant must bring flowers - it is part of the ceremony for all aggrieved parties to decorate the area with flowers as a symbol of new beginnings. It will also need the shrine to be protected from the Druj while the ceremony takes place. If the ceremony is successful, then the Great Forest Orcs and their allies will not forget their anger for the Dawnish, but the wounds will begin the heal.

This will remove an obstacle that stops them being wholly committed to driving the Druj out of the Barrens. That means that the [[The_place_you_called_home#The_Spears_of_the_Pine|Spears of the Pine]] will muster and make ready to assist in any battle in the Barrens where the Empire fights the Druj regardless of which armies are involved. Even if the attempt to reach the site and carry out the ceremony fails, the hunters and rangers of the Great Forest will leave the Tarn Valley and establish a spy network in the Barrens - supporting Imperial scouts as they gather intelligence about the Barrens. The Empire would need to convince military units to operate the network but there would be no cost to the Senate to establish the network or to pay for the upkeep.

Finally, if successful, the elders of the Great Forest Orcs will stand ready to aid any Imperial armies who wish to move through the Forest of Peytaht, either into or out of the Barrens. The Druj will not expect an attack from this direction, nor expect that Imperial troops will be able to move between Eaves of Peytaht and Reikos.

===The Staff of Conviction===
* '''The Dourfell Keep Briars are looking to recover the Staff of Conviction from the area'''
* '''The staff is protected by a powerful monster that the Druj have set to guard it'''
* '''If the Staff is returned to them, they will provide support to all Imperial attempts to liberate Hope's Rest while it is under Druj control'''
Galahad is an old priest of the Dourfell Keep Briars and one of the original participants in the alliance to free the Barrens. He wishes to accompany the Great Forest Orcs; his intention however is to recover something from the area; the Staff of Conviction, a powerful relic hallowed to the malign spiritual force of Anarchy by the Freeborn sutannir Crescencia i Marusa i Riqueza using a stolen dose of true liao.

The Staff used to be kept in the shrine, but during the fall of Dourfell Keep it was wielded by one of the briar defenders. While scouting the area, the staff has been located in one of the glades in the woods - thrust into the ground no doubt by the wielder when they died. By all accounts there is some kind of powerful monster guarding it. The creature doesn't appear to be chained up in anyway, but it doesn't leave the glade. The Druj bring it fresh meat every day, so it appears that it is either a trained guardbeast, or else bound with magic to the glade in some way. It might be possible to defeat the monster, or possibly to distract it while the staff is recovered - assuming it can be moved. It seems strange that the Druj have not relocated or destroyed it themselves. But determining exactly why it is still there will have to wait until Imperial heroes can reach it.

If the Staff is returned to the briar friends of the Great Forest Orcs, then they will do more than let bygones be bygones; they will work with their allies to establish a permanent presence in the woods of Hope's Rest. They were able to avoid the Druj for more than five decades, and they do not doubt they will continue to be able to do so. Along with their Great Forest Orc allies, they will provide support to any Imperial armies in the Barrens. As a result, Hope's Rest will gain the [[Ossium#Under_threat|allied insurgents]] quality - meaning that if Imperial forces attack it, it will always be considered a beachhead ''while the region is under Druj control''. This is similar to the situation the Druj have created in Ossium - but it will benefit the Empire rather than presenting a risk to them.

The staff could be handed to Galahad directly, before Imperial heroes pass through the Sentinel Gate. If it is brought back to Anvil, then the civil service will be able to arrange to have it delivered to the Lower Tarn Valley - assuming it is handed over to the Herald of the Council before the end of the summit.

===Shadows and Nets===
* '''There is a potent Night regio near the edge of the forest'''
* '''The Empire could cast Night rituals at the regio or use Align the Celestial Net to perform rituals of other realms'''
On the plains near the edge of the forest, there is a powerful Night regio, which the Druj have been making use of. Any regio on a battlefield in an enemy controlled territory represents a potential opportunity - since it gives the Empire a chance to cast rituals in that territory that would not otherwise be possible. Unfortunately Night magic is dissonant with many of the themes of war, like destruction or strength, making it very difficult to use a night regio to aid the Imperial war effort.

However, one of the Navarr prognosticators, [[Whither_the_seed#Princes|Drustan Brocs Guard]], an experienced and well-travelled vate and a practitioner of [[Night magic]], points out that it could be ''made'' useful through use of [[Align the Celestial Net]]. A single casting of the ritual could easily align the net to either Spring or Summer - and in theory multiple castings could align it to allow several rituals of both realms to be cast. Hope's Rest is an ideal location to raise a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae]] if the regio were aligned to Summer; alternatively the regio could be used to unleash any number of [[Spring magic]] [[curse|curses]] into the Barrens if the Empire plans to withdraw. Or both! Drustan knows that the ritual has been used by heroes passing through the Sentinel Gate before - and that there are a ''lot'' of practitioners of Night magic in the Empire who might be able to [[Downtime#Retraining|study the ritual]] ahead of the Summer Solstice.

===Battlefield Situation===
* '''The forest is under the effect of a powerful aura'''
<div style="float: right; width: 50%; max-width: 500px; margin-left: 10px;"><box>
<span style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold">Woods Aura</span><br>
Every character who enters the main woods on the battlefield on this conjunction will experience the following roleplaying effect:

'''You feel a profound sense that you can only reach your true potential if you are absolutely free. You feel an urge to take command of your destiny and do whatever is necessary to secure your freedom.'''

The effect of the aura can be avoided in the usual way - by spending a hero point, through an [[anointing]], or via [[Crystal Clarity of the Rational Soul]].
</box></div>
While most Druj give the Dourfell Keep area a wide berth, there are certainly orcs here. By all accounts they belong to the Emerald Harvester clan - a minor clan of Druj originally from [[Sarangrave]] whose symbol is a delicate green spider. They have a higher-than-normal number of [[Arkad#Vikari|vikari]] among them, and their leader is believed to be a former apprentice of the ghulai Greenmask. The Druj are here for two reasons - to keep an eye on the area in case the Empire returns, and to study the peculiar aura that hangs over the woods with an eye towards destroying it. Imperial scouts report that they are being reinforced by warriors from the garrison of the Tower of the Dusk. There are too few of them to provide much threat to the Empire's armies, but they will certainly try to stop Imperial heroes interfering with the regio or the forest.

Imperial heroes who fight the Druj are familiar with the horror of the [[Druj miasma]]. Those who have fought in [[Spiral]] know about the unique oppression that hangs over that territory. A powerful aura likewise hangs over the forest that surrounds the ruins of Dourfell Keep. Those who have experienced it talk about experiencing a need to be completely free - to be in complete command of their own destiny and to be prepared to do whatever it takes to secure that freedom. It is perhaps no wonder that the Druj tend to avoid the area. The Emerald Harvester orcs apparently make use of potions that allow them to ignore the urge to turn against the authority of their leaders, but even so they limit their exposure to the forest. Only the presence of the Imperial armies has driven them into the woodlands at all.

The aura has an additional effect on any [[briar]] or [[cambion]] who embraces the aura. The '''FIRST TIME''' a [[briar]] enters the forest they immediately regain all expended [[heroic skills#Hero|hero points]] and gain an additional temporary hero point that remains available as long as they roleplay resistance to authority and the need for personal freedom until they return through the Sentinel Gate to Anvil (similar to the effect of a [[Philtres_of_War#Elixir_of_Exalted_Puissance|Elixir of Exalted Puissance]]). Similarly, the '''FIRST TIME''' any [[cambion]] enters the forest they immediately regain one spent hero point. These benefits ''only'' apply if the briar or cambion experiences the roleplaying effect of the aura - if they are anointed for example they will gain no benefit.
{{Conjunction Link|384YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Large_Conjunctions}}

==From the Forest (Conjunction)==
* '''Druj ghulai have released a horror from the Spring realm to attack Imperial forces'''
* '''Countless Imperial lives will be lost before the creature can be stopped'''
* '''It is the responsibility of the Knight Protector of Spring to ensure such threats are dealt with'''

Deep in the thickly wooded [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|Bleaks]] is an area of forest called the Lupine Arbour. According to [[Dawn|Dawnish]] legend, it was once home to a vile beast, some kind of terrible wolf (or possibly pack of them, the stories are unclear). The creature was defeated by Ser Guinieve, a glorious Dawnish [[questing knight]] who was pursuing a [[Dawn_culture_and_customs#The_Test_of_Ardour|Test of Ardour]] to marry her lover, the [[enchanter|enchantress]], Elayne du Riviere. Guinieve could not kill the beast however, but she was able to drive it back into the Spring realm, banishing it from this world forever.

Now the creature may be back. A band of [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai|ghulai]] seem to have found a way to release it, so that it is once more roaming the Lupine Arbour, attacking anything it can find. The prognosticators believe that if it is not stopped then it will roam further and further afield until it encounters one or more of the Dawnish armies currently stationed in [[the Barrens]]. When that happens, hundreds of Imperial lives are likely to be lost before the creature can be stopped - which is undoubtedly exactly what the Druj had in mind when they sprung this trap.

It is the [[Knight-protector#Responsibilities|legal responsibility]] of the [[knight-protector|Knight Protector of Spring]] ''to be first to stand against any threat that might issue forth from the realm''. As such they are expected to arrange a group of heroes to track the monster to its lair and defeat it. Scouts report that the heroes should be careful, there are apparently Druj forces still in the area, although they are allegedly behaving "very oddly".

'''Success and failure:''' Defeating the horror roaming the Lupine Arbour, or driving it back to the Spring realm, will neutralise the Druj trap. If the beast is not dealt with, then it is estimated that it will inflict three hundred casualties on the Dawnish armies over the next few days (before the armies have a chance to move).

==A Poisoned Chalice (Conjunction)==
* '''The Druj have arranged a trap for the Wolves of War, they are bearing a poisoned treasure towards the camp'''
* '''If the treasure is not destroyed then the Wolves of War will suffer scores of casualties and be unable to issue the plunder under for over a year'''
* '''The General of the Wolves of War is responsible for the Imperial army they command'''
Scores of [[Army_qualities#Mercenary|mercenary wagon raiders]] have been plundering the Barrens on the orders of the [[General]] of the [[Wolves of War]]. These elite troops often range far ahead of the main force, with orders to seize any wealth the enemy are holding. Unfortunately this means that some of them have fallen pray to a cunning Druj trap. The orcs of [[the Mallum]] have been deliberately leaving treasures for the wagon raiders to loot - treasures trapped with some kind of [[curse]]. Many of the wagon raiders hired to fight in the Barrens have fallen ill after returning with treasure they have taken from the Druj. Their condition is critical but the [[Surgical skills#Physick|physicks]] supporting the Wolves of War are at a loss for how to treat them.

The war scouts have identified a large conjunction to the Red Plains in the [[The Barrens#Carmine Fields|Carmine Fields]] in the Barrens. Many wagon raiders near this area have been affected, and the prognosticators believe that there is a group of Druj bearing some of the cursed treasure. If the Empire can find the Druj, and take the treasure from them without triggering the trap, they can bring it back to Anvil where it can be examined by the best [[magical skills#Magician|magicians]] and physicks in the Empire. Hopefully they can find a cure for whatever is ailing the mercenaries.

'''Success and failure:''' If the Empire can't recover the cursed gold, or they recover it but can't find a way to break the bane, then it seems certain that many of the wagon raiders hired by the Wolves of War will die. The army will lose the equivalent of two hundred and fifty strength. Furthermore it will take time for the wagon raiders numbers to replenish and as a result no general of the Wolves of War will be able to issue the [[Army_qualities#Foraging|plunder]] order before 386YE Winter.

==Troubled Waters (Conjunction)==
* '''The driven Golden Axe have been pushing forwards contesting control of the Barrens with the Druj far ahead of their supply lines'''
* '''The Druj have fallen back, attempting to strand the vanguard on the far side of the Singing River, hoping to wipe them out'''
* '''The orc plan relies on a ritual team destroying a key bridge that crosses the river, trapping the soldiers in enemy territory'''
* '''The General of the Golden Axe is responsible for the Imperial army they command'''
The [[Golden Axe]] have embraced the legacy of the [[People_of_the_North#The_Nature_of_the_Vard|Vard]] and look to conquer what land they can in the Barrens. [[Army_qualities#Driven|Driven]] as they are, they have been able to seize the advantage from the Druj by pushing far ahead of their supply lines to maximise the territorial gains of the Empire. Now though, the Druj have found a way to make them pay for the risks they have been taking.

The Druj defenders have fallen back across the Singing River, a fast flowing torrent that flows out of [[The Barrens#Hope's Rest|Hope's Rest]] down to the Barren Sea. The vanguard of the Golden Axe have pursued them but have run into surprisingly stiff resistance on the other side of the river. Now the Druj are looking to spring their trap by destroying the only bridge that crosses the Singing River for miles in either direction. With the bridge gone, the vanguard will be trapped on the other side of the river. Out of position, they will be easy pickings for the Druj and face certain death.

There is a powerful Spring [[regio]] in the area, called the Circle of Falling Trees. The Druj are bringing a dozen ritualists into position to perform the magic needed to destroy the bridge. They plan to make use of the [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Every time it rains|conjunction]] to bring the river into flood so swiftly that the bridge is swept away. They will have guards with them of course, but there is a conjunction to the area, which means the Empire has a chance to stop them. If they can kill enough of the enemy ritualists, then they won't be able to perform the ritual and the soldiers will be able to fall back in good order.

'''Success and failure:''' If the ritual team is defeated - if fewer than ten of the ritualists are left alive - the Golden Axe troops will be able to make it back to Imperial lines without further trouble. If ten or more of the Druj ritualists escape however then they will destroy the bridge, trapping the Varushkans on the wrong side of the river. If that happens, approximately three hundred Varushkans from the Golden Axe will be killed in the next few days (before the army can leave the territory).

==A Sudden Flood (Conjunction)==
* '''There is an opportunity to seize a Spring ritual site near the Fangs to call on the power of the recent conjunction to flood the mines'''
* '''The area is heavily defended, but success would prevent the Druj from gaining any mithril from the mines for the next six months'''
* '''The occupants of Spiral Castle have created an arcane projection and asked the Archmage of Spring to arrange a group to travel to the Fangs to use it'''
On orders from the [[General]], scouts from the [[Gryphon's Pride]] have pushed into the [[The Barrens#Bitter Strand|Bitter Strand]] to assess the level of Druj resistance there and see if there was a chance for the Dawnish armies to [[glory|gloriously]] conquer yet more territory. In the end they stopped just short of taking the fight to the Druj there, but the scouts did identify an [[opportunity]] to strike against the Druj and weaken their forces here in the Barrens.

[[The_Barrens#The_Fangs|The Fangs]] are a series of nearly a dozen massive rocky columns that rise out of the coastal waters of the Bitter Sea. The pillars contain rich seams of [[mithril]] that are mined by the slaves forced to work there by the Druj. The whole operation is crude and poorly developed with rickety rope and wood bridges linking each of the Fangs to each other or back to the mainland. The heavily exposed nature of the works leaves the entire operation vulnerable to the threat of flooding. All it needs is a little push...

The magicians of [[Weirwater#Spiral_Castle|Spiral Castle]] propose a plan to take advantage of the [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] [[Every time it rains|conjunction]] to do exactly that. They have created an [[arcane projection]] using Spring magic that they have dubbed ''"Dark Clouds Gather"''. This is a magnitude 24 Spring ritual which would call on the power of the conjunction to bring storms and floods, raising devastating typhoons, water spouts, and crushing waves from the Barren Sea and ravage not only the Fangs but also the fens of [[the Barrens#Saltmarsh|Satlmarsh]]. The Druj rely on the eastern marshes to raise one of their magical fortifications - if the ritual is performed then most of the Saltmarsh will disappear beneath the hungry waves making it impossible to raise the [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] there for some time.

From talking to some former slaves of the Druj [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Hare|liberated by Imperial heroes]] in the Summer of 383YE, Dawnish witches have located a strong Spring [[regio]] near the Fangs called the ''Saltmaw''. It is guarded by the Druj, but their numbers are stretched and a determined group could drive them off for long enough to perform a ritual (or maybe two). Spiral Castle have asked the [[Archmage of Spring]] to try to gather a team of sufficient enchanters and war witches to perform the ritual and enough glorious knights to get them to the ritual site and keep them safe while the magic is cast. Of course the Archmage might try and attempt a second ritual - or even decide that a different ritual might be a better goal. Spiral Castle are content to leave such decision to the Archmage, confident that they will know best how to take advantage of the opportunity offered by access to the Spring regio.

'''Success and failure:''' If the regio is used to perform the arcane projection, the coast will be pounded by the angry sea making it impossible to gain any mithril from the Fangs for at least two seasons - and possibly longer depending on whether the Druj are prepared to divert resources to deal with the damage caused to bridges, settlements, and roads by the magical storms. It will inflict even more damage on Saltmarsh. The region would lose the "marsh" quality and instead gain the "coastal" quality - as great stretches of the fens disappear underwater. This will prevent the Druj from using ritual magic to raise a magical fortification there for the next year before enough of the flood waters finally drain back into the Barren sea. If the arcane projection is not used, it will become useless: it draws its power the current astronomantic conjunction.

Ruin

2026-04-13T22:10:40Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"So..." said Caryl, and then trailed off.

"Yeah. So indeed." Gawn was pale as new-fallen snow, and kept blinking as if trying to clear something from his eyes. He sat down heavily.

"I take it you've seen..." again Caryl trailed off.

"My own horrific, violent, bloody, murder?" Gawn tried to make a joke of it but failed miserably. Caryl reflected on how irksome it was that he always tried to laugh off serious matters. Sometimes, she thought tangentially, the mood does not ''need'' lightening. She set her feelings to one side, however, remembering how shocking it had been when she'd seen her own brutal slaughter in the Pool. Gawn needed support, now. They all did.

"So I think you're the last. That's everyone now?" said Caryl, although she already knew the answer to the question. Gawn nodded, his eyes unfocused.

The visions had begun to take a violent turn three days ago with Lleucu Cloudwatcher. The elder vate had been literally struck dumb for an hour, unable to do anything but shiver. For a little while Caryl was worried she might not come back from wherever it was that the Pool's vision had sent her. In time though she had collected her wits and shared what she'd seen. Herself, murdered. All of them, murdered. The Pool destroyed and nothing left but ashes. One by one each of the others had seen the same thing, or a variation thereof. The Pool's revelations were rarely this clear. When they were, as they had last been when they'd shown the ground opening up and swallowing innocent people of four nations, they'd been able to head off the terrible loss of life. This time...

"I saw the Dean as well," said Gawn abruptly.

"Which one? Not the Varushkan, surely?" Caryl was again reasonably sure she knew the answer. She hadn't seen him herself but both Niamh and Taulupe had described someone who sounded a lot like a vate she'd once met briefly in Seren.

"Bledri." Gawn was speaking slowly as if forcing the words out was an effort, his body obviously struggling with the stress of the vision. "Bledri Eternal. Not here though. I think they were at Anvil. I'm sure of it in fact. Bledri, at Anvil, talking to...someone? Several people? I didn't really see..."

"Saw him in a good way, or a bad way?" Asked Caryl quickly. Gawn shook his head.

"No idea," he said, his eyes drooping, barely able to stay awake. "But it means ''something'' surely?"

"Everything means ''something''," replied Caryl, waspish in spite of herself. "The trick is working out what that something means and whether it helps but oh you're already asleep. Damn."

She watched Gawn slump back in his seat, mouth open, snoring gently in that extremely irritating way he had. She paused to slip a pillow under his head and then went to find Lleucu. It was time to decide what to do, and to try and find a version of the future in which the Pool was preserved, no matter how unlikely that might turn out to be.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RelativePositionsIllustration.JPG|align=left|caption=Whether the stars reflect the events of the world below, or whether the events of the world are influenced by the stars, the tides of magic still shift.|width=450}}</div>
{{audio|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aez9yiebV7I}}
==Overview==
From the point of view of mortals, the heavens are mostly immovable. The stars are where they are, shifting only slightly as the year turns, and with a noticeable rhythm. There are a few rogue stars, however, the most famous of which is [[the Wanderer]] - the red-eyed constellation of things going wrong and the machinations of an uncaring fate. Philosophers argue whether the stars somehow influence events beneath them, or if they merely reflect the tides in the affairs of thinking beings. It's unlikely anyone, except possibly the Creator, knows the answer to that question. Regardless, the stars come into alignment as the currents of magic and the tenor of events shift.

There has been an ongoing entanglement of esoteric stars for some time now - [[the Lock]] and [[the Key]] have been circling and bouncing off one another (metaphorically at least) for at least a year now, and have pulled [[the Web]] and [[the Spider]] into a chaotic twisting association that even the wisest astronomancers struggle to untangle. It seems that ongoing conjunction is coming to a head, as whatever events have inspired it are moving to a conclusion. And not before time!

At the same time however, the astronomancers of the Empire spot another worrying development. A ''second'' conjunction is underway, one that is significantly more apparent and impactful than that of the Lock and the Key; a greater conjunction with the potential to twist and bend magical law. This second conjunction will be strongest during the Summer Solstice itself. The Wanderer is moving into alignment part-way between [[the Claw]] and [[the Three Sisters]]. Things bleed. Things are connected by blood. Things are not what they seem. Battle, destruction, violence. Consequences, ties of blood, sorrow. Destiny, fate, chance. Not an auspicious set of affairs by any stretch.
==The Lesser Conjunction==
* '''The Lock and the Key are altering the way certain rituals work'''
As the conjunction of [[the Key]] and [[the Lock]] apparently moves towards some kind of climax, the tension between ''things are revealed'' and ''things can be hidden'' continues to play havoc with Imperial divinations. For the last year or so there have been reports of odd figures appearing at [[Anvil]], generally when one or both of the constellation is high in the sky. There's some evidence that they are wild [[Astronomancy#Tulpas|tulpas]], spawned by the friction between the two esoteric constellations and given form by the Imperial regio. There's also the fact that the star's influence (or the events the conjunction reflects) have been leading to (or illustrating) some peculiar magical effects. Divination rituals continue to provide peculiar responses, either unexpectedly clear or unexpectedly obscure. The additional influence of the Spider and the Web, and the lingering impact of the Wanderer, is bringing matters to a head - and twisting Imperial magic out of true in the process.
===Watched===
* '''Something weird is going on with Cast Off the Chain of Memory and has been for the last few months'''
* '''A special option is available when it is cast at the Imperial regio and a measure of iridescent gloaming is used'''
It's not a matter of record who first noticed the odd thing about [[Cast Off The Chain of Memory]]. It's just become one of those things people know. They remember hearing it from a friend of a friend, or overhearing it in a bar, or discussing it with... someone? Either way, it's a thing and when someone tried it out it turned out to be a thing that ''worked''. The most likely explanation is this weird ongoing churning conjunction. At the moment, if you perform ''Cast Off the Chain of Memory'' but when you're doing it you write down the memory you want to get rid of with [[iridescent gloaming]], as long as you don't go over exactly ninety-nine words something happens. The paper folds in on itself and disappears along with the memory you described. Then, overnight, you get something back. A new memory. A different memory. And while you may remember that you didn't always remember that memory, it's easy to forget that it's new. Which has resulted in some people getting very odd looks when they confidently spin a tale of being at a wedding that never happened, or visiting a place that never existed, or having met someone who isn't real. Or at least weddings, places, and people that don't exist ''here'' and ''now''.

There's been some similar things happening around the tulpas of the Lock and Key, apparently, so it makes sense to assume that's what's happening here as well. It's apparently been going on for a few months, but with things coming to a head it's not clear if it will keep on happening. While it seems to be just a little bit of eerie [[Night magic]] fun, worth trying once for the novelty, not everyone thinks it so innocent. A few magicians are suspicious about what's happening to the memories written down and where the new memory is coming from, and so urge caution. Some magical phenomena are unwise to experiment with.

'''OOC Process:''' When performing Cast Off the Chain of Memory at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]], the target can write down the memory they intend to lose in as much detail as they like, as long as it doesn't go over ninety-nine words. The ink needs to be infused with a measure of iridescent gloaming (given to the ref during the casting), and the paper needs to have the targets PID on the back. The memory recorded must be a real memory that is being removed with the ritual or nothing happens. At the completion of the ritual, if the other criteria are met, the paper disappears and takes the memory with it. Before going into play next morning, you can visit the regio again (''not'' GOD) to receive a written description of a new memory that your character now remembers having experienced.

If you have any out of character phobias, traumatic subjects, or experiences you'd wish to avoid reading about, you can include them on the reverse of the paper along with your PID.

===Crescendo===
* '''The rituals Swim Leviathan's Depth, Clear Counsel of the Everflowing River, and Combing the Beach will be restricted during the Summer Solstice'''
For some time now, some of the eternals contacted by ritual magic via the Imperial regio have been complaining of "loud music" interfering with their ability to hear Imperial magicians. Heralds of [[Leviathan]], [[Sung]], and [[Roshanwe]] have all sent heralds to Anvil to warn that the music is getting louder, reaching a crescendo. They separately anticipate that it will peak on Sunday, the final day of the summit. As a consequence of this inaudible symphony, the rituals [[Swim Leviathan's Depth]], [[Clear Counsel of the Everflowing River]], and [[Combing the Beach]] will not function on Sunday. If attempted, the ritual fails and the mana will be returned to the coven who tried to cast them.

As such, all three eternals caution that during the coming solstice Imperial magicians will have one window of opportunity to pose questions (on Friday), and one to receive answers (on Saturday). Hopefully, after this crescendo, the music will fade again but if it does not then it may represent an ongoing threat to Imperial magicians' ability to deploy these three divinatory rituals.

===Observer Effects (Participation)===
As with previous seasons, if you perform a divination ritual, use a spell such as [[detect magic]] or [[operate portal]] to gather information, or employ the [[insight]] ceremony, you are free to roleplay that the information you receive comes to you via an unexpected sense, or requires additional interpretation, or is remarkably clear. Rituals in Imperial lore likely to be affected include: [[An Echo of Life Remains]], [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]], [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]], [[Dreams in the Witch House]], [[Eye of the High Places]], [[Eyes of the Soul's Past]], [[Eyes of the Sun and Moon]], [[Hakima's Glass]], [[Hand of the Maker]], [[Secrets of the Soul's Desire]], [[Shadowed Glass of Sung]], [[Signs and Portents]], [[Skein of Years]], [[Ties that Bind]], and [[Wisdom of the Balanced Blade]].

Some rituals where Profound Decisions provides information may also be affected by this peculiar effect. Again, the information will not be wrong, or intentionally misleading, but it may be delivered in an odd way or include unexpected side effects as a result of the ongoing conjunction.

==The Greater Conjunction==
* '''Magicians can call on the power of the conjunction to call or unleash violent entities'''
* '''Events that remind people of familial conflicts are more likely to happen'''
The [[Every time it rains|last greater conjunction of the stars]] took place a year ago and inspired [[Light upon the water|devastating magical storms]]. The trepidation of astronomancers when they realise another greater or conjunction is imminent, taking place at the same time as four other constellations are locked in an intricate arcane dance, is perhaps understandable. While this alignment of Wanderer, Claw, and Three Sisters is nowhere near as potent as that of a year ago, its effects are still significant. It seems to herald, or reflect, a period of turmoil and conflict. This aspect of the Claw represents struggle, violence, and battle. The Three Sisters in this aspect speak of sorrow, consequences of actions, and conflict between those who have close ties to one another. It is perhaps easy to look at current events in the Empire and see the influence of these constellations. There's also a direct magical effect from this conjunction, which may be of more interest to practical magicians than questions of history or philosophy.
===Blood and Consequences===
* '''Between Sunrise and Sunset on Saturday, magicians can draw on the power of the conjunction to perform rituals that call entities from the eternal realms'''
* '''Using the power requires access to a powerful regio (such as the Imperial regio)'''
* '''All contributors to cut themselves at the start, and all are reduced to 0 hits at the end'''
* '''In return each contributor gains +1 rank of the appropriate lore to perform that ritual'''
* '''For purposes of the conjunction, sunrise is considered to be "time in" at 10am and sunset is considered to be 10 pm'''.
During the height of the conjunction - Saturday of the Summer Solstice between sunrise and sunset - the Imperial Regio resonates with the power of the stars. During this time, the threshold between the mortal world and the eternal realms will be weakened, and some magic that draws on the creatures and spirits from outside the mundane will be more powerful - provided the ritualists are prepared to face the consequences.

By drawing on the power of the conjunction a with a powerful regio (such as the Anvil regio), the ritualists can greatly empower rituals that invite destructive of violent spirits or creatures into the Empire. Such rituals must either unleash uncontrolled spirits, usually in the form of a [[curse]], or call entities to support military endeavours. At the beginning of the ritual, each contributor must roleplay inflicting a small cut on themselves, and allow the blood to flow freely. They then perform the ritual as if they had +1 rank in the appropriate lore. At the completion of the ritual, all contributors immediately drop to 0 hits and begin [[Combat#Dying|dying]].

A given character can only draw on this power ''once'' during the summit - if they attempt it a second time they are immediately reduced to 0 hits and begin dying, and gain no benefit. Note that ''everyone'' involved in performing the ritual draws on the power, even if they don't need the additional ranks: all must inflict the bleeding wound and all are reduced to 0 hits even if they are not part of the coven (due to using an item such as a [[Volhov's Robe]]) or belong to an entirely ''different'' coven cooperating thanks to an item such as a [[Web of Celestial Attunement]] or an [[archmage|archmages]] [[Archmage#Belt of Stars|Belt of Stars]]).

The conjunction explicitly affects the following rituals:
* Rituals that summon heralds to support an army, fortification, or military unit: [[Fire on the Water]], [[Knights of Glory]], [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Accoutrements_of_War|Accoutrements of War]], [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Machines_of_Destruction|Machines of Destruction]], [[Golden Ramparts]], Wolves of Winter, [[Quickening Cold Meat]]
* Rituals that call forth warriors from a personal resource: [[Raise the Dragonsworn Cohort]], [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]], [[Carve the Crystal Guardian]], [[Lions of Phoenix Reach]]
* Rituals that unleash uncontrolled spirits to bedevil a territory: [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]], [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]], [[Winter's Ghosts]]
Other rituals from other sources might also be affected, but they must explicitly call denizens for potentially violent purposes. Simply drawing on the power of an eternal is not enough, nor is summoning creatures for peaceful purposes - the [[Net of Gossamer Chains]] for example cannot be empowered with this ritual.

===Conflict and Family (Participation)===
* '''Events conspire to remind people of, and exacerbate, familial conflicts'''
* '''This effect is entirely opt-in, there is no requirement of any kind to be affected by this'''
The influence of the stars, or of the tides of magic, can be more subtle than the most understated Autumn ritual. During the Summer solstice, events conspire to remind people of past conflicts with members of their family (however they define it). Similarly, seemingly minor things happen that exacerbate existing conflicts. Throughout the event, players are encouraged toward conflict with those they have close familial ties to. This takes the form of reminders of past arguments, settled and otherwise. Of people being more cognizant of the things their loved ones do that annoy them. Of bad habits. Of feeling taken for granted. Of unspoken rivalries and unrealised resentments. Acting on these sentiments - finding an excuse to have an argument or make a biting remark at the expense of someone your character has a familial tie to - feels especially satisfying with the stars in the alignment they currently share.

This effect is entirely opt-in; it isn't a traditional [[roleplaying effect]] that needs to be overcome, it's a minor background theme for the event. One of the most common reasons we create game effects like this is to give people opportunities to roleplay things they might not normally roleplay - and to give them a justification for why their character is doing that. It exists to give players the potential for new things to roleplay at the event, ''if they want to do that''. If this isn't something that would make your event more enjoyable, then you shouldn't do it.

If you do choose to use it to inform your roleplaying, there's no requirement to engage in actual violence (unless that's appropriate to your characterisation), and you should always remain cognizant of our [[conduct]] rules when engaging with this element.

==Battle and Sorrow==
* '''There are reports of unfamiliar entities moving to attack several locations'''
As visitors begin to arrive at [[Anvil]], some of them bring worrying news which seems at least on the surface like it might be related to one or both of the astronomantic conjunctions. There are reports of unfamiliar soldiers moving to attack locations in disparate parts of the Empire, slaughtering anyone who gets in their way. There is an obvious connection between these bands of attackers - they are described as having the proportions of humans or orcs, but not ''being'' either humans or orcs. They're all reported as wearing blue sashes with a "military look". They kill implacably, without mercy, without even pausing to listen to their victims.

The Prognosticators are swiftly able to determine that [[conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] exist that allow Imperial heroes to intercept these reported warriors. There's very little notice, however, and no chance to get soldiers or garrisons into position in time to intercept the attacks. It's pure chance that these reports have reached Anvil in time to find these conjunctions, and some magicians are of the opinion that the only reason there is any warning at all is the subtle influence of [[Farewell_wanderlust|unleashed Autumn magic]] resonating with [[Autumn_magic#Travel_and_Communication|travel and communication]].
===What follows in shadow (Conjunction)===
<div style="float:right; width: 30%"><ic>"''Threes, and threes and threes,<br> Always the three come, <br>Always the three fall.<br><br>Hear the spark of the fire<br>See the broken grasses,<br>Watch the deeps fill.''"<br>Wise Ville, mystic of Ishal</ic></div>
* '''A division of the mysterious attackers are moving towards the Aviary of Ishal'''
* '''The Sentinel Gate will open at 17:30 on Saturday to Maiko's Copse, Skymark, Kallavesa'''
* '''The ''Raven Seer'' is responsible for protecting the Aviary of Ishal'''
The first group of attackers reported to Anvil are in [[Kallavesa]]. They apparently emerged in northern [[Kallavesa#Skymark|Skymark]], and began heading south. They were spotted by the tenders of one of the [[Kallavesa#The_Beacons_of_Wintermark|beacons]] that provid advance warning of threats to Wintermark. The entire garrison of that unfortunate beacon was butchered, but not before they heroically sent out an alarm. The attackers are heading directly towards the settlement of [[Kallavesa#Skymark|Ishal]] and the [[mystic|mystics]] who make their home there. While Ishal may be able to defend itself, directly in their path lies the [[Broken_arrow#Wisdom_of_the_Kallavesi|Aviary of the raven seers]]. Several of the seers, including the well-beloved ''Maiko Greywolf'', have attempted to gather more information about these invaders, but all contact with them have been lost.

Given that this represents a direct threat to the Aviary of Ishal it is responsibility of the [[Raven Seer]]; '''Odelia Nelda''', to protect the Aviary and deal with the mysterious attackers. The prognosticators have identified a conjunction that will allow a small group of heroes to reach ''Maiko's Copse'' near the town - the grove where the respected mystic and their friends regularly gather to observe the stars and the flight of birds. There is a good chance that if the attackers are not intercepted successfully, they will destroy the Aviary and slaughter many of the mystics who reside there before presumably continuing to attack the town of Ishal itself.
===Old friends and new threats (Conjunction)===
* '''A division of the mysterious attackers are moving towards the prime harp of the Harps of Astolat'''
* '''The Sentinel Gate will open at 18:00 on Saturday to the Gardens of House Cadence, Winterbourne, Astolat'''
* '''The ''High Bard of the Empire'' is responsible for protecting the Harps of Astolat'''
Even as the prognosticators are racing to find a conjunction to allow heroes to protect the Aviary at Ishal, news of a second group of warriors arrives. This group are on the other side of the Empire, in [[Astolat]]. At first the assumption is that they will be quickly dealt with by nobles, knights, and armed yeofolk but this turns out to very much not be the case. There are garbled reports of a clash with one of the minor houses who were in the middle of celebrating the victory in [[the Barrens]],during which all the Dawnish were killed or forced to fleet. In a similar manner to the first group of attackers, this second group appear to be moving in roughly a straight line. The first major settlement they will reach is the town of [[Astolat#Weaving|Weaving]]. Weaving itself is not undefended; the knights and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches|witches]] of ''House Cadence'' are apparently already en route to protect the yeofolk and the [[weaver cabal|weavers]] there but it's not certain they will be able to save the town. Before they reach Weaving itself, they will almost certainly pass by the prime instrument of the [[Astolat#The_Harps_of_Astolat|Harps of Astolat]].

Given that this represents a direct threat to one of the most important and inspirational musical instruments in the Empire, it is responsibility of the [[High Bard of the Empire]]; '''Protectorate Rile''', to intercede, most likely in conjunction with the noble families of Astolat. If this central harp is destroyed the entire web of musical instruments that criss-cross the territory will go awry. This will remove the benefits they apply, and might conceivably make the situation even worse, potentially disrupting the production of mana in Astolat in unpredictable ways. It is likely to be expensive and time-consuming to "retune" the harps to their former glory, should that even be possible.

===Neither beginning nor end (Conjunction)===
* '''A division of the mysterious attackers are moving towards the Pool of Silver Clouds'''
* '''The Sentinel Gate will open at 18:30 on Saturday the Verdant Grove, Goldglades, Miaren'''
* '''The ''Dean of the Thorned Rose'' is responsible for protecting the Pool of Silver Clouds'''
The third group of attackers are reported as having emerged in the foothills of central [[Temeschwar#Locul|Locul]] in [[Temeschwar]], but the warning comes from [[Miaren]]. Specifically, the [[vate|vates]] who study the [[Miaren#Goldglades|Pool of Silver Clouds]] in [[Miaren#Goldglades|Goldglades]] have sent a messenger to Anvil, calmly informing the Navarr of a threat that their divinations say they cannot endure. There's some confusion; the messenger must have set off some time ago, before the first of the attackers was spotted in Kallavesa. The vates' messenger explains that while they didn't know the specifics, the seers of the Pool of Silver Clouds foresaw their own deaths some six weeks ago. They also divined that the only chance to avert their murders, and the destruction of the magical pool they tend, was to send a messenger to [[Casinea]] and tell the [[Dean of the Thorned Rose]] what their visions had revealed. The attackers must be intercepted at a place called the ''Verdant Grove'' in northern Goldglades. If they aren't stopped there, it is inevitable that they will achieve their goal and destroy both the seers and the pool. When asked for more details, the messenger can only say that the Pool is better at predicting disasters than it is in providing information about how they may be avoided - as evidenced by the [[Rocks and gravel|opening of the sinkhole]].

The civil service aren't entirely sure what to make of this, but the prognosticators confirm the Sentinel Gate will allow a group of heroes to reach the Verdant Grove on Saturday evening. Given the comments of the vates who are most directly threatened, it is the responsibility of the [[Dean of the Thorned Rose]]; '''Bledri Eternal''', to protect the Pool and deal with the attackers. Where the prophecies of peculiar vates are concerned, it is perhaps best to be err on the side of taking them seriously particularly when they have proven correct in the recent past.

===A Violent Mystery===
* '''There's still no indication who or what these attackers are'''
That these soldiers are violent is not in doubt - they've apparently already killed most of the people who have been unfortunate enough to encounter them. If there's a connection between their three targets it's not clear exactly what it is. It's also not clear ''what'' these attackers are. Prognosticator Atraxes cautiously opines that they might be [[Astronomancy#Tulpas|tulpas]] of some kind, but their appearance doesn't match any known form of emanations from the constellations involved in the conjunctions. His colleague Ingvarn Thunderbrow ponders if it might be something to do with the [[Thule]], while a more prosaic Marcher prognosticator by the name of Mary Gaddhook says they might well turn out to be mundane bandits banking on Imperial credulity to make themselves seem more threatening than they actually are. Regardless, whichever Imperial heroes go to intercept them may find it useful to ascertain who or what they are dealing with, once the immediate threat is ended.

==Different Tides==
* '''Conjunctions influence magic in many different ways'''
While the wind of fortune talks in terms of astronomancy, the tides of magic, fate, and chance that they refer to are also mirrored in other magical traditions. When someone tries to do a skein reading with [[runes]], they might find [[Queros]], [[Jotra]], [[Ophis]], and [[Wyr]] showing up more often than they expect. A [[dramaturgy|dramaturgist]] may feel drawn to the [[Dramaturgy#The_Personae|role]] of [[the Captain]] or [[the Witch]], especially in their more tumultuous and destructive aspects, or a playwright might be inspired to relocate an entire scene from [[the Library]] to [[the Garden]] or [[the Battlefield]], or vice versa. In many ways, the astronomantic constellations are just the most visible reflection of the currents of magic and destiny at work in the Empire. Which is unsurprising perhaps, given they are the largest.

Likewise, any player is free to create a minor personal omen related to one of these conjunctions. Perhaps the [[#Conflict and Family (Participation)|family conflict]] element manifests for a [[the League|League]] character by a constant itching or mild allergic reaction to the [[The_League_hearth_magic#Rings|ring]] that represents their [[Loyalty]] to their spouse or their family name. Perhaps a [[dedication]] dream brings to mind a conflict from the past that was never satisfactorily resolved, or that led to the dreamer abandoning their goals. The more roleplaying-themed elements of these conjunctions are intended to introduce themes into the game that players might enjoy riffing off, to give them an excuse to explore different parts of their character and the game.

Rings and crowns

2026-04-13T22:10:30Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"It all seems a little... much... sometimes. Am I bad for saying that?"

"What does?" Aranuah slipped her bookmark between the pages of her novel. She recognised Zalmonah's tone of voice. It meant there was something on her mind and she wanted to talk about it, and there'd be no more reading until they'd thrashed the matter out.

"Helping. Being the elder sibling," Zalmonah gestured vaguely at the enormity of it all. "Being the partner of greatness, being the kinship peer, supporting everyone else. All of it."

Aranuah was a little taken aback. Outwardly, Zalmonah was always proudly talking about Highguard's role as the birthplace of the Way, about the importance of inspiration, about destiny and virtue. To hear her speaking like this was troubling. She registered for the first time the darkness beneath Zal's eyes, how pale and tired she looked. Inwardly, she cursed herself for not spotting the signs earlier.

"Can I ask, are you looking to talk about this or just for me to listen?" She asked after a few more moments thought. Zalmonah half-laughed a little awkwardly and shook her head.

"Oh, it's alright Aran," she said. "No need to look so serious. I'm just... sometimes the enormity of it gets to me a little bit. Sometimes my heart swells so full of Pride it might burst, sometimes I'm lifted up by that feeling of Loyalty to all the people of the Empire, and the world, already born and yet to come, and it starts to... it starts to overwhelm me. There's so much wrong in the world and sometimes it feels like it's just me, that I have to fix it all. I'm sorry, I'm babbling."

"You're not babbling, Zal." Putting her book aside, Aranuah joined her on the seat by the window. "I know exactly what you mean."

"You do?" Zalmonah noticeably relaxed, letting go of the worry rising up inside her with a low sigh. "I was worried it was just me. It's such a... responsibility. I'm glad we're helping the Freeborn, I'm so happy we're talking with the orcs in the Barrens and in Varushka. I'm excited by the thought of helping build a beacon of the Way in Bastion. It's fascinating reading the statements of the other national Assemblies but sometimes it's a little too much."

As Zalmonah spoke, Aranuah passed over the plate of spiced biscuits, and ate on herself, nodding along in agreement.

"Nobody expects us to do everything at once," she interjected when Zalmonah paused for breath. "Nobody who matters, anyway. Empress Mariika wrote that when you're at war with the whole world, you've got to pick your battles, remember?"

Zalmonah smiled at that, genuinely, and some of the tiredness shifted from her shoulders.

"She wasn't wrong. As I was saying to Maester Aveyan the other day, 'so much to do and so little time'."

Aranuah laughed, then caught herself. "Are you quoting Emperor Nicovar at me? That's unfair and... wait who were you talking to?"

"Maester Aveyan. They're one of the Grendel merchants we've been negotiating with. They're after herbs, and paying good money for them. It's easy to forget sometimes that we're probably going to be at war with their people again by the end of the year. They're so easy to talk to, and they seem genuinely concerned about virtue and the problems Highguard is facing and..."

She trailed off, her eyes widening, a grim realisation blossoming. Aranuah bit her lip, leant forward to take Zalmonah's hands in hers.

"I'm sure it's fine." she said, calmly, reassuringly. "I'm sure they were just trying to make friends so they'd get a better rate. I'm sure it's nothing to worry about, Zal. I'm sure of it."

But Aranuah was not sure, not at all, and the two women stared at each other in worried silence.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Words Resounding.jpg|align=left|caption=We study history not to argue over the facts but to identify lessons that can inspire us today..|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
The people of [[Highguard]], especially their priests, look outward toward the rest of the Empire, ready to offer aid to their younger siblings. Their [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]] is directed towards [[the Brass Coast]], offering their [[insight]] in [[Kahraman]] and their strength to their [[Questions_of_virtue#Our_Freeborn_Cousins|Freeborn cousins]] in retaking [[Feroz]] the same way they helped the [[Urizen]] reclaim [[Zenith]]. The [[Granite Pillar]] raced across half the Empire to accompany [[the Marches]] in [[welly boots|securing the borders]] of [[Bregasland]]. Their [[unconquered]], [[magister|magisters]] and [[wayfarer|wayfarers]] have offered their [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]] to the people of [[Varushka]] as they [[Pride and prejudice|seek out the orcs]] that share their forests and work to [[Culling_the_threat#Reservation_of_Benefits|secure their eastern borders]]. In the process they [[Pride_and_prejudice#Mission_of_Mercy|found their own answer]] to the question of the virtue of the [[Thule]], and answer that potentially has far-reaching implications.

Of course not everyone welcomes the Highborn, nor sees the value of their aid and support. Yet the desire to reach out to their neighbours and cousins, allies and friends in the other nations is not diminished. When Highguard puts its mind to a virtuous course of action, very little can dissuade them from the path.

==Kinship and Greatness==
{{SOP|statement=When one nation reaches out to another seeking only to help we should not cut off our own arm to refuse it. Any nation that refuses any and all help from Highguard or any of our Empire's nations has severely misunderstood why Loyalty is so important: collaboration is our greater strength as ten nations under one throne.|by=Astrea of the Crystal Skies, Loyalty Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 287-0|when=Spring Equinox 385YE}}
* '''Several assemblies enacted mandates during the Spring Equinox related to Highguard'''
* '''The Highborn have three more opportunities to use their peerless kinship'''
''Eli'', ageing custodian of Walter's Tomb, proposed that the Empire is like a family of ten siblings, each with their own strengths. As the eldest, Highguard's primary role is to support their family, not only in war but in all things. In general, the other nations have at least tolerated the Highborn as they attempt to put this theory into practice. ''Astrea of the Crystal Skies'' in particular praised the virtue of the Highguard aspiration, and the [[Loyalty]] assembly agreed. However not all the nations agreed.

Three nations welcomed the Highborn interest in their [[statement of principle|statements of principle]], and reciprocated. '''[[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_104|Ophelia Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato]]''' of the [[the League|League]], '''[[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_147|Anastasiya Volkov]]''' of [[Varushka]], and '''[[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_76|Tarquinius Ankarien]]''' of [[Urizen]] were each sent out to urge their peers to witness the judgements of the Highborn Assembly by their National assemblies. The priests of these three nations can now respond to a [[mandate]] offered to the Highborn Assembly. They can submit an [[Mandate#Alternative_Mandates|alternative mandate]] before the summit begins - just like a regular alternative mandate - but this mandate will be in their own Assembly and will affect the priests of their own nation. Just as with the Highborn, they may choose to react in support of the issue or in opposition to the issue - as with any alternative mandate - but it will be their own nation that is most directly affected by the outcome - not Highguard. This ability remains available until the start of the Spring Equinox 386YE.

However the League Assembly also chose to reject any Highborn attempts to aid or assist them. '''Sofonisba Amilcara di Sarvos''' [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_19|was chosen]] by the League national assembly to "''urge the people of the League to take pride in our history and refuse all aid from the Highborn''." As a consequence, Highguard cannot choose the League as the target of their [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]]. This leaves five nations who ''can'' be aided - [[Dawn]], [[Imperial Orcs]], [[the Marches]], [[Wintermark]], and [[Varushka]]. [[Urizen]], [[Navarr]], and [[the Brass Coast]] have already received their aid, and [[the League]] refuse to accept it. As [[Full_of_sacred_sound#Partner_of_Greatness|explained last season]], a statement of principle in the Highborn assembly can name a nation to offer aid to, and the priests of that nation can use statements of their own to direct that aid where they think it will be most helpful to them.

<box><big>'''OOC Note on Alternative Mandates'''</big><br>
Highguard has a limited ability to raise an alternative mandate as a response to a mandate in the assembly of another nation. The League, Urizen and Varushka can raise a mandate in their own assembly in response to a mandate in the Highborn Assembly. In all cases the effects of these alternative mandates will be felt by the people of the nation that enacted the mandate.

A priest can urge people to pay attention to a problem or situation affecting another nation - but the response will always be in their own nation. This may lead to priests cooperating with each other, or it may lead to them acting at odds, or it may even mean that the nation responds to a similar problem in their own nation. In most cases it will not make the effects of the original mandate ''more powerful'' - it will simply produce a related response in another nation. As with any alternative mandate, the outcome will be made as clear as possible when the mandate is submitted.</box>

==Eyes of the Basilisk==
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;"><quote by="Barachel of Adina's Charge, General of the Seventh Wave">My soldiers of the Seventh Wave, I am proud of what you have achieved. We are going home, to rearm and resupply. We shall not be idle, for idleness breeds vice. We shall be running a series of exercises to assess the strength and preparations of our shore defences. Any weakness in these defences, or spies compromising our security, shall be found, and in vigilance, for we know the Grendel plot against us.</quote></div>
* '''The Seventh Wave have uncovered a Grendel espionage ring in Necropolis'''
The Seventh Wave have not been in Highguard since 382YE. Since then they have fought the Grendel in [[the Brass Coast]], spent a year fighting to liberate Zenith, and took part in the [[Cost|savage fight]] that ultimately saw [[the Barrens]] liberated from the [[Druj]]. Now they have returned, resupplying and regrouping in [[Necropolis]]. Where another army might relish a chance to be on furlough, the Seventh Wave under '''Barachel of Adina's Charge''' refuse to rest, [[Vigilance|Vigilantly]] [[Army_qualities#Scouting|guarding the gates]] and doing whatever they can to try and secure the Highguard coast against the orcs of the Broken Shore.

Since the [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Grendel_Autumn_383YE|peace treaty]] signed by the Imperial Senate two years ago, the [[Grendel]] have been sending merchants and traders to every port and town along the [[Bay of Catazar]]. Indeed, recent months have seen discussion in the Highborn Assembly about the virtue or lack thereof of [[Shallow_days#Visiting_Armadas|trading with Grendel]] desperate to secure a last few deals before the treaty comes to an end and war inevitably resumes. Their [[navy|navies]] have been sighted visiting every Imperial territory still remaining along the shores of the Bay - [[Madruga]], [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis]], and [[Redoubt]], demonstrating their dominion of the seas.

It may come as no surprise then, to discover that the Highborn soldiers quickly uncover signs that the Grendel are engaging in extensive espionage in Necropolis. They have a long-established espionage ring in the territory, something akin to a [[spy network]] but much more difficult to root out. Any Grendel merchant that has visited the territory in the last two years might well have been a spy, or had a spy among their entourage. Any off-duty sailor visiting [[Necropolis#Sanctuary_Sand|Sanctuary]] or [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]] could have been reporting back to a spy master; any Highborn citizen who spent time in casual conversation with an inquisitive mariner or merchant might have inadvertently revealed useful intelligence to a Grendel spy. Yet the Grendel do not do all their espionage work themselves; far from it. Instead, they are adept at finding citizens of the territory - human as often as not - prepared to occasionally send a little letter about what is going on in Necropolis to a friendly handler in return for money. Lots of money.

If the Grendel had just built a spy network, and had their soldiers sneaking around peering at things, it might be relatively easy to dismantle it. As it is, actually rooting out this poison in the fields of Highguard represents a significantly greater challenge.
===Suck the Poison===
* '''The Highborn National Assembly could use a mandate to empower the Seventh Wave to scour Grendel espionage rings from their territories'''
The main problem is that while there may be a few Highborn who are cynically selling out their own people in return for money, many more are either innocent dupes or are deluding themselves into the belief they are doing the right thing. One way to remove the insidious poison of the Grendel spymasters directly would be for the Highborn assembly to persuade their people they must consider the behaviour of their friends and enemies, and that they can sever their ties with the Grendel without being punished. This would take the form of a mandate.
{{Mandate|mandate=Vigilance teaches us to seek out falsehood, and reveal the truth. We send (named priest) with 50 doses of liao to urge the unconquered and the priests of our nation to help the Seventh Wave root out the poison in our fields.|assembly=Highguard National Assembly}}
If this mandate is enacted, then for the next year the Seventh Wave will be able to root out a Grendel espionage ring from a Highborn territory by issuing the ''Guard the Gates'' order while in that territory. They can only do this if they previously confirmed the presence of the ring or found evidence of its activities in some way - its not enough to suspect one is present or be told that there is espionage taking place. They will need to phrase their orders in such a way as to make it clear they are dealing with the spies and dismantling the Grendel's espionage ring. Only the Seventh Wave can take advantage of this mandate - it requires an army with the [[Army qualities#Scouting|scouting]] quality and it can only be done in a Highborn territory; if soldiers from another nation tried to do it they will inevitably cause extensive disruption. Winding up an espionage ring will create at least one opportunity to gain a piece of potentially useful or interesting information about the Grendel forces and strategies in the Bay of Catazar as part of their spying report, or as part of a skirmish opportunity.

Using the Seventh Wave, however, is by no means the only way the espionage ring in Necropolis might be dealt with. For that matter, the confirmation of spies in Necropolis raises a whole host of other questions.

===Be Alert to Dangers===
* '''It's likely the Grendel have spy networks across the entire Bay of Catazar'''
It seems very unlikely, almost inconceivable, that the Grendel have only established spies in Necropolis. They almost certainly have espionage networks in Madruga, Sarvos, and Redoubt as well, and possibly even [[Tassato]] (it's never been entirely clear how many of the Salt Lords consider Tassato to be on the Bay of Catazar even though the city itself it is some distance inland). There may also be spies in [[Spiral]] that Salt Lord Kaliact is unaware of who may need to be dealt with.

Any Imperial army able to take the ''Guard the Gates'' order can try and find an espionage ring, but as mentioned above it is no simple matter to actually root the Grendel out. Their spies are well embedded in the territory, and there's no guarantee that each nation's people have responded the same way to approaches from "inquisitive orc merchants." Regardless, the first stage to removing the spies is to determine if they are there, and where they are.

While the Highborn National Assembly can use a mandate to support the Seventh Wave, that's only one possible solution to the problem. The [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]] could instruct the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)|Silent Bell]] to look for an espionage ring in a territory, or try and dismantle one that has already been discovered. The [[Shuttered Lantern]] could also be engaged to root out or destroy an espionage ring. The [[Senate]] could instruct the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticator's Office]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] methods of finding and shutting the Grendel spies down. It's not possible to predict what [[opportunity]] would arise, and there are any number of other ways that an espionage ring might be found or disrupted. What is certain however is that none of these methods are likely to be cheaper or easier than that presented to the Highborn.

Of course the Empire might decide that it doesn't matter that the Grendel know what their armies are doing; or that the orcs may be engaged in a complex double-bluff hinting that there are spies where there are not to spread uncertainty, in which case they can ignore the potential spies. Either way the Empire needs to be cautious about how they proceed; simply telling everyone there are Grendel spies and traitors among them is a recipe for people taking the law into their own hands - especially in the League with the [[Don't blame me|inspiration]] of [[Ratibor of Temeschwar|Ratibor]] fresh in peoples' minds. Creating this kind of disruption at exactly the wrong moment is likely playing straight into the Grendel's hands.

==Glare of the Noonday Sun==
* '''The priests of Highguard have taken direct action to destroy the last major Druj miasma pillars left in Zenith'''
* '''The Urizeni of the Hall of the Newborn Sun propose a gift be given to whomever was most responsible for removing the hateful miasma from Zenith'''
* '''The arbiter of the temple spire has asked the Imperial Conclave to determine who is the most suitable recipient of the gift, ideally making it part of their regalia'''
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box>'''<big>Hall of the Newborn Sun</big>'''<br>The [[Some_heavenly_music#Hall_of_the_Newborn_Sun|Hall of the Newborn Sun]] is made up of [[questor|questors]] and [[illuminate|illuminates]] whose [[spire#Temple|temple]] once stood in [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]]. When the [[orc|orcs]] came some of the inhabitants were able to flee with the aid of the [[Highguard|Highborn]] armies but many of the most devout were captured attempting to rescue the centuries of philosophical texts held in the cathedral library. They were left to labour as slaves of the Druj until finally the [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Zenith|desperate rescue]] of 383YE brought them to safety. The reunited priests founded a new spire - the Hall of the Newborn Sun - in the mountains of south-eastern [[Morrow]], not far from [[Morrow#The_Three_Watchers|the Three Watchers]]. Their new arbiter, ''Aphrodias of the Newborn Sun'', recently arranged for one of their grimoires, the [[Some_heavenly_music#Book_of_the_Restless_Spirit|Book of the Restless Spirit]], be included in [[Urizen lore]], eventually securing a [[384YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_27|judgement]] from the [[General Assembly]] that recognised the practice of [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Lucidian_Blasphemy_.2F_Auran_Idolatry|Lucidianism]] was neither heresy nor blasphemy as long as it did not lead to preaching [[Religious_crime#Desecration|desecration]].<br><br>After a great deal of argument, it appears that the majority of the Urizeni living at the Hall of the Newborn Sun have decided to stay in Morrow for the time being, perhaps establishing a new spire in Zenith in a generation or so once the place begins to feel a little cramped. But they still feel a connection to their former home, and keep a close eye on what is going on in the liberated land.</box></div>
With the Granite Pillar needed elsewhere, it fell to '''Isaac of the Silent Tide''', [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]], to deal with the last major [[Druj_miasma#Miasma_Pillars|Druj miasma pillars]] in [[Zenith]]. They gathered a cadre of priests, exorcists, guardians, and cataphracts, and with a sack of [[liao]] proceeded to [[Zenith#Clypion|Clypion]] and destroyed the remaining pillars, completing the work of the [[Senate]] and '''General Asenath'''. As the Summer Solstice approaches, the last of the hateful miasma that still hung in tatters across the territory fades like early morning mist beneath the noonday sun of virtue.

Many Urizeni feel a sense of gratitude to the Highborn - a significant number of them are still alive because the armies of Highborn fought the advancing Druj to allow them time to flee west to Morrow. In particular, the [[questor|questors]] and [[illuminate|illuminates]] of the ''Hall of the Newborn Sun'' in [[Morrow]] have been tracking the destruction of the miasma pillars with interest. Now that they are gone, after almost a month of arguing, they have announced their intention to offer a gift of thanks to those who helped free the territory from the oppressive aura the pillars created. Unfortunately, they cannot reach an accord on who precisely to give it to.

The plan is proposed initially on the assumption it will be given to the Speaker of the Highborn Assembly; there's little doubt that the priests of Highguard have been heavily involved in removing the miasma. Then another faction argues that it is the Highborn generals who should be recognised - their commitment to freeing the people of Zenith was made very clear on numerous occasions. A third, roughly equivalent faction instead agree with the National Assembly [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_6|judgement]] that it was actually the Courage of the people of Urizen, and '''Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer''' especially, that ultimately allowed the Druj to be defeated; without that first victory there would have been no opportunity to remove the miasma at all. Others point to the general of the [[Citadel Guard]], or to the League generals whose timely aid bolstered the armies enough to win the war.

In the end, [[arbiter]] ''Aphrodias of the Newborn Sun'' steps in and puts an end to the argument. It's clear that everyone is in agreement that ''someone'' should be recognised for the fact the soul- and thought-destroying miasma is gone. Rather than split the temple, they call on the [[Conclave]] to decide exactly who gets that gift of recognition. A solution, it must be said, that makes everyone equally unhappy, and perhaps demonstrates why Aphrodias is able to keep their position as arbiter of a particularly argumentative spire.

The gift has been handed to the civil service, and its disposition is left to the [[declaration]] of [[Endowment]]. The Halls of the Newborn Sun ask that if at all possible the item be made ''regalia'' of an [[Imperial title]] rather than simply bestowed on an individual. They have suggested Speaker of the Highborn Assembly, or any of the Generals who fought in Zenith, but they understand the [[Net of the Heavens]] enough to know that the obvious person taking action is not always the person most instrumental in making that action take place. As such, if the gift is endowed on a citizen who does not have a title, or whose title is incidental to their role in helping remove the miasma from Zenith, then they will understand. They only ask that the declaration of Endowment make clear ''why'' their gift is being bestowed on the recipient. There is no immediate rush - the gift will remain in the hands of the civil service until it is endowed, or until the Conclave reject the gift (with a suitably worded Endowment or Concord).

It seems that the gift they are delivering is a rare piece of Urizen and Highborn history - one of the original three [[Atun's Ring|Atun's Rings]] given by the [[magister|magisters]] of Highguard to the [[mage|mages]] of Urizen during the earliest years of relations between the two nations developing diplomatically.

==A Sacred City==
{{SOP|statement=We show our virtue through deeds, not folly. The piling of stone in Bastion may suit the whims of Highguard, but we shall not let our own Prosperity or Pride suffer for its execution. We urge citizens of the League not to assist in the aggrandisement of the White City, except when through fair trade their own Prosperity might grow.|by=Fabio Costas de Sarvos|vote=Greater Majority 306-61|when=Spring Equinox 385YE}}
* '''The grand project to create a city dedicated to the Imperial interpretation of the Way to eclipse Timoj is still being discussed'''
* '''An inspirational design has not been settled on; the project cannot yet be commissioned'''
* '''The League National Assembly criticises the scheme, and may urge their people to have nothing to do with it'''
Following the [[appraisal]] commissioned during the Winter Solstice, a plan to [[Blood will thicken|build a wonder of the world]] at [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City|Bastion]] was laid out. Before any work can begin, an inspiration of appropriate [[Blood_will_thicken#Scale_and_Grandeur|scale and grandeur]] is required. The virtuous [[Blood_will_thicken#A_Contest_of_Imagination|contest]] proposed by the Highborn [[chapter]] of ''Pharos' Water'' is ongoing; the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]] has not yet issued a [[statement of principle]] indicating the design they think should serve as the basis for the grand project to rebuild Bastion as a beacon for the Imperial philosophy of the Way.

Not everyone, however, has welcomed the appraisal and discussion about this sacred city. The League National Assembly supported a statement of principle raised by '''Fabio Costas de Sarvos''', denouncing the entire scheme as unvirtuous and urging citizens of the League not to assist in the aggrandisement of the White City.
{{Mandate|mandate=This plan to aggrandize Bastion and the priests of Highguard is folly, and we will not let our Prosperity and Pride suffer for its execution. We send (named priest) with 25 liao to urge all citizens of the League to focus their attention on their own cities, not those of the Highborn.|assembly=League National Assembly}}
If this mandate were enacted, it would prevent any aid from the League towards the holy city in Bastion. Furthermore no statements of principle calling on the League to support building efforts outside of their own cities would result in an [[opportunity]] for at least the next year.

'''Dinah of Jeremiah's Welcome''' has offered an alternate mandate, using the [[Full_of_sacred_sound#Partner_of_Greatness|Partners of Greatness]] power, to the Highguard National Assembly.

{{Mandate|mandate=The Assembly of the League name our efforts to exalt Bastion to be ‘folly’, as if the construction of splendid cities were not the very deed their nation is founded on. Let us respond to this insult with Pride and demonstrate what we can do without the League's aid. We send {named priest} with 25 doses of liao to remind our citizens why the founders of the League approached Bastion to discuss the White City's place in their nation, and why we declined.|assembly=Highborn National Assembly}}

If enacted this mandate would stop any work being done on the grand project of the Way if the design chosen was submitted by a citizen of the League.

==Virtue and Reward==
{{SOP|statement=Remodelling Bastion with a Grand Inspiration of the Way will be the work of ages and a legacy of our Empire. The sizeable resource investment required (1000 wains of white granite) means a collective effort will be required. We propose that the virtue fund is utilised to provide some of this and bring the project to a swifter completion. The project is not yet commissioned, but for something of this scale and obvious virtue Wisdom dictates we start preparing now.|by=Pontus Figures, Judgement of Rewarding|vote= 740-369|when=Spring Equinox 385YE}}
* '''The Constitutional Court has reviewed the status of titles that can remove money automatically from the Virtue Fund and identified an error'''
* '''The Seer of the Gateway, the Imperial Chaplain Consular, and the High Exorcist will lose their power to withdraw funds'''
* '''Administrative motions have been raised for the Saturday evening Senate Session to determine if the removed power will be replaced with a stipend'''
* '''The General Assembly, and the assemblies responsible for each title, may be able to secure additional support for these titles with statements of principle'''
On the subject of the sacred city... during the Spring Equinox '''Pontius Figures''' of the Words, Numbers, Figures, and Knotes organisation in [[Dawn]] raised a judgement of [[rewarding]] calling for a "''sizeable resource investment''" and a "''collective effort''" to provide the [[white granite]] needed. They proposed that the ''Virtue Fund'' be used to provide some of the money needed to buy resources, even though the project has not yet been commissioned. Indeed, they finished by suggesting that "''Wisdom dictates we start preparing now''" and there are several priests who agree with them. There's still [[Blood_will_thicken#No_Price_Is_Too_High|plenty of opportunity]] for individual National Assemblies to urge their nations to support the project if they wish, but it might not be impossible to arrange something with regard to the virtue fund that goes beyond a simple Rewarding. Before such a thing could happen, though, a well-worded statement of principle in the General Assembly that achieved a [[greater majority]] would be required.
<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Words in the Head.jpg|align=left|caption=Thoughts and feelings are never virtuous or vile. It is only the actions that you undertake that demonstrate your worth.|width=600}}</div>
The rewarding does, however, focus the attention of the civil service to the Virtue Fund. [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue.27s_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]], the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|prognosticator]] who arranged the [[appraisal]] that led to the proposal of the Sacred City has been following discussions around the scheme with particular interest. While reviewing Imperial Synod records however, she noticed something that struck her as odd, and raised it with her superiors. Specifically, the fact that the [[Senate]] has given several [[Imperial title|Imperial titles]] the ability to automatically take money from the virtue fund through judgements of Rewarding that cannot be opposed. Is this constitutional, she innocently asks?

After weeks of argument, the Constitutional Court has been forced to admit that it is simply ''not'' constitutional on any level. Just as the Senate cannot create a title with votes in the Imperial Synod that is appointed by any house other than the Imperial Synod, so it was wrong for them to allow the Senate to give ''any'' Imperial title the ability to simply take funds from the Virtue Fund without the approval of the Imperial Synod. Those funds are the property of the Imperial Synod, the Senate cannot access them in this way. If the Senate wishes to reward a title with funds, they must do it from the [[Imperial treasury]] via a [[New_Imperial_titles#Stipend|stipend]], not take it from the resources of another house. The Court acknowledge their error, and apologise for not identifying this at the time and preventing it then.

The titles affected are the [[Seer of the Gateway#Withdraw Funds|Seer of the Gateway]] (5 Thrones), the [[Chaplain Consular#WithdrawFunds|Imperial Chaplain Consular]] (5 Thrones), and the [[High Exorcist#Withdraw Funds|High Exorcist]] (7 Thrones). Regardless of the amounts involved, it is simply not legal for the Imperial Senate to give an Imperial title the ability to take someone else's property in this way without any possibility for them to gainsay the decision. This situation cannot continue, and these power to ''Withdraw Funds'' must be stripped from the titles, but they are keen that the titles involved not be "punished" for the Court's failure.

As such the civil service will be raising three [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions|administrative motions]] to amend each of the titles, allowing the Senate to vote on whether to provide them with a stipend following the normal rules for providing funding. If the Senate votes against the motion, the title receives nothing. If they vote in favour, they will have the usual ability to vote on how large the stipend should be. To give the citizens involved the opportunity to speak to their Senators and rally support from their assemblies, the Constitutional Court has requested that the administrative motions take place at the start of the Saturday evening session of the Senate. The [[Speaker_for_the_Senate|Office of the Speaker]] - the Civil Servants who support the Senate - has suggested that the three affected title holders could come to speak with them at [[Anvil#The Hub|the Hub]] on Friday evening to sort out how best to proceed and to offer advice or guidance as needed.

It is also possible that the Imperial Synod may choose to step in, and call for the people of the Empire to help support these titles. Suitably worded statements of principle that achieve a greater majority may lead to an [[opportunity]] to support one or more of the titles. This will be most likely if the Statement is raised in the General Assembly, but the Assembly of Nine might also be able to secure some support for the Seer of the Gateway and the High Exorcist, while the Assembly of the Way might be able to secure support for the Imperial Chaplain Consular. It's unlikely that a statement in a National or Virtue assembly would create a response ''unless'' the wording of the statement was clear about how the duties of the title supported the goals of the people of that nation, or of that virtue. It's also worth noting that there is nothing to stop anyone calling for support for one or more of these titles even though the Senate has agreed to provide them a stipend.

Regardless of what happens, the three titles will ''not'' be able to use the withdraw funds power going forward, and the Constitutional Court are clear they will allow no future titles to be granted the ability to take funds from the Synod. By extension, they would also not approve a title that could take mana from the Conclave font.
===OOC Design===
Following the last event we noticed there was a significant error on our part in allowing the Imperial Senate to give to titles the power to take money from the Virtue fund. Rather than fund these titles with the money they control, the Imperial treasury, the Senate was funding the titles with money they categorically do not control, the Virtue fund. It's a crucial part of our game that we put key limits in place on what the Imperial Senate can and cannot do, otherwise as the most powerful body in the game, there is a risk that all power ends up in the hands of senators. The idea that the Senate can give out the funds allocated to other houses is very bad for the game - so in-character it is completely unconstitutional and illegal for them to do that.

While we appreciate that the title holders will be disappointed to lose their access to the Virtue fund, it is important to be clear that that power should never have been allowed in the first place. It is fine that they have enjoyed the benefits for some time, the actual title holders have done nothing wrong. This is our error, not theirs - however we can't keep letting these tiles remove significant amounts of money from the Virtue fund without the approval of the Synod. The point of the virtue fund is for priests to argue over the disposition of funds, having someone able to remove the money without that element goes completely contrary to the game design.

We've presented the update here as part of a wind of fortune, but we want to be clear that this is a game update that we've made for OOC reasons around game design, and ongoing management of the game. We've included it as part of this wind of fortune because we want to provide in-character encouragement for the title holders to petition the Senate for the support the Senate indicated they should be getting and to create an opportunity for them to encourage the Imperial Synod to push for these titles to get additional support.

Obviously any Imperial priest can submit a judgement of rewarding, asking the Imperial Synod to authorise a disbursement from the Virtue fund for one or all of these titles. There is absolutely no problem with these titles being granted money from the Virtue fund by the Imperial Synod - but that has to be a decision the Synod takes each time, it cannot be something that Senate determines happens automatically.

==Further Reading==
* [[Pieces missing everywhere]] - 385YE Spring wind of fortune dealing with Highguard and response to their new direction
* [[Blood will thicken]] - 385YE Spring wind of fortune dealing with the appraisal leading to the sacred city proposal
* [[Full of sacred sound]] - 384YE Winter wind of fortune talking out the new abilities of the Highborn assembly

<ic>Captain Saul stared at the report with a sinking feeling. "There's no possibility this is a mistake?" he queried.

"I'm afraid not sir," said Ruth replied shaking her head. "All the evidence points to this. It's well hidden - we'd never have found the evidence if we hadn't spent the season scouting the area. And it's well-established, I dread to think how long it's been there but it's at least two years. We don't know exactly how they've done it, but they've definitely got some kind of well-organised espionage ring based here in Necropolis."

"How is that different to a spy network?" Saul queried. The report laid everything out in excruciating detail but he wanted to check his understanding before he reported to General Barachel.

"It's not one single location. We can't just find their headquarters and roll it up. This is a network of agents distributed across the territory. It will be much harder to root out the poison, assuming we even can. With a network, you can track the movements of scouts and other soldiers to work out where it's based from. They aren't using military scouts to operate this network, they're using merchants and money to get their information. It's probably more expensive but it's much more subtle and it'll be harder to counter."

Next he asked how long it had been happening to which she shook her head. "We can't be certain at this point," she caveated, "but we think that all things considered it ''probably'' started after the peace treaty was signed. It would be incredibly hard for them to send merchants to the Empire looking to buy information while we're at war with them, but we can't rule out that they've had agents - knowing or unknowing - in Necropolis for a long time."

"We let our guard down I suppose..." Saul mused. "Peace has always has a price, Emperor James taught us that," he said wistfully. He contemplated the report and tried to think what questions the general was going to throw at him. "How come we don't do this?" he asked, almost rhetorically.

Ruth shrugged. "Maybe the Grendel are just a lot more obsessed with spying on their enemies than we are Captain?" she guessed.</ic>

Four strong winds

2026-04-13T22:10:14Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:383YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"Have you heard the news?" Anwar i Calazar i Erigo bounced into the room, eager to share the excitement with his beloved.

"Have I ever! It's a bloody outrage. What were they thinking!"

"Wha... What?" Anwar stared at his husband and tried to make sense of it. "They're in love. They're going to get married. It's great news!" he protested.

"Oh... ''that'' news. Right yes. I was talking about the news from Anvil. The money priests have said raiding and plundering are unvirtuous."

"Wha... what? They've said what?" Anwar was vaguely aware that his mouth was still hanging open. He couldn't make sense of what Felio was saying but he shut his mouth to avoid looking like a landed fish.

"You heard me - apparently being a corsair, sailing the seas for a living, attacking our enemies, seizing their things. It's unvirtuous. Synod says so."

"They said the corsairs were unvirtuous?" Felio always liked to exaggerate these things, take the worst possible interpretation and get riled up about it.

"Nothing like that. No, they said the Lasambrians were unvirtuous... for taking and not earning... or something. Hang on... I've got it written down here somewhere." Felio turned away and started rifling through the papers on the nearby table.

"Well that's different then! The Lasambrians have been our enemies for centuries. It makes sense that the things they do are unvirtuous."

Felio abandoned the search and turned back to face Anwar with a querying look on his face. "Anwar - what is it the Marchers say? The easiest lie is the one you tell yourself. We raid the Grendel, the Lasambrians raid us. If it's unvirtuous for the Lasambrians to raid us - how can it ''possibly'' be virtuous for us to raid them?"

It was a good point, and Anwar wasn't sure what to make of it. Theft was unvirtuous, everyone knew that. But he'd never considered that that applied to raiding. That seemed different somehow. But what if it wasn't? He didn't like to think about what that meant for folks like Felio and himself who made their living as corsairs.

Felio interrupted his thoughts before they could set sail. "I don't know what we're going to do about it" At that Anwar beamed, answers were something he was good at.

"I do." he said emphatically. "We'll set sail on the evening tide, we'll find the biggest, richest Grendel ship we can find it, kill their crew, free their slaves, and plunder their wealth. This is a summer storm. By the time we get back to port it will have blown out. The priests will have it all sorted."

"And if they haven't?" Felio demanded.

Anwar looked troubled again. He had no answer to that.
</ic>
==Overview==
At the Spring Equinox the Freeborn National Assembly passed clear statements on the future of the [[prosperity]] of the Brass Coast. Despite the troubles blighting the coast with the invasions by the Jotun and the Grendel, the Assembly are looking to the future by encouraging the building of a [[mithril]] exchange in [[Kahraman]] and a [[What_will_be,_was_not#The_House_of_Guerra|hostelry]] in [[Madruga]]. As usual, all the [[statement of principle|statements]] that achieved a [[Judgement#Greater_Majority|greater majority]] were disseminated throughout the territories of the Brass Coast, from Sobral to Mora, to Siroc and Damata. Despite the troubles blighting the Brass Coast, with barbarians threatening every territory except Madruga, the Freeborn continue to look to the future, refusing to be bowed by orc barbarians.

The words of the Synod and the Senate have created a wealth of opportunities. A mithril exchange that may help raise the materials to restore the Burning Falcon; proposals by the talented architect Angelina i Duarte i Riqueza to strengthen Segura; an offer to pay a bounty to any Imperial who will come to fight the Lasambrian Jotun; the chance to build a salvage port in Madruga; of arguments over the idea of theft versus the idea of taking from a defeated foe; and of a chance to secure the Broken Shore Bounty.

If nothing else, the people of the Brass Coast will be busy during the Summer Solstice...
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Efinia i Maristella i Riqueza, Freeborn Assembly, Spring 383YE, Upheld (176 - 0 Greater Majority).">The Freeborn national assembly believe it is a prosperous act to seek out the opportunity to build a mithril exchange in Kahraman.</quote></div>

==Kahraman==
* '''An opportunity to build a mithril ministry in Kahraman exists'''
Following the successful [[commission]] and construction of the Cinderpath Exchange in [[Casinea]], the attention of the Freeborn has turned to the rich hills of [[Kahraman#Serra_Briante|Serra Briante]] and [[Kahraman#Serra_Damata|Serra Damata]]. The peaks are already the site of both the [[Great Mine of Briante]] and the [[Damatian Cliffs]], and are dotted with smaller [[mine|mines]]. The mountains are abundant with [[Materials#Metals|precious metals]], and it is not unusual that news of a miner striking a thin vein of [[mithril]] would reach the town of Damata.

When the first rumblings around the [[Leaves_and_fruit#The_Cinderpath_Exchange|Cinderpath Exchange]] began among the [[Highguard|Highborn]], there were some in the Brass Coast who immediately saw an opportunity. The ''i Liscano'' are a small family these days, but they have illustrious roots - their ancestors were among the first trailblazers to try and settle in Kahraman. Their parador stands in a plum location in the western [[Kahraman#Jade_Range|Jade Range]] alongside one of the major roads leading down toward Segura and Madruga, perfectly positioned to encourage miners fresh from the mountains to trade their valuable ore in return not only for excellent prices but also an opportunity to rest in finely appointed surroundings.

Now, with the backing of the National Assembly, the i Liscano have something concrete to offer the people of the Brass Coast.

===The Parador of Dust===
* '''Refurbishing the Parador of Dust would cost 16 white granite, 32 crowns and a senate motion, or wayleave'''
The designs of the [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership#Dhomiro|dhomiro]] of the Liscano family, '''Leticia i Liscano i Guerra''', artfully weave the dual nature of such a construction, taking into account the necessity for a central storage warehouse, along with sufficiently comfortable rooms to entice traders and merchants. By leaning into, and drawing inspiration from, the almost stark nature of the warehouse, Leticia has made the surrounding [[The_Brass_Coast_economic_interests#Paradors|parador]] a thing of beauty in comparison.
<table style="width:400px; float: right;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total Money Spent</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>100 crowns</td><td>5 wains mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>196 crowns</td><td>9 wains mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>277 crowns</td><td>12 wains mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>335 crowns</td><td>14 wains mithril</td></tr>
<tr><td>365 crowns</td><td>15 wains mithril</td></tr>
</table>
The Parador of Dust would function just like the [[Cinderpath Custodian|Cinderpath Exchange]], it would allow quarry and mine owners to bring their mithril Bourse notes here and exchange them for an honest price. Those using the exchange would be secure in the knowledge that not only were they enriching themselves, and receiving a just reward for their [[Prosperity]], by selling to their countryfolk they would know that the mithril would go towards supporting the Brass Coast. The ministry would need an Imperial title to oversee it - the ''Mistress of the Dust Parador'' perhaps - appointed annually by Bourse vote of those Freeborn citizens who own a [[fleet]]. In addition to having custodianship of the ministry, the Liscano family who have proposed the title suggest that the responsibilities of the title holder include securing more mithril for the Brass Coast, explicitly for the betterment of the nation.

Obviously, as with similar proposed commissions such as the [[Moving_mountains_is_no_easy_task#The_Cinderpath_Exchange|Cinderpath Exchange]] or the [[The_honey_offering#Proposal:_Iron_Roundtower|Iron Roundtower]] in [[Varushka]], construction of the Parador of Dust would have a negative impact on the amount of mithril being offered for sale on the public auction at Anvil each summit.

<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Rhaego i Zemress, Freeborn Assembly, Spring 383YE, Upheld (180 - 0 Greater Majority).">We the Freeborn of Segura will not yield our home. We look to the future and the many fruits it shall yield. We summon an architect of great virtue to spearhead the repair and prosperous rejuvenation of Segura. Prosperity provides.</quote></div>

==Segura==
* '''An architect has answered the Freeborn National Assembly's call for assistance'''
Angelina i Duarte i Riqueza is an architect who trained with the renowned Cassia i Remoraz i Erigo - the same woman who helped restore the [[Segura#The_Towers_of_Anduz|Towers of Anduz]] after the liberation of Segura. Angelina has returned to her family in the town of [[Segura#Anozel|Anozel]], and has immediately begun drafting up plans and suggestions for ways to harness the potential of [[Segura]]. These plans include the [[fortification|fortifying]] of [[Segura#Burnish|Burnish]]. She also has a plan to reignite the Zemress islanders interest in the building of the [[#Iron Qanat(Reprise)|Iron Qanat]].

Obviously, Angelina is concerned about the presence of the Lasambrian Jotun - as are all the citizens of Segura. The recent [[Concede_territory_of_Segura_to_Lasambrian_Jotun|unanimous decision]] of the Imperial senate ''not'' to cede Segura to the orcs, however, has filled her with confidence that the Empire will soon drive the barbarians back again. She clearly agrees with the national Assembly that the Freeborn should be looking to the future, not fearing the present.
===The Zeinodin Caravanserai===
* '''Once Anduz is freed, a fortified caravanserai could be constructed in the centre of the region'''
* '''The caravanserai would require a senate motion and cost 75 wains of white granite and 150 crowns'''
{{CaptionedImage|file=Zeinodin Caravanserai.jpg|align=right|width=350|caption=This opportunity is inspired by the breathtaking architecture<br>of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zein-o-din_Caravanserai Zein-o-din Caravanserai] found in Yazd, Iran.}}
Angelina looks first to the defence of the territory. She argues that the construction of a [[fortification]] is crucial to ensure the effective defence of Segura. She draws inspiration from the plans of the Imperatrix to construct a wall of fortifications across the Bay of Catazar. Once complete these fortresses will serve a vital role in keeping the [[Grendel]] at bay. But the same logic applies to Segura - which is threatened by the Jotun. A fortification built here would have been blunted the Jotun attack and helped to turn the Lasambrians back.

It would be folly to attempt to build a fortification now, while the Jotun contest the land. It would be wonderful to have a fortification in the territory, bolstering the defenders, but it would take up to a year to build and if the Jotun managed to conquer it before it was complete, then it would be turned against the Empire. Moreover - a fortification by itself would be useful, but it would be much more useful still if Imperial mercenaries were encouraged to defend it!

Thus Angelina has created plans to construct a massive fortification, a beautiful caravanserai at the important town of Zeinodin. The caravanserai would serve as a focus for the Towers of Anduz, helping to restore them quickly to their former glory - but its primary function would be to provide defence to the region and by extension the whole territory.

Angelina's genius though is in linking the fortification to the Towers of Anduz, and the constant stream of traders who ply their wares along the roads the towers protect. These traders would be only too willing to hire guards from the caravanserai to escort them on the dangerous roads - so any military unit that was assigned to defend the region would be paid handsomely for the work.

Once complete any starting military unit assigned to defend the caravanserai would gain 8 random resources. Upgraded military units would gain proportionately more.

===Iron Qanat (Reprise)===
* '''The statement has raised enough support that the Zemress islanders have suggested building the Iron Qanat again'''
* '''The Iron Qanat would cost 50 weirwood, 100 crowns and would require a senate motion'''
The Zemress islanders, having been settled in [[Segura]] for a year, have looked again to the possibility of improving the fertility of Sobral Grasses. Inspired by the words of ''Rhaego i Zemress'' they offer the suggestion, once again, of a system of reinforced irrigation ditches which they claim will transform the sandy soils of the Grasses into productive farmland that rivals the fertile lands of the Marchers to the north. A [[great work]] that the islanders have proposed to call the Iron Qanat. The Iron Qanat is an ambitious design that would provide water to every farm in the region allowing the Islanders farms to produce much more than they can possibly consume themselves.

Once complete, it would be able to supply the Freeborn armies ensuring their supply was guaranteed. The Iron Qanat would cause an immediate increase in the Freeborn capacity to support military forces, allowing them to support one more army or navy than they can [[Commission#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces|currently]] do.

<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Hembeneth i Guerra, Freeborn Assembly, Spring 383YE, Upheld (160 - 0 Greater Majority).">The Zemress Islanders' prosperity is unquestioned and exemplary. We want to see the wider Brass Coast learn from them to strengthen and enhance national identity and virtue. We invite those whose farms are currently under the yoke of the Lasambrian occupation to travel to other territories in the meantime so their talent and prosperity doesn't go to waste. We invite the Zemress islanders to help us to understand and integrate more fully their ways, traditions, and methods.</quote></div>

===Live free===
* '''The Senate unanimous rejection of the motion to give up any Brass Coast land to the Jotun has been well received'''
* '''There is some confusion over the judgement concerning the Zemress Islanders' farms, which are not currently occupied by the Jotun'''

The core nature of the Freeborn is a strong desire to live free, to be able to experience life fully. When the people of Zemress fled their island, they did so because a few thousand people had literally no chance of holding off the Grendel Empire. Now that they enjoy the safety of the Empire however, now that they can face their enemies on equal terms, they are considerably more ready for the fight. None among them has any interest in fleeing their new lands - to the contrary they are keen to do what they can to support the effort against the invaders.

Their spirits have been bolstered by the unanimous rejection of the Senate motion contemplating ceding land to the Jotun in exchange for peace. There was some concern at first, but once the purpose of the gesture became clear it has served to rally people on the Coast including the Islanders. However the Islanders are somewhat confused by the wording of Hembeneth's judgement which strongly implies that large numbers of them are labouring as thralls for the Jotun. The lands they have been given are in Yellow Chase and the Sobral Grasses, the regions the Jotun have conquered are Anduzjasse and parts of Anozeseri. So there are no Islanders enslaved by the Lasambrians.

The judgement does produce a strong positive effect though, the Islanders are keen to stress to everyone that they see themselves as part of the Brass Coast now. They have their own unique history and heritage, and they remain fiercely proud of that, but they view themselves as an integral part of the Freeborn family. As such they feel the best way to demonstrate, not just that they are here to stay, but that they are fully part of the Coast, is to contribute to the defence of their new homeland. The Islanders have little in the way of fighting strength, but they are wealthy... The Empire did such a phenomenal job of evacuating them, that they were able to bring all their worldly possessions, including their herds of animals, and the like with them.

{{Mandate|mandate=It is better to live free than to die, or serve as a thrall. We send {''named priest''} with 50 doses of liao to convince the people of the Coast to dig deep and support the defence of the Brass Coast. Let us commit every coin to the cause of our freedom!|assembly=Freeborn National Assembly}}

The Zemress Islanders and other Freeborn families propose to pay for Imperial military units to come and fight in the defence of the Coast. They have talked to the civil service, and they have confirmed that they could support the Islanders' intent and the Islanders and others have committed to covering the costs. If the above mandate were passed then every military unit that supported an army fighting in Segura would receive payment provided by the Islanders - a sum of 5 crowns for a starting military unit, proportionally more for an upgraded or enchanted unit.

This would be in addition to any guerdon allocated by the [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]]. There is a little concern that the Quartermaster might attempt to duck his responsibilities and not give the guerdon to any armies fighting in Segura this season and just let the Islanders cover the costs. But most people are content that the clear will of the Senate expressed by their unanimous motion ensures that they won't be cheated in this way.

<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Franco i Erigo, Freeborn Assembly, Spring 383YE, Upheld (160 - 0 Greater Majority).">To encourage citizens of the Brass Coast to exercise their prosperity by exploring the waters of the Bay of Catazar for salvageable weirwood.</quote></div>
==The Bay of Catazar==
* '''The Freeborn National Assembly suggested that the citizens of the Brass Coast could try to find salvageable weirwood'''
* '''A corsair has provided an alternative'''
The statement of principle raised by ''Franco i Erigo'' caused some confusion amongst the Freeborn when it was first distributed. The people of the Brass Coast are already doing everything currently in their power to search the Bay of Catazar for any valuable salvage. Such finds are not common and rarely include usable supplies of weirwood, but it is not impossible. '''Isidore i Boyaga i Erigo''', renowned [[corsair]], returns to harbour in [[Madruga#Free_Landing|Free Landing]] just long enough to offer a suggestion before returning once again to prowl the bay.

Isidore's plan centres on the island of Peredio, which lies far to the east of [[Madruga#Atalaya|Atalaya]] and the Shining Pillar, out where Madruga merges into the open sea. Isidore claims the island contains a potent Spring [[regio]], and while regularly wracked with deadly storms, it is perfectly positioned to allow Freeborn corsairs to strike at the Grendel. Fully one third of the island is taken up by a natural harbour, which could be exploited and reinforced to allow for more ships to be able to moor there.
<table style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total Money Spent</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>6 crowns</td><td>12 random ingots or measures</td></tr>
<tr><td>13 crowns </td><td>20 random ingots or measures</td></tr>
<tr><td>20 crowns</td><td>28 random ingots or measures</td></tr>
<tr><td>37 crowns</td><td>35 random ingots or measures,<br>1 wain of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>55 crowns</td><td>40 random ingots or measures,<br>2 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
</table>
===Haven of Peredio===
* '''Building the Haven of Peredio would require a senate motion and cost 25 wains of weirwood and 50 crowns'''
By constructing a haven on Peredio the Senate could allow passing vessels to drop off any valuable salvage that they have managed to recover while sailing the seas. The site already sees a surprisingly large amount of driftwood and other salvage washing up on the shore - perhaps as a result of the influence of the Spring regio. A haven constructed here could gather that up and ensure that those who found it obtained a good price for their flotsam and jetsam.

Grendel ships are also known to transport small amounts of weirwood - the orcs have a great hunger for the material while possessing only a limited supply of their own (a supply the Empire has recently interrupted with their raid against the island of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Balsagoth|Balsagoth]]). By providing a convenient haven for Grendel-hunting corsairs, the Haven of Peredio would be the ideal place for any privateers who have captured supplies of Grendel weirwood to offload their bounty.

<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Cesare Enzo di Trivento, Prosperity Assembly, Spring 383YE, Upheld (238 - 0 Greater Majority).">Prosperity teaches us that we earn the fruits of our labour and despise the thieving bandit. The Lasambrian orcs have taken, not earned. They have perverted the virtue of Prosperity, which they claim to respect. We must use the tools available to us to show them the error of their ways.</quote></div>

==Perversion of Prosperity==
* '''The Virtue Assembly of Prosperity passed a statement which calls into question some of the actions of the Freeborn'''
Not all statements of principle that were spread amongst the territories of the Brass Coast came from the Freeborn National Assembly, [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_82|one came from the Virtue Assembly of Prosperity]]. ''Cesare Enzo di Trivento's'' statement, which passed without opposition, has proven to be a contentious one. The suggestion that by looting and plundering the Lasambrians pervert the virtue of [[Prosperity]] is not taken well by the [[corsair|corsairs]] of the nation. Indeed, the [[Red Wind Corsairs]] have provided much in the way of wealth for the nation, going someway towards funding the raising of the destroyed [[The_Brass_Coast_military_concerns#The_Freeborn_Storm_.28Destroyed.29|Freeborn Storm]]. A few people attempt to make sophisticated moral distinctions between the actions of the Lasambrians and those of the corsairs but they are not widely accepted. Although most people accept that the Assembly probably didn't mean it that way, they claim the only reasonable interpretation of the words is that privateering isn't virtuous.

===Despise the thieving bandit===
* '''The Freeborn National Assembly could take the Prosperity Assembly's message to heart, and encourage corsairs to stop privateering'''
* '''This mandate, if passed, will cause all fleets engaging in privateering to suffer a loss equivalent to one rank'''
Though the statement mostly has naysayers amongst the Freeborn there are some who support it. '''Victor i Zancho i Guerra''', [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership#Dhomiro|dhomiro]] of the Zancho family, has long called for the Brass Coast to focus on trade. He believes that by encouraging the corsairs away from privateering they will instead focus on [[Fleet#Trade|trading]] with foreign nations, which could work towards theoretically increasing the standing of the Brass Coast, and the Empire, in that nation. Indeed, as shown with the situation in [[Axos]], there is a lot that can be achieved when traders work together.
{{Mandate|mandate=We must not allow ourselves to act as lazy wastrels, the Freeborn are as prosperous as anyone alive. We send {''named priest''} with 25 doses of liao to encourage the Freeborn captains to turn away from privateering and look for more honest returns.|assembly=Freeborn National Assembly}}

If this mandate were passed then all fleets engaged in privateering would suffer a loss equivalent to one rank for ''at least'' the next two seasons. In practical terms any military action that was considered as privateering in terms of providing votes towards the Broken Shore Bounty would be affected by the mandate.

===Claim the just rewards===
* '''Alternatively the Freeborn National Assembly could make clear that the work that goes in to privateering is ''still work'' and encourage corsairs to privateer'''
* '''This mandate, if passed, will cause all fleets not engaging in privateering to suffer a loss equivalent to one rank'''
For each of those that support the original statement there are at least ten that cry against it. One such is '''Chiara i Erigo''', a [[hakima]] of [[Kahraman]]. She argues that turning away from privateering, from what makes so many of the Freeborn feel Freeborn, could throw the nation into disarray. Her suggestion is to instead celebrate the actions that have led the Brass Coast to where they are now. It is right for the Freeborn to be [[Army_qualities#Daring|daring]].
{{Mandate|mandate=We must never shy away from what makes us who we are. We send {''named priest''} with 100 doses of liao to encourage the corsairs to engage in privateering.|assembly=Freeborn National Assembly}}

Such a mandate directly impacts any Brass Coast fleet that engages in [[Fleet#Trade|trade]], causing them to lose the equivalent of one rank of production for ''at least'' the next two seasons. It would also mean that every captain on the Coast would redouble their efforts to show that privateering is not just daring and dangerous but bloody hard work! People are still fired up by the raids on the Grendel territories, with this kind of encouragement another opportunity like that would be simply ''bound'' to turn up soon.

===Competing Mandates===
These two mandates are [[Mandate#Competing_Mandates|in competition with each other]]. If both were raised, the one that achieved the highest margin would be the one that was enacted.
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Violante i Abasolo i Riqueza, Freeborn Assembly, Spring 383YE, Upheld (216 - 0 Greater Majority).">The Freeborn national assembly are gladdened by the opportunity to build the House of Guerra. We strongly support what it stands for and wish to see this institution constructed upon our shores. We entreat the civil service to extend the opportunity for a season or two so that we may have time to gather the resources once we are not as pressed in respect to matters of national security.</quote></div>

==The House of Guerra (Reprise)==
* '''The statement of principle supporting what the House of Guerra stands for is met with great interest'''
* '''The renewed wave of interest has increased the amount of time before the opportunity lapses'''
* '''The information presented [[What_will_be,_was_not#The_House_of_Guerra|previously]] is included again for completeness'''
<table style="width:400px; float: right; margin-left: 1em; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total Money Spent</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 crowns</td><td>6 liao</td></tr>
<tr><td>17 crowns</td><td>12 liao</td></tr>
<tr><td>34 crowns</td><td>18 liao</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 crowns</td><td>24 liao</td></tr>
</table>
The judgement entreating the civil service to extend the opportunity to construct the House of Guerra is met with considerable confusion. The civil service confirm that they don't create or control opportunities. Their role is collect information regarding them and distribute that to the relevant audience. They have no power of over such matters - that is down to the motivation of the people involved or the circumstances that led to the opportunity being identified. The only way to extend an opportunity is to address the situation directly.

Furthermore, the civil service have checked and rechecked the situation and they are as certain as they can be that the opportunity to create the House of Guerra is still available if the Imperial Senate wishes to take advantage of it. The [[Zemress#The_Seminary_of_Zemress|Seminary]] must be completed soon - that is true - but the House of Guerra is a separate commission albeit one intended to be built nearby.

The inspiration to create the House of Guerra originally came from a judgement passed by Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra urging the people of the Brass Coast to take Pride in the ties that bind them together, to support those who find themselves in need of family. People are delighted to know that there is interest in the seminary and pleased to hear that the Freeborn Assembly backs the construction! The idea was that alongside the [[Construct_Zemress_seminary|Zemress seminary]] in [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]] a hostelry and office called the ''Hand of Guerra'' could be constructed. It would require a [[commission]] by the [[Senate]] or the [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]]. The structure would require 20 wains of white granite to build, and 40 crowns in labour costs. It would take three months to complete.

The commission would create an [[Imperial title]] - the suggestion is that it be called the ''Hand of Guerra'' - that would be responsible for helping refugees adjust to new lives in the Empire, as well as for spreading the philosophy of Guerra to the Empire - and indeed the world. To aid them in this, supporters would make amounts of [[liao]] available to help the ''Hand of Guerra'' support mandates that opposed the institution of slavery, or helped those fleeing oppression to find sanctuary in the Empire.

The title would most likely be appointed by the Freeborn national assembly, but there is no requirement that the title holder be a priest. It would be a Freeborn national position, however. In addition to the ministry, and the responsibility to promote abolitionism and provide safe homes for refugees the ''Hand of Guerra'' would be an obvious person for other abolitionists to contact with proposals that will help spread Guerra's philosophy.

==Broken Shore Bounty==
* '''The offices of the Broken Shore Bounty could be reestablished in Madruga'''
The [[Broken Shore Bounty]] is a national Bourse seat controlled by the Brass Coast. The ilium that the Seat provides is claimed from the fishing nets of the boats that ply their trades along the coast of the Bay of Catazar; a portion of all such finds are claimed by the Broken Shore Bounty. While some fisher folk resent the claim, the majority appreciate that the Freeborn are instrumental in helping to keep opportunistic raiders out of Imperial waters - that a portion of any ilium found is a minor loss compared to the complete loss of catch, ship, livelihood, and liberty that an encounter with a Grendel raiding vessel would represent.

Previously, the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty were in the town of Cazar - the ilium was collected and overseen by members of the i Orieni family, who had extensive ties with fishing families and mercantile ship owners throughout the Brass Coast, and the southern territories of the League, Highguard, and Urizen. Unfortunately, thanks to the recent invasion of Feroz by the Grendel, the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty are no longer in Freeborn hands, and the i Oreni are scattered across the Bay. The Bounty provides a significant incentive to Freeborn corsairs to hunt the Grendel, but it is also an important symbol of national Pride. There is some talk - especially in Madruga - of the urgent need to re-establish the offices of the 'Bounty as quickly as possible.

The 'Bounty is one of those rare Bourse seats where the actual material provided does not come from a specific location - it is merely gathered in one place for convenience. With a suitable Senate motion, the location of the offices could be moved. The most obvious location is to move it to [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]] - perhaps the best protected location in the Brass Coast thanks to the presence of the [[Madruga#The_Salt_Guard|Salt Guard]]. Relocating the offices of the Broken Shore Bounty will cost the Imperial Treasury 10 Thrones, but can be completed in three months - and could take place at the same time as gathering a new bounty of ilium together.

If the motion were passed during the coming summit, the Broken Shore Bounty would be available to appoint at the Autumn Equinox, providing a reduced amount of 4 rings of ilium. From that point onward, the amount of ilium would stabilise at the usual 7 rings each season and the normal appointment cycle would resume.

This is not without potential consequence however; moving the Broken Shore Bounty indicates that the Senate does not believe the corsairs of the Cazar Straits are up to the task of protecting it. It would be a major blow to the i Orieni family, and likely damage the morale of the corsair families of Feroz. Furthermore, it would indicate to the people of Feroz that the Empire does not anticipate driving the Grendel out of the territory in the immediate future - again potentially damaging the morale of the people who live there.
==Resolution==
A new attempt to [[Construct_Iron_Qanat_II|build the Iron Qanat]] was [[commission|commissioned]] by the [[Senate]] during the Summer Solstice 383YE, and work on the [[Construct_House_of_Guerra|House of Guerra]] was likewise sanctioned.

The Freeborn Assembly also passed several [[mandate|mandates]]. They sent Mazo i Zabala i Erigo to [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_80|encourage soldiers to fight to defend Segura]], and Efenia i Maristela i Riqueza to [[383YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_121|encourage freeborn ship owners to engage in privateering rather than trade]].

The Broken Shore Bounty remains in Cazar, and in the notional hands of the Grendel.

==Limited Opportunity==
As of the Summer Solstice 384YE, the opportunity to build [[#The_Zeinodin_Caravanserai|Zeinodin Caravanserai]] is still available.

==Further Reading==
* [[Prosperity and the Public Auction]] summarises the background behind this wind of fortune

Let that be your last battlefield

2026-04-13T22:09:50Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:384YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>The walls of the ancient fortress groaned; that groan became a whine and the whine rose to a tortured keening as cracks - some the size of Ema’s arms - blossomed upon the silvery marbling of the white granite walls. Explosions of rock shards and choking dust rained down and the screech of the dying enchantments woven into Maragladia’s fastness were suddenly joined with the wails of rebels and denizens alike.

''“They have reached the walls! Move, move! To the inner gatehouse - go!”'' Sevlus’ voice - the voice of a ''Plenumo'' - carried above the din. Even here, even now - it carried an authority that demanded attention.

Ema raised her pelta instinctively to shield herself as the rain of stone grew more intense - the fist-sized missiles sloughing from the widening strain on the battlement to dash themselves on the pavement far below. Above, the morning sun blinded her to the struggle on the walls - but not to the limp bodies tumbling streetward among the marble. One of her contubernium screamed - their face split by falling rubble. It took all of Ema’s Courage not to cast down her javelin to help him.

''“Leave them - Ema, with me - get moving, move!”'' Selvus’ face - or what she could see of it within the narrow space between the bronze cheeks of his helm - seemed to mouth the words. Everything was happening so slowly - the pool of blood spreading from Andreo’s ruined head, her worn-through sandals against the cobblestones - all too slow, too slow, blurring at the edges.

The gatehouse - now she was before it: its bands of green iron and mithril, corroded by a hero’s age of defiance against the briny caress of the sea wind - the flood of people pressing, struggling towards the imagined safety within: some were like her - clinging to weapons they barely knew to wield with nothing but their breechcloths and tunics to turn aside Nemorian blades - others too young, too old or with too much to lose in choosing to fight. Ema was no soldier - but she could sense that her contubernium was close to breaking - only their Loyalty to Selvus was keeping them here - to the noble who would die with slaves to make them free. Her heart swelled with Pride: ''”Through Virtue All Is Possible”''.

Disorientation again - the outer wall, distant now - being pushed apart like a child among ripe grain by a titan of obsidian and fire. Her heart quailed at the sight of the false god given form - but then it is gone - the wall instead crumbling beneath boulders sent raining down from afar.

''“Hold - get as many through as we can - keep the gate open until the last moment!”'' Selvus again - why did she not speak? She had to warn him - the enemy was already here! The heat of summer oppressed Ema’s senses - but she - and the other four who still lived stood fast: whether out of fear or Courage, she did not know.

Selvus was signalling now, arms cast wide to the gatehouse - ''Lower the bracket - Seal the gate!'' - she remembered him calling, calling to guards who were already dead. Far along the western concourse soldiers in every sort of armour and garb, with many flags, many banners - poured through the fresh rift in the seaward wall: they bore heraldry unlike any in Asavea - strange beasts, symbols of the Virtues, foreign runes…

It took all of her might to tear her eyes away from those advancing foes and face what she knows comes next - what she has seen every night since seeing those flags anew among the tents of Anvil:

Troops press into view behind the crenellations of the gatehouse and Selvus - Selvus Rivero - reaches for his shield too slow - always too slow. The mercenaries - with their feathered helms and cuirasses of steel, with their ruffed sleeves and their mechanical bows - the Imperials do not hesitate and with a chorus of oiled triggers, Selvus - Selvus Rivero, Sara the serving girl, Nikalaso from the fields, Kajla the tutor and Jozefo who sang are pinioned to the ground by mithril fangs. On cue, Ema obliges the memory and screams - screams for her lost eye and her lost friends. Screams them through the labyrinth of return. But to her shame she cannot scream herself back to their side.

The chamber is dark and her chest aches from the very real scream that had pulled her from the dream. She shivers, clutching the pendant of ashes at her neck and dimly registers the sound of Yeoman Gandry fumbling in his chambers to light a candle, woken at yet another early hour by his guest. Beyond the window, Caer Faucon sleeps and the sigh of ripe grain in the autumn wind sounds like the sea. Finally, there in the darkness of a foreign land, Ema Pride closes her eye and mourns.
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Battle grapes.jpg|align=left|caption=The Free Folk are hard workers, but their approach to the Way is seen as problematic in some quarters.|width=600}}</div>
{{Audio|link=https://youtu.be/T2rIEHWBYSw}}
==Overview==
At the Summer Solstice, the Imperial Synod passed several judgements relating to the Free Folk [[Two_steps_on_the_water#Strangers_in_a_Strange_Land|as Anvil played host to these eager foreigners]] as they sought to share their Prosperity and Loyalty to the Way with the Heroes of the Empire. The summit was also the anniversary of the arrival of these people upon the shores of their spiritual home - the birthplace of the Way. Responses have varied from the [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_27|cryptic]] to the [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_113|curious]] and contained calls for [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_102|tolerance]] tempered with [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_110|caution]]. But those that have resonated the greatest with the laity have been invitations to [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_124|share stories]] and [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_146|engage in dialog]].

As crops all across the Empire have ripened and the days have begun to grow shorter once again, the Free Folk have returned to their diligent work wherever they are welcomed to apply their labour Prosperously - their heads full of thoughts, increasingly on the future. They have not, as some may have hoped, ceased speaking of figures from their culture in terms that style them as Paragons or Exemplars - but when pressed they are clear and direct that they have been asked to call them such - not to call them 'Divines' - a request that they have apparently taken to heart given, in their words 'the word has other meanings in the Empire'.

But increasingly there is a sense of finality to their demeanour - an unwillingness to denounce their beliefs or smother their Pride, edged with a restraint that seems to ill-fit them: like a thin cloak draped over the ebullient love they hold for the nation whose lands they live in. It seems inevitable that they will seek to find a place where they can be free of its chafing - and live true to themselves.

==Stories from the West==
* '''The Free Folk continue to work diligently wherever they travel in the Empire.'''
* '''Having eagerly learned to read and write in Imperial, many of these former field slaves and labourers have begun writing pamphlets of their beliefs.'''

Wherever the Free Folk travel they are tireless in seeking work and paying their way. As the seasons have passed they have been found gutting the catch from [[Madruga#Siroc|Siroc]], taming the undergrowth in the forests of [[Necropolis#Highrod|Highrod]], fixing walls and digging ditches in [[Mournwold|Mornwald]] and now, helping reap the autumn harvest all across [[Astolat|Astolat]] and [[Semmerholm|Semmerholm]]. The wages they receive are no sooner in their palms than spent - with that not used for food and lodging being left as offerings at [[Dean_of_Laroc_Cathedral#The_Cathedral_at_Laroc|statuary of the Paragons]], used to make paper flowers to adorn the [[Empress_Richilde|tombs of Empresses]] and [[Emperor_Ahraz|Emperors]] and, increasingly, to make and distribute hand-written pamphlets.

These take the form of stories of the Free Folk's ancestors: [[Asavea|Asavean]] slaves and the lives they led. While the pamphlets describe the actions of these forbearers in terms of the [[The_Way#The_Paths_of_Virtue|Virtues]] they do not claim that they are [[Paragons_and_exemplars|Paragons, Exemplars]] or [[Malign_spiritual_presences#False_Gods|Gods]]. Less widely circulated - only being given to priests, or those who ask for it directly - is an attempt to mark the [[Signs_of_the_paragon_and_exemplar|signs of the paragons and exemplar]] that some of the qualities these ancestors have shown.

===Participation===
* '''Any character who has passed though the Marches may have spoken with the Free Folk and received a pamphlet from them if you wish'''
* '''Any character who considers themselves to be a priest can have received a pamphlet from the Free Folk if you wish'''
Any character with a [[farm]], [[forest]] or [[herb garden]] [[Resource#Personal_Resource|personal resource]] is free to roleplay that they have interacted with or employed some of the Freefolk to help bring in the harvest, especially in [[the Marches]] and [[Dawn]]. Their Imperial is generally quite good, and they are scrupulously respectful, polite, and honest in their dealings with Imperial citizens. Their character is marked by a strong work ethic, balanced by an apparently genuine joy at the freedoms they experience and the marvels they see as they travel the Empire. Many are very interested in the Imperial nations - they know the most about Dawn and [[the Brass Coast]] but are excited to learn more about the other Imperial nations. They freely share of their Love and Loyalty to the Way and by extension, the Empire - but are less certain about their future in either - a situation they describe as being 'at a crossroads'. They speak freely about their faith with anyone who asks them first - and they are always happy to hear stories of Imperial paragons, exemplars, heroes, and champions they are unfamiliar with.

If your character employed the Free Folk or was passing through the Marches at any point then you may choose to have encountered one or more of these pamphlets. The following files may be downloaded and printed for use on the field. The first three are given freely to anyone who can pay a ring or two, while the fourth is only given to someone who says they are a priest.

* '''[[:File:The_Speaker_for_the_Dead.pdf|The Speaker for the Dead]]'''
* '''[[:File:Saja_Tajlora.pdf|Saja Tajlora]]''' (the "Wise Taylor")
* '''[[:File:Verema_Aleksiso.pdf|Verema Aleksiso]]''' (also called "Truthful Alexander")
* '''[[:File:Signs_of_the_Divines.pdf|The Signs of the Divine]]'''

==The Relic of Caer Faucon==
* '''Many Free Folk have returned to [[Astolat|Astolat]] as autumn has approached to help the yeofolk there bring in the harvest.'''
* '''The Free Folk spend breaks from the harvest visiting [[Lady_of_the_Proffered_Hand|The Lady of the Proffered Hand]] in [[Astolat#Caer_Faucon|Caer Faucon]].'''
* '''The story of an effigy in the House bearing an unusual [[Aura|aura]] has become a minor curiosity.'''

The greatest concentration of the Free Folk can be found in the farmlands surrounding [[Astolat#Caer_Faucon|Caer Faucon]], [[Astolat|Astolat]] - having begun their lives in the Empire under the sanctuary of [[Lady_of_the_Proffered_Hand|The Lady of the Proffered Hand]]. It is within the grounds of that House that a supposed relic has been housed. Little more than a collection of old unspun wool, the dried limbs of a sapling and a mish-mash of oddments, it is an effigy of a human figure - a strangely-assembled scarecrow that would likely do little to dissuade the jackdaws of [[Astolat#Coombe|Coombe]]. However, despite the best efforts of the House's attendants, it has become a gathering place for the Free Folk - with every one of their number having visited the out of the way alcove where it has been set, amidst the (regularly cleared by disapproving House attendants) collection of coins, paper flowers and candles. Those who live locally visit once a week to worship with their scattered peers between hard days in the fields.

When questioned by curious yeofolk or suspicious members of the nobility the Free Folk excitedly describe a figure from their history known as ''La Parolanto de Morto'' - 'the Speaker for the Dead' in Imperial. Apparently, as they celebrated an annual tradition of inviting an effigy (''La Malgrande Parolanto'' - 'The Little Speaker') to a feast, they experienced a miraculous sense of belonging - of their shared [[Pride]]. They claim that those who are Wise in such things have called this 'miracle' a spontaneous [[Hallow|hallowing]]. Access to the effigy has been restricted, but those who have touched the tattered cloth report experiencing a unusual [[aura]].

==Foreigners Still==
* '''''None'' of the Free Folk have taken an oath of citizenship to the Empire since arriving a year ago.'''
* '''Though effusive in their admiration of the Empire and dedication to the Way, many have ceased progressing towards citizenship.'''
* '''The Free Folk appear to be saving for some great undertaking to make their case for their culture and beliefs.'''

The Free Folk have been foreigners in the Empire for almost a year. Upon first arriving, they ravenously devoured every scrap of knowledge they could about citizenship and how an individual lives in the Empire. Just as eagerly they spread out to satisfy their long-suppressed desire to see and experience all that the world and the Way had to offer. As time passed and many set down what might pass for roots among their travel-loving kind - beginning to study the [[Religious_skills|skills of a priest]] and what one is expected to know before they pledge an [[Nationality|oath to an egregore]] - it seemed inevitable that these people would join the Empire: if not settling within Dawn - where they received their first welcome as distant kin, then perhaps in the Marches where they had received a warm welcome and appreciation for their hard work.

However, this has not happened: those who had settled have upped sticks, those who had studied have set aside their learning. All have turned to hard work and saving. Increasingly, the Folk travel in larger gatherings and work and share in common. When asked, they share a truism they have learned from their time in the Marches - a phrase they seem to have taken a liking to and have adapted: ''"The Empire will have All of Us or None of Us."'' This statement is never made with overtures of finality or undue pride - and the Folk are quick to explain that, if it was that the [[First_Empress|First Empress]] recognized the Wisdom that a people are a people when embraced in their entirety - then their Loyalty to one-another and their Pride in their culture demands the same.

But that is not to say that the Free Folk see this expectation falling on the Empire to satisfy: more and more the Folk share that they have a strong desire to speak with as many people of the Empire as they can and to make their case plainly: they will make themselves understood to each nation and accept whatever decision comes from that.

==Questions in the Abbeys, Queries in the Cathedrals==
*'''Imperial priests await guidance from the Synod beyond listening to the tales told by the Free Folk'''
*'''Some priests question whether there is real controversy to the Free Folk's beliefs'''
*'''Other priests question why the Free Folk are not being treated like any other people with unorthodox beliefs'''
*'''A group of priests wishing to argue the Free Folk cause are visiting the Hub at 1330 on Saturday afternoon'''
The [[Synod]] has indicated that investigation into the Free Folk interpretation of the Way will take time. Unfortunately, priests in many parts of the Empire are faced with groups of enthusiastic Free Folk wanting to talk about their beliefs and congregations looking to them for guidance. In the absence of a definitive statement from the Imperial Synod, priests with different opinions on the situation are sharing their views and further muddying the waters. Some question whether there is any [[Religious_crime#Heresy|heresy]] or [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy|blasphemy]] in the words of the Free Folk. Others point out that there are any number of [[Schisms and Heresies|schisms and heresies]] among those who claim to follow the Way, and the Synod is not required to tolerate any of them.

Some [[Highguard|Highborn]] [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Wayfarers|wayfarers]] of ''Shimi's Orchard Chapter'' have probed the stories of Free Folk paragons and exemplars in much the same way as they have investigated countless other foreign figures. They claim to have found a few oddities outside of Imperial doctrine, but nothing overtly dangerous in these tales. ''Esau of Shimi's Orchard'' writes: ''It is true that the Free Folk speak of paragons and exemplars outside of Imperial doctrine, but the [[Sumaah_Republic|Sumaah]] also have paragons and exemplars we are unfamiliar with. Regardless of one's opinions on [[Schools_of_thought#Universalism|Universalism]], surely we cannot approach Free Folk religious figures differently to the paragons and exemplars recognised in Sumaah based on differences of nationality alone?''

On the other hand, Bishop Jago Heshel di Temeschwar, head of the Church of the Golden Orator in [[Temeschwar]] takes a different approach. "''While the Sumaah may recognise different paragons and exemplars, we are broadly united in what that means. The Free Folk claim there is a "Divine Family", and seem to believe that the paragons are interventionalist god-like figures. There is no place for that in our understanding of the Way.''" Bishop Heshel likens what he has read of the Free Folk beliefs to those that led to the [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Yaelian_Schism|Yaelian Schism]]. "''Even if we accept the Free Folk beliefs, they are still at odds with the Doctrines of the Way. There are plenty of peculiar beliefs about the Way and when those who hold them visit the Empire we ask them to either hold their tongues, or leave. The General Assembly must take action.''"

Of course, the existence of [[Paragons_and_exemplars|exemplars]] or even [[Paragons_and_exemplars|paragons]] outside of [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith|Imperial doctrine]] is far from the only controversial claim made by Free Folk. One conviction held by the Free Folk that is particularly difficult to reconcile is intervention: paragons reaching back through the [[The_Labyrinth_of_Ages_and_the_Paragons_and_Exemplars|labyrinth]] to cause effects in the mundane world. This has not been a concept well received by Imperial priests, despite not contradicting Imperial doctrine. However, a few Urizeni [[Questor|questors]] have called for reason from the Synod. If the Way is an unfinished work, they insist, there must always be space to investigate potential limitations of existing doctrine.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Alexios Steelfall">Fear of change is the refuge only of Hate. Yes, the Free Folk's claims must be approached with Wisdom and Vigilance, but they cannot be discounted thoughtlessly without also discounting Virtue.</quote></div>
More practical in their approach, some Navarr [[Navarr_religious_beliefs|guides]] say that, regardless of the specificities of Free Folk beliefs, everyone has a place in the [[Navarr_culture_and_customs#The_Great_Dance|Great Dance]]. This means that there ''is'' a home for the Free Folk without a need for them to change themselves. Of course, these guides accept that such a home may not be within the Empire, but they argue that this doesn't stop it from being their responsibility to help the Free Folk to reach it, nor to at least explore the idea that there is a place in Imperial doctrine for Free Folk practices.

Then there are [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs#Monks_and_Friars|friars]] of the Marches who have perhaps the most direct experience of engaging with Free Folk thanks to the aid they offered during the recent harvest season. Several of them simply wish to remind priests of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith|Doctrine of the Labyrinth]]: that the Labyrinth is explicitly beyond comprehension for all but paragons. They encourage their fellow priests to look within the Empire's own stories and practices, rather than focusing on those of the Free Folk simply because they seem strange and unfamiliar. They point particularly to the story of [[Kethry]], who shows that it is [[Pride|Proud]] not to give up your traditions in the face of adversity.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Teodora Bezavina of Delev">The only people in the Empire who can decide if the Free Folk beliefs are acceptable, or are heresy. are the General Assembly. Not the individual national assemblies, not the magistrates, not the Senate. Only the General Assembly has that kind of authority. If they refuse to act they are choosing to allow chaos and uncertainty to spread.</quote></div>
Again, their opinions do not go uncontested. Sometimes controversial scholar of religion and constitutional matters ''Teodora Bezavina of Delev'' argues that there is no requirement for the General Assembly to accept heresy or blasphemy simply because it is "customary." Otherwise, the Empire would be forced to allow Asaveans to openly worship their gods, or to allow the Whittle folk to spread their hatred wherever they wished. The Synod is charged by the Constitution that they "''shall ensure the virtuous behaviour of the Empire''" after all. If the Synod believes this talk of a "Divine Family" and the peculiar qualities ascribed to them by the Free Folk is dangerous, or spiritually misleading, then as the final authority on the matter they have a duty to take steps.

Some priests who wish to discuss these points and more have are intending to visit [[Anvil]] together this Autumn Equinox. They wish, where possible, to speak with their national assemblies and with any other Imperial priests willing to debate the Free Folk interpretation of the Way and what it means for the Synod. They will be found outside the Hub at 13:30 on the Saturday of the summit.

==Resolve==
* '''It is certain the Free Folk will not give up their beliefs'''
* '''They enthusiastically share stories of their "Divine Family" with anyone they interact with'''
* '''Questions about their beliefs are causing some disruption to congregations'''
The arguments are civil for the moment, but as with other major questions of Doctrine, heresy, blasphemy, and idolatry in recent years there is potential for disruption. One thing is vey clear; there are no circumstances under which the Free Folk will abandon their deeply held faith. There is absolutely no doubt to their sincerity. Their beliefs have helped them endure centuries of oppression by the Asaveans. While the Empire is encountering the "Divine Family" for the first time, for the Free Folk the inspirations of their paragons and exemplars are fundamental to their identity, and entwined inextricably with their history.

If the situation is allowed to continue as it is, the presence of the Free Folk cannot help to become disruptive. They are hard workers but their customs and practices are odd compared to those of the Imperial citizens they labour alongside. Eventually, however, things will come to a head. The only question will be whether the disruption is caused by Imperial citizens eager to learn more about the Divine Family and embrace the pageantry of the Free Folk religious practices, or whether it is caused by orthodox pilgrims of the Way reacting poorly to perceived blasphemy, heresy, and idolatry. There seem to be only three ways that this can go that does not lead to chaos, and it falls on the General Assembly of the Imperial Synod to decide which path is taken.

The Imperial Synod might find a way to integrate the Free Folk beliefs, making a clear [[statement of principle]] accepting their religion and explaining to the people of the Empire that while strange it is not blasphemous. Individual paragons and exemplars might be recognised - indeed the Free Folk are likely to immediately begin pushing for this - but as at least one Urizen priest has pointed out there is some precedence for inspirational figures who are not recognised by the Synod. This will defuse the situation but will categorically lead to more interest in their stories, and potentially lead to more heterodoxy within the Empire.

The Synod might make it clear to the Free Folk that their beliefs are not welcome in the Empire; they are heretical, blasphemous, idolatrous or some combination of all three. While they can believe what they like in private they must stop proselytising, and must stop practicing their peculiar ceremonies in public. Some of the actual paragons and exemplars might be recognised, but they will have to be shorn of all trappings of the Free Folk's allegedly idolatrous faith. This will likely remove any enthusiasm the Free Folk have for becoming Imperial citizens, and will see a shift in attitudes to idolatry (in that arguments that reverence of human spirits is acceptable will be undermined). It will encourage foreigners and Imperial citizens with beliefs that might not be considered orthodox to be much more circumspect about making those beliefs known publicly.

Finally, the Synod could declare that the Free Folk are blasphemers, idolaters, or heretics, that they cannot continue to remain in the Empire, and must leave. If that happens, the Free Folk will depart the Empire en masse. It will send a clear message that the Synod is not prepared to tolerate foreigners with unorthodox beliefs, reducing the likelihood that such people will seek a home in the Empire in the future. It will likely influence attitudes to organisations such as the House of the Proffered Hand and the House of Guerra - the expectation will be that any foreigner seeking to become part of the Empire will need to convert to the Way before they can become an Imperial citizen.

Regardless of what they choose, the Synod's position ''must'' be clear or it will simply contribute to the confusion. If the Synod does not act, then the situation will certainly deteriorate in the coming months.

==Further Reading==
* [[Two_steps_on_the_water#Strangers_in_a_Strange_Land|Two steps on the water]] - Summer 384YE Wind of Fortune
* [[On_the_outside_looking_inside#Saga_of_the_Exiles|On the outside looking inside]] - Spring 384YE Wind of Fortune
* [[All_at_sea#The_Trajadoz_Exiles|All at sea]] - Winter 383YE Wind of Fortune
* [[Between_wind_and_water#Embrace_our_history|Between wind and water]] - Winter 383YE Wind of Fortune dealing with the invitation to Caer Faucon
* [[Large_but_far_away#Evacuation|Large but far away]] - Autumn 383YE Wind of Fortune talking about the evacuation of Marracossa

386YE Autumn Equinox winds of fortune

2026-04-13T22:09:30Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Talking in Anvil.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war|Winds of War]] which detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations, and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune, or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represents something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.

As always, how much or how little of this information you choose to know in character is up to you. Part of the purpose of Winds of Fortune is to maintain the illusion of the Empire as a living, breathing place where things happen - and to make players aware of things their characters could know based on what their roleplaying says they have been doing for the past three months. It's perfectly acceptable to turn up to Empire having read only a few Winds of Fortune that directly interest your character; part of the fun on the field can come from learning about situations and opportunities in other parts of the game.

In each case, we've tried to tag the Winds of Fortune entry with the nations, or political bodies, to which it is most relevant. We've done this to help people who are interested only in events that are especially relevant to them. In no way are these tags intended to be exhaustive; the Empire is a complex place and very little happens in isolation.
__TOC__
==Winds of Fortune==
===Signal Fire===
* '''Imperial citizens'''
In previous seasons [[the Throne|Throne]], [[Emperor Vesna]], has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens. This season, however, she has chosen to allow someone else to make that address on their behalf - Rane Shard-Bearer, the [[Senator]] for [[Kallavesa]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Signal fire]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Fayre Fight===
* '''Dawn, especially those who completed all four stages of the Grand Tour'''
The [[Dawn_egregore|Knight of Roses]] has invited all those who have completed the [[Dog_days_are_over#The_Grand_Tour|Grand Tour]] to take part in a special tourney to be held at [[Anvil]], in the heart of the Empire. The Reeve has gone further, proposing that the nation present a fayre at Anvil, to celebrate all that is best in Dawnish life, and to show the other nations the splendour and glory of their nation. Two other tourneys are also due to take place - to determine the new
[[knight-protector]] of Autumn, and as part of the selection of the [[Challenger in Waiting]] - and there are interesting developments with both those titles that might add extra frisson to the autumn fayre.

You can read about the fayre and the tourneys, and the various opportunities related to each, in the '''[[The fayre fight]]''' wind of fortune.
===Beneath Mithril Spires===
* '''Ambassador to the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Dean of the Lyceum; Voice of Liberty; Imperial fleet captains'''
The [[Commonwealth]] is perhaps the closest thing to an ally the Empire has among the six [[Foreign_nations#Great_Powers|great powers]] of the known world. Committed to the principles of the greater good, they disagree with the Empire on any number of things but actively seem to seek points of agreement and common ground over dissent and difference. One day the two nations will fight - it is inevitable given both seek to bring the entire world under the aegis of what the believe is right - but for now there is space for discourse and even cooperation.

You can learn about diplomatic relations and political complications relating to the Commonwealth, as well as several opportunities, in the '''[[Beneath mithril spires]]''' wind of fortune.

===Hyenas and Herbs===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Imperial Senate; Custodian on the Concordium Docks; High Herbalist of Sybella; Master of the Root and Stem; Wintermark farmers; Imperial fleet captains'''
The ''Bedelaar Huisbaas'' of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] always seek to maintain a level of neutrality, the better to ensure their ships are welcome at every port. They are enthusiastic trade partners, both with the Empire and the Empire's enemies. Their refusal to pick a side between the nations that make up the [[Liberty Pact]] and the so-called "Freedom Accord" is being tested however, thanks to the Asavean Plenum. Yet they're not ready to give up on the Empire just yet, and indeed some of them seem interested in increasing their investment in Imperial markets - conflict breeds opportunity after all.

You can learn about the state of diplomatic relations with the Delves, as well as a couple of opportunities to trade with them, in the '''[[Hyenas and herbs]]''' wind of fortune.
===Houses of Silence===
* '''Sarvosans, especially the Chamber of Commerce; Imperial Synod; Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Artists; Anyone with an interest in recreational narcotics or the law'''
Three years ago the Imperial Senate ceded the Alivetti estates near [[Sarvos]] to the [[Sarcophan Delves]], so that they could create a trading enclave. Under the sponsorship of the powerful Vandersaar family, that enclave has flourished; but not always in ways palatable to every Imperial citizen. As the Autumn Equinox approaches, the matter of the Alivetti estates receives additional scrutiny - not only because of concerns about the Sarcophan enforcing their own laws there, but of plans to build a blasphemous cathedral on what was until recently Imperial soil. At the same time, the Vandersaar are looking to invest further in Sarvos, setting the stage of a great deal of discussion about the presence of the 'Delves merchants on the southern border of the Empire.

You can read about the controversy, and a rare opportunity for the Sarvosan Chamber of Commerce, in the '''[[Houses of Silence]]''' wind of fortune.
===Victory and Unity===
* '''Ambassador to Axos; Regario Dossier; Assembly of Nine; Shuttered Lantern, Celestial Arch, and Sevenfold Path; Imperial Synod'''
The Empire and [[Axos]] have never been friends, and are at best allies of convenience perhaps. The only signatory to the [[Liberty Pact]] that is not a Great Power, Axos seeks to make it's mark on the world stage - even though it covers less land than many Imperial nations. Relations are always a little volatile - the Axou are prickly at best - but there is talk of a rising movement that seeks to secure the legacy of the sorcerer-kings in a way that is making some observers a little nervous.

You can learn about the current situation, and a few opportunities to engage with the unpredictable Axou, in the '''[[Victory and unity]]''' wind of fortune.

===Where Five Winds Meet===
* '''Ambassador to Faraden; Azure Sutannir and Freeborn Assembly; Shuttered Lantern and Celestial Arch; Master of the Regario Dossier; Gloaming Road; Imperial Senate; people with Weirwood and Iridescent Gloaming to trade; Holbergians'''
The lifeblood of [[Faraden]] is trade, and their caravans criss-cross the Empire even though the Lasambrian [[Jotun]] charge them a steep price for doing so. Relations between the Empire and the smaller nation to the west vary from year to year, warm one moment, cool the next, but it has never come to open warfare. Unfortunately, it seems the Faraden are caught between a rock and a hard place - with the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] Plenum one one side ant the Empire on the other. Faraden involvement in the recent [[Harvest of infamy|attack on Meade]], the situation appears to be escalating.

You can read about the diplomatic complexities of Imperial relations with Faraden, as well as opportunities to trade with merchants from the western nation, in the '''[[Where five winds meet]]''' wind of fortune.
===A Victory for Diplomacy===
* '''Ambassador to Iron Confederacy; Imperial Fleet Captains; Sianu of Navarr and Caesar of Urizen; anyone who might be expecting a visit from representatives of Baron Bestel'''
The [[Iron Confederacy]] sees itself as a potential rival to the Empire in size and strength and their claims are difficult to prove or disprove. No nation appreciates being threatened or intimidated, but the Iron Dukes react especially badly to perceived slights, and thanks to their peculiar beliefs it is all too easy to offend them – they despise both the [[Conclave]] and the [[Synod]] for example. They seem to respect the [[Military Council]] and [[the Throne]] at least, but it is a narrow bridge to build a shared understanding on. The [[Senate]] has just [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Ratify_Treaty_with_the_Iron_Confederacy|ratified a treaty]] intended to try just that - and now it's time to see how successful they have been.

You can read about the diplomatic relationship with the Iron Confederacy, both officially and unofficially, in the '''[[A victory for diplomacy]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Tale That Speaks To Your Heart===
* '''Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic; Rafe of Wintermark; Imperial fleets; Imperial Conclave especially Sevenfold Path and Rod and Shield; Emperor Vesna'''
Among the six great powers, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are simultaneously rivals to, and uneasy allies of, the Empire. Their shared practice of the Way both unites them through virtue, and divides them through disagreements about how the faith should be practiced and spread. Right now they are allies via the [[Liberty Pact]] and engaged in open warfare with the heretical blasphemous idolators of the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. The Empire offers what aid it can, and the Sumaah in turn show their appreciation as best they can with so many resources committed to protecting their coast from Asavean navies.

You can read about the current situation with the Sumaah, and some of the opportunities they present, in the '''[[The tale that speaks to your heart]]''' wind of fortune.
===Thresher's Summer===
* '''Urizen magicians, sentinels, sword scholars, and priests; Marcher friars and landskeepers; Imperial Senate'''
Determined to bury the hatchet and bring to an end the rumbling conflict between their nations, the [[the Marches|Marcher]] and [[Urizen]] Assemblies have urged people to travel to the lands of their opposite number and engage with them. Urizen has asked [[Magical skills#magician|magicians]], [[sentinel|sentinels]] and [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] to help the Marches bring their harvest home. Meanwhile the Marches have asked their [[friar|friars]] to share their understanding of virtue with the folk of the [[spire|spires]]. After a long Summer, the results of this unprecedented exchange are being felt by folk of both nations.

You can learn about the effects of Urizen helping bring in the Marcher harvest, and Marchers speaking to the virtuous of Urizen, in the '''[[Thresher's summer]]''' wind of fortune.
===Healing Waters===
* '''Imperial Conclave; Imperial Senate; Spring magicians and magical healers'''
At the [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Ossegrahn_and_a_College_of_Magic|behest of the Conclave]], and following a [[Famine_and_feast#Ossegrahn|request]] by the [[Archmage of Spring]], [[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]] has agreed to help the Empire establish a [[College of Magic|college]] dedicated to the study and practice of [[Spring magic]]. Only too happy to help, the [[eternal]] offers more aid than merely sponsorship or patronage. Provided his requirements are met, he will help the Empire create a place steeped in healing magic that will serve as a place not only of scholarship and magical study, but also of healing for all the people in the place where it is built.

You can find out about the proposal, and the restrictions Ossegrahn places on its operation, in the '''[[Healing waters]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Stone for a Stone (Appraisal)===
* '''Imperial Senate; Imperial Military Council; Imperial Consul; Wintermark, Brass Coast, Marches, Navarr; those interested in the Jotun; veterans with stories to tell'''
The Imperial Senate has instructed [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Peace_with_the_Jotun|appraise what might make peace more appealing for the Jotun]]. Naomi is a skilled diplomat, but few expect her to be able to deliver peace with the [[Jotun|Western orcs on request]]. She has done what work she can in the Empire, and made a short trip under a flag of truce to speak with the Jotun in [[Mournwold]]. Now, she is ready to present her findings - both a summation of what has led to the current situation and a series of things that could be done to make a ceasefire with the Jotun more likely.

You can learn about the proposals Naomi has made, and perhaps learn some history, in the '''[[A stone for a stone]]''' wind of fortune.
===True Faith===
* '''Imperial Synod'''
Following the recent summit, the [[Lepidean Librarian]] gave instructions for the library to [[Life_of_Vardas|publish in full their research]] on [[Vardas]], the paragon of [[Vigilance]]. The extraordinary and controversial findings say that Vardas was not a paragon; that he never existed; that he was little more than a collection of stories, penned by [[The_League_magical_traditions#Mountebank|a League mountebank]]. The news has hit Imperial pilgrims of the way very hard indeed, and a major crisis of faith is brewing. During the Autumn Equinox the Imperial Synod has an opportunity to try and head off that crisis before it deepens sufficiently to tear the faith apart.

You can learn about the crisis, and potential ways to deal with it, in the '''[[True faith]]''' wind of fortune.
===The First Shot===
* '''Navarr; Wintermark and the Imperial Orcs; eventually the whole Empire'''
At the Summer Solstice, the [[Navarr]] took the pivotal decision to [[The final countdown|begin the final battle against the vallorn]]. There can be no going back from such a decision, in [[Wintermark]] they would say that the Navarr have forked their [[Wintermark_culture_and_customs#Skein|skein]]. The [[striding|stridings]] are coming home, and the nation mobilizes for war, but if Navarr faces that war along they will surely fail. Before the final [[trods]] are put into place, the nation - and the Empire - must be ready.

You can find out about the change to the nation, and opportunities to raise three new armies, in the '''[[The first shot]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Synod speaks===
* '''League and Varushkan assemblies; other national assemblies'''
The [[Navarr]] Assembly has [[The first shot|overwhelmingly backed the mandate]] to begin the final battle against the vallorn. But they are far from the only Assembly to speak on the matter. The [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]] was emphatic that the Empire must be willing to make this sacrifice now and called on every nation of the Empire to take up the call. Two individual nations also did so, [[the League]] and [[Varushka]], both raising clear [[statement of principle|statements of principle]] in support of the Navarr and their Assemblies backed them with a [[greater majority]]. These statements have given rise to not one but three mandates in each assembly, giving an opportunity to guide exactly ''how'' those two nations will rise to the challenge of the vallorn.

You can learn about these mandates, and what it means for the other national assemblies, in the '''[[The Synod speaks]]''' wind of fortune.
===Here to Stay (Appraisal)===
* '''Imperial Orcs; Imperial Senate'''
The second [[appraisal]] the [[Senate]] commissioned in Summer sent [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater|Eilian Sweetwater]] to the newly conquered [[territory]] of [[Mareave]]. He was asked to find ways to deal with the [[Set_my_lands_in_order#Uncooperative|uncooperative]] inhabitants of the southern regions - [[Mareave#Fleisardh|Fleisardh]], [[Mareave#Clisearn|Clisearn]] and [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]]. Aided and impeded by [[Autumn magic]], the Navarr [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|prognosticator]] has delivered his findings and the good news is that they've found opportunities to deal with at least two of them. The bad news is that they are ''not cheap''.

You can read about the appraisal findings, as well as get some insight into ''why'' the orcs in those three regions are so recalcitrant, in the '''[[Here to stay]]''' wind of fortune.
===We All Stand===
* '''Imperial Orcs, especially the Tamazi and Yerende septs; Imperial Conclave especially the Golden Pyramid conclave order; Imperial Senate; Freeborn, Marches, League, and Urizen assemblies'''
Eilian Sweetwater has not been the only one exploring [[Mareave]] in the last season. Between the [[Golden Pyramid]] magicians and representatives of the [[Tamazi]] sept, and suggestions from [[the Brass Coast]], [[the Marches]], [[the League]], and [[Urizen]], there are plenty of additional opportunities to invest in the new [[Imperial Orcs]] [[territory]], or attempt to combat some of the challenges arising from this arid. comparatively isolated, land.

You can read about the opportunities, and gain some further insight into conditions in Mareave, in the '''[[We all stand]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===A Challenging Time===
* '''Archmage of Summer; Barien's champions of Dawn and Wintermark; warriors without Imperial titles; Summer magicians'''
For almost a year now, the [[Barien|Seneschal of the Road]] has been unable to respond to the ritual named for him, [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. Determined not to neglect one of his favoured lands, the heralds of the ''Keeper of Challenges'' bring three pieces of news. Firstly, a grand melee to be fought between the absolute best the Empire has to offer the Summer realm, in quest of ''Pinnacle'', a sword of unparalleled quality. Secondly, those from the nations of [[Dawn]] and [[Wintermark]] who have already bested the Iron Duke's challenge once are called forth to take on a second challenge, and finally answer a question long asked in the annals of Imperial history. Finally, an offer to the [[Archmage of Summer]] to identify a competition, contest, or challenge worth of Barien's attention.

You can find out about these challenges and contests, and some notes about Challenge the Iron Duke. in the '''[[A challenging time]]''' wind of fortune.
===When the River Rises===
* '''The Brass Coast; Cerevado nets; Imperial military commanders; Silver Chalice, Rod and Shield, and Unfettered Mind; Imperial Senate; Imperial Military Council; scriers'''
[[Madruga]] has suffered parching blight, pounding rain, vengeful fire, war, death. Now in response to powerful Imperial magic. the river rises, the wild Scorrero. Sweeping down from [[Kahraman]], through [[Segura]], to [[Madruga]]. A maelstrom of [[Spring magic#Chaos|chaos]], [[Night_magic#Transformation|transformation]], and [[ilium|star metal]] the both destroys, and cleanses, and brings new life. The horror of the Blight, and the Dry patricians, is washed away... but is the cure as bas as the sickness? Only time will tell.

You can learn about disastrous developments on the Brass Coast, along with some discussion of the newly liberated [[Feroz]], in the '''[[Where the river rises]]''' wind of fortune.
===Authority and Acceptance===
* '''Ambassadors to Otkodov, Jarm, Asavea, and the Grendel; Imperial Consul; Imperial Conclave; Artisans Guild; anyone dealing with the Five Fang Consortium; Urizeni, especially the House of the Wanderer; Legion Engineer, Senator for Mareave, Friar John of the Mourn; Leage, Wintermark mediators, Navarr guides (among others)'''
Each season the civil service put together a summary of the Empire's relationship with other nations, large and small, near and far. These reports are composed from communications received from their ambassadors, useful intelligence, the words and offers of merchants and traders. While the Senate and the other great houses may use their powers to respond to these offers, it is the ambassador who a foreign power expects to hear from. Sometimes the reports are long and detailed, sometimes for whatever reason they are shorter and more to the point.

You can find summaries of reports from [[Otkodov]], [[Skoura]], [[Tsark]] (!), the [[Principalities of Jarm]], [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavea]], and the [[Grendel]], in the '''[[Authority and acceptance]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seven Locks (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Archmages; cadets investigating the Tomb of Achism; Unshackled Winter, Circle of the Drowned, Heralds of the Reaper, Wolves of the Pale Raven, Black Garden, Nation's Guard, The Winter Wolfborn, Hraefnhall, and an Imperial Orc named Frith; Imperial Magus, Warmage, Conclave Grandmasters; Bloodcrow Udoo and Quay Stone; Master of the Koboldi; Adelaarscoven, Convocation of the Mistral, Coven of Barabbas, Las Brujahs de Zuhri, Lyktan coven, Saque Magique, Song of Taniki, Spire of the Auric Horizon, the Scrying Pool, the Sphinx's Sage, and Wings of Skywise covens; Navarr'''
Six [[archmage|archmages]], but what seem to be ''seven'' responses to [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages, so something is off. The eternals are bound by ancient compact to respond in some way to such a missive, although precisely ''how'' they respond is up to them. There might be to a formal [[Archmage#parley|parley]], or something more informal. Or nothing at all. Responses to each archmage's (presumed) plenipotentiary messages have been received, and arrangements made for the Autumn Equinox. Four meetings, and three sets of messages.

You can read about the responses of the eternals, and their various requests and offers, in the '''[[Seven locks]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly General.png|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Irreconcilable Differences===
* '''Imperial Synod; Imperial Senate; Sevenfold Path'''
During the Summer Solstice, the [[Senate]] made it [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Criminalise_Preaching_the_Way_in_Asavea|illegal to preach the Way in Asavea]]. Following the vote, the [[Cardinal of Loyalty]], indicated to the Civil Service that they intended to [[Veto#Timing|seek the veto]] in the [[Synod]]. The Assemblies have already passed a number of mandates urging missionaries and [[Highguard|Highborn]] [[wayfarer|wayfarers]] to travel to make contact with virtuous [[Bands#Sects|sects]], and preach the Way, but the Asaveans have responded by increasing their support for the Empire's enemies and striking against Imperial citizens directly. During the coming Summit, the Synod must decide whether to uphold the veto, or accept the prohibition against further action in Asavea - with potentially painful consequences for either decision.

You can read about the veto, and the ongoing efforts to spread the Way in Asavea, in the '''[[Irreconcilable differences]]''' wind of fortune.
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===Roaring Plenty===
* '''Fleet captains engaged in Rhianos' race'''
Last season the ''[[Rhianos|Regent of the Eternal Sea]]'', announced the beginning of a great race - to visit the four corners of the known world. Having been challenged by the [[Archmage of Summer]], the ''Lightning Fish'' agreed to hold a contest, but one unlike any other. Rhianos has no interest in seeing who can be the fastest, so this race is one filled with peril and calamity where nobody know where they are going, how they are going to get there, or even if they will survive. That hasn't stopped hundreds of [[fleet|fleets]] taking part in the first leg of the race and sailing "Into the Unknown". Now, it is time for the second leg, and when dealing with ''Waverider'' means things are going to get ''weird''.

You can learn about the first leg of the race, and how the next leg will be run, in the '''[[Roaring plenty]]''' wind of fortune.
===How To Be Dead===
* '''Rod and Shield; adventurers who delved into the Depths; Delver of the Depths, Imperial Huntsmarshall'''
Something is festering in the depths of [[Delver_of_the_Depths#Lorenzo's_Deep_Pockets|Lorenzo's Deep Pockets]]. Following investigations by the [[Shuttered Lantern]], the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Rod and Shield]] chose to take action, directing their order to deal with the growing threat. Battle mages and war-witches have made the journey to the north-western Empire, to beard the creature in its lair, and uncover the true horror lurking in the deeps; the ''Braying Lord'', an [[Plaguewulf#Elder_Plaguewulfs|elder plaguewulf]], the same creature whose malice led to the [[Delerium#Canker|destruction of Isember]], and whose wicked corruption has subverted dozens of Imperial citizens to its will.

You can find out about the situation at Lorenzo's Deep Pockets, and opportunities to deal with the threat before it gets even worse, in the '''[[How to be dead]]''' wind of fortune.
===Unspoken Words===
* '''Dawn; Imperial Orcs; Navarr; those interested in the Barrens'''
Despite the apparent peace, the situation in [[the Barrens]] remains febrile beneath the surface. Like the calm before the storm, there is a nervous energy in the air, a sense of unfinished business that is yet to be resolved. Torn between the rival directions of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Assembly and the Dawnish [[senator|senators]], the fate of the Barrens twists in the wind.

You can learn more about the situation in the Barrens, and questions of where everyone goes next, in the '''[[Unspoken words]]''' wind of fortune.
===All the Way to Anvil===
* '''Among others... Rozjenca Vokovitch von Temeschwar, League national assembly; those interested in weird mushroom products; willing test subjects; tombola participants; friends of Melissa (whatever ''that'' means); discreet physicks; Navarr; Grieftender of the Forgotten'''
The powers of the Empire gather at [[Anvil]] for the Autumn Equinox, drawn to the heart of the nation to talk, to argue, to trade, to laugh and cry together and to plan for the future. To engage in the complex unending dance whereby the skein of the Empire is woven. Where the wealthy and the powerful gather, their presence draws others as well - those with goods to sell, secrets to trade, or business of their own to arrange. They may come in secret, or they may be ostentatious in their approach making it clear to everyone their intent to come to the pulsing heart of the Casinean Empire to ply their wares. Of the many folk coming to Anvil this season, here are a handful whose intentions - at least on the surface - are known by rumour, whispered word, or in a few cases, nicely printed posters.

You can learn about some of the peculiar people (of all kinds) coming to Anvil in the '''[[All the way to Anvil]]''' wind of fortune.

===Graveyard Rats===
* '''Citizens of Temeschwar, especially priests; Imperial Senate; Guardian of Giselle's Tomb; Grandmaster of the Unfettered Mind; Senator for Temeschwar'''
For the better part of a year, [[Temeschwar]] has been suffering a [[Pitter patter|plague of rats]]. After extensive investigations by the [[Unfettered Mind]], the city's Chamber of Commerce chose to retain the services of one of the oldest, but least wealthy, guilds in the city - the Ratkings. Experts in vermin control, and veterans of the sewers and underground tunnels that flow under any [[the League|League]] city, the problem seems to be under control. Under control... but not ended. There is still something malign in Temeschwar, but perhaps the Autumn Equinox presents an opportunity to address it more directly?

You can learn about the situation in Temeschwar, and some opportunities arising from the chaos, in the '''[[Graveyard rats]]''' wind of fortune.

===You Could Be Happy===
* '''Citizens and priests of Dawn, Urizen, and Varushka; Imperial Senate'''
Last season the General Assembly upheld a judgement with a greater majority by Herminius of the House of the Wanderer calling on the citizens of the Empire to be proactive in the threat presented by the Druj. This was supported by a judgement raised by Tuuli in the Wisdom Assembly, also upheld with a greater majority. This has struck a chord with the people of the Empire; for simply too long have the Druj been allowed to attack the eastern territories. The chord becomes a song as the message is spread across the Empire, but it resonates most in those nations that border the hated orcs of the Mallum.

You can learn about what this could mean for nations that border the Druj in the '''[[You could be happy]]''' wind of fortune.
===Tourney of the Damned===
* '''Dawn and Varushka, especially citizens of Weirwater and Karov; those interested in the Deadwood Knight or the Schlacta of Rot; Imperial Military Council'''
For the past year an unliving abomination called variously the Deadwood Knight and the Schlacta of Rot has been gathering strength in the wild places of northern [[Weirwater]] and southern [[Karov]]. The creature is a cadaverous warrior and a lieutenant of the Varushkan [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereign]] known as the ''Howling Queen''. This is not the first time he has emerged, but on this occasion, however, something went wrong with his challenge. He apparently intends to conquer Dawn and turn it into a hollow mockery of life as a kingdom of the dead with himself as its master. He is about to launch his first attack...

You can learn about the situation on the borders of [[Dawn]] and [[Varushka]], and about the faint hope of heading off disaster, in the '''[[Tourney of the Damned]]''' wind of fortune.
===Nightcall===
* '''Wintermark mystics; Imperial Senate'''
Having consulted the omens, the [[mystic|mystics]] of Ishal have come to believe that the best way they can put their skills at the service of the nation is to travel [[Wintermark]] and beyond, seeking signs or omens that might offer some [[opportunity]] for the nation to advance their interests. Their plan is for the [[Raven Seer]] to provide them with guidance on whatever problem most vexes the nation currently and then armed with their knowledge they will go in search of [[Wisdom]]. This season the Raven Seer asked the mystics to seek out new ways for Wintermark's magicians to protect [[Kallavesa]], particularly that at the moment [[Dripping Echoes of the Fen]] is no longer as effective as it once was.

You can learn about what the mystics propose, and an opportunity provided by one of them, in the '''[[Nightcall]]''' wind of fortune.
===As It Is When It Was (Winds of Magic)===
* '''Citizens of Casinea, Imperial Censor; Wintermark Artisans; Navarr herb garden owners, and apothecaries everywhere; Imperial Spymaster and Advisor on the Feni; Vigilance assembly, and guisers, mountebanks, volhov; Thule watchers; those sending letters to Lashonar; Keeper of Happiston fields; the Academy, the Archmage of Autumn, Erasmo di Tassato, and anyone planning on bidding on the Loom of Spells this season; Grim Gardener'''
Not every strange event is magic, not every magical thing is strange. Magic isn't always the purview of magicians either - there is magic in all kinds of places from the herbs favoured by physick and apothecary to the materials drawn from mines and forests. One thing is sure though, from the most mundane [[hearth magic]] to the strange influence of [[Astronomancy|the stars]], to the vagaries of fate and chance, it changes what it touches. And, as the philosophers say, you cannot cross the same river twice. Here we learn about magic that arises from the actions of mortals, or which has unknown provenance.

You can learn about magical events around the Empire, as well as opportunities for all kinds of people, in the '''[[As it is when it was]]''' wind of fortune.
===Hey Now How You Doing? (Winds of Magic)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; Ignacio I Zuhri I Erigo; Dean of the Lyceum, magicians of Navarr; friends of Flavio i Flav i Riqueza; Summoners of the Loquacious Birds, people of Varushka and Dawn especially those who dislike the orcs of the Barrens; visionaries; anyone with a struggle; Polemarch of Highwatch; people living in Madruga'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the realms. Here we read about boons offered, and boons removed. Here we learn about the search of [[Kimus]] for a missing dolphin; boons from [[Sadogua]] for scholars and mage-warriors; the search of [[Ephisis]] for a legendary Freeborn corsair; the disgruntlement of [[Lashonar]]; the visionary interest of [[Sung]]; the little gifts of [[Irra Harah]]; a deal broken with [[Zakalwe]]... and also [[Tharim]] is here. And [[Agramant]] too!

You can learn about the doings of these eternals, and the boons they grant and remove, in the '''[[Hey now how you doing?]]''' wind of fortune

===Rising in Runegrott===
* '''Keeper of the Runegrott; Grimir of Wittal Grove, Grandmaster of Rod and Shield, Benefactor of Regalia, Guardian of Apfal, Seer of the Spiral Sword; Basilisk of the Bourse; Senators for Hercynia and Therunin, Inquisitor of Loyalty'''
At the last Winter Solstice, the Empire saw the would-be sodality called the Rising Tide work with the [[Basilisk of the Bourse]] on shared goals of [[Prosperity]]. They turned their attention to [[Canterspire Circle]] where they were introduced to some of the finest dye-makers in the world and the [[Gloaming Merchant]]. This season the 'Tide have sought out more opportunities of their own, following a visit to Anvil in the Summer. They have new proposals to make, and new opportunities to present.

You can hear about what the Rising Tide suggest, especially with regard to Wintermark, in the '''[[Rising in Runegrott]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==
===Sing of Eagles===
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Pride.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Last season the General Assembly chose to create an inspirational location in memory of Ozren de Orzel at Sandling, Weirwater'''
* '''The academy that is to be the anchor of the consecration has yet to be commissioned or paid for'''
* '''The crisis of faith provoked by the revelations about Vardas will prevent any profound effects of the consecration until it is resolved'''
* '''The High Bard has provided a list of eighty-one names to the Witches of Culwich at their request'''
{{:An eagle in song}}
===Ways and Means===
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* '''Citizens across the Bay of Catazar are learning what they can about the monsters of the Grendel and Children of Wrecks'''
* '''They will present their findings as soon as they are ready'''
Last season the Wisdom Assembly upheld a [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_44|judgement]] by '''Maelfaisance Remys''' with a greater majority that called on citizens to seek Imperial veterans and hear their tales of shark-slaying and kraken-killing. To find out about the soft underbelly, the armour-chink, and the weaknesses of the monsters of the [[Grendel]]. This has seen a slow but steady take up and, though they haven't much to show for it yet, the ball is now rolling on the project. The ''Sanguine Shields'', the sodality that has sprung up around it, are keen to continue their work and will present it to the wider Empire once they have managed to talk to veterans and catalogue enough information.

'''OOC Note:''' We will add pages for the various monsters that the Grendel and the Children of Wrecks field on battles.

===Hands Open===
{{SOP|by=Aliss Thorn, Marcher Assembly|statement=Wisdom knows all knowledge is incomplete. We send Aliss Thorn with 15 liao to encourage artisans to travel to Oakwood to help the smiths recover and rediscover the lost art. The Virtuous apply what they have learned.|vote=Greater Majority (244-0)|when=386YE Summer Solstice}}
* '''The Marcher smiths have been reconciled with the nation'''
* '''The archetype will be available after the Autumn Equinox'''
The mandate to integrate the [[Rock_and_a_hard_place|Marcher smiths]] was passed and enacted by '''Aliss Thorn''' during the Summer Solstice. Artisans have travelled from all over the Marches to Oakwood to speak with the smiths. The Marcher nation will be reconciled with the lost tradition of their forebears. Those who have integrated have meshed with the nation and been accepted by the egregore, but there are likely to be potential "''teething issues''" as they come to terms with a fundamentally changed world.

'''OOC Note:''' the ''smith'' archetype will be added to the list of Marcher archetypes after the Autumn Equinox 386YE. It is not possible to play one of the original smiths as a character.

<big>'''Participation'''</big><br>
Any artisan or crafter of any kind can have gone to Oakwood Monastery to support the integration of the smiths into the nation. The smiths are by and large mostly confused but are fundamentally Marchers and have been accepted into the nation by the egregore. Stories around them would involve hard working and hearty folk who want to prove themselves the best at what they do, whilst being appreciative to both those that helped them leave whatever they were in and those who have supported them since.

==Trade Summary==
Rather than spread this information out around the various foreign nations, we've collected it here for ease of reference.
* '''Asavean Archipelago:''' The port of [[Asavean_Archipelago_ports#nemoria|Nemoria]] is closed to Imperial trading vessels.
* '''Axos:''' The Axos continue to be annoyed about revelations relating to Imperial involvement in the failure of their [[Roll and fall|joint venture with the Grendel]] into the Mountains of the Moon. Consequently, Imperial fleets suffer penalties to trade with Axos. A fleet captain trading at the [[Axos_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]] suffers a -2 rank penalty.
* '''Commonwealth:''' The ports of [[Commonwealth_ports#Leerdam_.28Eastern_Commonwealth.29|Leerdam]] and [[Commonwealth_ports#Volkavaar_.28Western_Commonwealth.29|Volkavaar]] welcome Imperial traders. Fleets trading with either Commonwealth port benefit from a 1 rank bonus due to the [[Authority_and_acceptance#Red_Sails|Asavean bounty]] on fleets trading with the Empire.
* '''Principalities of Jarm:''' The ports of [[Principalities_of_Jarm_ports#Kavor_.28Northern_Principalities_of_Jarm.29|Kavor]] and [[Principalities_of_Jarm_ports#Vezak_.28Southern_Principalities_of_Jarm.29|Vezak]] remain closed to Imperial fleets.
* '''Sarcophan Delves:''' Imperial captains continue to be welcomed in the Delves. Fleets trading with the great port-city of [[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]] receive an additional dose of [[Marrowort]] and an additional dose of [[Imperial Roseweald]] on top of their normal production. The port of [[Sarcophan Delves ports#Betovering|Betovering]] is open to Imperial fleets. Fleets trading with either Sarcophan port benefit from a 1 rank bonus due to the [[Authority_and_acceptance#Red_Sails|Asavean bounty]] on fleets trading with the Empire.
* '''Sumaah Republic:''' There is no penalty to trade with Zemeh and Imperial fleets are welcomed. Be aware that the amount of liao offered has been reduced as per the '''[[Guide_the_spirit#The_Liao_Trade|Guide the spirit]]''' wind of fortune. Fleets trading with Zemeh benefit from a 1 rank bonus due to the [[Authority_and_acceptance#Red_Sails|Asavean bounty]] on fleets trading with the Empire.
* '''Grendel:''' The port of [[Everything_has_a_price#A_New_Destination|Oran]] is closed to Imperial fleets.
* '''Iron Confederacy:''' The port of [[Iron_Confederacy_ports#Robec|Robec]] is available for Imperial fleets but suffers a -1 rank penalty due to sanctions from the Suranni.
* '''Faraden:''' The port of [[Butterfly_in_reverse#Trade_with_the_Faraden|Caitun]] is available for Imperial fleets. Fleets from the Marches and Wintermark benefit from a +1 rank bonus due to close proximity.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[386YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Summer Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Summer Solstice, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the Muster.
===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">Location</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">Opportunity</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">Opposition</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">Link</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">Outcome</td>
<tr><td>[[Therunin|Therunin, Lower Tarn Valley, Tarn Bend]]</td><td>Prevent the Slaughter</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Ashes#Poison_and_Ashes_(Battle_Opportunity)|Ashes]]</td><td>Field Marshal was '''Lofyn Blood-cloak''' of [[Wintermark]]; the Druj advance was slowed; the concoctions within Sephals Cauldron was unleashed on Lower Tarn Valley. </td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Madruga|Madruga, Siroc Plains, Sabadellano]]</td><td>Assassinate Governor Rahab</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Below_the_thunders#Diamonds_are_Forever_(Battle_Opportunity)|Below the thunders]]</td><td>Field Marshal was '''Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; ''Governor Rahab'' was assassinated; the Asavean plan was discovered and [[Harvest_of_infamy|foiled]]; the Dùthcha-Éadrom was recovered; the Star of Attar was claimed; the fate of ''Maistir Rígbarddán Dubh'' is unclear.</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Gravenmarch, Rock Foot Wood]]</td><td>Stop the Burhfæst</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Only_forward#Shadow_of_the_Rock_(Battle_Opportunity)|Only forward]]</td><td>Not taken; the Burhfæst has been established in [[Bregasland#Gravenmarch|Gravenmarch]]; ''Svynna of Ldansk'' still lives.</td></tr>
</table>

===Normal Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Skallahn, Iron Stand, Auguaard's Bluff || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Children_of_Wrecks#Heading_West_(Skallahn)|Kill the Jotun]] || Jotun defeated and 14 wains of weirwood delivered to '''Eldrid Vestardottir'''
|-
| 2 || Madruga, Great Grasses, Broken Plain || [[Burning Falcon|General of the Burning Falcon]] || [[Tread_of_dust_and_darkness#Dry_Falcons,_Dry_Drakes_(Conjunctions)|Defeat the Dry Patricians]] || All Dry Patricians and Ashwalkers defeated. The Burning Falcon have been reinforced by fifty kohan
|-
| 3 || Mitwold, Meade March, Jenny's Copse || [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] || [[Only_forward#Choices_(Mitwold)|Slay Urse Longarm]] || ''Urse Longarm'' successfully killed and rest of Jotun defeated
|-
| 4 || Temeschwar, Hanuri, Terrier's Roar || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || [[Pitter_patter#The_Terrier's_Roar_(Conjunction)|Meet with the Rat Kings guild]] || Unknown but '''Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar''' the Senator for Temeschwar should know more
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Great Grasses, The Arid Pass || '''Tancred of Meade''' || [[Tread_of_dust_and_darkness#Dry_Falcons,_Dry_Drakes_(Conjunctions)|Defeat the Dry Patricians]] || All Dry Patricians and Ashwalkers defeated. The Drakes have been reinforced by fifty yeofolk
|-
| 6 || Hahnmark, Wood Heath, Dun's Reach || '''Tobrytan Dunning''' || [[Last_rays_of_the_sun#Fading_Words_(Hahnmark)|Stop the ''scions'']] || ''Scions'' defeated
|-
| 7 || Spiral, Screed, South-East of Harrier's Nest || '''Estella Lucati''' || [[The_city_below#A_Marvelous_View_(Conjunctions)|Rescue the citizens]] || All citizens rescued successfully
|-
| 8 || Redoubt, Naris, Tilphussian Pass || [[Penumbral Watcher]] || [[Last_rays_of_the_sun#A_Message_Sent_(Redoubt)|Stop the ''scions'']] || ''Scions'' defeated with some Imperial casualties
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Screed, South-West Harrier's Nest || [[Mistress of Medicine]] || [[The_city_below#A_Marvelous_View_(Conjunctions)|Rescue the citizens]] || All citizens rescued successfully
|-
| 10 || Miekarova, Srodkoja, Biljana's Sward || [[Master of Ice and Darkness]] || [[Last_rays_of_the_sun#Pale_Shadows_(Miekarova)|Stop the ''scions'']] || ''Scions'' defeated
|-
| 11 || Madruga, Free Landing, The Baleen Cave || [[Champion of Vigilance]] || [[Children_of_Wrecks#Uncharted_Waters_(Madruga)|Find out what is going on]] || Unknown but '''Jared''' the Champion of Vigilance should know more
|-
| 12 || Brocéliande, Boar's Dell, Starstrand Steading || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Tales_of_mystery#Starstrand_(Conjunction)|Resolve the mystery of Starstrand steading]] || Unknown but '''Corwyn Heartsbane''' the Spear of the Seven should know more
|-
| 13 || Madruga, The Great Grasses, Villa of Aldea di Tutamen || [[Hakima of Salt and Sand]] || [[Tread_of_dust_and_darkness|Deal with ''Aldea di Tutamen'']] || Unknown but '''Bakar i Riqueza''' the Hakima of Salt and Sand should know more
|-
| 14 || Madruga, Calvos Sound, Orchard of Tabhorios || [[Strategos|Strategos of the Brass Coast]] || [[Children_of_Wrecks#Glowing_Embers_(Madruga)|Find out what is going on]] || ''Tabhorios'' revealed to have joined the Children of Wrecks. All wreckers killed
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Oddmire, Halebale Farm || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Kith_and_kin#Raiders_Returning_(Conjunction)|Ensure the ghosts are exorcised]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 16 || Sarvos, Bocche, Ferocity's Stand || [[ Jade Custodian]] || [[Children_of_Wrecks#After_the_Storm_(Sarvos)|Stop the wreckers]] || Ritual prevented and all wreckers killed
|-
| 17 || Mournwold, Southmoor, Glen of Red Shadow || [[Friar of Honour's Rest]] || [[Standards#Tribute_(Conjunction)|Track down the source of the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 18 || Necropolis, Longbeach, Grove of Silence || [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] || [[Guide_the_spirit#Ripped_Away_(Necropolis)|Stop the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated and ''Kauitalic'' rescued
|-
| 19 || Temeschwar, Hanuri, The Old Priory || [[Unfettered Mind|Grandmaster of the Unfettered Mind]] || [[Pitter_patter#King_of_Rats_(Conjunction)|Speak with ''Brinton von Temeschwar'']] || Unknown but the Grandmaster of the Unfettered Mind should know more
|-
| 20 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, The Howling Steppe || '''Liv Tidgaring''' || [[Farm,_fur,_and_fish#Out_of_the_Storm_%28Conjunctions%29|Kill the Jotun and deal with ''Big Icebarn'']] || ''Big Icebarn'' dealt with and Jotun killed
|-
| 21 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Holt || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Drumbeat_of_war#Other_Weapons_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel and Asaveans defeated
|-
| 22 || Madruga, Siroc Plains, Road to Sabadellano || '''Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach''' || [[Below_the_thunders#Gift_of_a_Blade_(Madruga)|Assassinate Questioner Polh]] || Grendel defeated and '''Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach''' should know more
|-
| 23 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Tarn || [[Keeper of the Runegrott]] || [[Farm,_fur,_and_fish#Out_of_the_Storm_%28Conjunctions%29|Kill the Jotun and deal with ''Little Icebarn'']] || ''Little Icebarn'' dealt with and Jotun killed
|-
| 24|| Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Brush || [[Red Wind Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] || [[Children_of_Wrecks#To_Teach_and_Learn_(Ayereed)|Kill the Grendel]] || Grendel and Asaveans defeated and 12 wains of mithril delivered to '''Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo'''
|-
| 25 || Sermersuaq, Silver Peaks, Aino's Rest || [[Ambassador to Otkodov]] || [[The_price_of_peace#A_Hound_of_Darkness_(Sermersuaq)|Kill Maarik the Golden Tongue]] || ''Maarik the Golden Tongue'' killed
|-
| 26 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Hollow Tree || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] || [[Ashes#Fanning_the_Sparks_(The_Barrens)|Stop the Druj and the heralds of Surut]] || Heralds of Surut and Druj defeated
|-
| 27 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, Varnalis' Cache || [[Champion of Prosperity]] || [[Children_of_Wrecks#The_Thread_Burns_(Forest_of_Ulnak)|Claim the stockpile]] || Heralds of Surut and Druj defeated and 16 wains of white granite delivered to '''Hugh Farrier'''
|-
| 28 || Karsk, Moresvah, Gorek's Hollow || [[Custodian of the Lost]] || [[Tales_of_mystery#The_Lesser_Sadness_(Conjunction)|Find out what is going on in the vale of Gorek's Reach]] || Unknown but '''Anthemius Netherwatch''' the Custodian of the Lost should know more
|-
| 29 || Morrow, Peregro, The Still Glade || [[Advisor on the Vallorn]] || [[Ashes#Twilight_(Morrow)|Kill the Druj and rescue ''Megaris'' if possible]] || Significant Imperial casualties. ''Megaris Sunspire'' was not recovered
|-
| 30 || Sarvos, Foracci, Solare Estate || '''Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra''' and '''Marta i Guerra''' || [[Tales_of_mystery#Best_in_the_World_(Jaheris_and_Eleonaris)|Engage in and observe a debate between the self-professed best in the world]] || Unknown but '''Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra''' and '''Marta i Guerra''' should know more
|}

Zenith

2026-04-13T22:06:59Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofZenith.png|title=The mountains are tall, the air is clear|caption=Regions of Zenith|align=left|width=600}}
== Overview ==
The mountains of Zenith are the tallest in the nation, and perhaps the Empire, and the air here is still and cold. The spires tend towards the contemplative, the night sky is rarely concealed by clouds making the territory perfect for [[stargazer|stargazers]]. Many religious thinkers and philosophers also reside in Zenith, where they claim that the rarefied air helps them maintain a sense of detachment and clarity.

Zenith is well known for its abundant magical auras and many spires have experimented with arrays of metal mirrors that focus the light of the sun into internal chambers to try to enhance the production of magical crystals. Zenith also has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Nation, with apparently bottomless mountain lakes providing succulent fish to supplement the diet of the inhabitants.

Somewhere to the east of Zenith lies the nation of [[Axos]]. Between the two nations is a mountainous area that the Urizen call the [[Mountains of the Moon]]. Explorers claimed that the area was impassable, but there were always stories of hidden or hard to find passes that allowed access to an unknown [[territory]] that lay within. While the war with the [[Druj]] still raged, several bands of scouts risked the high passes from [[Spiral]] to scout the Mountains of the Moon - and following the Summer Solstice 382YE were the first Imperials to become aware of the people of [[Tsark]].

==Recent History==
A month after the Spring Equinox 381YE, the [[Druj]] barbarians [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Valley_of_Darkness_.28Zenith.29|invaded]] Zenith from [[the Mallum]]. The initial attack swept the unprepared defenders away, and saw the destruction of the powerful spire of Endsmeet. [[#Lustri|Lustri]] and [[#Occcursion|Occursion]] fell to the orcs in short order.

Only a [[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Resolve_.28Zenith.29|brave defence]] by the three Highborn armies - the Seventh Wave, the Granite Pillar, and the Valiant Pegasus - stopped the Druj from conquering the entire territory. The Druj responded with [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hunting By The Rivers|blackest malice]], unleashing a [[marshwalkers|marshwalker]] against the high mountain dam supplying water to the Golden Cascade. The resulting catastrophic flood ruined the fertile plains of [[#Proceris|Proceris]] and forced the defenders back west to a thin sliver of higher ground. At the same time, the Druj destroyed numerous [[sinecure|sinecures]], and burnt several prominent spires including the [[#Arch of the Sky (Ruins)|Arch of the Sky]].

After the Winter Solstice 381YE, the Druj [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Cascade_.28Zenith.29|launched a major assault]] against the defenders of Zenith. They pushed the Highborn westward inexorably, eventually driving the three armies out of the territory entirely and claiming it for the Mallum. Only the fact the [[#Halls of Knowledge|Halls of Knowledge]] had been moved under mysterious circumstances a few months previously prevented them from capturing (and presumably destroying) it. The [[Head_Gardener_of_Urizen#The_Gardens_of_Pallas|Gardens of Pallas]] however were not so fortunate; the Druj looted and then burnt them to the ground.

Apart from a few isolated spires hidden beneath veils of [[Night magic]], much of the population of Zenith has been displaced. Refugees fled to Redoubt and Morrow, while those who remained behind were enslaved by the Druj. The loss of life in Zenith was much smaller than it could have been - the courageous defence of the territory by the Highborn armies allowed many who might otherwise have fallen into the hands of the eastern orcs to escape that dread fate.

Following the Winter Solstice 382YE, a daring raid was launched into Zenith by a combination of Urizen sentinels, Highborn soldiers, heralds, and Imperial heroes from several nations. Its aim was to free as many prisoners from the Druj as possible. The raid was a [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Zenith|resounding success]] and almost two-thirds of those trapped in Zenith were liberated including over seven hundred Highborn soldiers and more than two hundred sentinels who later went on to join the Citadel Guard.

== Major Features ==
{{Anchor|Arch of the Sky}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Medea Ruth.jpg|caption=The Halls of Knowledge expand the Empire's understanding<br/>of magical lore.|align=right|width=300}}

===Crucible of Fate===
The vast foundry in [[#Iteri|Iteri]] allows the artisans and architects of Urizen to work together to forge a new fate for Zenith, for Urizen, and for the Empire. The construction was overseen by the [[Master of the Koboldi]], and the Concordium of Pallas and their allies invoked powerful Autumn magic to ensure the work was completed more quickly than anyone had predicted. Now it is overseen by the [[Architect of the Crucible]] who guides the construction of bespoke ushabti to [[Architect_of_the_Crucible#Miracle_And_Wonder|support]] Urizen holdings.

The most recent addition to the Crucible of Fate is the famous '''Damakan’s Forge'''. Damakan was renowned as the greatest Urizen swordsmith of antiquity, and even today her blades change hands for small fortunes. Although many of her secrets went with her to her grave, a small lodge of smiths maintained her forge and traditions in its original site in Spiral before it was sacked by the Grendel. A small number artisans returned to the forge when Spiral was reclaimed in 380YE and came with it when it [[The_fate_of_the_many#The_Wyrm.27s_Bottle|was moved]] by [[Sadogua]] after the Summer Solstice 385YE.
===Bridge of the Air===
The [[Morrow#Bridge of the Air|Bridge of the Air]] was constructed in [[Morrow]] to help transport [[white granite]], but the mithril cables and lifts also spread through the adjoining territories to create a transport network that has greatly improved travel particularly in northern Redoubt. A true wonder, the Bridge transports people and trade goods between spires. Lifts help transport travellers and cargo from the lowlands to the highlands spires, and conventional roads and bridges have been employed where they are most useful. The ''skyways'' are concentrated in the mountainous regions, but the roads included as part of their construction have spread through eastern and southern Zenith as well greatly improving the ability of travellers and traders to move across the territory.

=== Endsmeet ===
This spire in south-western [[#Occursion|Occursion]] studied interaction between people, and had particular interest in times of political turmoil in the Empire. It was home to refugees from Spiral, particularly those who brought with them the great library of [[Spiral#Ankarien|Ankarien]]. Sadly, when the Druj invaded they quickly overwhelmed the spire. Many of the Urizen living there managed to escape, but the library was burned and those who did not flee were either killed or enslaved by the ruthless eastern orcs.

===Bountiful Autumn===
The lakes of Zenith are deep, but of particular interest are the two bodies of water known together as "Bountiful Autumn". Found in [[#Occursion|Occursion]], their shores were once regarded as a particularly fortuitous place to marry for the success of the new family. Although modern Urizen have found little support for these claims, it is worth noting that the lakes lie within a strong [[regio]] tied to the Autumn realm. To this day, it is still traditional to eat fish from the lakes at a wedding, or to present them (fresh or cooked) as gifts to particularly close friends. Ritual magic used to create bonds between individuals is said to be especially potent when performed at these lakes, or using pure water gathered from their depths at certain specific times of year (the exact times are closely guarded secrets shared only by the spires that stand on the mountainsides above the lakes).
===The Stork's Gaze (Ruined)===
Work on this small [[fortification]] in the forests of [[#Lustri|Lustri]] was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 387YE. Commissioned by the Imperial Senate [[Fortify_Lustri|two years earlier]], there was initially an [[Write_your_own_ending#A_Border_.27tween_the_Mountains_and_the_Moon|offer]] from the folk of [[Tsark]] to help complete it, but the Senate chose not to take advantage of it. The fortification guarded the routes into and out of Zenith from [[the Mallum]], keeping a careful watch on the border with the [[Sarangrave]] to the north. A single high tower was staffed at all times by keen-eyed soldiers equipped with a large spyglass built with remarkable lenses imported from [[the Brass Coast]] referred to as "the Kyerglass" in reference to [[The_Stork#Stars_of_the_Stork|one of the stars]] of the [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellation]] that gave the fortification [[the Stork|its name]].

The [[sentinel|sentinels]] who garrisoned the towers quickly established a reputation for being a little odd - anyone who spent more than a few nights in the fort began to experience especially vivid dreams. They were not threatening and didn't appear to be dangerous, but they were memorable. Even folk who do not usually remember their dreams could recall with clarity strange phantasmagorical visions that came to them when they sleep. It was assumed to likely be a side effect of the [[Night magic]] that spreads quietly under the trees of Lustri, a region known for its [[regio]] aligned with the [[Realm#Night|Forests of the Night]].

The fortification was overrun and destroyed by the Druj during their [[Root_and_branch#Dark_Beneath_the_Boughs|invasion]] of Lustri following the Spring Equinox 387YE.

=== Arch of the Sky (Ruins) ===
Before the Druj invasion of 381YE, the Arch of the Sky was a collection of spires on the tallest mountain in Zenith. Stargazers and [[astronomancy|astronomancers]] from all over the Empire gathered here to observe the night skies, and debate the [[Net of the Heavens]]. One of the most prestigious schools of astronomancy, it was also one of the finest observatories in Urizen, if not the Empire.

The flood waters unleashed by the [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hunting By The Rivers|destruction of the Golden Cascade]] did not reach the spire itself of course, but even as the dam was being smashed apart Druj guerrillas were moving into position. Many of the astronomancers and star-watchers had already retreated, but a handful of magicians and sentinels remained behind in the hope of holding the [[orc]] invaders at bay. Such hope was in vain. Less than a week after the Autumn Equinox, the eastern orcs captured and looted the Arch of the Sky. What they could not carry away was reduced to ashes and broken ruins.
===Spire of Twisting Shadows (Ruined)===
The [[spire]] was an ancient structure dedicated to the treatment (and, functionally, incarceration) of those suffering long term spiritual or mental damage due to exposure to magic. Most of the inmates were there voluntarily, but a few were restrained for their own safety. The spire had a grim reputation, unsurprisingly. A significant portion of the patients here had been hurt due to overuse or misuse of [[astronomancy]] - permanently twisted by exposure to a tulpa. The [[Surgical_skills#Physick|physicks]] of the Spire of Twisting Shadows had a great deal of practical experience dealing with magical [[curse|curses]] as well as more esoteric maladicaments, and were always interested in reports of new malign enchantments - or the opportunity to study them.

In Summer 380YE, during the ascent of the [[red star]], a riot erupted among the patients that led to the destruction of the spire. The ruins are widely believed to be haunted by the ghosts of the staff and inmates who died in its fall.

The herb conservatory of [[Construct_conservatory_for_the_Anvil_Hospital|Origen's Rest]] stood near the Spire, and was largely untouched by the destruction inspired by the Red Star. Sadly, it was not untouched by the Druj invasion and in Autumn 381YE confirmation came that the Druj had looted and destroyed it, robbing the [[Anvil#The_Anvil_Hospital|Anvil Hospital & Imperial School of Medicine]] of a valuable source of medicinal herbs.

==Regions==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Regions of Zenith.png|caption=A very rough region map of Zenith|align=right|width=600}}</div>
===Clypion===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The passes between Clypion and [[#Proceris|Proceris]] house a cluster of spires keen to take advantage of the relative seclusion of their foothills. The spires are all "related" - formed initially by settlers originating in the nearby [[#Arch of the Sky|Arch of the Sky]], and later by successive generations gathered from among these daughter-spires as their populations grew. The spires of the "Clypion Alliance" maintain cordial relations, and each tends to specialise in study of impractical esoterica. Critics suggest that the [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Mages|mages]] of Clypion see practical applications of theory or magic as somehow beneath them. There have been spires devoted to the study of boundaries, of ageing, of ceremonies, of symbols, and perhaps most recursively, to the study of the studies of other spires...

Several of the older spires are starting to feel a little crowded, and it is likely that a new spire will be formed within the next few years - there is likely to be fierce competition between the Clypion spires to determine the location and focus of this new spire. The [[Provost of the Halls of Knowledge|Halls of Knowledge]] once stood high in the mountains of Clypion. One of the greatest Imperial [[College of Magic|colleges]] dedicated to the study of magic, it attracted students, lecturers, and magical theoreticians from across the Empire. Shortly after the Autumn Equinox 381YE, however, [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge|the college vanished]]. It reappeared shortly before the Winter Solstice, relocated to the volcanic pools of [[Morrow#Peregro|Peregro]] in [[Morrow]]. The Provost at the time, Octavius of the Auric Horizon, disappeared along with the college - and did not reappear when the buildings were relocated. He returned several months later, none the worse for his experience, with no memory of the intervening time.

===Iteri===
The plains of Iteri in western Zenith are home to the river Utique, a tributary of the Couros which flows from [[Redoubt]] in the south. The land here is rich in fine clay and valuable [[Materials#Dragonbone|dragonbone]] deposits, both of which contribute to a reputation for producing beautiful ceramics. Iteri also boasted the ancient '''Spire Calator''' near the foot of '''Mount Lutum''', where the secrets of [[Urizen_economic_interests#Ushabti|ushabti]] production are believed to have first been codified. The [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] of Urizen once gathered here to study and perfect the craft of these valuable magical constructs. The spire was known as much for its art as for the practical application of the [[magic items|artificer's craft]]. Some [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages|mages]] sent their students to Spire Calator specifically to study the arts of formal debate at this famously argumentative spire. An ongoing debate between those who favoured artistic form over practical function that had been going on for nearly 150 years without any clear victor ended abruptly when the Druj conquered the spire toward the end of 381YE. Most of the inhabitants were able to escape, thanks to the valiant action of Highborn soldiers.

Along the banks of the Couros stood the [[Head_Gardener_of_Urizen|Gardens of Pallas]] [[sinecure]]. The Druj looted the gardens of their herbs, smashed the ushabti gardeners, and then burnt everything in a grand bonfire the smoke from which was visible in both Morrow and Redoubt.
===Lustri===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
Lustri is heavily forested, and was once home to many [[forest|carefully cultivated preserves]]. Known both for the quality of its [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming|iridescent gloaming]] and the [[materials#Beggar's Lye|beggarwood]] trees that provide wood, bark, and lye to artisans across Urizen, the deeper parts of the woods have a bad reputation. Following the [[Light upon the water#Sodden Ground|magical storms]] of late 384YE, the northern forests in the region are significantly more marshy than they used to be.

There are many stories of encounters between travellers and dangerous creatures such as the [[Astronomancy#Tulpas|tulpas]] said to have escaped from the [[#Spire of Twisting Shadows (ruined)|Spire of Twisting Shadows]], and peculiar [[inhabitants of the realms|visitors]] from the [[Realm#Night|Forests of the Night]]. There are known to be a large number of [[regio]] aligned with the realm of Night, that give the woodlands here a reputation for mystery and strangeness. As such a number of spires dedicated to the study of Night lore, or of mysteries and secrets, stand among the foothills and on the peaks to the east and west of the forest proper.

===Occursion===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
More than any other region in Zenith, Occursion was home to spires dedicated to religious philosophy and many [[Urizen_religious_beliefs#Illuminates|illuminates]] and [[Urizen_religious_beliefs#Illuminates|questors]] had their homes here. The northernmost slopes of these mountains enjoyed a particularly still, cold, dry air which was believed to aid contemplation, and focus the mind. Priests here practiced meditative arts and subtle magics that allowed them to explore their own thoughts, and often receive unique insights into the natures of the virtues and the philosophies of [[the Way]]. The [[Keeper_of_the_Tower_of_the_Fall#The_Tower_of_the_Fall|Tower of the Fall]] was believed to have been built as a retreat for just such an exploration of the inner magic of the spirit. Sadly, the Tower was a casualty of the Druj invasion. Along with the beautiful [[Custodian_of_the_Starlight_Drift#The_Starlight_Drift_of_Shimmering_Snow|Starlight Drift of Shimmering Snow]], it was [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hunting By The Rivers|torn apart by the rapacious orcs]].

Shortly after the Spring Equinox 387YE, tremors began to be felt across the region, as Mount Polus [[Sound_and_vision#A_Mountain_Rises_(Zenith)|began to rise]]. The tremors continued for much of the season, stopping only shortly before the Summer Solstice, and leaving a crevasse near the base of the mountain that tempts the adventurous sentinels nearby. The [[Narwhal's Spear]], the [[Seventh Wave]], or the [[Wolves of War]] (hiring the appropriate mercenaries), or an Imperial army enchanted with [[Bound by Common Cause]] could take a defensive order to fully explore the crevasse. The general would likely receive a sample of what might be found in the crevasse, and the civil service would publish a report of what was uncovered and how best it might be exploited for the Empire.

Of particular note were the famous spire of [[#Endsmeet|Endsmeet]], and the '''Hall of the Risen Sun''', a beautiful edifice of white granite, polished marble, and [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] mirrors which serves as a great cathedral for the faithful of Zenith (and Urizen as a whole). Dedicated to the virtues of [[Pride]] and [[Ambition]], the Illuminates combined study of the Way with mastery of the [[Net of the Heavens]] and were known to be quite active in political affairs of the [[territory]], nation, and (from time to time) the Empire itself. Since the reign of [[Emperor Walter]] they had been somewhat reticent about involving themselves in wider affairs - but during the reign of the late [[Empress Britta]] there were signs this spire was beginning to pay close attention to affairs of the [[Synod]] and [[Senate]] once more. Both spires were captured by the Druj during the 381YE invasion, and those Urizen who did not manage to flee are presumed either dead or enslaved.

===Proceris===
*'''Quality:''' Marsh, Ruined, [[Region_qualities#Nightwoven|Nightwoven]]
Much of the region of Proceris lies in the shadows of the lofty peaks that surround it. While there were few spires here, there were settlements devoted to what little agriculture the Urizen and their [[Urizen_economic_interests#ushabti|ushabti]] could muster in this chilly climate. Proceris actually had a fascinating microclimate for those that are interested in such matters, with many frost hollows and sun traps that provided unique opportunities to the spires that lived here. The region was sparsely populated, even for Urizen, and with the exception of the [[Zenith#Arch_of_the_Sky|Arch of the Sky]] what spires there were tended to explore somewhat mundane, practical matters such as farming and economy. [[Urizen_economic_interests#Architects|Architects]] in particular often found reasons to visit or live in Proceris, and many of the magicians here focused their studies on the secrets of Spring and Autumn magic.

Perhaps the richest farmers in Urizen lived in Proceris, three spires that between them maintained and worked the '''Golden Cascade''' - a series of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terrace_%28agriculture%29 terraces] carved into the foothills and supported both with powerful ritual magic, expertly constructed aqueducts, and great polished mirrors that ensured that the fields here received as much sunlight as possible all year round. The Golden Cascade was seen by many as a wonder of the Empire, and while it had been copied by a few other spires, there was no match for the size and fertility of this great farm anywhere in Urizen. Sadly, when the Druj came in 381YE they saw the Golden Cascade not as a wonder but as an opportunity. In the autumn of that year they unleashed a [[marshwalkers|marshwalker]] against the dam that channelled water into the aqueducts. The [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hunting By The Rivers|catastrophic flood]] that followed devastated the Golden Cascade, ruined the agricultural spires, destroyed hundreds of ushabti, and drowned scores of farmers. The tragic loss of the Golden Cascade had dire significance for the territory; most of its agriculture lost in one fell swoop. During the Winter Solstice 384YE the Imperial Senate commissioned the [[Reconstruct Golden Cascade|reconstruction]] of the terraces and the repairs were completed shortly before the Summer Solstice 385YE.

The [[Custodian_of_the_Storm_Vault#The Storm Vault|Storm Vault]], high in the mountains above Echostorm Spire, was another casualty of the Druj invasion, torn apart for its mana and valuable mithril.

During the Winter Solstice 381YE, the Druj undertook esoteric action including the creation of several [[Druj_miasma#Miasma_Pillars|miasma pillars]] that began transforming the entire region into a stinking morass of marsh and swampland.

In southern Proceris stands one of the [[The_fate_of_the_many#The_Serpent's_Edge|two mithril serpent statues]] that connect the Urizen living in Spiral to their siblings in the rest of their nation. Using the power of [[Sung]] they allow the [[spire|spires]] to the south to maintain their metaphysical connection to the rest of Urizen provided they draw on the power of the [[Vale of Shadows]]. If the statue were damaged or destroyed, that connection might well be permanently severed.
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Zenith|Territory=Zenith|Season=Winter|Controlled=is}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, the Urizen (and by extension the Empire) control the entire territory. Zenith is an Urizen territory.
* Any attempt to build a [[fortification]] in flooded [[#Proceris|Proceris]] are likely to encounter additional costs and difficulties.
* [[business|Businesses]] in the territory benefit from the Bridge of Air and produce an extra 36 rings each season.
* [[farm|Farms]] in the territory benefit from the Golden Cascade and produce three drams of random [[herb|herbs]] each season.
* [[herb garden|Herb gardens]] in the territory benefit from the Golden Cascade and the Gardens of Pallas producing 36 rings and three drams of random herbs each season.
* [[mana site|Mana sites]] in the territory benefit from the Bridge of the Air and the [[Gardener of Pallas|Gardens of Pallas]] and produce an extra mana crystal and 3 random herbs each season. If [[Ossegrahn]] is subjected to the [[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] of the Conclave then the benefit from the Gardens of Pallas would be lost.
* The [[##The_Stork's_Gaze_(Ruined)|Stork's Gaze]] was a rank one [[fortification]] in [[#Lustri|Lustri]]
* As of the start of the Summer Solstice 385YE there are no more miasma pillars in Zenith.

==Further Reading==
* [[Sound_and_vision#A_Mountain_Rises_(Zenith)|Sound and vision]] - 387YE Summer wind of fortune on the raising of Mount Polus
* [[Root and branch]] - 387YE Summer wind of war with details of the Druj invasion
* [[Write your own ending]] - 384YE Winter wind of fortune that offers opportunities to create a new purpose for the territory
* [[Where do we go from here?]] - 385YE Spring wind of fortune that looks into what the focus of the [[#Crucible of Fate|Crucible of Fate]] could be
* [[Fate and function]] - 385YE Summer wind of fortune that describes the function of the Crucible of Fate
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial_Territory]]

Temeschwar

2026-04-13T22:06:52Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofTemeschwar.png|caption=Harsh northern weather and a pragmatic spirit|title=Regions of Temeschwar|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
Temeschwar was [[The_League_history#Origins_of_the_League|once part]] of wild [[Varushka]], but it joined the Empire alongside [[Sarvos]] and [[Tassato]], when the League was formed. Citizens of Temeschwar commonly make an effort to be as flamboyant as their southern fellows, but their dress is inevitably more practical, to accommodate the harsh northern weather. They are traditionally more brutally pragmatic than those who live on the bay. It is a foothold of trade to Varushka, Wintermark and nearby Dawn. Trading in raw materials and crafted goods, especially weapons and armour, it is seen by many as the merchant capital of the northern lands.

Despite its good relations with Varushka, Temeschwar has always suffered somewhat from being distant from Sarvos and Tassato whose close proximity made them the natural heart of the League. Temeschwar may well be the richest of all the cities of the League, but it can never quite shake the fear that it is not as good as the others. This anxiety is just part of what drives the Temeschwari to be so competitive and so ruthless. Temeschwari strive to work that bit longer and that bit harder than anyone else in the League. If a Sarvossian closes their shop at sunset, their Temeschwari neighbour will light a pair of lanterns and keep trading for another hour.

Not all relations with Varushka are good, however. There is still some bad blood between those of old Varushkan stock in Temeschwar and the citizens of [[Karov#Delev|Delev]] in [[Karov]]. When Temeschwar joined the Empire it attempted to prove that it had legitimate ownership of the [[Karov#The Eternal Shafts of Time|Eternal Shafts of Time]], a rich mithril mine on the border between the two territories. There are still plays and theatrical adaptations that revolve around the underhand, ruthless way the boyar of Delev "stole" the mine from under the noses of the Temeschwari, and relations between some Delev traders and some citizens of Temeschwar are chilly to this day - especially in the rare cases where there is some distant blood connection between the two.

The Temeschwari are not just the most competitive people in the League, they also have a well deserved reputation as the most ruthless. In the years before the
creation of the Empire, the city was plagued by gangs of thieves and assassins who operated with open impunity despite the best efforts of the boyar, [[Ratibor of Temeschwar|Ratibor]]. Thousands of inhabitants were linked with the different gangs who used tattoos to mark membership and enforce loyalty.
{{CaptionedImage|file=TemeschwariDraugir2.jpg|title=Isabella de la Torre, of the Brotherhood of the Ashen Tower.|caption=They wear their reputation for cold, hard dealing with pride.|align=right|width=300}}
In the end Ratibor hired a force of Varushkan mercenaries and brought them in secret into the city during the depths of winter. In the notorious night of a thousand torches (named for the torches the soldiers carried to light their way) every inhabitant of the city was turned out of their beds, stripped and searched for marks. Anyone with a tattoo on their body was given a few minutes to collect their belongings before being forced from the city into the frozen snows beyond the walls. A few managed to bribe their way past the search but most were given over to the winter and were never seen again. The act was one of monstrous brutality, but it established the power of Ratibor as boyar and broke the power of the criminal gangs forever.

The Temeschwari wear their reputation for cold, hard dealing with pride. They view themselves as the strongest people in the League, combining the ambition and drive of the south with the strength and determination of the north. Physical as well as mental strength is prized here - Temeschwari bravos are as likely to favour the axe as the rapier - and her free companies have a reputation for toughness, as soldiers and as people. Most Temeschwari free companies are careful not to break the rules for they know the magistrates watch them carefully - but they will do almost anything required to win short of this. You can find many things in Temeschwar, it is said, but you will not find a scruple though you search the city from sunrise to sunset.

==Recent History==
Rumours suggest that the [[vyig]] criminal organisation has become active again in the northern city. This Varushkan criminal fraternity is united by an absolute hatred of Imperial law, and once threatened to overtake both Temeschwar and the League. Becoming increasingly bold, their activities led to a major operation supported by the [[Synod]] to once again [[A big sleep|drive these criminals]] out of the northernmost League city - and indeed the League as a whole.

Shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE, the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Roads]] were completed, with Temeschwar as a major hub. They providing merchants and traders from across the Empire with easy access to the markets of Temeschwar, and vice versa. For more than half a decade the roads provided a major boon to the [[farm|farms]] and [[business|businesses]] of the territory. In the Winter of 386YE, however, the Imperial Senate determined to [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Levy_Tolls_on_Blood_Red_Roads|levy tolls]] on traffic using the road, meaning they no longer increase the income of individual citizens but provide a significant boost to the Imperial Treasury, in part to pay for the war against the [[vallorn]].
===Rat Plague===
Beginning in the Spring of 386YE, Temeschwar suffered a [[They_bit_the_cats|plague of rats]]. Reports of fat sewer rats attacking cats and dogs [[Pitter_patter|soon escalated]]. [[Business|Businesses]] were targeted by the rats, and the [[Unfettered Mind]] [[Conclave order]] were brought in to analyse the obviously magical situation. They discovered it was more complex than it at first appeared, with reports of [[Pitter_patter#Rodents_of_Assorted_Sizes|creatures stranger than rats]] being involved. The [[Pitter_patter#The_Chamber_of_Commerce|Temeschwari Chamber of Commerce]] received several pitches for plans to deal with the rat plague, and in the end chose to accept a tender from the [[Pitter_patter#The_Oldest_Guild|Rat Kings]], one of the oldest guilds in the city. As [[Graveyard_rats|the year wore on]] there were concerns about sickness, addressed in part by the [[bishop|bishops]] of Temeschwar but the Rat Kings guild [[Graveyard_rats#Guild_of_Ratcatchers|appeared to have contained the problem]]. There was some talk of parley, and of agreements reached with an unknown ''thing'' in the sewers beneath the city, but at the time of writing the rat problem is broadly [[Graveyard_rats#Contained_Not_Ended|contained, if not entirely ended]]. Rumours suggest the [[Golden_light#The_Woman's_Work|relocation]] of the body of [[Empress Giselle]] to [[Archbishop_of_Capodomus#Capodomus Cathedral|Capodomus Cathedral]] in [[Sarvos]] may have played some role in the relative cessation of rat attacks but specifics are not commonly known.

==Major Features==
===Temeschwar===
The city of Temeschwar occupies most of [[#Hanuri|Hanuri]]. It is also the site of the [[Northbound Trademaster|Northern Traders Guild]] (which forms the southern arm of the [[Northern trade network]]. The [[Guardian_of_Giselle's_Tomb#Virtue.27s_Respite|Tomb of Empress Giselle]] was built here in Winter 380YE, and Temeschwar is also the site of the [[Lorenzo's Legacy#The_Bloody_Great_Theatre|Bloody Great Theatre]], a theatrical venue that is also a site of pilgrimage for League citizens interested in exploring their [[Pride|Proud]] history of the dour city. In Winter 381YE, a branch of the [[Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange|Tassato Mana Exchange]] - the [[Magic_Butcher#The_Temeschwar_Mana_Exchange|Temeschwar Mana Exchange]] - was built on the eastern side of one of the cities' largest and oldest meat markets. Until Spring 383YE, it was the site of a [[Construct_statue_of_Janon|statue]] dedicated to the eternal [[Janon]]. The statue was [[Smash it up|reduced to expensive rubble]] by a band of Varushkan wardens apparently inspired to action by the Council of Nine.

Northernmost of the four great cities of [[the League]], Temeschwar was one of the three founding cities. It is very different in style to [[Sarvos]] and [[Tassato]], and its origins as a [[Varushka|Varushkan]] trade town are obvious in the architecture of its many old buildings. Structures are built to last in Temeschwar, with stone being a much more popular building material than wood, and with slate roofs more common than thatch. The city is extremely cold during the Winter (and during late Autumn and early Spring most years), and snowfall is a regular problem not faced by the inhabitants of more southerly cities of the League.

The people have a well deserved reputation for competitiveness, and for ruthlessness. Temeschwar may well be the richest of all the cities of the League, but it can never quite shake the fear that it is not as good as the others. This anxiety is just part of what drives the Temeschwari to be so competitive and so ruthless. Temeschwari strive to work that bit longer and that bit harder than anyone else in the League. If a Sarvossian closes their shop at sunset, their Temeschwari neighbour will light a pair of lanterns and keep trading for another hour.

===The Walls of Temeschwar===
The city proper is surrounded by [[fortification|great white granite walls]]. While not on the scale of the walls of [[Holberg]] in the east, they have proved more than sufficient to protect the city from its enemies. Nine great towers are placed roughly equidistant around the walls, seven named for each of the Virtues and two (those that incorporate the gates through which the Gancio enters and leaves the city) called the Northern and Southern Rivergates. Each is equipped with a great iron bell, used to toll the hours, and to warn of potential dangers. In cases of fire, for example, the bell in the tower nearest the blaze is sounded repeatedly until the flames are extinguished.

Temeschwar has grown since the walls were built, of course, and there are nearly as many buildings outside the walls as there are within them. In times of emergency, however, the population can take refuge within the walls - although how long Temeschwar could survive an actual siege remains to be seen.

===The Bloody Great Theatre===
The [[Lorenzo's Legacy#Boody Great Threatre|Bloody Great Theatre]] is one of the most prominent theatres in the Empire. It was [[commission|commissioned]] by Gant Archama and approved by the [[Senate]] in Winter 380YE, in the wake of a [[In_brightest_day#The_Power_to_Exalt|powerful surge of interest]] in the arts. A small movement to have the building officially named "Grand Temschwari Theatre" gained very little traction - the amusement of calling such a large and impressive structure by such a common name has meant it has largely stuck. It serves as an inspiration, and a source of [[Pride]], for the citizens of the city.

===The Great Game===
[[Construct_Lorenzo's_Great_Game|Commissioned]] by the [[Senate]] in Spring 382YE, and completed a little over a month later, the [[Lorenzo's_Legacy#Lorenzo.27s_Great_Game|Great Game]] was paid for by Lorenzo "la Volpe" Macelliao von Temeschwar and built by [[Those_who_worship#Almodin_Okt.C3.ADstis.2C_Priest_of_the_Builder|Almodin Oktístis]], the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] architect. It is a grand casino that also contains numerous places of refreshment and hostelries that stands beside the [[Lorenzo's_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Road]] outside the southern walls of the city proper.

=== The [[Fortress of Salt]]===
The Fortress of Salt is a Bourse resource located in [[#Metri|Metri]]. Custodianship of the Fortress is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 25 Imperial wains of mithril every season. Control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Autumn Equinox.

===Lorenzo's Legacy of Loyalty===
Spread across the entire territory of Temeschwar are a number of red stone [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stele stelae]. A central stone, the keystone for the entire [[great work]], stands in front of the Butcher's Guild in the city itself. The [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#The_Legacy_of_Loyalty|legacy]] guides and focuses the flows of mana through the territory, increasing the amount of crystal mana produced by [[mana site|sites]] across Temeschwar.

===Mellfort===
In [[#Locul|Locul]], on the higher slopes of Mellfort Peak, stands old '''Mellfort'''. This ancient hillfort consists of a ruined set of concentric rings of black stone, believed to have been of Terunael origin (although some scholars claim the Terun simply adapted a much older structure, perhaps one built by [[The Sentinel]]). The fort was in ruins when the first [[Varushka|Varushkan]] settlers came here, believed to be a casualty of the wars between the people of Terunael and the orcs. Human settlers lost no time in incorporating the sturdy stones of the ruin into their own fortification.

The fortification here was decommissioned during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]], during a compromise which saw funds channelled to the fortification of Temeschwar itself. Following the fall of Skarsind there was discussion of rebuilding it as a watchpost and beacon. In early 377YE the fortress was partially refitted to serve as a base of operation for groups of [[Bravo|bravos]] hunting bandits and brigands preying on Temeschwari trade. Overseen by Bridget Eastville (senator for [[Mitwold]]) as part of a larger plan to provide protection to towns throughout the Empire, the defences were not sufficient to qualify Mellfort as a [[Fortifications|fortification]]. Still, they helped reduce outlawry throughout the territory and led to further discussion about completing the work and restoring Mellfort to its former glory as a strategically placed fortification.

Throughout its history, people who have spent long periods of time here have reported strange dreams - dreams of sadness, loss and bittersweet remembrance. Unlike many such 'accursed places' it gained a reputation for strangeness, rather than terror or fear, and in the early years of the Empire became something of a place of pilgrimage for those suffering grief or regret. Interest in the strange aura here culminated in Winter 383YE with [[A_health_to_the_company#Restful_Isolation|proposals]] as to how to make the best use of it. The [[Senate]] ultimately approved the plan of the Emerald Magpie Guild to turn Mellfort into a [[A_health_to_the_company#Restful_Isolation|place to rest and recuperate]], establishing the [[Chatelaine_of_the_Reapers%27_Repose#Reapers'_Repose|Reaper's Repose]]. The existing structures - the palisades and the watchpost - were incorporated into the new structure, and consequently Mellfort is no longer even lightly fortified.

===Lorenzo's Deep Pockets===
Just over a month after the Spring Equinox 381YE a large section of north-western [[Miaren#Goldglades|Goldglades]] in [[Miaren]] [[Rocks and gravel|collapsed with an almighty roar]]. After the initial collapse, the hole began to spread. Warnings by the Navarr [[Navarr_magical_traditions#Vates|vates]] reached the already-worried people of the Vardstein Vale not a moment too soon. Parts of that region soon followed north-western Goldglades into the spreading hole. Thanks to the Navarr, the few settlements here were all evacuated in time to avoid major loss of life although the disruption caused significant losses to those invested in the forests of the south-western territory.

Where Temeschwar once bordered Upwold, there is now a massive [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinkhole sinkhole]. Estimated to be seven hundred feet deep, with a lake at the bottom that may well be bottomless. The cliff walls are nearly vertical and still prone to collapse in some places, but there are also signs of caves and tunnels opening out in several places. Initial explorers have excitedly reported what look to be ancient mine workings - some reaching back to the time of the Terunael, and some reaching back even further. The full extent of the network of caverns here has yet to be determined. More worryingly, some of the early daredevils who have made a preliminary investigation of some of the more accessible caves and tunnels have failed to return - and all those who have made it back in one piece have described encounters with particularly angry [[trogoni]] - creatures rarely encountered outside of the mountains of [[Urizen]], and the northern peaks of [[Wintermark]] and [[Varushka]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Butchers.jpg |title=Lorenzo “La Volpe” Macelliao and Janusz Dalibor of the Butchers Bank.|caption=The politics of Temeschwar can be robust even for the League.|align=left|width=300}}
The sinkhole was officially named "[[Delver_of_the_Depths#Lorenzo.27s_Deep_Pockets|Lorenzo's Deep Pockets]]" by Lorenzo Macelliao von Temeschwar, but is sometimes known smirkingly as "The Foxhole" or (rather more lewdly) as "La Volpe's Arse".

==Regions==
===Hanuri===
*'''Qualities:''' City, Fortification
The main feature of Hanuri is the city of [[#Temeschwar|Temeschwar]] itself.

===Locul===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
Much of the territory of Temeschwar is rugged and hilly, but in Locul the foothills rise steeply into the heights of '''Mellfort Peak''' which took its name from the [[#Mellfort|hill fort]] built on the upper slopes. These ruins were ultimately repurposed to create the prestigious [[Chatelaine_of_the_Reapers%27_Repose#Reapers'_Repose|Reaper's Repose]], a premiere location for exhausted merchant-princes to rest and recuperate away from the pressures of city life.

Before the forerunners of the League restored the ruins there, the peak was called ''Suyan''. The mountain dwarfs the surrounding territory, for all that [[Urizen]] visitors like to claim (somewhat smugly) that it is not a ''real'' mountain. The peaks and foothills of Locul are the site of many prosperous mines, especially those working [[Materials#Green Iron|green iron]] and [[Materials#Weltsilver|weltsilver]]. One of the best known of these mines is '''Descent''' - a mining village built around a large open sinkhole at the foot of Mellfort Peak. Many years ago a stairs and ramp were built spiralling down into the depths of the Descent, and green iron is mined from an extensive cavern complex beneath. The [[Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] often spends a lot of time surveying the mines of Locul, when they are not at their offices in Temeschwar proper.

===Metri===
The [[#Fortress of Salt|Fortress of Salt]] is found in Metri, very close to the border with [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Karov]]. During Winter 380YE, something unnatural settled [[into the woods]] here, that brought with it both a peculiar magical effect and a strange sense of safety. Gaunt spirits, ghosts, and a general sense of mild unease permeated the place but the roads were unmolested by bandits and beast alike. Anything or anyone that tried to bring violence against another person in Metri suffers bloody, unnatural judgement at the claws and teeth of alien creatures that haunted the region. Just before the Winter Solstice 384YE it was uncovered that the place was home to a number of heralds of the [[Skathe|Hag Queen]]. During the Winter Solstice 384YE the Order of the Rod and Shield were instructed to go and clear out these heralds - removing the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] nature of the region - which led to a [[Fade_out_again#A_Disturbing_Encounter|showdown]] between the ''Grand Enchantrix'' and the Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield, '''Sakari Nightscale'''.

===Vargat===
A somewhat hilly region, dotted with villages and scattered areas of cultivated [[forest|woodlands]]. Vargat is perhaps best known for the brewing of strong spirits, the good quality, thick-crusted dark rye-bread made from [[farm|locally sourced flour]] known colloquially a ''Vargat Bianch'', and for extremely strong-tasting pickled cabbage that is considered a local delicacy by those from Vargat, and a challenge to the digestive system and sense of taste by everyone else. Increased trade with southern nations, especially the [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]], has seen a recent fashion in Vargat for vegetable dishes prepared by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimchi fermenting with a variety of seasonings]. It remains to be seen if this culinary fashion will become popular in the League.

===Vardstein Vale===
*'''Quality:''' Forest
The southern Vardstein Vale that slopes down toward [[Miaren]] has a reputation for wildness. While the periphery has been cultivated with a number of small [[forest|woodland preserves]], most of the woodland is left "wild". The forest is known to be home to many wolves, and to at least one pack of wily [[Mundane_beasts#Dire_Beasts|dire wolves]]. The decision to leave the Vale as a hunting preserve has caused occasional friction with the [[Navarr]] and [[Wintermark]] who point out that wild beasts do not respect borders. More artistically minded individuals point to the decision to leave the Vardstein Vale "wild" as reflecting a key element of the Temeschwari (and indeed League) soul. They are civilised, but they are not tame ...
<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar.jpg|caption='''Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar''', Senator for Temeschwar|align=left|width=500}}</div>
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Temeschwar|Territory=Temeschwar|Season=Winter}}
==OOC Notes==
* All the regions of Temeschwar are in the hands of the League (and by extension the Empire) making it a staunchly Imperial territory.
* The [[#The Walls of Temeschwar|city walls]] are a rank two [[fortification]].
* [[business|Businesses]] in the territory benefit from both the [[#The Great Game|Great Game]] and produce an extra 36 rings each season.
* [[Congregation|Congregations]] in the territory benefit from the [[#The Bloody Great Theatre|Bloody Great Theatre]] and produce an extra 2 doses of [[liao]] each season.
* [[Mana site|Mana sites]] in the territory no longer benefit from the [[#Lorenzo's Legacy of Loyalty|Lorenzo's Legacy of Loyalty]] following a senate motion to [[385YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#League_Crystal_Mana_to_Spiral|divert production to Spiral]].
* Due to the presence of the [[Temeschwar#Lorenzo.27s_Deep_Pockets|sinkhole]] in the [[#Vardstein Vale|Vardstein Vale]] it is not possible for a [[Army|campaign army]] to move directly between Temeschwar and Upwold despite their apparent proximity on the map.
[[Category:The League]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak

2026-04-13T22:06:10Z

Dre:

==Overview==
The [[Karov#Malimorzi|docks of Korotny]] were expanded by an [[384YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Expand_the_Docks_at_Korotny|announcement]] from Pavel Novak, [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]]. during the Spring Equinox 384YE, following an [[opportunity]] presented during the [[Apples_from_a_tree#A_Ripple_On_the_Lake|Winter Solstice]] of 383YE. Construction was completed shortly before the Summer Solstice 384YE.

The amount of ilium available to purchase was reduced following the [[Underwater_sunshine#Dho.27uala.27s_Tithe_-_Ports|rise of the sovereign]] [[Dho'uala]] which saw shipping on the Semmerlak significantly impacted, and ultimately [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Taking_From_the_Depths|dropped to nothing]] following a change in the law during the Summer Solstice 385YE.
==Responsibilities==
The Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak is responsible for ensuring good relations with those who offer their weirwood and ilium for trade. If the docks of Korotny were to be threatened in any way, it would be the responsibility of the Harbourmaster to deal with those threats. Likewise, if any particular [[opportunity]] were to arise related to the docks, the Harbourmaster would expect to be consulted as to how that opportunity might be resolved.
==Powers==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Weirwood'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>121 crowns</td><td>6 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>257 crowns</td><td>11 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
<tr><td>392 crowns</td><td>15 wains of weirwood</td></tr>
</table></div>

===Ministry===
As a [[ministry]], the Harbourmaster can purchase quantities of [[weirwood]] at a set price. The Harbourmaster spends their money and makes their choices during downtime from their character page. Money is removed from, and resources are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed. When first created, the docks also allowed the Harbourmaster to purchase [[ilium]] dredged from the depths of the Semmerlak. A Summer 385YE [[Senate motion]] [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Create_law_criminalising_Semmerlak_items|changed the law]] to make it [[The_horror_and_the_wild#Taking_From_the_Depths|illegal to take things from the lake]] in an attempt to placate the [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns|sovereign]] [[Dho'uala]], removing this opportunity.

==Appointment==
This title is appointed during the Winter Solstice each year. The Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak is appointed by citizens of Varushka who control [[mine|mines]] and [[forest|forests]] [[Resource#Personal_Resource|personal resources]]. The larger the holder an individual has, the more votes they can allocate in support to a candidate. The voting is handled by the civil servants in the Bourse.

Only a Varushkan citizen may hold the title. They do not receive a seat on the Bourse. As a title appointed through the Bourse they cannot be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Synod]].
==Docks at Korotny==
Of all the nations in the Empire, Varushka is by far the richest in terms of natural resources with deep seams of valuable metals and vast forests of high quality timber. The bustling port of Korotny, situated in the east of [[Karov]], lies on the north-western shores of [[the Semmerlak]], where it benefits from substantial trade with [[Dawn]] and [[Holberg]]. For a long time, only the ever present threat of the [[Thule]] held its ambitions in check.

The local [[boyar|boyars]] waited with interest to see how the Dawnish would respond to [[Great_prosperity_and_strength#Applefell_and_Lacre|an opportunity to build the Star Metal Market]] in Lacre. These wealthy Varushkans had grown rich from the lake-trade and welcomed the prospect of new markets opening up but they were also quick to seize the chance when the Dawnish opted not to pursue the market themselves. Under the leadership of ''Oksana Lyava Pinavora'', they swiftly they put forward an alternative plan that led to the docks [[Expand the Docks at Korotny|being expanded]] in Spring 384YE.

The old docks were expanded and modernized, and new warehouses were built. In addition to creating a place for Varushkan woodcutters, and for lumberjacks from [[Weirwater]] to sell their [[weirwood]], the docks became the natural place to sell any ilium found in the Semmerlak.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Triska6991.jpg|caption=Triska Markova, Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak|align=left|width=450}}
{{RecentElections|Harbourmaster_of_the_Semmerlak}}
{{Responsibilities Expectation}}
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:Bourse]]
[[Category:Varushka]]

Yaw'nagrah

2026-04-13T22:06:03Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=QueenOfTheForestArt.jpg |title="Queen of the Forest" by Marcher artist Martha Riversbank. Painted in 293YE, as part of a commission for the never-completed Hall of Spring (a college of magic intended to be built in Miaren later abrogated by the Senate).|caption=The ''Queen of the Forest'' appears to be a literal primaeval forest in the Spring realm|align=left|width=400}}
==Eternal of Spring==
===Sobriquets===
Most commonly, Yaw'nagrah is called the ''Green Mother'' or the ''Queen of the Forest''.

As with many eternals, Yaw'nagrah has a number of other names both within the Empire and beyond. She may be called ''Rootwinder'', ''Old Bloodbark'', the ''Verdant Queen'', the ''Lady of the Woods'', ''Lady of Bark and Bramble'', the ''One who Sways and Stands'', ''Thorncreeper'', ''Treecaller'', and ''Woodwyf''. In her more benevolent guises she may be called ''Cornwalker'', ''Midwife'', or ''Wheatweaver''. The [[Druj]] sometimes call her the ''Green Hand'' and ''Nest of Thorns'', while among the [[Thule]] she is called the ''Plentiful''.

==Appearance==
Like [[Llofir]], Yaw'nagrah is immense. She appears to be a primaeval forest of immense size that spreads across an area of the Spring realm roughly the size of [[Varushka]], although it is possible that this estimation is out by several magnitudes. She rarely speaks directly to magicians, but spawns ''handmaidens'' from her body that take the form of human-shaped tree creatures who work to make her guests more at home.

Some magicians describe these handmaidens as being close to human in looks, often with briar trappings, rather than animate tree creatures but it is not clear if these are a different kind of creature (possibly heralds), or the result of some exposure to hallucinogenic pollen.

==Concerns==
Yaw'nagrah is concerned with life, in infinite diversity and infinite combinations. Her forest is [[Spring_magic#Fertility|fecund]], but she is a creature without compassion; she favours no form of life over any other. Discussions with her handmaidens have suggested that she may consider all forms of life other than plants and perhaps insects to be an aberration, a temporary infestation on the mortal world that will eventually disappear. Until then, however, she revels in seeing how life expresses itself in uncountable different ways. Her touch is known to change and alter life to create new shapes, new expressions of the life force. She is a creature of [[Spring magic#Chaos|chaos]], and while she is sometimes [[Spring magic#Savagery|savage]] she prefers to promote life and growth - often without any consideration as to how that will affect other living creatures.
{{CaptionedImage|file=SpringEternal1.JPG|title=A Handmaiden of Yaw'nagrah|align=right|width=350}}
While she is not specifically malicious, she is also entirely without mercy and her concerns are often quite alien to mortals. Her interests in the Empire appear to generally be quite limited, beyond her somewhat detached interest in all living things. Some magicians have noted, however, that she appears to look favourably on those who bring her gifts of plants she has not encountered before, or who bring children into the presence of her handmaidens. For the most part, though, she is known to view the Empire as an enemy of growth and change - that its stranglehold on the natural world demonstrates that it does not understand the true state of the world. Ultimately, Yaw'nagrah would prefer humans and orcs to live more like animals than civilised folks, to abandon their farms and towns and roads and embrace the chaos of the wild like any other animals.

In recent years it has become apparent that Yaw'nagrah favours the spread of the [[vallorn]]. While she is by no means responsible for the doom that destroyed Terunael, she seems to see its uncontrollable growth and transformative energies as preferable to the stagnation of the Empire. She was placed under the [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] of the [[Conclave]] in late 380YE, apparently due to evidence regarding an attempt to rouse the [[Therunin]] vallorn that led to the destruction of the [[steading]] of [[Therunin#Upper_Tarn_Valley|Return]]. She would later support the treacherous [[Rise of Terunael|Heirs of Terunael]] in their efforts to awaken all the vallorn. While they were ultimately defeated, Yaw'nagrah was unrepentant.

Yaw'nagrah is occasionally called ''Mother of Briars'' or ''Barkspawner'' and some old stories tentatively link her with the foundation of the [[briar]] lineage. Her handmaidens have never offered conclusive proof one way or another, and according to many magicians appear not to understand the question - although it cannot be denied that Yaw'nagrah and her handmaidens respond more favourably to those with briar lineage than to other humans. She is also believed to favour [[orc|orcs]] over humans - on occasion her handmaidens have spoken of the fact that orcs are more "aware of themselves" - although what that means is not clear.

She is strongly associated with the rune [[Bravash]].

==Boons==
Magicians seek out Yaw'nagrah because she has powerful abilities related to [[Spring magic#Fertility|fertility]] in all forms. She has been known to help those who could not otherwise conceive offspring to do so, although these offspring may show odd signs of the magic that gave them life. She is also able to help magicians to restore fertility to blighted crops or beasts, as well as to encourage fecundity over large areas - potentially to a dangerous degree. There is some circumstantial evidence that she helped Imperial magicians to create the [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]] ritual, providing access to the spirits required to rouse the trees, and is known to offer boons to support its performance. She is likely responsible for the facility the orcs of [[the Mallum]] demonstrate with this powerful curse.

Concerned as she is with growth and life, she can also offer boons to those who grow and harvest living things - owners of [[farm|farms]], [[forest|forests]] and occasionally [[herb garden|herb gardens]] as well. Such boons are almost always influenced by the powerful resonance of [[Spring magic#Chaos|chaos]] that runs through her being. While a farm or a forest may become fecund, it often produces unexpected crops. Strangely coloured fruit, odd flowers, herd animals with peculiar additional qualities. These products are generally no less wholesome than any other, but their strangeness can be pronounced and make people cautious about consuming them.
===Donahorti===
Among her bounty, her most common gifts take the form of the ''donahorti'', a cornucopia of magically infused fruits of the forest. The [[Realm#Spring|Primal Forest]] is a wellspring of wonderful plants and beasts, and those that dwell in the vast demesne of the ''Great Gardener'' are said to be the most magical and variable of all. Taking the form of juice, fruit, sap, bark, or other natural substances, these boons are often referred to as ''donahorti''. The term comes from the old Asavean name for the boons of Yaw'nagrah used by scholars of Spring Magic - the ''donahorti mirabilis'', or the Marvellous Gifts of the Garden. The ''donahorti'' are similar to [[potion|potions]] in some regards, and generally [[Potion#Consuming_a_Potion|used in the same way]]. These boons come in a myriad of different shapes and flavours, but they always take the form of natural substances - fruit, juice, sap, flakes of moss, shavings of bark, shredded leaves and so on. Some of the more common ''donahorti'' include:
* '''''Milksap''''': a milky white liquid with an intensely sweet, floral scent that provides similar benefits to [[vis#Warm Honey|warm honey]] when smeared on the face and palms, but has unpleasant effects on anyone who accidentally drinks it.
* '''''Glomsbark''''': shavings of bark and moss that can be used to empower many Spring [[enchantment|enchantments]], providing both a little mana toward their casting but also empowering a magician familiar with [[Magical skills#Realm Lore|Spring lore]] to work such enchantments more easily.
* '''''Ornsap''''': a dark red juice with the consistency of blood that provides a great boost to physical stamina and fortitude.
* '''''Mornsalve''''': a thick light-green sap that treats many ailments of the body.
* '''''Thornsting''''': a vicious waxy honey-like substance that inflames violence and grants combat prowess.
* '''''Queensleaf''''': oddly shaped leaves that when crushed and the juice applied to the wrists and throat grants magical healers a reserve of inner power.
* '''''Sallamoss''''': a kind of moss that heartens the body and is particularly effective when used by briars (and in sufficient quantity can sometimes cause someone to take on briar lineage).
* '''''Magepetals''''': which come in a variety of forms and various colours, each variety providing additional facility when performing certain kinds of Spring ritual depending on their shade
* '''''Sunfoil''''': a unique flowering herb that possesses all the qualities of those herbs familiar to herbalists and apothecaries.
There are also many kinds of other ''donahorti'' which are rarer or less easily identifiable. Regardless, all these boons come from Yaw'nagrah. Any ritual magic devised to deal with them (such as prompting their growth in a farm, or trying to make more of them with an effect like [[Churning Cauldron of Bravash]]) would require her direct support.
[[Category:Eternals]]

Feni

2026-04-13T22:05:45Z

Dre:

==Overview==
The Feni are human barbarians most commonly encountered in wild places of the [[The Marches|Marches]] and occasionally other parts of the north-western Empire, primarily [[Hahnmark]]. They lived in much of the area that is now the Marches since before the first Marchers [[The_Marches_history#The_creation_of_the_Marches|arrived in those lands]] and drove the [[orc|orcs]] out. [[#Origins of the Feni|History]] suggests that some of the Feni were once the subject people of the orcs who occupied this area. They seem to have a clannish structure, with individual groups of Feni being geographically and socially separated from others.

As of 384YE, the largest concentration of Feni in the Empire appears to be in [[Liathaven]], despite the territory labouring under a [[Wither the Seed|terrible curse]], and the presence of conquering [[Jotun]].

===Appearance===
The Feni dress primarily in leather and fur, and use spears and bows where they can get them and javelins where they cannot. They paint or tattoo their bodies with bands of colour and intricate spiral designs, almost always in muted greens and yellows. They make extensive use of camouflage, which makes it easy for them to hide and to attack from ambush.

===Culture and Customs===
The Feni are widely believed to disdain the trappings of civilisation. They mostly keep to themselves, but at semi-regular intervals they raid into parts of the Marches, southern [[Wintermark]] and the northern [[The Brass Coast|Brass Coast]]. These raids are primarily concerned with stealing goods and produce - they kill anyone who gets in their way, and anyone with a weapon or armour is fair game, but they do not go out of their way to murder non-combatants.

Sometimes the Feni are more destructive, killing every person in a village, and burning the place to the ground. Some circumstantial evidence suggests that they do this when they are launching revenge attacks against people they believe have wronged them in some serious way.

The Feni are skilled scouts who excel at hiding and attacking from ambush. They make regular use of herbal [[potion|potions]] and [[Potion#Poisons|poisons]], but they seem deficient in battlefield magic - few [[Magical skills#Magicians|magicians]] have ever been encountered among their number. Some scholars theorise this is less due to a lack of magicians, and more due to their magicians having responsibilities that prevent them taking part in raids.

For centuries it was assumed that the Feni had access to some magic that makes it hard to track them or locate their settlements, leading to speculation that each community had a number of ritualists specialized in the magic of [[Night magic|Night]], or that their settlements are built in areas that are naturally warded in some fashion. More recent revelations however have uncovered that Feni settlements appear to be build inside [[regio]] [[Regio#Portals_and_Chambers|chambers]] making them extremely hard to approach for anyone who does not know the secret of entering the chamber. Like all humans, they have at least a little [[lineage]]. There are reliable accounts of [[Draughir]] and [[Briar]] among their raiding groups. It is surprising that given their tendency to live inside powerfully magical areas, that they do not have ''more'' lineaged folk among their number.

They appear to have an absolute hatred for orcs. There have been numerous incidents where entire orc patrols have been encountered butchered and their corpses horribly mutilated, clearly the victims of the Feni. Unfortunately, they seem to lack either the ability or inclination to differentiate between the barbarian orcs and the [[Imperial Orcs]], and at least one legion of orcs has been lost to Feni while on manoeuvres in the northern Marches.

Their "primitive" appearance is highlighted by what seems to be a lack of indigenous metalwork - they use stolen weapons and armour when they can acquire it, but some have been encountered using bronze or even flint weapons. Items recovered from dead Feni, or occasionally thrown up for trade by peddlers, have been simple and functional, suggesting either that improvements in crafting techniques over the last six centuries have largely passed them by, or that they have cultural reasons for eschewing iron and steel work.

The common perception is that it is difficult to make peaceful contact with the Feni; while some [[The Marches military concerns#Beaters|beaters]] and itinerant merchants are able to arrange a meeting with one or two representatives of the Feni, they describe them as uncommunicative, suspicious, and uncooperative. Again, more recent developments - especially with regard to the large enclave in [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] in [[Mournwold]] - have suggested much closer, borderline friendly, ties between some Feni and their Marcher neighbours.

==Recent History==
In Summer 381YE, a giant [[Rocks and gravel|sinkhole opened up in the north-western Empire]]. While this caused problems for the Imperial citizens in [[Hahnmark]], [[Temeschwar]], [[Miaren]], and [[Upwold]]. More significantly impacted were a large number of Feni in the woodlands of [[Upwold#Birchland|Birchland]] and [[Hahnmark#Wood_Heath|Wood Heath]]. Their homes having fallen into the sinkhole, the Feni split into two groups forced to move across the Empire to find new homes. One group went south through Upwold into Mournwold - dubbed the "Woods that Fell" Feni - while the other went north through Hahnmark. Both groups picked up more Feni as they travelled, until they presented a significant problem for the western Empire.

The Wintermark group eventually moved out of Hahnmark into Hercynia, where they disappeared, most likely with the assistance of an [[eternal]]. The group in the Marches however gathered momentum as it moved south, After several pitched fights, they eventually [[Declare_Feni_group_to_be_foreigners|sued for peace]] and were allowed to leave the Mournwold for [[Liathaven]]. In the process, however, the Marches came into possession of instructions for how to find the settlement of the Feni living in the depths of [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]]. In the lead up to the Winter Solstice 382YE, the [[Drakes]] used this information to [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Rattle_of_the_Bones|destroy the Alderly enclave]].

It seems that the Feni are living more openly in Liathaven - despite the presence of a [[Wither the Seed|terrible curse]] over the territory - rather than hiding in [[regio]]. There are also reports of Feni from other settlements making their way to the former [[Navarr]] lands. [[Navarr]] activity in Liathaven - initially aimed at the Heirs of Terunael group - revealed more information about the situation in Liathaven with the [[Shimmerglisten|discovery of Hotter's Mire]] and an uneasy détente with the Empire. As on Autumn 384YE, however, the Jotun have once again [[No_Peace#Deep_Woods|invaded Liathaven]] and the Feni appear to have been scattered.

==Origins of the Feni==
In Winter 383YE, the [[Imperial Advisor for the Feni]], Watt of Lambrook, directed the [[Historical_research#The_Department_of_Historical_Research|Department of Historical Research]] to "''Research the origins of the Feni people and their contact with or links to other contemporaneous peoples or civilisations''." What follows is the report provided by the Department.

===Foreword===
A lot of what we know about the Feni is based on speculation and hearsay. The Feni themselves have never been interested in cooperating with the Empire, for the most part they have kept their distance and cultivated a healthy distrust on both sides. Most of our information comes from the handful of Marcher folk who maintain close but covert ties with their reclusive neighbours.

The Feni are human barbarians most commonly encountered in the few remaining wild places of the Marches and occasionally other parts of the north-western Empire. They lived in much of the area that is now the Marches since before the first Marchers arrived in those lands and drove the orcs out. History suggests that some of the Feni were once the subject people of the orcs who occupied this area. They seem to have a clannish structure, with individual groups of Feni being geographically and socially separated from others.

===Grim Origins===
There is some evidence to suggest that the Feni predate the Terunael Empire, or at least that they existed at that time. There are several surviving documents from the Terunael period which strongly suggest that they conquered and subjugated the Feni, or at least some of them. The Feni refer to the coming of the vallorn as the ''"Rain That Washed The World Clean"'' and rather than seeing it as a disaster, they seem to view the event as a cause for celebration. That would certainly fit if they were enslaved by the Terunael.

It appears however the Terunael are not the only people who have oppressed the Feni. They are known to loathe orcs, especially the Jotun, but they have no affection for the Lasambrians, the Imperial Orcs, or any other orcs as far as anyone can tell. They are generally careful to avoid open battle with anyone, but they will ambush and kill orcs, any orcs, if they get an opportunity to attack with little losses. If asked they claim that the orcs were created by their enemies expressly to kill them, but then claim not to know who their "enemies" are.

There is some speculation that the Feni might be related in some way to the Gwerin Morfa, but given that they lived in what is today the Mallum, on the far side of the Empire, this seems to be unlikely.

The Marchers - the people who perhaps know them best - can only say that when they reached Upwold there were Feni there in the woods and wild places, hiding from the orcs. Likewise, the Winterfolk appear to have had little contact with them until around the time of the Steinr, following which there are references to "wild folk" in the hills of south-western Hahnmark.

The Feni are unwilling, or perhaps unable to provide further insight. They are known to keep no written records, and few of them can read or write. They claim to have no rich aural tradition to preserve memories and stories between generations instead they ''"give their songs to the gods"''. This is most likely to be a reference to some kind of crude ritual magic that allows them to create records of important memories they wish to preserve.

===Strange Interactions===
The Feni appear to have precious few contacts with other civilisations. As far as we know they eschew any contact with the orc nations to whom they are unremittingly hostile. they don't appear to share any borders with the Iron Confederacy, but it's hard to imagine the two people enjoying harmonious and positive relations. Indeed it's even possible that they have encountered the Suranni before and either been driven off or fled. However the presence of the Kahraman mountains appear to have formed an effective wall, it's notable that while the Marchers have extensive contacts with the Feni, the Freeborn don't. There have been some raids in northern Kahraman, but nothing further south, suggesting that the Feni are loathe to roam too far from what is today Marcher land.

There are isolated bands of Feni scattered across the Marches, and Wintermark, and of course there is (now) a large group in Liathaven, many of whom have moved there recently. Another group - the other part of the Woods that Fell - disappeared in Hercynia and it is likely they are still in hiding there, but there have been no report of raids. Indeed, the Feni seem to have surprisingly few contacts with the Navarr.

For the most part Imperial contact with the Feni has been hostile and involved roaming bands of Feni raiding outlaying settlements looking to take food, herbs, forest resources and other valuables. They are usually driven off by any show of stout resistance, they seem to avoid fights, but just occasionally they will put up unexpectedly stout resistance and nobody knows why. Those occasions can be dangerous, even deadly for their victims, especially if they have got into the habit of expecting the Feni to run at the first sight of trouble. This is not to say that every Feni enclave raids nearby settlements. Some can go for long periods of time without really interacting with their Imperial neighbours at all. Indeed there have been a few incidents over the last three hundred years where the first a Marcher household or Wintermark hall has known of their Feni neighbours has been an unexpected raid.

The only people they have much interaction with the Feni appear to be the Marchers. There are small groups of Feni in every territory in the Marches, usually dwelling the more inaccessible locations, where the land is unusually barren. There are small populations in Bregasland and there used to be a large group in the Mournwold, but most of those were killed when the Empire sent an army to crush the Feni at Alderly.

The Alderly situation apparently involved a significant degree of intermarriage between the Feni population living in the forest and the Marchers living on the edge of the forest. Those Marchers clearly felt a tie to the Feni of the deep woods, and fought fruitlessly to defend them. Those Marchers who lived on the edges of the woods were always considered a little "strange" by their neighbours. While that's not uncommon in the Marchers, and often indicates nothing more than an odd name, in the case of Alderly there was definitely more to it.

Similar accusations of association with the Feni are occasionally thrown at other settlements near areas they are known to roam. A few very old stories suggest that some groups of Feni may even have been absorbed into Marcher communities, especially in Upwold and Mitwold. These stories have been obscured by time but it appears that not all Feni groups were automatically hostile to the Marchers when they left Dawn and may have enjoyed cordial relationships that eventually, over time, led to the Marchers assimilating their neighbours. There are no such tales from Wintermark, but it's not impossible that some of the Winterfolk have attenuated familial connections to the Feni of Hahnmark.

===Superstitions and Hidden Homes===
The Feni are highly superstitious people, but they're also flagrant blasphemers and heretics. The Empire has largely ignored them because they're not significant in the broader picture and because nobody has ever been able to imagine successfully converting them. The Feni are passionate about their gods, they claim to meet with them regularly, to talk with them, to receive aid from them, and to be protected by them. Different groups of Feni seem to worship, or sometimes propitiate different gods. In the majority of cases it is very clear that these "gods" are nothing more than eternals, or occasionally powerful heralds. The Feni don't deny that they treat eternals as gods, and when questioned on it, they don't seem to see any meaningful distinction between the two terms.

At Alderly there were constant rumours of the folk who lived closest to the Feni being drawn into their blasphemous ways, and practising wicked rites in the woods. How mixed up in these matters the Alderly folk actually were is now impossible to know. The Empire sent an army in to crush the Feni and the few survivors fled West to Liathaven. If any Marchers remain with sympathies for the Feni, you would need to the Silent Bell to look into that, not historical records. But at a guess, it is very unlikely. Those Marchers whose loyalties were with the Feni will have fled with them, those whose true loyalty was the Empire or the Marches will likely have abandoned their erstwhile allies and are sensibly having nothing more to do with them.

This veneration of eternals as gods is most likely the reason the Feni were able to live ''inside'' the chambers of regio, even building settlements there as was seen at Alderly. Not only does the eternal patron provide an almost impossible-to-reach lair for the favoured Feni, but their patronage seems to bring other protections as well. The Feni at Alderly, who seem to have been associated with the Winter eternal Wise Rangara, certainly enjoyed a bounty of herbs and knowledge of herb lore than appears to have been almost a match for that of their Marcher neighbours.

This residence in regio may go some way toward explaining the high incidence of lineage among Feni groups - and that in turn may reinforce their peculiar behaviour and their reputation for being a strange, almost inhuman people.

===Afterword===
Right lad, this is very much off the record. You now know basically everything the Department of Historical Research knows about the Feni. I know the Senate has given you the power to commission Historical Research but I have to tell you that there's not a huge amount more we can tell you about the Feni. My completely unofficial advice to you would be to use this power to find out about other things you are interested in while you can, because further requests for more historical information about the Feni are likely to prove disappointing just because we don't ''know'' anything else.

This is a group of people who want nothing to do with the Empire. If they are a part of the Empire's history then they are little more than a footnote at this time. What happens in the future is anyone's guess - they keep heading west towards Liathaven and that could be storing up trouble. But if it is, then it's it in our future... not in our past.

==The Feni in Play==
The Feni (as a people) are barbarians, although some specific groups (such as the Woods that Fell) have been recognised as foreigners. Most peoples' experience of them is as raiders who target Imperial villages and farmsteads in the Marches, Hahnmark, and Kahraman, then melt back into the wilderness. They draw on themes of border raiders and operate in a similar manner to the cattle raiders of Irish myth, a stereotypical view of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Border_Reivers border reivers] in the north of England, and a little of the raiding Vikings along the British coastline in the middle-ages (without the boats, obviously). These are a people that want no part of the wider world; an insular folk who view strangers as both a threat and a source of resources.

It should be noted that while they often steal cattle, grain, and other resources, they don't go out of their way to kill people unless they are doing so as part of a vengeance raid.

The Feni are more likely to be encountered as enemies during a skirmish or small-scale encounter than they are in a pitched battle. Their irregular raids may lead to complications, especially for Marcher characters, but it is easy to see how they could feature in the backgrounds of Navarr, Wintermark and Freeborn characters.

It is not unknown for a village or hall to have cautious peaceful relations with the Feni; there may be a neutral location near a settlement where occasional trades take place, for example. Such trade is illegal in the Empire. The Feni do not have anything to trade that is not available in the Empire, and have no use for money, but seem to be quite good with herbs. Contact with the Feni could serve as an interesting explanation for a character's [[herb garden]] personal [[resource]].

You cannot have a Feni as a character because they are considered enemies of the Empire. A background in which you spend extensive time among the Feni is likely to be rejected; part of the point of the Feni is that they are outside the Empire and not especially understood by its citizens.

==Further Reading==
* [[Shimmerglisten]] - Summer 384YE Wind of Fortune about the Feni settlement of Liathaven
* [[Make good use]] - Summer 382YE Wind of Fortune about the situation with the "Woods that Fell" Feni
* [[Words to make things right]] - Autumn 382YE Wind of Fortune about potential solutions to the problems of the "Woods that Fell" Feni
* [[Ratify treaty with the Woods-that-fell|Treaty]] - A treaty ratified in Autumn 382YE regarding the southern Woods that Fell Feni
* [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#The_Rattle_of_the_Bones|The Rattle of the Bones]] - The Winter 382YE Wind of War about the invasion of Alderly.
* [[Lethal_and_elusive#The_Feni|Lethal and elusive]] - Winter 382YE Wind of Fortune dealing with the Feni groups
* [[People of the North]] - general history about the pre-Imperial peoples of the northern Empire

[[Category:Bestiary]]
[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:History]]

Morrow

2026-04-13T22:05:26Z

Dre:

{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofMorrow.png|caption=The spires here are the oldest in Urizen|title=Regions of Morrow|align=left|width=500}}
== Overview ==
The spires of Morrow are amongst the oldest in Urizen, dating back to the nation's birth. The heart of the Heliopticon is here, making it a centre of communication for the Nation. The miracle of the Heliopticon is administered from this territory, and most spires maintain a series of prisms, lenses and mirrors atop their tallest roof in order to pass on the flickering messages that keep the nation in constant communication.

Many spires in Morrow inhabit some of the original buildings discovered on the mountaintops by the first Urizen to ascend the mountains. Large open buildings, with doorways and halls just larger than a human might need, they create a sense of open space that has set the pattern for all Urizen architecture.

Despite its great age Morrow moves inexorably forward, and many of its spires are undergoing constant reconstruction and improvement. It is said that “no two days find the same Morrow” as the Urizen constantly strive to perfect their land even further. A project may take a decade or even more to come to fruition, but the Urizen pride themselves on vision and their desire to perfect their world.

==Recent History==
Following the Summer Solstice 382YE, the [[Druj]] armies [[382YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Lost_in_the_Echo_(Morrow)|poured across the southern borders]] of Morrow from [[Zenith]]. Despite the best efforts of the [[Highguard|Highborn]] armies of the Granite Pillar, Valiant Pegasus, and Seventh Wave the orcs conquered [[#Peregro|Peregro]] and [[#Caeli|Caeli]]. In the process they destroyed not only the [[#Halls of Knowledge|Halls of Knowledge]] but also the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon|Heliopticon]] tower, the [[Keeper_of_the_Glorious_Fountain#The_Glorious_Fountain_of_Dawn_and_Dusk|Glorious Fountain of Dawn and Dusk]], and the [[#Caeli|Gardens of Morrow]]. They also destroyed the Temple of the Winds, slaughtering nearly two thirds of the [[Sword scholar|sword scholars]] in the process. Their advance was finally turned back at the borders of [[#Operus|Operus]].

== Major Features ==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ariadne in the Snow.jpg|align=right|caption=The mountains of Morrow are cold.|width=500}}
{{anchor|Canterspire}}
===Grand Library of Canterspire ===
Over time, a number of spires built around the same high peak have merged to form one whole, the Canterspire. In any other country, it would be called a town, and would sprawl like a nest of termites. As this is Urizen, the merge was carefully planned and executed over centuries. Each Spire specialises in one of the pillars of Urizen philosophy, and they are defended by a network of citadels sitting on the lower peaks. Canterspire overlooks the preternaturally still lake known to the Urizen as the [[#Eye of Morrow|Eye of Morrow]]. During the Druj invasion of Morrow, Canterspire served as a sanctuary for those fleeing the orcs of the Mallum. With the aid of the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]], the spires were sheathed in magical crystal transforming them temporarily into a mighty fortress protected by bizarre guardians drawn from the Day realm.

During the Druj invasion, a large number of books and libraries from across Morrow were transported to the safety of the crystal sanctuary. With the orc armies pushed back into [[Zenith]], many who had made the desperate trip to the spires here chose to stay. They have since been joined by a large number of refugees from Zenith [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Zenith|rescued during the daring raid of Spring 383YE]]. Together with the original inhabitants, and with several exiles from [[Spiral]] who refuse to live under the oppressive aura there, Canterspire has unsurprisingly become a central "node" for the [[Doyen of the Spires|new magical research initiative]] spreading across Urizen.

In Summer 383YE, in response to a proposal by the Celestial Library, the Imperial Senate [[commission|commissioned]] a [[Construct_Celestial_Library_at_Canterspire|major expansion of Canterspire]] employing two-score wains of mithril and the work of countless Urizen artisans to transform Canterspire into the Grand Library of Canterspire - which was then [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] to the eternal. This cooperation with Phaleron provides several benefits - not only will Phaleron "enfold" the library should it ever be threatened, drawing it into a grand chamber between the mortal realm and the realm of Day where neither the residents nor the books may be threatened, but it will also serve as the lynchpin of the new body of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore|Urizen Lore]]

Until Autumn 382YE, Canterspire was home to the '''Canterspire Academy''', an august educational institution which oversaw the [[The Academy|Imperial Academy for Young Heroes]] in Anvil. Following the imminent threat of Druj invasion, with a heavy heart the Chancellor [[The_arch_of_the_door|announced the offices of the Academy would be moving]] to the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] in [[Astolat]].

===The Three Watchers===
One of the main passes from Morrow to Zenith lies in the shadow of the mountains known as the Three Sorrows, but following the spring Equinox 383YE their countenance was [[An_affirming_flame#The_Three_Watchers|irrevocably altered]]. Little ''koboldi'', servants of the [[eternal]] [[Adamant]], carved their lower slopes under the guidance of an Urizen illuminate named Furia Severia (a famous sculptor in her time). The koboldi, summoned by the ''Ashen Flame'' coven using a specially prepared [[arcane projection]] fashioned three great statues of Highborn soldiers gazing south into [[Zenith]]. Each soldier is nearly two hundred foot tall, clothed in armour, weapons at the ready to turn back any who attempt to invade. Each represents one of the Highborn armies who fought to defend Urizen from the encroaching tide of Druj - the Valiant Pegasus, the Seventh Wave, and the Granite Pillar. They tower over the pass and the surrounding countryside, a permanent tribute memorialising the Highborn sacrifice for all time.

Between the feet of the middle statue lies an austere stone shrine; a place of pilgrimage for those who wish to gaze upon the wondrous sculpture and meditate on the virtues that inspired its creation. The shrine was [[consecration|consecrated]] with [[liao#True Liao|true liao]] by Aurum of Virtue's Shield shortly before the Summer Solstice 383YE.

===The [[Canterspire Circle]]===
The Canterspire Circle (or more correctly, Circles) is a Bourse resource located in [[#Operus|Operus]]. Custodianship of the Circle is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Bourse]]. It produces 22 Imperial wains of weirwood every season. Control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Winter Solstice.
===Bridge of the Air===
In winter 385YE an [[appraisal]] by the [[Imperial Senate]] led to a proposal to create a series of marvelous cables connecting the Arch of the Sky to the rest of Urizen. Following a throw-away comment from one of the Urizen about it being a shame that [[white granite]] cannot be sent through the air the way the Heliopticon sends words, [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra|Graciana]] of the [[Appraisal#The Prognosticator's Office|Prognosticator's Office]] had a brainwave. Inspired in part by the washing lines that stretch between houses in [[Tassato]], and in part by the great cranes of the city of [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]], she proposed the construction of a unique “bridge” connecting the Starstair to the lower peaks of Caeli.

By stretching [[mithril]] cables across the valley between the two peaks, and using ushabti to provide motile force, shipments of stone are wheeled through the air from one mountain top to the next. By picking the right peaks and using the occasional lift where needed, the "skyway" has been extended all the way through [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]], past [[Canterspire Circle]], to [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]]. [[Road out of nowhere#A Road in the Sky|Extensive additional investment]] saw the skyway expanded into parts of [[Zenith]], [[Spiral]], and [[Redoubt]]. The “Bridge of the Air” is a true wonder, transporting people and trade goods between spires. Lifts help transport travellers and cargo from the lowlands to the highlands spires, and conventional roads and bridges have been employed where they are most useful.

Since completion of the Bridge of the Air, it has become easier than ever before to traverse the often difficult terrain of Urizen, and of Spiral.

===Quicksilver's Flame===
High on the scorched slopes of Morrow’s hills, the [[fortification]] of Quicksilver’s Flame rises from a jagged basalt outcrop above a steaming hot-spring lagoon. Overlooking the misty valleys of Peregro and the wild border of [[Therunin]], it stands sentinel where volcanic stone meets enchanted forest. Its white granite battlements, etched with [[The Mountain]] and [[The Oak]] in obsidian, house a garrison of sentinels and battlemages.

A deep central chamber, known colloquially as the Flameheart, serves as a strategic command centre and a place of meditation, symbolising the fusion of martial prowess and enlightened thought. Its halls and galleries are adorned with murals depicting the history and philosophy of Urizen, serving as a constant reminder of the nation's enduring spirit. Crowning the fortress is the Areté Spire, engraved with the motto: “''Where the mountain burns, reason shines''.”

Quicksilver’s Flame’s elevated position offers a strategic vantage point over the border with Therunin and allows for swift communication via the Heliopticon network, ensuring rapid response to threats to Peregro.

===The Caves of the Claw===
The Caves of the Claw are a series of deep caves recently excavated by ushabti associated with the citadel of Phoenix Reach. While local records mentioned "bloody crystals" the exact location of the Caves was a secret lost to modern Urizen. Their position was uncovered by the [[Minister of Historical Research]] in 378YE, and initial explorations determined that they were rich in subterranean mana flows and [[Game_items#Mana_Crystals|crystal mana]].

In Spring 379YE, the newly appointed [[Crystal Architect of the Spires]] announced that work would begin on developing and expanding the magical auras here, and the [[Imperial title]] of [[Custodian of the Claw]] was created to oversee the resultant [[sinecure]]. More details about the history and nature of the caves can be found [[Custodian_of_the_Claw#The Caves of the Claw|here]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Snows of Morrow.jpg|align=right|caption=Snow lies on the high peaks of Morrow throughout the year.|width=500}}
=== Highwatch ===
A citadel that focuses on military science and leadership rather than the combat skills of individuals. It is where the Urizen met Giovanni the Peacemaker to negotiate their incorporation into the Empire. It was [[Construct_Highwatch_Citadel|expanded]] shortly after the Summer Solstice 384YE following negotiations with ''Agon, Polemarch of Clarity'', a herald of [[Zakalwe]]. Now, the citadel serves as a base of operations for several heralds of the ''Master Strategist'' who spend their time debating matters of strategy and warfare with visitors to the citadel. Games of strategy and tactics are common, both those played in the abstract on boards and those involving dozens of participants on both sides in exercises and actual (albeit nonlethal) fighting. Defence of the citadel falls under the purview of the [[Polemarch of Highwatch]], appointed each Autumn Equinox by unanimous decision of the Urizen senators.

=== The Weave ===
A spire dedicated to the study of the Net of the Heavens, with particular importance to the [[Urizen_religious_beliefs#Illuminates|illuminate]] philosophy. The renowned writer Arria wrote her influential treatise on illumination ''A Light In Dark Places'' here, a text that is still studied by her successors three centuries later. The spire overlooks [[Morrow#The_Three_Watchers|Three Watchers Pass]] to [[Zenith#Clypion|Clypion]], whose creation was [[An_affirming_flame#The_Three_Watchers|facilitated by Furia Severia]], herself an outspoken supporter of the illuminate approach to virtue.

=== The Eye of Morrow ===
A small lake at the foot of the mountain that holds the Canterspire. Famed as a place of meditation. The air in this valley is remarkably still, and sound carries a vast distance. A perhaps misleading message is carved into a rock that stands next to the lake - it is in the Imperial tongue, and simply states "The Eye is Closed". That message has been there as long as any can remember.

===The Halls of Knowledge (ruined)===
{{anchor|The Halls of Knowledge}}When Zenith was added to the Empire, the Urizen proposed that the Empire should have a second seat of magical study, in addition to the [[Madruga#Lyceum|Lyceum]]. Rather than threaten the Lyceum, the new academy would help unite the magicians of Urizen and allow them to pool their magical lore for the benefit of the Empire. Instead of building their academy of magic around an existing spire, they created an entirely new one and called it the Halls of Knowledge. A number of respected theorists and seers travelled to the new academy, and a Provost was appointed to help co-ordinate their research - and to encourage other Urizen magicians to offer their assistance. It soon became known as a centre for prognostication and the study of Day magic - to this day some of the best diviners in the civil service spend time studying here to hone their abilities.

The college stood in the hills of [[Zenith#Clypion|Clypion]] until shortly after the Autumn Equinox 381YE when it [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge|vanished overnight]] in an eerie fog bank. The majority of the faculty, students, and researchers had evacuated but a small number of them were left unaccounted for including Provost Octavius of the spire of the Auric Horizon. Two months later, on the last night of the full moon before the Winter Solstice, the Halls of Knowledge reappeared in Morrow, on the shores of one of the largest hot springs of [[Morrow#Peregro|Peregro]]. None of the buildings appeared to be any the worse for wear for the two months they had spent... elsewhere. The unaccounted for scholars, however, remained unaccounted for.

Shortly after its singular disappearance and reappearance, the college was destroyed by the invading Druj, its libraries burnt and many of its scholars killed or enslaved by the rampaging orcs.

=== Sunspire (ruined)===
This spire watched the forests of Therunin as much as it did the skies and heavens. If any outside Navarr understood the vallorn, it was the Urizen of Sunspire. Navarri vates were known to visit here to exchange news and knowledge. This all changed shortly after the Summer Solstice 386YE when a [[Ashes#Twilight_(Morrow)|force of Druj]] from Therunin looted what books and scrolls they could before burning the rest of the spire.

=== The Heliopticon ===
A network of communication devices using bronze mirrors, which have been maintained and used by Urizen since time out of mind.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apprentice Magicians.jpg|caption=If Zenith is the soul, then Morrow is the heart of Urizen.|align=right|width=400}}

==Regions==
===Altis===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
At the northernmost border of Urizen is the region of Altis, home to the citadel of [[#Highwatch|Highwatch]] and known for particularly rich [[Materials#Tempest Jade|tempest jade]] [[mine|mines]]. Many of the caves within the mountains here possess unique, resonant acoustics and several spires are positioned specifically to study or make use of these properties.<br><br>The '''Spire of the Canticle''' is perhaps the most famous of these [[spire|spires]]. Known for producing some of the most beautiful, haunting, and eerie music in the modern Empire, their finest works must be enjoyed in situ as they incorporate the esoteric acoustic effects provided by the echoing caves. Over many years the Spire of the Canticle has "fine tuned" the properties of the caves, creating the ''Cathedral Cavern'' deep within the cold stone of the mountains. A premier performing venue in the eastern Empire, those who know how to exploit the unique acoustics can produce truly remarkable musical performances. Unsurprisingly, Altis is a common destination for lovers of music and poetry from across the Empire.

Numerous stories speak of crystals brought out from the deeper tempest jade mines that possess remarkable properties for storing and reproducing music created in their presence. These ''songstones'' are much sought after, but rarely mined. Experiments have shown that their magic is much stronger if they are left where they are found, and several chambers have been hollowed out around them to exploit their properties. Many of these caverns have (perhaps coincidentally) become strong [[regio]] connected to the realms of Day, Night, and occasionally Summer.

===Caeli===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
The towering peaks of Caeli are not the tallest in Urizen - those are in Zenith - but their beauty is unparalleled. On a clear day, an observer can gaze across the entire territory. The '''Seat of the Arbiter''' is a unique magical location that takes advantage of this property; a carved stone throne at the heart of a powerful regio tied to the realm of Day. Any magician who sits in the chair can gain a bird's eye view of any location in Morrow. The '''Spire of the Arbiter's Seat''' protected and oversaw the regio and its divinatory treasure until it was captured by the Druj invaders shortly before the Autumn Equinox 382YE. The magicians here were well-known for being excellent hosts and inveterate gossips.

On the tallest mountain in Caeli once stood the tower heart of the entire Heliopticon network and the spires and citadels that were devoted to its study, function, maintenance and protection. The attendants at the tower chose to destroy it in an invoked devastation, probably with the aid of the eternal [[Kimus]], rather than let it fall into the hands of the Druj.<br><br>The '''Gardens of Morrow''' once stood on the lower slopes of Caeli; like the [[Head_Gardener_of_Urizen#The_Gardens_of_Pallas|Gardens of Pallas]] before them, they were looted and then burnt to the ground by the Druj.

Between the Heliopticon heart and the Seat of the Arbiter, it is no surprise that Caeli had more than its fair share of magicians with have an interest in communication, magical and mundane. As such, these spires are not for those whose study needs demand quiet contemplation or solitude. Sadly these magicians were forced to flee ahead of the Druj advance leaving their precious library of divination and magical theory behind to the merciless orcs.<br>

===Operus===
*'''Quality:''' Hills
This region boasts some of the oldest spires in Urizen, including '''The Weave'''. Like its newer sister spire the tragic '''Arch of the Sky''' that once stood in Zenith, this spire is dedicated to the study of the [[Net of the Heavens]]. The [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Seers|seers]] and [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Stargazers|stargazers]] of the Arch have a reputation for radical interpretations of this key Urizen philosophy. They are credited as being the source of the school of thought that believes that places as well as people and events act as nodes in the net, and that particularly significant locations could be identified through [[astronomancy|study of the stars]].<br><br>Operus is also the site of the '''Auric Horizon''', an influential spire known for its expertise with the divinations of both Day and Night. Politically active, the spire is occasionally linked with [[Religious Crimes#Heresy|heretical philosophies]] that have caused friction with the [[Synod]] in the past. The alleged "prophet" (or charlatan, depending on who one asks) [[Abraxus|Abraxus Whitespire]] spent his last years here, and it is said to have been where he wrote the Abraxian prophecies. In the centuries since, successive firebrands and especially [[ambition|ambitious]] mages have secured Auric Horizon's reputation for involvement (and occasionally interference) in Imperial affairs.<br>

The [[Canterspire Circle]], a rich weirwood forest, grows on the lower slopes of Operus. One of the richest spires in Urizen, the '''Spire of Golden Wood''' overlooks the forest, and owns some of the richest [[farm|farms]] and beggarwood [[forest|forests]] in Urizen. They are widely known both for their fine quality mutton, and for the delicate yellow dyes they prepare using the heather that grows in great profusion around their homes. Indeed, many of the spires of Operus are known for a signature dye, or type of leather.

===Peregro===
Peregro is one of the most volatile regions of Morrow, known for several hot springs and even a few superheated geysers. Several spires harness the waters to provide heating or make a study of the complex currents that run beneath the surface of the earth. Magicians theorise that there is a great deal of subterranean activity in this region, and predict that one day - probably far in the future - they might lead to a serious disaster - perhaps even a volcanic eruption.

After the Summer Solstice 382YE, the Druj invaded across the southern border from Zenith crushing and enslaving everything in their path. They destroyed the [[Keeper_of_the_Glorious_Fountain|Glorious Fountain of Dawn and Dusk]], tearing it apart and permanently damaging the pool above which it stood. At the same time, they also destroyed the [[#The Halls of Knowledge (ruined)|Halls of Knowledge]], which briefly stood on the shores of the largest hot lake here after its [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge|mysterious translocation]] from [[Zenith]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 381YE.

===Ravion===
A remarkably flat region of western Urizen, Morrow is home to a number of spires and citadels including the citadel of Phoenix Reach. It is also the location of the [[Custodian_of_the_Claw#The_Caves_of_the_Claw|Caves of the Claw]]. The [[Custodian of the Bleak Tower#The Bleak Tower|Bleak Tower]] stands in north-eastern Ravion, a spire composed of displaced herbalists previously associated with the Gardens of Pallas in [[Zenith]], and joined by herbalists fleeing the devastated Gardens of Morrow. The [[Custodian of the Bleak Tower|Custodian]] liaises with the spire and protects the unique [[regio]] that stands at its heart.
{{CaptionedImage|file=SenatorMorrow.jpg|caption='''Sejanus of the Scarlet Guard''', Senator for Morrow|align=left|width=450}}
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Morrow|Territory=Morrow|Season=Autumn}}

==Strategic Considerations==
The [[vallorn]] in [[Therunin#Sweetglades|Sweetglades]] and [[Therunin#Greenheart|Greenheart]] mean that it is only possible to move from [[#Peregro|Peregro]] into Therunin by entering [[Therunin#East Ashes|East Ashes]], and vice versa.

==OOC Notes==
* As of the Spring Equinox 383YE, the Empire controls the entire territory. Morrow remains in Imperial hands
* [[#Quicksilver's Flame|Quicksilver's Flame]] is a rank one [[fortification]] in Peregro
* [[business|Businesses]] in the territory benefit from the Bridge of Air and produce an extra 36 rings each season.
* [[Herb garden|Herb gardens]] in the territory benefit from the [[Custodian of the Bleak Tower|Bleak Tower]] and produce two drams of random [[herb|herbs]] and 1 dram of [[bladeroot]] each season
* [[mana site|Mana sites]] in the territory benefit from the Bridge of Air and produce an extra mana crystal each season
* The [[#Grand Library of Canterspire|Grand Library of Canterspire]] has been ceded to the eternal [[Phaleron]] but there are no restrictions on Urizen living or working there
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Gazetteer]]
[[Category:Imperial Territory]]

A wild night and a new road

2026-04-12T11:44:01Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>Out of the corner of her eye, De Leeuw watched the Imperial merchant poring over the glass cases with the bounty of rings, necklets, and more exotic adornments that filled her shop. She hadn't seen the like before. He'd paused outside to make use of the boot scraper, and the mud had sloughed off his shoes once he saw the sable carpet. Someone who knew how to get around a marsh, mused De Leeuw. A nice change. Most of the Imperials she had dealt with were smartly dressed League merchants or brightly coloured Freeborn. Often as not they were unfamiliar with the realities of the Delves, and invariably tracked mud into her shop. Not this fellow, though.

She kept being drawn to the mask he was wearing, though. A thing of bone and feathers, with a beak like a crow's. She itched to ask if it was a real beak or not - she couldn't tell. Most of her clients wore a little jewellery and the Imperial was no exception; uncharacteristically though he seemed to eschew gold and silver, preferring dragonbone and what looked to be polished flint. Strange choices, Yet she didn't doubt he had the money to be here; his coat and trousers were beautifully decorated and spoke of prosperity and position.

At last he spoke. "I was wondering about these pieces," he said casually. She smiled inwardly. She had made a bet with herself that this was what he was here for. She smoothly moved over, lifting the glass bell jar that covered her new pieces.

"You are a person of discernment," she said in fluent Imperial (it always paid to address a customer in their own language). "These are fine pieces indeed, especially for someone versed in magic. See here? This necklace is of orichalcum and tempest jade; a beautiful piece you'll agree. Yet its true value lies in its provenance - each of the jewels bears a tiny portion of starlight from certain stars. If you know what you are doing, that starlight can be used to cast potent healing spells beyond what any normal magician could attempt."

"And this one?" He pointed to the ring, set with a single eleven black stones that looked like onyx but were not.

"Oh, you have a good eye!" She flattered the customer without even thinking about it, putting the necklace down and lifting up the ring to show him how it sparkled in the light. "You may find it hard to believe, but these gems are also chips of tempest jade, treated with beggar's lye in a secret fashion that causes the colour to leech from them. The ring itself is dragonbone, polished with ambergelt. A wearer versed in the arts of death can draw on the unlight of the Unfortunate Sailor to command the dead to speak, and they cannot resist. A rare piece indeed."

The mask-wearing Imperial pondered her words, and reached out to take the ring. He was polite enough not to touch it without permission; De Leeuw nodded. He handled it carefully as if afraid it might break. Up close, the Sarcophan jeweller could see the dark green scales spilling out from under his mask. A naga.

"And do you craft these yourself?" He asked, although there was something in his tone that told the canny shopkeeper he already knew the answer.

"Oh no, I'm afraid not." She smiled cheerfully. "Many of the articles here are either salvaged by agents, or made in-house. Not these ones, though. These come from far across the sea. From a nation of magicians. I will not be gauche enough to name it given the current political differences between your people and theirs..."

He nodded slowly.

"These difficulties give your people an opportunity for significant profit it seems."

She flashed him another smile, revealing even more of her razor-sharp teeth this time. "Indeed it does," she said. "But at the end of the day there is always profit in taking things from places others cannot or will not go, and selling them on. That case over there for example bears pearl rings recovered at no small danger from the wreck of the ''Edmund Fitzgerald'' for example, drowned fifty years ago in the Sea of Teeth. You will find similar treasures throughout the quarter. These are simply recovered from a slightly drier place, with a different kind of danger."

He seemed preoccupied. There was something else.

"Are you interested in the star jewels then?" she asked.

"I am... but I am also interested in something else." He cleared his throat. "Something... less polished?"

She raised an eyebrow. "I'm sorry? I don't follow?"

"Something in the line of... condiments." He did not look at her as he asked. She resisted laughter.

"Oh I see! I see your problem immediately of course but I'm afraid I only sell jewellery. You'll be hard pressed to find anyone in the Jakhalsmarkt who carries what you are looking for, if I understand you right."

He sighed. She got the impression that De Leeuw's was not the first establishment he had visited asking about Jarmish... condiments.

"I am sorry to have wasted your time then," he said. "I will be on my way."

As he turned, she tutted and leant forward, laying one ivory-pale hand on his sleeve.

"So hasty, you Imperials," she said. "I said ''I'' didn't carry... condiments. I didn't say I couldn't ''help'' you."

He turned round. De Leeuw smiled like a happy shark.

"But first let's talk about which of my delicious star jewels you are going to buy. And then we can talk of... condiments."</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=AmbassadorSarcophanDelves.jpg|caption='''Dino i Riqueza''', Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves|align=left|width=300}}
==Overview==
Each season the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the Senate and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

The merchant-princes of the [[Sarcophan Delves]] - the ''bedelaar huisbaas'' - strive for neutrality. They are enthusiastic about trade with the Empire, but their neutrality is precious to them. They hold it a mark of pride that they will deal with anyone who has goods, services, or money. While they have given up the practice of slavery without regret, they refuse to pick a side between the [[Liberty Pact]] and the Freedom Accord. Their primary goal is to ensure the ports of the world remain open to their ships, ideally with [[Tariffs#Free_Trade|free trade]] agreements that allow their merchants to operate without onerous [[tariffs]]. They have recently declared the ''Pax Sarcophan'' - a commitment to combat piracy and ensure that independent traders are free to sail [[the seven seas]] regardless of the politics of the great powers.

The Sarcophan ambassador to the Empire is ''Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike'', of the Tower of Crows. She reports to the beggar-landlords of Sarcophan, and is known to be a wily and subtle diplomat. No stranger to the murkier waters of espionage and intelligence-gathering, she constantly seeks opportunities to expand the influence of the Sarcophan mercantile Empire across the Known World. She has no particular loyalty to any one faction; her main concern appears to be the prosperity of the nation as a whole.
{{Nation|nation=[[Sarcophan Delves]]|status=Foreigner|port=[[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Sarcophan|Sarcophan]] and [[Sarcophan_Delves_ports#Betovering|Betovering]]|ambassador= Dino i Riqueza of [[the Brass Coast]]}}
==Polite Correspondence==
* '''The usual pleasantries have been exchanged between the Empire and the Delves
* '''The Delves remain concerned about the proscription of consuming human meat but have been reassured by the Ambassador
* '''Interest in investing in the Celesti Lighthouse remains strong for the time being
* '''Snowstorm Henk has safely arrived in the Delves to begin research into Sarcophan knowledge of sea-based eternals
* '''There is news of a visiting delegation from Beoraidh supported by the Delves planning to visit Anvil during the Winter Solstice
Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike thanks the Ambassador for their advice around the funerary traditions of Sarcophan and how they might conflict with Imperial law. They understand the difficulty created by the van de Moerassen request, and appreciate Amassador Dino offering their advice. Hopefully this - and similar - matters can be dealt with sensibly going forward.

[[Historical_research#Snowstorm_Henk|Snowstorm Henk]] has arrived safely in the Delves following the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Research_Eternals_of_the_Sea|commission of research]] by '''Watt of Lambrook''', the [[Minister of Historical Research]]. Funds to support the expedition have been provided by the Senate, and the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] researcher has by all accounts been warmly received. They are busy speaking with [[Sarcophan_Delves#Magic|zielweven]] about their knowledge of Khobel Tavah in particular. Their report is due shortly before the Spring Equinox.

There is still Sarcophan interest in investing in the expansion of the [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#The_Celesti_Lighthouse|Celesti Lighthouse]], but it is contingent on the Senate commissioning the lighthouse as a significant fortification to protect Oran. The commission actually completed represents a more modest structure albeit one with a magically imbued beacon thanks to the [[eternal]] [[Kimus]]. While Bedelaar-Huisbaas Annike confirms interest, she cautions that it will be all too easy for investors to shift their attention elsewhere - perhaps to the city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] and suggests that if the expansion of the lighthouse is not commissioned by the end of the Spring equinox the opportunity will be lost. For now details of the arrangement remain as laid out in the '''[[All_the_night-tide#Investment_in_the_Brass_Coast|in the night-tide]]''' wind of fortune.

On the subject of Beoraidh, the Ambassador has also raised the matter of Sarcophan involvement in the little city-state. Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike has discussed the Ambassador's suggestions with the entrepreneurs involved in Mareave, and stresses that the Delves is excited by the opportunities presented by the city-state and can't wait to start developing their presence there. Yet at the same time they have no interest in antagonising their Imperial friends; the Delves has every interest in smoothing relations between the Empire and Beoraidh. Indeed, partly thanks to their influence, some representatives of Beoraidh are planning to visit Anvil during the Winter Solstice to speak with their [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] neighbours. Some of the Delves merchants dealing directly with the folk of western Mareave will be supporting them.

As Beoraidh is an independent state, it is Annike's understanding that the [[Imperial Consul]] will be dealing with any diplomatic matters relating to them. Obviously Annike hopes that the Ambassador and the Consul can liaise on any other concerns they have about Sarcophan involvement in Beoraidh. Further information about the situation with Beoraidh can be found in the '''[[TBC]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Canis aureus syriacus.jpg|align=right|width=300}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Buidelrats.jpg|align=right|width=300}}</div>

==Jackals, Ports, and Buidelrats==
* '''Trade with Jakhalsmarkt has been something of a success and extended for another season at least
* '''The Commonwealth seem unaware that Imperial traders are buying goods explicitly created by Jarmish crafters
* '''The house of the Buidelrat are pestering Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike about their proposal to open the port of Moeraskriden
During the Autumn Equinox, the ''Annabel de Gouden'' of the [[Founders of the Delves#The Jackal|House of the Jackal]] secured access for Imperial traders to the [[All_the_night-tide#Jakhalsmarkt|Jakhalsmarkt]]. Masters of the jewel-trade in the Delves, the various families of the Jackal House are experts in acquiring, evaluating, and securing markets for precious materials and ornaments. Annabel de Gouden was apparently pleased with the response of Imperial captains - and especially impressed by enthusiastic reports of dealings with several [[Wintermark]] captains particularly one '''Bron Mordssen''' whose impressive ships drew quite a stir when they arrived in [[Foreign_ports#Betovering|Betovering]] where the Jakhalsmarkt is located.

Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike confided in the Ambassador that as long as the trade proved lucrative, de Gouden would likely keep the port open. That has indeed proven to be the case, with Annabel cheerfully claiming that it was her plan all along to provide Imperial access at least until the end of the year (which was not what she said in her original proposal). As such, Imperial fleets can continue to visit the Jakhalsmarkt after the Winter Solstice, and potentially even longer if the demand is there.

Obviously, the crow in the parlour is that one of the draws of the Jakhalsmarkt are the ''star jewels'' - magical jewellery bought by Sarcophan traders in the [[Principalities of Jarm]] and sold at a reasonable mark-up to Imperial citizens. The trade here is a little less cut and dried than that taking place in the [[When_peace_was_far_away#Free_Port|port of Radosmo]] but the Commonwealth may not see a difference - especially given they are already [[The_price_is_great#Liberty|apparently quite annoyed]] about the trade in Zemelso. Buying goods that are definitely Jarmish still puts money in the pockets of the Magician-Princes after all.

While the Jakhalsmarkt has been a success, Annike admits to being pestered by the [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Buidelrat|House of the Buidelrat]] regarding an agreement they [[All_the_night-tide#Moeraskriden|proposed]] to allow Imperial captains access to the port of ''Moeraskriden''. In return, they requested the [[dissemination]] of some ritual texts related to herbs by the [[Conclave]]. They have apparently heard nothing. In traditional diplomatic fashion, the Bedelaar Huisbaas of the Tower of the Crow has passed the pestering on. Can Ambassador Dino offer any information about Conclave deliberations on this matter? Is there some other agreement that might be more palatable to the [[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]? Or should the Buidelrat just accept that there is no interest in their offer and move on (and stop pestering the Tower of the Raven)?

Both the [[All_the_night-tide#Jakhalsmarkt|Jakhalsmarkt]] and the proposed deal for access to [[All_the_night-tide#Moeraskriden|Moeraskriden]] are described in more detail in the '''[[All the night-tide]]''' wind of fortune from last event.
{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs_Colour.png|align=right|width=300}}

==Children of Wrecks==
* '''The Sarcophan Delves are prepared to offer support in fighting the Children of Wrecks if it is required'''
* '''The Ambassador to the Delves, Senator for Sarvos, or Senator for Madruga can enlist their aid at the cost of 12 Thrones'''
* '''They insist they will only fight as part of a force that is supported by the Imperial Guerdon'''
Along with the Ambassador, some private individuals - including apparently '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''' the [[Senator]] for [[Sarvos]] - wrote to thank Sarcophan for their intervention during the [[Those_that_break_a_thing#Battle_of_Trivento|attack on Trivento]] by the Children of Wrecks during Summer. Two dozen Sarcophan vessels supported the [[Red Wind Corsairs]], driven by a palpable disdain for pirates and cutthroats. Most of these vessels were from the Alivetti estates, but several belonged to the [[Prime_Factor_of_the_deBruin_Docks#deBruin_Docks|deBruin]]. Annike thanks the Empire for their kind words, but plays down Sarcophan involvement as being "merely good business sense".

However, the DeBruin family are keen to offer mercenary support toward any attack on the Children of Wrecks - specifically securing [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]]. Experienced in fighting from boats and around islands, the DeBruin are also apparently ''well'' up for kicking the snot out of the Children of Wrecks, who they see as the worst kind of pirate - indiscriminate and savage. Assuming the Empire wants their aid. As Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike notes, the Empire's ship captains have their own bones to pick over with regard to the servants of ''Hullbreaker''.

If they want DeBruin aid, the Ambassador themselves, the [[Senator]] for [[Madruga]] '''Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza''', or the Senator for [[Sarvos]] (the aforementioned '''Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos''') can indicate as such in a missive to Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike. They can specify which [[army]] or [[navy]] they want the DeBruin to support, or leave it to the Sarcophan to allocate their own forces. Regardless, the expertise and resources of the DeBruin will add an additional 1,500 effective strength to any attack on [[Madruga#Free_Landing|Free Landing]]. They will participate in the next attack, provided it takes place before the start of Summer.

Their aid will cost 12 Thrones, paid in advance. ('''OOC Note:''' If the Ambassador or one of the senators wishes to take advantage of this offer, they can do so by emailing {{plot}} and ensuring the 12 Thrones are in their inventory after the event. If more than one person does this, they'll take a portion of their payment from each). However, they have an additional requirement - that they are up-front about. For ethical reasons, they will only participate in an attack against the Children of Wrecks if the force they support receives a portion of the [[Military_unit#Guerdon_Shares|Imperial guerdon]]. They won't claim it themselves - the DeBruin will act if they're paid the agreed amount of money for their involvement - but as a matter of principle, they won't fight alongside other soldiers who are "not being paid for risking their lives." It's an odd point of order for the Delves, but one they are quite adamant about.

In the equally unlikely event that the Children of Wrecks manage to fight off the might of the Empire, they're happy to commit troops each season until the Wreckers are dealt with and Free Landing is back in Imperial hands - provided they are paid each season and the force they support receives the Imperial Guerdon, of course.

==Alivetti Estates Five Years On==
* '''It is the five-year anniversary of the Sarcophan enclave in Sarvos
* '''The enclave appears to be prospering despite magisterial dissatisfaction with many of the goods sold there
It has been five years since the [[Sarvos#Sarcophan_Enclave|Alivetti estate]] enclave in [[Sarvos]] was established. [[Ratify_treaty_with_the_Sarcophan_Delves_Autumn_383YE|Conceded by treaty]] in late 383YE, the first new buildings were completed shortly before the Winter Solstice of that year. The ruined estates that once belonged to the guild of [[Empress Giselle]] have been transformed; Sarcophan engineers with experience draining marshes and building on flooded ground have constructed towers in the Sarcophan style which now now rise over both carefully preserved ruins and newly expanded docks.

For the most part relations between the Sarcophan and their Imperial neighbours have been cordial - beneficial even. The magistracy is still frustrated that the Sarcophan refuse to stop selling things the Empire considers illegal to visitors who want to buy them, but the treaty leaves no opportunity for them to enter Alivetti without an invitation. Mostly Imperial visitors are sensible enough to consume the drugs they buy ''in situ'' rather than try smuggling them back into the Empire proper. Mostly.

Much - but by no means all - of the trade that passes through Alivetti consists of herbs, medicinal potions, and luxuries from various parts of the Known World. Business is booming, and news has reached the Ambassador's office that ''Burgemeester Vandersaar'' plans a lavish party to celebrate five years of prosperity and opportunity.
{{WingedMessenger|address=Missives pertinent to the Alivetti Estates can be directed to ''Burgomeester Oudolf Vandersaar, Duifstraat, Alivetti Estates, Sarvos''. The Burgomeester has made it clear that the life of a Sarcophan burgomeester is a hectic one and replies are likely to be short when they relate to anything other than the enclave. Business with Sarcophan citizens trading from the enclave would be best addressed to them directly, and anything related to the wider Sarcophan Delves should go through Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike.}}
===Prosperity and Opportunity===
* '''The Sarcophan are having a party at the Alivetti estates
* '''Imperial citizens, especially those of Sarvos, are invited to attend and discuss business
* '''Immediately after the Winter solstice a new diversification option is available
Burgemeester Vandersaar invites their neighbours not only in Sarvos but in [[Tassato]], [[Casinea]], [[Necropolis]], and [[Madruga]] to attend the upcoming party. They plan to celebrate in style, with a weeklong festival of drinking, music, recreation, theatrical performances, urban athletic events, and new business discussions. Festivities will start the week after the Winter Solstice. A traditional cleaning-out event will be held in which Sarcophan citizens engage in a flurry of cleaning that culminates in bonfires where rubbish - literal and metaphorical - is burnt. It will end with a traditional ''rat run'' in which business owners don rat masks and sack cloth and skulk through the streets pursued by children who can demand sweets and other treats if they catch them.

There is also an old tradition that any deals struck during a festival such as this are as binding as those arranged when both participants are sober. This custom is usually observed by a resolution among participants not to make any ''important'' deals during this time and restrict themselves to minor agreements and contracts, but there are always stories of people who have bartered their ways into a fortune in an inebriated state (or lost the same, of course).

This presents an opportunity to citizens of the nations invited - [[the League]], [[Highguard]], and [[the Brass Coast]]. [[Business]] owners from one of these three nations who attend the festivities will be able to secure small but potentially valuable deals. After the Winter Solstice any player whose character owns a [[business]] in one of these nations can choose a free [[Business#Diversification|diversification]] option. Their business provides 36 rings fewer, but will instead provide two random ingots, two random measures, or two random herbs each downtime (as chosen by the player).

Furthermore, following the Winter solstice, every business owner in Sarvos, Tassato, Madruga, Casinea, and Necropolis will receive two doses of a random consumable acquired from the Alivetti Estates. These consumables represent either treats picked up during the party, or goods acquired after the event from Imperial citizens who did attend. Most of these consumables will be harmless - but there is a chance some will not be legal in the Empire. The magistrates, already a little stretched, will find it almost impossible to prevent Imperial citizens bringing illegal goods out of Alivetti intentionally or accidentally. ('''OOC Note:''' Business owners who wish to ensure they have nothing to do with this dubious activity should hand these consumables back to GOD when they collect their pack).
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Freeborn.png|align=right|width=190}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Highborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}
===Party Planning===
* '''The National Assemblies of the three nations could discourage their citizens from attending
* '''Alternatively they could wholeheartedly embrace and contribute to the ceremonies
* '''Burgemeester Vandersaar plans to give a gift to the people of Sarvos if the festivities are well attended
The celebrations of the enclaves' founding provides an opportunity for the neighbouring nations to consider their relationship with the Sarcophan Delves. During the Winter Solstice the League, Highborn, and Freeborn National Assemblies can take the opportunity to either enthusiastically support or clearly discourage participation in the anniversary celebrations using a [[mandate]]. If they do not, then their citizens will attend or not as they see fit, with the effects described above. If they do enact a mandate the outcome will depend on which approach they take.

An assembly might discourage their people from attending by reminding their citizens of the importance of following Imperial law and the danger of celebrating with heretics and blasphemers,

{{Mandate|mandate=The Sarcophan folk of the Alivetti estates celebrate their enclave, but we must all remain Vigilant to the threats it may represent. While they seem to be honest traders, their ways are not our ways, and their faith is very different to ours. Their refusal to acknowledge Imperial law is a challenge to the Empire and we send (named priest) with 25 liao to urge all virtuous citizens who must attend this gathering to keep their wits about them and remain alert for threats within and without.|assembly=Highborn, Freeborn, or League National Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, individual player characters from the nation can roleplay that they attend, but there will be no opportunities for them to diversify their business, and no consumables will be received by businesses near the enclave. It will also send a message to the Alivetti estates that while that nation tolerates them, they do not welcome further engagement. For at least the next year there will be no more approaches from the Delves to that nation.

Alternatively, one or more of the three nations might choose to encourage their people to accept the hospitality of the Delves, and enthusiastically participate with their own contributions.

{{Mandate|mandate=The Sarcophan folk of the Alivetti estates bring prosperity to the Empire, and help smooth relations between Empire and Delves. We join them in proudly celebrating both our differences and similarities. and send (named priest) with 25 liao and 10 Thrones to both encourage the businessfolk of our nation to take up this offer, and to ensure that we are good guests and bring gifts of our own to share with our hosts.|assembly=Highborn, Freeborn, or League National Assembly}}

If this mandate is passed, it will increase the opportunities available in the Alivetti Estates for everyone in that nation. They will gain four consumables rather than two, on top of the free diversification option following the Winter Solstice. It will also send a message to the Delves that the folk of that nation welcome trade with the Delves, and appreciate the services offered in the enclave.

It is something of an open secret that ''Burgemeester Vandersaar'' is considering making a gift to the city at the height of the festivities. The Burgemeester has commissioned the [[schema]] for a [[:Category:Foci|magical mask]] used by Sarcophan Delves magicians. If the three Imperial nations all participate in the festivities it will reassure them that this is the right idea. If that happens, they will deliver this gift to the [[Mirrored Maschieri]] - currently '''Magdelena Alanga Di Sarvos''' - as the foremost proponent of fashion and design right across the Empire, in time for the Spring Equinox. That is provided that none of the three National assemblies enact a mandate discouraging people from attending; the gift is predicated on the celebrations being a resounding success and one or more of the three invited nations being disinterested will sour the Burgemeester on their expensive gift.

Obviously Imperial citizens have their own opinions on the matter. Among those interested in the outcome, magistrate ''Georgie Arcobalena di Sarvos'' has urged restraint and expressed concerns about the challenges of protecting the internal Imperial/Sarcophan border. On the other hand, ''Bishop Ziphania Fantoccio von Caricomare'' has spoken several times about the importance of trusting people to understand their own path of [[Pride]] and make decisions about their own behaviour without interference from the Chamber of Commerce or the League Assembly.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Burning oil lamp.jpg|caption=There are arguments that concerns about the Alivetti enclave are really a matter of Vigilance, rather than Prosperity.|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Questions of Legality===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Walls of Liberty'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Sarvos#Caricomare|Caricomare, Sarvos]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 40 wains of [[white granite]], 120 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title of "Alivetti Gatekeeper"
* Resolves ongoing issues of Imperial citizens bringing illegal goods out of the Sarcophan Delves enclave
* Annoys the Sarcophan Enclave
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Alivetti Gatekeeper'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' League</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives an income of 19 crowns each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the Walls of Virtue and work with the Sarcophan Delves and the Ambassador to maintain relations with the Alivetti estates</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The Senate could increase funding to the magistrates to help them secure the internal border with the Sarcophan enclave'''
* '''A proposal for an actual wall to prevent smuggling has been put forward'''
* '''The wall creates an opportunity to place tariffs on Imperial citizens entering and leaving the estate to support an ''Alivetti Gatekeeper'' '''
* '''Either funding or walls would end the legal issues relating to illegality around the Enclave but annoy Burgemeester Vandersaar'''
Concerns about the clash between Imperial law, and the barely-extant laws of the Sarcophan Delves have been ongoing for some time and this festivity serves to bring them to a head. In the run up to the Winter Solstice, the magistrate notionally overseeing the area around the Alivetti Estates - the aforementioned ''Georgie Arcobalena di Sarvos'' - has finally admitted that her current resources are insufficient to the task. She has asked the chief magistrates ''Stanislav Karkovich'' and ''Cosme i Zuhri i Guerra'' for assistance. They in turn look to the [[Senate]].

The Senate could pass a [[Senate motion]] allocating increased budget to the Sarvosan magistrates explicitly to deal with the border problems experienced in Caricomare due to the tension between the laws of the two nations. This would cost an additional 10 Thrones each season but would allow Magistrate Acrobalena to stamp out smuggling - whether intentional or accidental - of proscribed substances and materials out of the Alivetti estates enclave. It would take a little time to arrange - and thus would not directly impact the upcoming celebrations that begin so soon after the Solstice - but it would effectively put a stop to the problem presented by the Sarcophan enclave for as long as the money was allocated or until the situation significantly changed.

News of the request clearly frustrates ''Bishop Ziphania Fantoccio von Caricomare'', who sees the opportunity for Imperial citizens to mingle freely with foreign visitors to the Empire's shores as an unmitigated good. In a rousing sermon delivered from his church in Sarvos, he mockingly suggests that surely it would be easier for Magistrate Arcobalena to simply build a massive wall around the enclave to remove the liberty and dignity of the people of Sarvos. Indeed, he quips, one would not even need to put a gate in it.

This being Sarvos, within a week of the sermon a plan is presented to Magistrate Arcobalena for just such a project. In the event the Senate are interested, an [[edifice]] could be constructed around the Alivetti estate that would greatly restrict easy access to the enclave. The "Walls of Liberty" would require a "mere" 40 wains of white granite, 120 crowns, and three months to complete. They would greatly restrict free passage into the enclave, making it much easier to ensure that citizens are aware of the consequences of smuggling. They would be built entirely on the Imperial side of the "border" meaning no legal impediment to their creation.

In theory, whoever commissions the wall could specify that it has no gates in it, but not even Magistrate Arcobalena thinks that is a good idea. Instead they could specify that the gates will collect tolls on Imperial citizens entering the enclave. Once the costs of operating the gates are taken into account, this would provide an income of 19 crowns each season. The proposal posits the creation of an "Alivetti Gatekeeper" - a League [[Imperial title|title]] established by [[Tally of the Votes]] who would be charged with overseeing the walls and gates, but also working with the Delves and the [[Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves|Imperial ambassador]] to maintain relations with the Alivetti estates.

This move would obviously anger ''Burgomeester Vandersaar'' but it would effectively resolve the ongoing issues with citizens bringing illegal goods out of the Sarcophan enclave. Placing a toll on the gates, and creating the consequent Imperial title, would absolutely infuriate Burgomeester Vandersaar - it is one thing to restrict trade but to do so in a way that requires a price of admission to visit the estates, as if they were an exotic menagerie is something the burgomeester would find particularly outrageous. But as long as they want to operate from the Alivetti estates, their ability to actually do anything about an Imperial wall is somewhat limited.

===The Silent Manse===
* '''The Silent Manse has been proscribed by the League assembly'''
After the Autumn Equinox, '''Cosimo Argyra''' [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_127|enacted a mandate]] urging "''all Imperial citizens planning to visit the (Alivetti) estates to express only polite and civil disinterest in their unvirtuous religion''." Cautions against getting drawn into an unwholesome religion have been heard and taken to heart and the teachings of the ''Community of Silence'' will remain restricted to the enclave. This hasn't particularly impacted the ''Community'' itself - their focus is on serving the needs of the Sarcophan rather than proselytising. It does mean that there will be no further opportunity to establish cordial relations between the Way and the Community of Silence, nor to learn about their beliefs, nor any sharing of their knowledge of ghosts and the like. But that may be a small price to pay to prevent a blasphemous and heretical faith seeking to expand into the Empire.

It is still possible to send [[Call Winged Messenger|winged messengers]] to ''Poortwachter Lenart Farber'', the leader of the Community of Silence at the Silent Manse, but anyone doing so should anticipate that there might be no response. The Community has been told loudly and clearly to focus on their own people, after all.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Apothecaries Guild.png|title=Imperial Apothecaries' Guild|align=right|width=240}}

==Apothecary Guild==
* '''The Sarcophan Kruidenkenner Guild are enthusiastic about closer ties with the Apothecaries' Guild
* '''The current Apothecaries' Guild Leader is Esmé i Estrico i Erigo'''
The Sarcophan Delves are masters of the arts of the herbalist, [[Surgical skills#Physick|physick]], and especially the [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|apothecary]]. Many of their most prestigious and experienced herblorists belong to the wealthy and influential ''Kruidenkenner'' which is apparently a powerful guild that exists outside the [[Founders_of_the_Delves|thirteen houses]] in a manner analogous to an [[Imperial sodality]]. The guild is at the forefront of the trade in herbs and medicinal products and have [[Can%27t_give_everything_away#The_Apothecaries_Guild|enthusiastically sought out]] closer ties with their Imperial peers in the [[Apothecaries Guild]]. There has been some communication between '''Esmé i Estrico i Erigo''' - the [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Guild_Leader|Guild Leader]] of the apothecaries - and luminaries of the Kruidenkenner regarding [[All_the_night-tide#Apothecary_Allies|opportunities]] to work together.

One outcome has been a proposition to [[The_circle_game#Sarcophan_and_the_Kruidenkenner|alter certain trade ministries]] to deal in metals rather than Imperial coin. It has been suggested that the returns on these trades might not be as profitable as the current arrangements. The Kruidenkenner don't deny that accusation but just point out that it is the Empire seeking to change the arrangements and that barter is inherently more expensive. More details of this arrangement can be found in the '''[[The_circle_game#Sarcophan_and_the_Kruidenkenner|The circle game]]''' wind of fortune.

The Kruidenkenner remain enthused about the [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] and [[Master of the Root and Stem]] being [[All_the_night-tide#Magazijn|appointed by the Apothecaries' Guild]]. While they could use heavy-handed tactics to try and force this, they acknowledge that diplomacy may provide a better solution. Indeed, adjusting their ministerial trade to use barter rather than cold hard cash may well be an attempt endear themselves to the Imperial Senate. Obviously the matter of the Master of the Root and Stem is a little moot at the moment given the [[Jotun]] have [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#The_Walls_of_Meade|captured Meade]], but the Delves consider this only a minor aberration. They are confident the Marches will reclaim their city before too long and will wait patiently until they do so, so that trade can resume. And they remain invested in seeing the Master appointed through the Apothecaries.

They are however aware that there is a problem around the appointment of the Kruidenkenner Trademaster in that, as it stands, the title is [[Auction of the Seats|auctioned]] to raise money for the [[Imperial treasury]]. Their proposal is that if the Senate does amend the appointment of the Kruidenkenner and the Master of Root and Stem to the Apothecaries' Guild, they would also be prepared to shift the [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks#Sarcophan_Traders|Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks]] to deal in ambergelt, the [[High_Herbalist_of_Sybella#The_Kruidenkennerx|High Herbalist of Sybella]] to deal in dragonbone, and the [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House#The_Kruidenkenner|Master of the Clearing House]] to deal in beggar's lye. With the blessing of Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike, Ambassador Dino could present all these changes as part of a treaty with the Delves rather than as a series of separate senate motions.
===Prescriptions===
* '''The matter of who has the power to disseminate potion herbals has been raised by the Kruidenkenner'''
* '''The manifesto of the Guild approved by the Senate suggests they should have this power but this has not yet been legally confirmed'''
* '''The Constitutional Court have asked the Speaker to raise an administrative motion to settle the matter'''

The Kruidenkenner have already [[All_the_night-tide#Herbal_Lore|raised the matter of trading herbal lore]] with the Apothecaries. Unfortunately, their proposal still requires some kind of legal response. While the Guild has the acknowledged legal power to [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Imperial_Lore|spread knowledge of potions]] across the Empire, their ability to do so beyond the Empire is in question. The Conclave has the power of [[dissemination]] to allow them to create copies of rituals in Imperial lore to share with non-Imperial citizens. Who now holds the legal power to do so?

In the past dissemination of a herbal would have required a successful Senate motion. The creation of the Apothecaries guild puts that in doubt; the Senate approved the manifesto stating the sodality exists to "Coordinate and support Imperial efforts in the research, development, '''education, and dissemination''' of ingredients, potions, and antidotes". The wording implies they should have the power to disseminate knowledge of potion recipes to other nations and groups - but thus far the Senate has not confirmed that was their intention.

As in any such matters where there is uncertainty, an [[administrative motion]] will be added to the Senate schedule to clarify the situation. The motion is deliberately written in such a way as to force a clarification - either the Senate amends the Guild's manifesto to bring it into line with the previous status quo - or they leave it as is and the power passes to the Guild. This approach ''ensures'' that the wording of the law is consistent with implementation after the motion is decided by the Senate.

<quote by="Administrative Constitutional Senate Motion">To amend the manifesto of the Apothecaries Guild to read "Coordinate and support Imperial efforts in the research, development, education, and dissemination of ingredients, potions, and antidotes to Imperial citizens.</quote>

This is a clear change to the manifesto of a sodality - so it would require a constitutional vote. If it passes with the necessary majority and is ratified by the Throne, then the manifesto of the Apothecaries Guild will be amended to make clear that their remit extends only to Imperial citizens. That will clarify the current situation, the Guild will ''not'' have the legal power to disseminate a herbal - that power will remain with the Senate and will require a Senate motion and ten thrones from the Imperial treasury.

If the motion fails or is rejected by the Senate, then the Guild's manifesto will not be amended. That will mean that the Senate no longer has the power to disseminate a herbal - instead that power will lie with the Apothecaries Guild. It will require a vote of members of the sodality and ten thrones, provided by the [[Imperial_Apothecaries_Guild#Guild_Leader|apothecary guild leader]].

Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike politely asks Ambassador Dino to use their influence to get this motion rejected. At the moment the Kruidenkenner and their peers are enthusiastic about cultivating closer ties with the Apothecary Guild - they are keen to strike while the iron is hot.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Starcathedral.jpg|align=right|width=500|caption=The cathedral of the Navigators remains a beautiful and inspiring building, but its ability to attract converts in the Delves has become increasingly limited.}}</div>

==The Monument Trade==
* '''Highborn businesses and mines continue to prosper from a fashion for Highborn sculpture and stone
* '''The fortunes of the Cathedral of the Navigators continue to decline
During the Spring Equinox an art dealer named ''Senna van Ijzer'' [[Waiting_for_the_worms#Tombs_and_Tribulations|spoke with]] the [[Highguard|Highborn]] Council of [[Benefactors]]. They represented ''De Verzamelaars van Beeltenissen '' - "the Collectors" - a fringe Sarcophan sect who hold beliefs considered peculiar even by the standards of the Delves. In particular they preach that valuable objects depicting a deceased person's face hold particular value for buying a place in the Houses of Silence.

The year-long agreement between Senna and the benefactors to acquire Highborn pieces has seen [[business|businesses]] and [[mine|mines]] prosper across the nation with each such resource receiving an extra 18 rings production per season. Support for the trade from the Highborn assembly and especially the [[Bishop of the Navigators]] has been gratefully accepted by the Collectors and has done much to increase the demand for Highborn artwork. Indeed a fashion for Highborn iconography and grave monuments has taken hold in the Delves. Anyone who is anyone wants a Highborn funerary marker for their dear departed relatives' tomb. Senna is apparently busy securing more investment for the contract, and plans to return to Anvil during the Spring equinox to discuss continuing the lucrative trade for another year.

The arrangement also continues to draw criticism among followers of the Way in the Delves however. ''Mischa van de Libel'', a Sarcophan priest of the Way and [[dedication|dedicant]] of [[Prosperity]], has urged her fellow ''priester'' to cut ties with the Cathedral entirely and look to their own communities in the face of this blatant commodification of their faith. They are not the only ones; the [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] ''präster'' at the rival temple of the Way in the ''Buitenlandsewijk'' continue to preach openly that the Highborn treat virtue as a commodity to be bought and sold, devaluing their shared faith. Unfair as these words may appear, there has been an undeniable loss of prestige for the Cathedral and the Bishop.

The businesses and mines of Highguard prosper, but it has come at the cost of the prestige of the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Cathedral_of_the_Navigators|Cathedral of the Navigators]]. The [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Merchant_Ministry|merchant ministry]] and the [[Bishop_of_the_Navigators#Low Ministry|Low Ministry]] have permanently lost another level of production. By the start of the Spring Equinox, the Cathedral will have completely lost access to the Low Ministry, and the Merchant Ministry will be reduced to a single level. This represents a significant loss of influence for the cathedral, the Bishop, and the Imperial version of the Way in the Sarcophan Delves.
{{Sarcophan Links}}

Death leaves us homesick

2026-04-11T21:52:13Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Foreign Nations]]
<ic>"The issue, as I think Theodosia would put it, is that Imperial priests deny the Creator's care for the world, which is worse than their nominal reverence. The Creator does care deeply about the world - that is why the world is full of misery. And good people like Fintan Nighthaven are doomed to die, caught in cruel traps. The Empire's Synod denies this possibility and so is able to be used by the Creator in subtle and malicious ways such as..."

"I didn't ask what Theodosia thought," Andronicus interrupted, rudely. "I asked what ''you'' thought."

"I... well," Demetrius stumbled. He reached for his training, touching the ivory token on his belt, and letting its gentle reminder of the importance of seeing other peoples' points of view bring him clarity. "I agree with Theodosia. Fintan Nighthaven was a good person, and by reaching out to him we were able to show him a new way of seeing the world that helped him to align himself with our interests."

Andronicus continued to pick at the bark on the back of his hand. Despite that calm clarity, Demetrius had to admit that the studied rudeness was getting on his nerves.

"And that's why we've come to ask for your support." Demetrius was on firmer ground here. "The more sects come together in the Grand Convocation the more..."

"No." Andronicus still hadn't looked up.

"What?" Demetrius stumbled over his words, and cursed himself. He was a negotiator and diplomat chosen for this role because of his long experience dealing with foreign nations, even before he had understood the importance of Understanding.

"I said no. We won't be joining your Grand Convocation."

"Can I ask why?" He didn't like the way the briar tended to speak in absolutes without elaboration, without leaving any opportunity for discussion.

"Because you've learned nothing from Fintan Nighthaven." Andronicus looked up at last, and Demetrius was taken aback to see fury in the briar's eyes. Despite his hallow, he took a step back and swallowed. He tried to say something but found himself stuttering. Andronicus just shouldered on, not giving him chance to reply.

"You look at this Imperial priest and see a success because you showed him Understanding and he thanked you? That doesn't matter! It's nothing! Theodosia thinks it matters because she tries to see everything from the other point of view. She thinks that if we just ''understand'' the Creator, we can reason with it. And that's just bullshit. Worse, it's heresy and it's blasphemy and it is ''everything'' wrong with your Grand Convocation."

Andronicus clenched his fists. A trickle of blood fell from the raw patch he had picked on himself, but quickly stopped as the bark scabbed over his knuckles.

"You lot -" the briar made an expansive gesture. "You make the same mistake as the Empire. You think its the spirits that matter. And it isn't! The spirits are our weapons against the Creator and they're not there to help us understand it. They're there to help us ''kill'' it!"

Demetrius was genuinely afraid for his life, for the first time in years. He looked around and saw that the other members of the Fellowship of the Light of Truth had closed ranks behind Andronicus. Some of them had knives, although they hadn't drawn them yet.

"I'm sorry I don't..." Demetrius tried to defuse the situation but Andronicus was not interested.

"Get out," he gritted through clenched teeth. "And don't come back. We reject your Convocation, just as we reject the idea that Fintan Nighthaven was anything special. An enemy of the Creator? Why? Because he embraced Understanding? What use will Understanding be when you face the tyrant of the Labyrinth? Theodosia has blinded your eyes to the unwelcome truth. Wisdom? Peace? Vigilance? Just words to justify inaction. Inaction that shames you, and all your Convocation. Just other names for cowardice, other ways for you to succumb to doubt. In the face of the greatest threat to the souls of humanity you look to ''compromise''. Get out of my sight! Go back and tell your Convocation that the next weasel messenger they send to us will go back to them in an ''urn''."

Demetrius knew better than to argue. He could see the light of truth in Andronicus' face, mirrored and reflected on those of his followers. he fled back through the doors of the shrine, and did not stop running until he had reached his lodgings again, where he sat on his bed and wept.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Thane Thanmir Hrafnar.jpg|caption=As a former Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves the new Ambassador to Axos, Thane Thanmir Hrafnar, is no stranger to the trials and tribulations of being an Imperial representative.|align=left|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
Each season the [[Civil Service|civil service]] prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

Imperial relations with the [[Axos|Citadels of Axos]] have significantly improved over the last year or so, in part due to the [[Synod|Synod's]] work during the [[It_never_happened#Solokha|reclamation of Solokha]]. Their internal politics are slowly settling down into a new status quo following the [[Victory_and_unity#Times_Change|upheaval]] partly caused by the ambitions of ''Grand Ilarch Kyther''. A new Grand Council guides the nation, and the new [[A_better_future#Unified_Convocation|Unified Convocation]] works to bring Axos' disparate religious [[Bands#Sects|sects]] together in a similar way.

The ambassador cannot become complacent however; the little country to the south-east of Urizen is still very touchy about its independence and relations could sour again very easily.

For the moment, though, the new Axos Ambassador to the Empire ''Ilarch Kario Skopos of Solokha'' remain cordial or even friendly. Skopos is a scion of an influential family from the [[Axos#Chambers of Ussyk|Chambers of Issyk]], who has renounced his ties to the citadel of his birth at the instruction of the Grand Council for as long as he holds the post. This is intended to signify neutrality in the politics of the citadel, to make him a worthier intermediary through which the Axou can deal with their allies in the Empire.
{{Nation|nation=[[Axos]]|port=[[Axos_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Kantor]] and [[Axos_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]|ambassador=Thanmir Hrafnar of [[Wintermark]]|status=Foreigner}}
==War==
* '''Axos is reassured the Empire has no ill intention toward the libraries at the Halls of Maykop
* '''The military treaty that sees the Axou fight in Sarangrave has been well received
* '''There is possibly a misunderstanding about the status of the orcs living in Sarangrave however
The Imperial Senate [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Affirm_Relations_with_Axos|reassured]] the citadels of Axos that the Empire values its relations with the nation. The [[Shuttered Lantern]] - and by extension the [[Conclave]] - would never risk that relationship for a mere ritual text! A companion letter from ''Tyburn Weaver'' the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Shuttered Lantern]] apparently put the plote cherry on the diplomatic cake - while the Senate's words are important to the Grand Council of Citadels, the words of a Conclave grandmaster are even more significant to the scholars and magicians of Maykop.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Alikos Helio.jpg|caption=The ''Axou Helios'' is an ancient symbol of the Axou people, adopted by the ''Nikitis Axou'' movement.|align=right|width=300}}</div>
The [[Ratify_Axos_Treaty_Autumn_387YE|ratification of a military treaty]] sees the [[Axos#Gates_of_Ipotavo|Gates of Ipotavo]] fighting in the [[Sarangrave]] [[Fire_and_the_flood#Shield_of_Our_Ancestors|alongside the Empire]] (well not precisely alongside given there is a massive fortress between them and the Imperial armies but the thought is there). Both diplomatic measures have been very well received, reassuring the Grand Ilarch of the [[Axos#Halls_of_Maykop|Halls of Maykop]] that their concerns were groundless and potentially establishing a slew of new opportunities when the Axou take charge of the [[Sarangrave#Tower_of_the_Skink|Tower of the Skink]].

There are some internal matters within Axos regarding the Tower apparently - specifically ''who'' will take charge of it once the Druj are defeated. The Axou have not created a new citadel since their nation was formed, and have no particular method for doing so, but likewise they don't have any tradition of a Grand Ilarch controlling more than one citadel. That's for the Axou to worry about, however.

One matter that might cause some worry for the Empire however is the response of Ambassador Skopos to point four of the treaty: ''Axos shall commit to the safety of the Bloodwater Spears, Waterwalkers, and the Free People of Sarangrave following the Empire's lead as to the diplomatic status of these people, including those residing in Sephals in Thornfen.'' It seems there may be some misunderstanding somewhere along the line, but the Grand Ilarchs are quite happy with this provision specifically because they intend to have as little to do with the orcs as possible, and are assuming the Empire will assist in relocating the population of Sephals in particular. It's explicit in the Axou missives that once they have the Tower of the Skink, the first thing they will do is evict any orcs living in Thornfen. What happens to them after they leave the [[territory#regions|region]] is of absolutely no concern to the Axou. The implication is that, just as they took in the [[Tamazi]], the Empire will simply sort it out.

This doesn't seem to be any particularly sharp statecraft at work - the Axou simply assume that "follow the Empire's lead as to the diplomatic status of these people" just means they'll have to treat them like foreigners or Imperial citizens after they've been removed from Thornfen and if they complain then, as with point five (''In the event of a dispute between Axos and the Bloodwater Spears, Waterwalkers, or the Free People of Sarangrave, then the Empire shall be called on as mediator''), the Empire will sort it out.

For now though, the Grand Council of Citadels and the Citadel of Ipotavo in particular, are very pleased with the situation. The only thing that would make things even better would be some response about the matter of Axou soldiers visiting the [[Tassato#Five_Cities_Military_Academy|Five Cities Military Academy]] and the [[Tassato#Barossa_School_of_Imperial_Strategy|Barossa School of Imperial Strategy]]. The Ambassador did not mention anything about the situation in their missive, so its unclear to Ilarch Skopos what is going on. While there ''was'' a [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_143|statement in the League assembly]] about the matter, the Axou are broadly unaware of it and it lacks legal backing. Further information about this [[opportunity]] can be found in autumn's ''' [[Troop_of_echoes#Along_the_Ramparts|Troop of echoes]]''' wind of fortune.

==Waking the Vallorn==
* '''The Axou are absolutely disinterested in any plan that involves rousing the vallorn of Visokuma
Ilarch Kario Skopos extends their thanks to Ambassador Thanmir for their words about the [[vallorn]] and the [[A_thousand_years_of_longing|Empire's plans regarding it]]. The Grand Council of the Citadels has been briefed, and has delivered a response. They categorically do not welcome any intrusion into Visokuma and want no part of the Imperial plan to wake the vallorn. The ambassador has, according to Kario, said that "''the Empire's plans are complex and require cooperation from many foreign powers, including Axos''." Axos wants to be absolutely clear from the get go that they do not, and will not, be involved in any such endeavour. The vallorn of Visokuma abides and there is no interest in waking that sleeping behemoth and unleashing it against the citadels. The ''necromantia'' of Axos have spoken with actual eye witnesses who saw what the vallorn did to Cavan, and that alone was enough to see the Halls of Maykop advise that any investigation of the vallorn cease forthwith.
{{SOP|statement=The Empire must face an unwelcome truth. If we seek to rouse the vallorn, we must accept we will raze Axos in the process. They will not survive. That is a decision we can accept, with the responsibility it entails, or it is a catastrophe we can make plans to avert, but it is not something we can simply ignore.|by=Cardinal Lenarius Ankarien, Assembly of the Nine|vote=Greater Majority 8-0|when=Autumn Equinox 387YE|size=small}}
Mistress Isephenia of Maykop has [[Troop_of_echoes#Wit_and_Wisdom|already expressed interest]] at visiting the [[Great Library of Hacynian]] to learn more about the vallorn. The Grand Council throws their weight behind her; they formally request that [[Bursar_of_the_House_of_Spirits|Bursar]] '''Rinnah''' or [[Singer_of_the_Silence|Singer]] '''Sián Eternal''' provide access to the Axou scholar and her students. Mistress Isephenia acknowledges the kind suggestion that she and her students might visit Anvil before the invitation so that Rinnah and Sián can ensure that she has "''a full context surrounding the situation before their study''" but she reassures them that she is capable of determining context herself and is no stranger to a big library. The time to discuss matters is surely ''after'' she and her charges have finished their research at the library. She has, apparently, read a copy of [[The Dance of Navarr and Thorn]] - presumably the one that was [[Dissemination|disseminated]] to Axos [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Conclave_Declarations|in 381YE]] by '''Raewynn Farkas''' - and so has ''some'' grounding in the significance of the threat.

Nobody has said it out loud within earshot of the Axou of course but there is no actual requirement that the citadels cooperate with an attempt to destroy the vallorn. The Empire controls [[Sarangrave]]; if the [[trods]] are extended to [[Axos#Axou_Territories|Kabanja]] and Visokuma the vallorn will wake whether they like it or not.

Some members of the [[Civil Service|civil service]] are of the opinion that the virulence and speed of the Axou response (both with regard to the Empire and, as we will see in a moment, at home) speaks of other factors at work. There is guarded speculation that some or all of the Grand Ilarchs may have been briefed separate to the advice delivered by the ambassador. The response of Isephania of Maykop may point to instructions from the halls, perhaps guided by concerns other than those of the Grand Council.

===The Scions of Cavan===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><p><big>'''Who are the Scions of Cavan?'''</big><br>The heirs are a group of Axou who claim to be cousins of the Navarr. They believe they are descendants of those Terunael who escaped the fall of Cavan, the city that lies in the heart of the [[Axos#Axou_Territories|Visokuma]] vallorn. Initially enslaved in Kaban, they eventually won their freedom but did not enjoy much prestige in Axou society. In early 384YE some of them visited the Empire, initially in small numbers but then in a [[Received_with_a_strange_delight#Dust_and_Bones|much larger contingent]]. They walked the [[trods]] alongside their distant Navarr cousins, and sought to create deeper ties with their long lost relatives.</p>

<p>During their visits to the Empire they brought with them a relic of their ancestors - apparently a traditional Axou "lekythos" containing a bound ghost. While there they spoke with several [[vate|vates]], as well as '''Madra Brittlebone''', '''Drefa Brackensong''', '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' - and of course the disgraced former Ambassador '''Fintan Nighthaven'''. According to rumour they received support and encouragement from the Navarr they spoke to, and then returned to Axos.</p>

<p>It is believed some degree of communication has persisted over the last few years, but if it has there's no public awareness of it.</p></box></div>
* '''There is some concern about an alleged plan to rouse the vallorn of Visokuma undertaken by citizens of Axos
* '''The Axou of Kaban have arrested a group called the Scions of Cavan who claim to be distant cousins of the Navarr
* '''They have been accused of planning serious crimes against the people of Axos
On a related note... a month before the Winter Solstice, news reached the offices of the Imperial Ambassador of a series of arrests in the [[Axos#Tunnels of Kaban|Tunnels of Kaban]] in western Axos. A group called the "Scions of Cavan", targeted as enemies of the citadel and of the Axou people as a whole, have been taken into custody. Warrants have been issued for several people associated with the Scions in other Axou citadels.

Under normal circumstances this would have been of minimal interest to the Empire, but the ''nature'' of those imprisoned and the crimes of which they are accused make them relevant. The ''Scions of Cavan'' claim to be cousins of the [[Navarr]], descended from survivors of the [[Terunael_in_Axos#Of_Cavan_and_its_fall|Terunael city Cavan]] that now lies deep within the vast vallorn of [[Terunael_in_Axos#Venturing_into_Visokuma|Visokuma]] at the heart of Axos. They have been accused of conspiring with "foreign influences" to unleash that vallorn on the citadels. Stockpiles of crystal mana and [[Vis#Vital Honey|Vital Honey]] have been uncovered along with a caches of [[potion|potions]] used to [[Balms_of_the_Fountainhead|empower]] workings of [[Spring magic]]. There is no evidence that these things have come from the Empire, and Axos is a nation of magicians after all, but speculation in the citadels runs rampant.

These Scions of Cavan face serious charges. The Grand Council itself has been called on by ''Grand Ilarch Kyther'' to render a judgement in what amounts to a landmark case. There is some suspicion of this in a few quarters - under normal circumstances each citadel would deal with its own criminals without recourse to the others. Here, though, Kyther argues that the Scions threatened ''every'' Axou citadel on a scale heretofore unseen in the nation's history and only the Grand Ilarchs of the citadels are in a position to make a decision. Grandstanding, surely, but there is little argument from either Kaban or from the Council.

The civil service advise that if the evidence is even mildly convincing, the Scions are likely to face the death penalty - the worst possible fate for any Axou. In theory it is possible that their sentence could be commuted to exile - the old punishment of slavery is no longer practicable for obvious reasons - but there's no suggestion that the Grand Ilarchs are minded to be so lenient.

As mentioned there is apparently no evidence of Imperial involvement in the "crimes" of which the Scions of Cavan are accused. It's not clear if the Scions of Cavan actually possessed the power to rouse the vallorn - no indication that [[the Dance of Navarr and Thorn]] has been [[dissemination|disseminated]] to them for example. They are not influential enough to have access to a [[college of magic]] to create their own rituals. It's possible they could have made some kind of accommodation with an [[eternal]] for their aid - likely [[Yaw'nagrah]] - but again there's no suggestion of that in the accusations against them. As competent magicians, they could have created an [[arcane projection]] to allow them to interfere with the vallorn of Visokuma - and if they have spent time among the Navarr they may well have insight into how best to go about that.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ChildPrimer2.jpg|width=200|align=right}}{{CaptionedImage|file=ChildPrimer3.jpg|width=200|align=right}}</div>

===A Desperate Plea===
* '''The Scions of Cavan beg for Imperial intervention'''
* '''Several options face the Ambassador and the Senate but all risk inciting some element of Axos society'''
* '''The Ambassador will have more success on their chosen path if backed by the Senate'''
Ilarch Skopos is not the only person to have written to the ambassador on the matter of the Scions of Cavan, however. ''Bronnan Cavanya of Kaban'' is one of the leaders of the Scions, and is apparently styling himself as a [[brand]]. His missive was sent from Axos by an unnamed ally with the ability to [[Call Winged Messenger|call a winged messenger]]. In his letter he begs the ambassador to intercede on behalf of his family, and the Scions of Cavan as a whole. He appeals to the ambassador to speak to those among the Navarr who met with his kin, and who spoke to them of their heritage. They will surely vouch for their virtue and commitment to lifting the burden of [[Imperial_history#Terunael|Terunael]]. Yes, they planned to help defeat the vallorn and to extend the trods into Axos, but they did so in the [[Courage|Courageous]] belief it was the right thing to do if they wished to be [[Loyalty|Loyal]] to the dream of Navarr and Thorn, of a world without the vallorn.

The thorny question is whether the Empire wishes to be involved in this matter at all. If they do intervene, it risks confirming the suspicions of any Axou factions looking for an excuse to decry Imperial involvement in their nation. Unless very carefully handled, attempting to interfere on behalf of the Scions of Cavan will be taken as "proof" that they had Imperial backing.

The Ambassador has the power to [[Ambassador#Communication|communicate]] with the Axou on behalf of the Empire, but their words along might not be sufficient to influence the Grand Ilarchs - their candidness about the vallorn stands them in good stead but they are still relatively untested in their position. A statement from the Senate however, raised as a [[senate motion|motion]], would provide them with significant backing and strengthen their position greatly, regardless of what approach the Empire chooses to take.

Condemning the Scions of Cavan and reassuring the Grand Ilarchs that the Empire is not going to rouse the Visokuma vallorn will reassure the Grand Council. The scions will be executed, and while the citadels will remain alert for, and opposed to, attempts to interfere with Visokuma they will not take the matter any further for the moment. Showing solid support for the rule of law in Axos will help to improve the Empire's relations with the nation.

If the Empire asks for clemency for the Scions of Cavan, the outcome will depend on how skilful the diplomacy is. It will result in some executions for the "ringleaders" of the families and exile for the rest no matter what. They will cease to be a factor in Imperial-Axou relations and will scatter to the four winds, but how many live and how many die will depend on the ambassadors ability to eloquently manipulate the Axou's desires and fears. This approach will inevitably damage relations with Axos, how much they are harmed will depend on how carefully the ambassador chooses their words.

The final option would be to condemn the arrests, insist on the innocence of the Scions, and demand their release. It is clear that Axos intends to execute the Scions, but the very fact that they have made sure the Empire is aware of their plans suggests that they might be anticipating that the Empire will protest. The Empire is much bigger and much stronger than Axos, it would not be difficult for them to threaten the smaller nation - they could use diplomatic muscle to force the Axos to let the Scions go. If that happens, the Scions will be aware that they owe their survival to the Empire, and would likely come en masse to join the Navarr. Doing so cannot fail to sour relations with the Axou, however.

Whatever choice is taken, a significant degree of skill will be needed to manage relations in this case. Relations with the Empire soured over the [[Tsark]] incident. They have been improving slowly since then, careful handling of the relationship is required to maximum the benefits of this opportunity - or to minimise the costs.

The window for any intervention is short; the Scions of Cavan will likely be executed before the Spring Equinox. Obviously the Citadels have not arrested everyone who claims descent from Cavan - only the heads of their families, those close to them, and all their magicians face execution. But if the sentence is carried out that will be the end of the Scions of Cavan as a factor in the politics of Axos, or as a force that might be of use to the Empire or the Navarr.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NBNavarr.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
Incidentally, the letter sent by "brand" Brannon Cavanya would be taken by the Grand Ilarchs as evidence that the Scions of Cavan ''were'' plotting against the citadels. The Ambassador could instruct the civil service to share that missive with Grand Ilarch Kyther and the fate of the Scions of Cavan would be sealed. Doing so would go a long way to quieting concerns that the Empire wishes to destroy Axos with the vallorn, but would do little to alleviate their concerns about the Navarr.
===The Navarr Threat===
* '''Suspicion has been directed at the Navarr
* '''Navarr fleets visiting Axou ports receive a 2 rank penalty to their production
Fuelled by the recent arrests, concern about the vallorn grows in Axos. Ambassador Kario has sent a cautious missive to their opposite number. They recommend that, for the time being, Navarr ships might wish to avoid visiting Axou ports, for their own safety. There are some groups who believe that the Imperial nation has somehow been working to undermine their country with the intention of unleashing the vallorn. The fact that the previous Ambassador, ''Fintan Nighthaven'', was Navarr has led to some virulent conspiracy theories (although not among the [[#Regarding Fintan|priests of the Grand Convocation]] who take an entirely different view of the former Imperial ambassador).

Neither Issyk nor Kantor are prepared at this time to take the extreme measure of denying berths to Navarri vessels - such a thing would complicate relations with the Empire far too much. Yet at the same time any Navarr visiting those two ports will receive a cold shoulder. Following the Winter Solstice, and until this situation is resolved one way or another, Navarr [[fleet|fleets]] visiting Axos suffer a penalty of -2 ranks to their production.
<div style="float: right; width: 200px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Navarr.png|width=200px}}</div>

===The ''Other'' Navarr Threat===
* '''Stridings and some steadings who met the Scions of Cavan propose that the Navarr take the matter into their own hands
* '''They look to the Navarr National Assembly to stand behind a raid into Axos to rescue as many Scions as possible
* '''Doing so would be a crime despite the best efforts of the Navarr to avoid unnecessary bloodshed
When Brannon Cavanya's letter to the ambassador becomes publicly known about, it incites a visceral reaction from some of the Navarr who walked the [[trods]] alongside the Scions of Cavan when they visited the Empire. Some of them are absolutely outraged to see their well-meaning cousins treated in this way and appeal to the Navarr Assembly to take a stand. Actions have consequences, they say, and you cannot betray your enemies. If the Axou are prepared to think the worst, and to execute people for their belief in a world without the vallorn, they are no friends of the Navarr.

Rather than rely on diplomatic means, the Navarr should take immediate action. The pragmatic thing to do would be to stage a jail break - something akin to what the Imperial Orcs did to free the [[Tamazi]] from the oppression of the citadels. If the Navarr national assembly passes a [[statement of principle]] with a [[greater majority]] that unequivocally calls on the people of Navarr to come to the aid of their cousins, the Scions of Cavan, then many [[thorn|thorns]] stand ready to act.

If such a statement passes, it will create a new [[Military_unit#Raiding|raiding]] [[venture]] following the Winter Solstice for Navarr [[military unit|captains]]. ''Free our cousins'' will see those Navarr warbands who undertake the action launch a raid over the border from Sarangrave into Kabanja. The Scions of Cavan are being held in the Tunnels of Kaban, and the Axou are likely not expecting such a response from the Empire (because they underestimate the courage of the Navarr). The thorns are not barbarians - or worse, [[Druj]] - and will take every opportunity to avoid bloodshed... but the Axou will have brought any harm or death on their own heads by imprisoning allies of the Navarr. The Scions of Cavan are not wealthy, but any military unit that takes part in the raid will receive three crystal mana at the Spring Equinox, regardless of their number of [[Congregation#upgrades|upgrades]] or degree of [[enchantment]].

If at least 5,000 strength of Navarr military units commit to this action, then in conjunction with those thorns who have travelled with the Scions, they will successfully liberate their cousins from the Tunnels and get them to safety within the Empire. If fewer than five thousand go, the raid will broadly be a failure. While some Scions will be rescued the majority will be left behind to face the "justice" of the Axou, or killed while attempting to escape.

Regardless of whether the raid succeeds or fails, the raid will at least show their nation and the Empire that they are serious about their bonds of loyalty and their commitment both to their allies and to the fight against the vallorn. It will definitely lead to Navarr fleets being barred from Axou ports, and worsen relations between that nation and the Empire. Fortunately the unpredictable violence of the Navarr - a well-known stereotype in Axos - will shield the Empire from some of the fallout which will instead drop squarely on the heads of the nation. If the Ambassador leans into it, and those involved face even a token punishment, the damage to Imperial-Axos relations could be mitigated at least a little.

The magistrates are unlikely to be able to identify and prosecute the warbands responsible for the raid. The Navarr are adept at moving quickly through enemy territory, and at taking precautious against being identified. The priest who raises the statement of principle, however, is likely to face charges of inciting attacks against a foreign nation and may well face serious consequences. Which, as the thorns calling for this action say, are both the cost for taking action. "What would Isaella do?" ask those who favour the raid. What indeed.

==On Liberty==
* '''Axos are signatories to the Liberty Pact
* '''They are convening a meeting of the Pact in the Caucus Forum of Lashonar
The ripples of [[A_better_future#School_and_Scandal|scandal]] caused by [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] involvement with the [[Axos#Halls of Maykop|Halls of Maykop]] have not entirely settled. The Axou role in the [[Liberty Pact]] - a position they know they owe to the Empire's support - is fragile and their recent announcement of a convocation of the treaty has not gone over well with the [[Commonwealth]] or with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. The unification of Axos' priests is not necessarily going to make their relations any smoother either - both Axou and Imperial priests broadly perceive their opposite numbers as blasphemers and heretics - their beliefs will infuriate the orthodox Sumaah even more. For that matter, it will also cause problems for Axos itself; their participation in the Liberty Pact offends many of the Axou religious sects almost as much as it offends the Sumaah Republic.

Regardless, they have convened the Liberty Pact and a meeting will take place during the Winter Solstice. They have prevailed on the [[eternal]] [[Lashonar]] to host the gathering (which presents challenges of its own due to Lashonar's recent [[alignment#enmity|enmity]]). An agenda has been prepared, although Ambassador Skopos is a little surprised that the Empire has not apparently submitted any matters of their own they wish to discuss. As the [[Voice of Liberty#1.a|pact lays out]] any member of the Pact with something to discuss "''will ensure that they have provided information on any issues they plan to raise and provide the wording of any vote they wish the pact to discuss in advance of the meeting''." The window to do so has now closed.

Further details of the Liberty Pact meeting can be found in the '''[[My soul at liberty]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|align=right|width=250px}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Fintan Enemy of the Creator.jpg|caption=Fintan Nighthaven, former Ambassador to Axos, executed by the Empire but exalted in Axos.|align=right|width=250}}</div>
==Regarding Fintan==
* '''Theodosia of Ipotavo leads the Unified Convocation in condemning the Imperial Synod
* '''They have asked that they be allowed to collect the remains of Fintan Nighthaven for interment in the catacombs of Solokha
* '''The Assembly of the Way have been asked to offer guides to Axou priests who will come to collect the remains
During the Autumn Equinox the former Ambassador to Axos, ''Fintan Nighthaven'', was tried and executed for serious crimes. When news of his death reached the [[Troop_of_echoes#A_Unified_Convocation|Unified Convocation]] of Axou priests, it sparked sorrow and more than a little outrage. Fintan had been declared an [[Troop of echoes#Robes of Sorrow|enemy of the Creator]], apparently a high honour among traditional [[sect|sects]] not dissimilar to being recognised as an exemplar or perhaps more likely the newly created Imperial status of [[Exaltation|exalted]]. In the eyes of the Unified Convocation, Fintan was someone who through spiritual or philosophical means opposed [[Axos_religion#The_Malign_Creator|the Creator's wicked plans]] and encouraged other mortals to resist the curse of death and the torments of the Labyrinth. And now he is dead, condemned by the Synod and executed by the magistrates.

According to some of the Convocation, this is simply further proof that the [[Synod|Imperial Synod]] truly are tools of the Creator whether they believe it or not. They offered their aid in Solokha, and that cannot be ignored, but fundamentally the Way exalts the Creator and his [[Axos_religion#The_Eternal_Torture_Chamber|spiritual torture chamber]] in a manner that is fundamentally incompatible with the spiritual truths the Axou hold as self evident. The Unified Convocation broadly agrees with her assessment. There is apparently a great deal of discussion going on among those sects who have joined the Convocation about whether it is worth trying to enlighten the people of the Empire as to the folly of the Way, or to simply leave them to dissolution in their Labyrinth.

One matter that they are apparently unified on, however, is a desire to see Fintan Nighthaven suitably honoured. From her time in the Empire she is aware of [[Navarr_culture_and_customs#Funerals|Navarr customs]] and knows that the body will presumably have been placed in a funerary glade. As an ''Enemy of the Creator'' however, she and her supporters would like to put him in pride of place in the newly established catacombs beneath the nascent citadel of reclaimed Solokha. On behalf of the Unified Convocation, ''Theodosia of Ipotavo'' asks that Axou priests be allowed to collect the physical remains of Fintan Nighthaven.

She has reached out to the Synod, and asked that the Assembly of the Way uphold a [[statement of principle]] inviting the priests of the Grand Convocation to retrieve Fintan's remains. The statement does not need a [[greater majority]] it merely needs to pass. Obviously, this might send something of a mixed message to Imperial pilgrims - given that Fintan died a heretic and blasphemer and the Axou plan to honour him - but any fallout is likely to be minor.

One other thing Theodosia does is share part of a letter she claims was written by Fintan Nighthaven before his execution. Her reasons for doing so are opaque; perhaps she seeks to shame the Synod; perhaps she genuinely hopes Imperial priests may see some value in his final words.

<quote by="Fintan Nighthaven, according to Theodosia of Ipotavo">I want to thank you for giving me the language to better speak of Virtue. Of Understanding, and through Understanding of Freedom, Judgement, and Purity. Of myself. I have spent so long couching my words in Vigilance it clouds my mind. I claim a wide net of what I protect but think that I truly act with an open heart. Whichever it is, I know it feels right. Perhaps I shall find out in the Labyrinth; or learn that you were right.<br><br>I face a difficult decision at the next summit. My Synod lashes out in fear as glimpses beyond the Seven are seen and attempts to reaffirm their stance against ‘false’ Virtues. I could plead the Virtue in my actions but I am unconvinced it will change the outcome. Or I could not - there is controversy within my Synod and I stand able to, perhaps falsely, claim responsibility for some and hope it ends with me. Still more, the external drive may be gone but I wish to spread compassion. With infamy comes interest; my writings of theology, Virtue, and other faiths will be read more earnestly and plant understanding in their minds if I die in controversy. I do not know which path I shall take, but it is this possible final Sacrifice which keeps me from accepting your offer of sanctuary.</quote>
{{Axos Links}}

Tested again and again

2026-04-11T15:37:32Z

Dre:

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:382YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Rodric's hand slid over the paper inking his signature onto the page. With practised ease he blew over it, drying the ink. Once it was ready he rolled into a scroll, and then removed his signet ring and placed it on the desk. He pulled the candle near and began to heat the stick of sealing wax.

"You and your fancy letters. It doesn't make anyone read them any harder you know? A pig is still a pig, even if you wash the shit off."

The troubadour smiled at the dour expression across the table. There's was an unusual partnership; a Dawnish troubadour and his yeoman companion might be common enough, but not when the yeoman was a friar from the Marches. United by virtue... and not a lot else as he often explained. And yet they'd stayed together all these years, travelling the Empire, and preaching on the virtues of Wisdom.

"Viviane de Coeurdefer is a refined lady of Dawn and a very important troubadour. She's the Cardinal of Ambition - and ''very'' well connected. These things are expected! I can write letters in support of her excellent suggestion but if they look like a butchers bill marked up with charcoal then she might take offence!". He never took his eyes off his colleague but his practised hands expertly turned the stick in the flame of the candle as he chattered amiably. There were two more letters to write tonight and he didn't want to lose a moment.

"What are you worried about? Is she going to ruin your promising career as an itinerant minstrel with a scandalous taste in men? I reckon it's a season too late to worry if your harvest will come up Rod. Your rain has already fallen."

"There is a time for fortissimo.... and a time for pianissimo. But we cannot change this world of ours by shouting. Our words must land lightly on the ear, that we may seduce the unguarded to our cause. So Lady Coeurdefer will need those of us who support her noble goals to play our parts maestoso."

"Finish your bloody letters and come to bed. You can play something mestosy afterwards."

Roderic smiled as his old friend headed for the stairs that led to their private room. He longed to go with him, but his hands reached for another sheet of parchment and he picked up his quill. One more letter he told himself and then bed.
</ic>

==Overview==
Since he was charged with presenting [[All_work_together|a sermon on the future of the Way]] during the Winter Solstice last year, the encyclical message of '''Severin von Holberg''' has continued to prompt discussion about the role of the [[Synod]] in the Empire. There has been discussion of the [[Benevolence,_inspiration,_and_legacy#An_End_to_Ultimatums|value of the national assemblies]], the [[Benevolence,_inspiration,_and_legacy#Paragons_and_Exemplars|role of the paragons and exemplars]], the [[More_work#Cardinal_Truth|purpose of the virtue assemblies]], and the [[More_work#Guardians_of_the_Faithful|value of revocation]]. The spirit of debate and religious unity his message has produced has also generated caution when engaging with [[statement of principle|statements]] that might cause conflict within the faith or with other religions. Debate around these topics is ongoing - but in almost every case no resolution has been reached one way or another.

Part of the ''Von Holberg Address'' touched on ways that the virtuous pilgrim should live their life. It talked about how the faithful should let their actions be guided by "benevolence, inspiration, and legacy". How do our actions "benefit the Empire in whole or in part" while still adhering to the virtues? How can "absolute inner commitment become the spur of belief that drives others to action"? How can one harness "the drive to create something lasting and of consequence"?

Within the Empire, the faithful are guided and represented by the [[Synod]], so it falls to them to consider ways to encourage benevolence, inspiration, and legacy. To secure the greatest benefit to the Empire, while still guided by the virtues; to encourage virtuous action; to create lasting, consequential but above all virtuous change.

The [[Imperial Constitution|Constitution]] is reasonably clear about the expectations of the Synod, as the representatives of the faithful and the guardians of the spirit of the Empire. It states that the "Synod shall ensure the virtuous behaviour of the Empire" and "ensure the behaviour of individual citizens does not debase the Empire."

With all that in mind, and with the nights growing longer as Autumn approaches, theological discussion has shifted again. This time, scholars, priests, and people with loud opinions seem to be talking about the role of the Synod within the Empire - specifically its relationship to the other centres of political power. The [[Senate]], the [[Bourse]], the [[Military Council]], and the [[Conclave]].
==Aiding the Military Council==
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Viviane de Coeurdefer, Statement of Principle, Assembly of the Nine, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld with a Great Majority 6 - 0"> Synod stands in support and in guidance. National assemblies call their fellows to stand at Right of Witness to military council to guard and to guide; to strengthen and to build. A named priest who watches can be contacted and can communicate more easily.</quote></div>
The Synod has never been shy about attempting to guide the [[general|generals]] and the [[Military Council|military council]] to act with Virtue. It is difficult to argue that there have been military matters that arose from, or caused, significant religious discussion - the [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Yaelian_Schism|Yaelian schism]] threatened to split the Military Council apart, while the arguments about the [[Praise_and_blame|virtue of cruelty]] - or [[The_mother_of_morality|lack thereof]] - have continued for more than a year and have left some armies unwilling to fight alongside others over matters of [[Courage|deeply held principle]].
===Witnesses===
* '''The Assembly of the Nine encourages priests to attend meetings of the Military Council as witnesses.'''
There have been [[Create_title_of_Chaplain_Military|previous unsuccessful attempts]] to encourage the Senate to increase Synod presence in the Military Council, to offer guidance on matters of virtue. Now the Synod has taken matters into its own hands, with this mandate from '''Viviane de Coeurdefer''', and supporting [[statement of principle|statements]] from the Navarr and the people of Dawn.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Neala Blackhawk, Statement of Principle, Navarr National Assembly, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld 138-14 ">We the Navarr national assembly encourage guides to attend the military council to ensure clear lines of communication between the guides of the Navarr and their generals. We nominate Neala to act a liaison in this endeavour.</quote></div>
The [[Member_of_the_Synod#Witness|Right of Witness]] grants any member of the Synod the right to attend any meeting of the military council, whether a formal gathering of generals or the [[Muster]] that determines the use of the [[Sentinel Gate]]. Witnesses have no ability to interfere of course - and no ability to speak without [[Imperial_Military_Council#Participation|an explicit invitation from the Council]]. Yet their silence does not preclude them from judging everything they see and hear, nor from acting on it once they leave the meeting. As long as they are respectful, their right to attend these meetings is guaranteed by the [[Imperial Constitution]]. The simplest response to the [[Assembly#The Assembly of the Nine|Assembly of the Nine's]] call to action would be for priests to attend the military council and see for themselves what goes on there. With statements of principle such as those outlined by Viviane de Coeurdefer, named priests could take it on themselves to attend the meetings on behalf of their nations and work with others interested in Military Council affairs.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Odelina de Rondel, Statement of Principle, Dawn National Assembly, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld 148-0">The Dawnish assembly sends Odelina de Rondell to bear Right of Witness in Military Council, to act as confessor to the Dawnish generals until end of Autumn 383YE.</quote></div>

===Chaplains===
* '''Tarrat of the Legion's Rookery has put forward a proposal for a formal Imperial title to support and guide each nation's generals'''
An alternative suggestion has been put forward by ''Tarrat'', a teacher at the [[Skarsind#Legion.27s_Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] in [[Skarsind]]. A venerable [[orc]] [[preachers|preacher]] with decades of military experience behind him, he has written extensively about his time both leading and advising the leaders of legions who have fought in many of the Empire's battles over the last thirty years. The [[Create_title_of_Chaplain_Military|recent attempt]] to appoint a priest to serve as a Synod liaison to the Military Council failed - but the Assembly of Nine is calling for Synod members to stand "''in support and in guidance''" of the ''generals'' of their nations, ''not'' to judge or interfere with the difficult work of the Council itself. Tarrat writes that the "Chaplain Military" represented an attempt by the Synod to interfere in the Council on a political level, rather than looking to aid and advise the people whose job it is to deal with the harsh realities of Imperial military leadership.

With that in mind, he has put together a proposal for the creation of the title of "''chaplain''" - a title used both within the Empire and without to refer to a priest whose focus is on offering spiritual support to soldiers and generals. He has distributed his suggestion widely and invited his peers among the Imperial priesthood to debate, discuss, and ultimately enact his proposal.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Tarrat's Proposal'''<br>
Ten titles - Chaplain of (nation) - would be created, one for each Imperial nation. Each would be appointed annually by the appropriate National assembly.

The chaplains are responsible for supporting and guiding the generals of their nation. They are also responsible for helping them to spread awareness of Imperial Military Council decisions among their people, and addressing concerns about their virtue.

Once each summit. each chaplain may use a single additional judgement. This can be used to call one or all generals of their nation to Inquisition, announced in their national assembly without requiring a vote. It could be escalated to sanction as normal. Alternatively, they could use this additional judgement to revoke a general of their nation in any appropriate assembly they could normally raise a judgement in, or call for a writ of excommunication in the general assembly. In these latter cases a normal vote would take place.</box></div>
With a single [[Senate motion]], the Senate could create ten equal titles of ''chaplain'' - one for each nation. Each title would be [[appointment|appointed]] by the appropriate [[Assembly#The National Assemblies|National assembly]], and would serve for a year.

The chaplains would be responsible not only for supporting and guiding the generals of their nation, but also for helping them to spread awareness of Imperial Military Council decisions among their people, and addressing concerns about their virtue. After all, generals have many demands on their time and often struggle to keep everyone up to date on the complex strategies of the Council.

Rather than being a purely honorary title with heavy responsibility, the chaplain would be empowered to guide the generals of their nation as well. In a similar manner to the [[Chaplain Consular]] who supports the [[Ambassador|ambassadors]], they would be empowered to call generals to account for their actions - so that everyone in the nation could be reassured that the leaders of their armies act with virtue.

Tarrat suggests that each chaplain be empowered to make a singe additional judgement each season, but that they may use that judgement as they wish to enact one of several [[judgement|judgements]]. The most straightforward use of this power would be to call one or all the generals of their nation to [[inquisition]] (with the concomitant power to escalate to [[sanction]]), without the requirement for [[scrutiny]] by their National assembly. Alternatively, they could use this additional judgement to raise a [[revocation]] or [[Writ of Excommunication]] against a general of their nation, although in this case the normal period of scrutiny would be required. With these three inter-related powers, they could help to ensure not only that the generals of their nation serve with virtue, but also reassure their own people that this was the case.

Tarrat of the Rookery further suggests that to support the generals, the Chaplains be given the power to withdraw up to 5 Thrones apiece from the virtue fund specifically to reward a general who has gone above and beyond in their commitment to the virtues.

After some discussion has already taken place, Tarrat suggests that one power that would ''not'' be appropriate to the Chaplain would be the power to address the military council. The chaplains role is to support and guide the generals of their own nation, to advise them on matters of virtue and the traditions of their people - not to interfere in the business of the military council as a whole. The last thing the military council needs, argues the grizzled old orc, are ten more voices shouting in the military council. The right of witness is enough.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court|Constitutional Court]] has tentatively agreed that none of the powers laid down by Tarrat in his proposal appear unconstitutional, but as always they would need to see a specifically worded [[senate motion]] before they made a formal judgement.

==Aiding the Conclave==
Constitutionally, the [[Conclave]] is "''free from interference by the Synod''". This sometimes chafes of course; it is as important that the Conclave act with virtue as it is that the Senate or the Military Council do so. In theory, a constitutional change could be used to grant the Synod powers over the Conclave, but to date no attempts to enact such a change have been successful.

Yet the Synod is not without allies in the Conclave, at least in theory. The [[Sevenfold Path]] believes that "''Way of Virtue binds the Empire together and should inform all use of powers, including magic''", strives to "''build a bridge between the Conclave and the priests of the Synod''", and works to "'' ensure the powers of the Conclave are deployed in line with the Way of Virtue''". Indeed, the current [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Conclave order|order]] '''Zephaniah of Felix's Watch''' has said several times that he will look to the Synod for guidance on how best to use the order's [[Grandmaster#Funding_the_Order|resources]].

With that in mind, the Synod could encourage the Sevenfold Path to become more active in the politics of the Conclave, and invigorate their mission to remind the magicians of the Empire of the importance of the seven virtues represented on the order's sigil.
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|title=Order of the Sevenfold Path|align=right|width=235}}
===Guides on the Path of Virtue===
* '''Carabella di Sarvos has suggested that the powers of the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path be expanded to more effectively guide the Conclave in matters of virtue.'''
''Bishop Carabella di Sarvos'' has a long history of support for the Sevenfold Path. In her younger days, during the reign of [[Emperor Hugh]], she even briefly served as [[grandmaster]]. She has dusted off an old proposal, and attempted to drum up some support for it. Like many such changes, it would require the support of the Imperial Senate - something that was not forthcoming under either Hugh or [[Emperor Walter|his successor]] but might be possible now with a more active and virtuous Senate. Her proposal suggests that the Senate offer additional support and validation to the remit and responsibilities of the order, and the Grandmaster that guides it. With a suitably worded [[senate motion]], the [[Senator|senators]] could amend the powers of the Grandmaster, and recognise the role of the Sevenfold Path as guardians of virtue in the Conclave.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Esau, Statement of Principle, General Assembly, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld 598-158"> The Sevenfold Path has pledged to grant resources for virtuous magical works. We believe that priests should raise and consider judgements endorsing specific, detailed magical acts to guide the grandmaster in this process. Successful judgements should be brought to the grandmaster's attention for consideration.</quote></div>
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Carabella's Proposal'''<br>
Carabella di Sarvos suggests that the powers of the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold path be amended in three ways.

First that the Grandmaster may raise declarations of sorcery or interdiction without spending crystal mana as often as they see fit.

Second that the Grandmaster may personally speak first on any matter of sorcery or interdiction, as long as they spend mana to do so.

Thirdly that the Grandmaster be allowed to veto any Declaration of Concord when it is announced by the Civil Servant during a Conclave Session before it is presented, unless it were presented under the Veil of Night. This would require a constitutional motion.

Any or all of these amendments could be proposed as a single senate motion, but if the third power were included the entire motion would require a constitutional vote.</box></div>
The Grandmaster could be given the power to raise [[declaration|declarations]] or [[sorcery]] and [[interdiction]] as they see fit, without spending crystal mana, the better to help the Conclave in identifying and restricting unvirtuous magic or [[Religious_crime|dangerous]] magicians.Allowing the grandmaster to raise these declarations freely would also position them as advisors or supporters to anyone interested in raising one of these declarations themselves.

The Grandmasters already have extensive power to [[Conclave_session#Session_Order|control the flow of debate]] during a [[Conclave session]]. Carabella goes on to suggest that the Senate amend the powers of the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path to strengthen their voice on matters of interdiction and sorcery. By allowing the grandmaster (and only the grandmaster) the opportunity to step outside the strict cycle of [[Principle_of_Precedence|precedence]] to speak first on ''any'' matter of interdiction or sorcery would allow them to put forward the virtuous view of the matter. The grandmaster would still be bound by the [[Principle of Proportions]] of course, and once they had finished speaking the normal cycle of precedence would begin.

Finally, she presents the most controversial amendment to the powers of the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path. One of the powers of the Conclave is to present declarations of [[Concord]] - to say that the house believes certain things. In some cases, she argues, the mere act of discussing a profoundly unvirtuous proposal demeans the entire Conclave and by extension all the magicians of the Empire. She proposes that the Sevenfold Path Grandmaster be given the power to ''veto'' any Declaration of Concord as soon as it is announced by the Civil Service, before it is presented or debated. If they use this power, the item is struck from the agenda. If appropriate (depending how it was raised), the magician who brought the declaration would be refunded their mana. The exception to this power would be any declaration raised under the [[Grandmaster#Veil_of_Night|veil of night]] - no Grandmaster should overrule another Grandmaster in this fashion. Granting the Grandmaster this power of veto would require a [[Senate_motion#Constitutional_Vote|constitutional vote]].

All of this represents a significant increase to the power of the Sevenfold Path, but Carabella also believes it would go some way towards reassuring those critical of the Conclave that attempts are being made to guide them back towards the path of virtue.

The Constitutional Court has reviewed these suggestions, and reiterated the statement made when they were first raised during the reign of Emperor Hugh. While they represent a significant change to the powers of the Grandmaster, they do not appear to be unconstitutional. They do not represent the Synod gaining influence over the Conclave; the Sevenfold Path is a Conclave order made up of magicians. They would be cautious about allowing any Imperial title other than Grandmaster to wield such powers - the role of the orders to guide the Conclave is constitutionally supported in their opinion - but the suggested changes are clearly within the remit of the Sevenfold Path's recognised manifesto. As always, they also caution that everything would depend on the wording of the Senate motion used to enact Carabella's suggestion.

In response to several questions, the Civil Service has confirmed that were the title of Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path amended in this fashion, they could look into similar amendments to the other Grandmasters. Alternatively, a Senator could raise a [[senate motion]] explicitly asking them to do so, and they would prepare a suitable report.

==Aiding the Bourse==
Like the Conclave, the constitution places the [[Bourse]] outside the interference of the Synod - except in those rare cases where a member's behaviour is so egregious they merit [[Writ of Excommunication|excommunication]]. The materials the Bourse deals in - white granite, mithril, and weirwood in particular - are vital to the survival and [[Prosperity]] of the Empire. Yet all too often, virtuous projects fall by the wayside in favour of those sponsored by the biggest purse. Selfish projects can easily displace projects that might otherwise benevolently offer aid to the people of the Empire, inspire its people, or create an enduring virtuous legacy.

Suggestions have [[You'll_recognise_yourself#Detractors_of_la_Volpe|already been made]] that the power of [[commission]] be devolved to the [[Assembly#The Assembly of the Nine|Assembly of the Nine]]. With the Synod in charge of commissioning new structures, the perceived price-gouging by the Bourse could be addressed directly. That option still remains open, but the Senate has shown little interest in it. However a new proposal been made, tangentially related to the Bourse, which may merit wider discussion.
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><box>'''Vitruvia's Proposal'''<br>
The Senate may either amend an existing [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]] title to assign it to the [[Synod]], or create a new one.

The title would be chosen by a judgement of [[appointment]] each season, raised in one or more of the Assemblies as determined when the title is created. In case of competing judgements, the one with the greatest margin would be successful and all others would fail (in the same manner as is commonly used with [[mandate|mandates]]).

Scrutiny on the judgement of appointment for this specific title would end at an agreed on time to ensure the title-holder had sufficient opportunity to announce their project in the Senate before the end of the summit.</box></div>
===Virtuous Wayleave===
The [[Urizen]] [[Urizen_economic_interests#Architects|architect]] Vitruvia of [[Redoubt#Tomari|Tabulos]] has been quite intrigued to hear of the [[Reallocate_an_Imperial_Wayleave_to_the_Imperial_Orcs|plans to assign]] one of the new [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave|Imperial Wayleaves]] to the [[Imperial Orcs]]. She can see that these Wayleaves are cleary intended to raise money for the [[Imperial treasury]], but very much approves of the way they empower Imperial citizens to leave a lasting legacy on the world. It is a shame, however, that their method of allocation is so "mercenary" rather than being guided by principles of Virtue.

With that in mind, she proposes that the Senate might either assign one of the remaining two Wayleaves to the custody of the Synod, or create a new Wayleave specifically for use by the Assemblies to allow them to support truly virtuous projects. The Wayleave would be assigned by a [[judgement]] of [[appointment]] - it is after all an [[Imperial title]] albeit one that is held only for a single season. To ensure that the bearer has the chance to use their ''Virtuous Wayleave'' she suggests that the judgement of appointment must be completed by a set time - either the end of scrutiny on Saturday or Sunday depending on what the Civil Service recommend. In this way it would be possible to weigh competing statements, and assign the title to the one that achieved the greatest margin of success.

As to appointment, she suggests that it might be raised in the [[Assembly#The Assembly of the Nine|Assembly of the Nine]] or the [[Assembly#The General Assembly|General Assembly]] - perhaps either or both. She further suggests that it would be appropriate for several of the [[Assembly#The Virtue Assemblies|Virtue assemblies]] to have a say in the matter - [[Pride]] and [[Ambition]] particularly. Indeed, she argues, it might even be appropriate to allow ''any'' assembly to raise the [[judgement]] or appointment, given the simple method of assessing margin of success to determine who receives the title in case of competing judgements. On the other hand, as s dyed-in-the-wool dedicate of Ambition, it is perhaps unsurprising she favours a method of appointment that encourages competition in this fashion!

The Constitutional Court sees no particular problem with this proposal, but as always it would depend on the wording of the [[Senate motion]]. They include a reminder that, as with the existing Imperial Wayleaves, any Wayleave granted to the Synod would represent a guaranteed ability to raise a [[commission]] and thus automatically count as one of the twelve commissions each season the Empire is capable of supporting, regardless of whether it is used.

==Aiding the Senate==
A way that the [[Cardinal|Cardinals]] of the Synod could help guide the [[Senate]] has [[More_work#The_Mandate_of_Teleri|already been outlined]]. One area of Senate responsibility that has made several priests increasingly concerned, however, is that of Imperial diplomacy. There have been recent high-profile developments around relations with [[Axos]], the [[Principalities of Jarm]], and the [[Sumaah Republic]]; the use of Imperial mercenaries to [[Toil_and_weep#Ending_the_Uprising|suppress]] an uprising in [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavea]]; the actions of Imperial citizens around the [[Iron Confederacy]] [[Heroes|slave rebellion]], all of which have involved heated debate in the Synod and regular calls for citizens to remember the importance of Virtuous action.
===Virtuous Diplomacy===
* '''The appointment of ambassadors could be overseen by the Imperial Synod.'''
'''Jereboam of Sanctuary''', an enthusiastic young [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Wayfarers|wayfarer]] from [[Necropolis#Sanctuary_Sand|Sanctuary]] has more experience than most dealing with representatives of foreign nations. He has put forward what he considers a straightforward proposal to ensure that the Imperial representatives to other nations do not demean themselves or their Empire. Simply put, the Senate should devolve the appointment of the [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to the Imperial Synod.

In his many recent letters to interested priests across the Empire, he has made much of what he described as the recent successes of '''Accalon of Felix's Watch''' in dealing with the delicate Sumaah situation, as well as the many [[statement of principle|statements]] and [[mandate|mandates]] from various [[assembly|assemblies]] of the Synod that have led to clearly virtuous behaviour with regard to foreign nations. Further, he has expounded on the sheer amount of time the Senate must spend on appointing, moderating, and re-appointing the [[Ambassador#Current_Ambassadors|ten ambassadorial titles]] the Empire currently possesses.

The Senate could simply make the [[Assembly#The General Assembly|General Assembly]] responsible for appointing the ambassadors going forward, using [[judgement|judgements]] of [[appointment]]. With the ambassadors and the [[Imperial Consul]] appointed by the Synod - who already are responsible for revoking them - the valuable time of the [[senator|senators]] would be freed up to concentrate on matters of domestic policy, while the Empire could be confident that the ambassadors were guided by virtue in their interactions with other nations.

The Constitutional Court, invited by Jereboam to examine his suggestions, have confirmed that this would not be unconstitutional. However, as it represents a significant shift in power from the Senate to the Synod, this would require a [[Senate_motion#Constitutional_Vote|constitutional motion]] to enact.

===The Chaplain Consular===
* '''The powers of the Chaplain Consular could be expanded'''
As an avid writer of letters, Jereboam of Sanctuary has also been in correspondence with ''Tarrat of the Legion's Rookery''. Enthused by the old orc's suggestions about military chaplains, Jereboam has adopted parts of that proposal with regard to the ambassadors. Even if the Senate were not interested in devolving the appointment of ambassadors to the Synod, they could strengthen the power of the [[Chaplain Consular]] to assist them - and to ensure that their actions did not demean anyone.

The proposal is that the [[Chaplain_Consular#Inquisit_Imperial_Ambassador|power to make an additional judgement]] the Consul already possesses be expanded so that they may choose to use that judgement to raise a [[revocation]] or [[Writ of Excommunication]] against an Imperial ambassador rather than simply an inquisition. Such a judgement would follow all the usual rules - it would have to be raised in an appropriate assembly available to the citizen holding the title, and the normal scrutiny and judgement by that assembly would take place.

===Senate Accountability===
* '''The powers of the Auditor of Senatorial Accountability could be expanded.'''
Finally, and perhaps unsurprisingly, all this talk of guiding the Senate has led to further scrutiny of the [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]]. Once Tarrat and Jereboam begin to make their respective proposal, it takes little time for multiple theological scholars and political theorists across the Empire to suggest that the special [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability#Inquisit_Member_of_the_Senate|power to inquisit the Senate]] of the Auditor might be amended to include the option to revoke or excommunicate a member of the Senate. Obviously such a judgement would need to be raised in the appropriate assembly, but it makes sense that the auditor have some additional ability to remove members who are unvirtuous or whose actions demean themselves and their nation.
===Going the Whole Hog===
* '''The Chaplain Consular, Auditor, and Imperial Inquisitor could all have their powers expanded with a single motion'''
''Teodora Bezavina of Delev'' - the de facto leader of a group of so-called [[Benevolence,_inspiration,_and_legacy#The_Moderates|moderate reformers]] and something of a constitutional scholar suggests that were the Senate to wish to do so, they could amend both the powers of the Chaplain Consular and the Auditor of Senatorial Accountability with a single motion - they already possess powers that are to all intents and purposes the same in intent and extent, merely used in relation to members of different houses. She actually goes further, pointing out that the [[Imperial Inquisitor]] likewise possesses the power to raise an "automatic judgement of inquisition" and proposes that if the Senate wishes they could bring all three powers in to line with Tarrat's suggested "military chaplains" with a single motion of amendment.

==Missed Opportunities==
The Synod judgement that authorised the ''Severin Sermon'' cautioned every Imperial citizen of the danger of religious division. It urged them to put aside these divisions and instead focus on what unites them. The prognostications performed by the civil service determined that the impact of the mandate would be such "that any attempt to incite people to confront religious differences or spiritual conflicts would be strongly inhibited for the following year" and so it has proved. There were a number of incidents over the season that might have become the basis for further conflict were it not for Severin's words. As with the [[Benevolence,_inspiration,_and_legacy#Missed_Opportunities|Spring]] and [[More_work#Missed_Opportunities|Summer]] this has meant that some statements of principle have not led to a clear effect.
===Idolatry===
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="J'Zarr i Shartha i Guerra, Statement of Principle, Freeborn Assembly, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld with a Greater Majority 74 - 0">The Freeborn assembly does not believe it is virtuous to gain Prosperity at the cost of spreading idolatry throughout the Coast. We do not support the Iron Qanat's being constructed by anyone who will include idolatrous imagery in its construction.</quote></div>
On the surface, the statement opposite by the Freeborn Assembly appears straightforward. It denounces the decision to assign [[Judged_by_their_company#Closer_to_Home_:_Almodin_Okt.C3.ADstis|Almodin Oktístis]] to build the [[Free_to_live#Yellow_Grain|Iron Qanat]] in [[Segura]]. Yet it went further - a Freeborn priest condemning "Prosperity at the cost of spreading idolatry throughout the Coast" cannot help but appear to be an attack on the [[Feroz#The_Temple_of_Balo_and_the_Black_Bull|Temple]] that stands in [[Feroz#Oranseri|Oran]] and welcomes dozens of [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] visitors to the Brass Coast each season.

The matter of Balo and the Black Bull is especially complex. In Spring 381YE, Franco i Erigo was empowered by the Freeborn Assembly to enact a mandate that
[[Distant_deeps#Encouraging_Tolerance|encouraged tolerance]] of the Asaveans and their [[Religious_crime#Idolatry|idolatrous]] ways. "''Their faith does not concern the Freeborn so long as they follow our laws''" the assembly declared. Even without Severin's Sermon, that mandate meant that "there will be no further opportunities for the Synod to interfere with the operation of the Temple in Feroz unless there are significant changes in the relationship between the Plenum and the Imperial Senate, such as a Declaration of War against Asavea, or the abrogation of the temple at Oran."

Furthermore, '''Veikko Bondforger''' of [[Wintermark groups#Sigehold|Sigehold Hall]] has already raised and led an [[inquisition]] of Almodin that so far has led to no particular [[sanction]]. Denouncing the Asavean architect in this fashion, especially after what appears to be the validation of the General assembly, cannot help but cause religious division, something the Freeborn citizens of the Coast are barely interested in at this time. The refugees from the Isle of Zemress are the obvious exception, but their neighbours are not concerned about what the builder puts on the side of their dam, at least not at the moment.

The [[Senate]] could support the Freeborn assembly by raising a new motion to [[commission]] the Iron Qanat, one that does not use the services of the Asavean Architect. This would implicitly mean that the former motion were [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Abrogation|abrogated]], but given that work has not yet begun on the Qanat the only potential obstacle would be the hurt feelings of Almodin Oktístis. If they do not choose to do this, however, Almodin will still be responsible for overseeing the creation of the Qanat – and would still be free to cover it in whatever problematic imagery he desired as long as it otherwise met the specifications of the project.
===Blasphemy===
<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Tabitha of the Chantry, Statement of Principle, Prosperity Virtue, Summer Solstice 382YE, Upheld with a Greater Majority 189 - 0">We, the Prosperity assembly, invite all those who recognise the exemplar Zemress - including pilgrims from the Sumaah Republic and the Zemress islanders - to attend festivities in Zemress' honour in anvil on the second evening of the Autumn equinox in the League National Theatre.</quote></div>
The [[Prosperity]] [[assembly#The Virtue Assemblies|Assembly]] is planning to have a festival in celebration of the famed [[Paragons_and_exemplars|exemplar]] [[Zemress]]. They have invited both the refugees from the Isle of Zemress - whose connection to the exemplar is familial - and representatives from the [[Sumaah Republic]] - who also recognise Zemress as an exemplar of Prosperity.

Both groups have declined to attend. It has nothing to do with Severin's words, but does represent a form of religious conflict. Neither group will come to Anvil for a celebration on the same weekend that the [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy|blasphemous]] [[The_Brass_Coast_religious_beliefs#Feast_of_the_Broken_Wheel|Feast of the Broken Wheel]] is being celebrated in the same place. They do not rule out the possibility of attending a festival dedicated to the exemplar in the future, but they consider it deeply distasteful and perhaps even inappropriate to celebrate this inspirational figure in the same settlement where so much [[religious crime]] is taking place.

Archive:Current Imperial Titles

2026-04-11T15:36:49Z

Dre:

<section begin=The_Throne/>
* [[The Throne]] - Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
<section end=The_Throne/>
<section begin=Senator/>
====The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Senators====
* [[Feroz|Senator for Feroz]] - Garviel i Abrira i Erigo
* [[Kahraman|Senator for Kahraman]] - Ramos I Inigo I Raqueza
* [[Madruga|Senator for Madruga]] - Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza
* [[Segura|Senator for Segura]] - Velasco i Guerra
====The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Senators====
* [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] - Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco
* [[Semmerholm|Senator for Semmerholm]] - Aurianna du Meravon
* [[The Barrens|Senator for the Barrens]] - Lady Gwendoloena de Sarroi
* [[Weirwater|Senator for Weirwater]] - Tristan duLac
====The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Senators====
* [[Bastion|Senator for Bastion]] - Merari Navigators of Virtue
* [[Casinea|Senator for Casinea]] - Asael
* [[Necropolis|Senator for Necropolis]] - Kish of the Flame Beneath the Earth
* [[Reikos|Senator for Reikos]] - Cyrus, of Ebon's Hall
====The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Senators====
* [[Mareave|Senator for Mareave]] - Pathfinder Gaddak
* [[Skarsind|Senator for Skarsind]] - Bloodcrow Rasp
====The [[The League|League]] Senators====
* [[Holberg|Senator for Holberg]] - Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg
* [[Sarvos|Senator for Sarvos]] - Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos
* [[Spiral|Senator for Spiral]] - Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian
* [[Tassato|Senator for Tassato]] - Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato
* [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] - Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar
====The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Senators====
* [[Mitwold|Senator for Mitwold]] - Sally B-Baker
* [[Mournwold|Senator for Mournwold]] - Simon "Chordwangler" Willow
* [[Upwold|Senator for Upwold]] - Henry Birchsmith
====The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Senators====
* [[Hercynia|Senator for Hercynia]] - Rowyn of the Waystone Path
* [[Miaren|Senator for Miaren]] - Asthore Embracing Fold
====The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Senators====
* [[Morrow|Senator for Morrow]] - Sejanus of the Scarlet Guard
* [[Redoubt|Senator for Redoubt]] - Thalia of Netherwatch
* [[Zenith|Senator for Zenith]] - Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
====The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Senators====
* [[Karov|Senator for Karov]] - Svathnev Bronislaw Baruska Navrátil
* [[Karsk|Senator for Karsk]] - Sirka Parakgoosier Bashnya
* [[Miekarova|Senator for Miekarova]] - Vaclav Mladenovich Kosti
* [[Ossium|Senator for Ossium]] - Velko Perunovich Razoradze
* [[Volodmartz|Senator for Volodmartz]] - Ostrik Vulpe
====The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Senators====
* [[Hahnmark|Senator for Hahnmark]] - Bronn Dunwolf
* [[Kallavesa|Senator for Kallavesa]] - Rane Shardbearer
* [[Sermersuaq|Senator for Sermersuaq]] - Fedelmidd Sydanjaa's Heart Floer
<section end=Senator/>
<section begin=Member_of_the_Senate/>
* [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]] - Frith
* [[Conscience of the Senate]] - Aspar
* [[Imperial Consul]] - Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason
* [[Imperial Magus]] - Vacant
* [[Master of the Imperial Mint|Master of the Imperial Mint]] - Tristan Ramson von Holberg
<section end=Member_of_the_Senate/>
<section begin=Ambassador/>
* [[Ambassador to Asavea]] - Asier i Elia i Guerra
* [[Ambassador to Axos]] - 'Shacklebreaker' Thanmir Hrafnar
* [[Ambassador to Faraden]] - Ebenezer
* [[Ambassador to Jarm]] - Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo
* [[Ambassador to Otkodov]] - Kindra Surefoot
* [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]] - Finn Pridetalker
* [[Ambassador to the Grendel]] - Starlight Starchaser
* [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] - Tethros i Zuhri i Erigo
* [[Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] - Dino i Riqueza
* [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] - Accalon
* [[Voice of Liberty]] - Jarrigk Silktongue
<section end=Ambassador/>
<section begin=Senate_Advisor/>
* [[Advisor on the Vallorn]] - Seren Embercast
* [[Arcane Architect]] - Amalia Vicente
* [[Crystal Architect of the Spires]] - Vacant
* [[Dean of the Academy]] - Hildebrand Von Holberg, Of The Temple of Nine Fingers
* [[Imperial Advisor for the Feni]] - Syn Truth-Walker Returned
* [[Imperial Spymaster]] - Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo
* [[Lepidean Librarian|Lepidean Librarian]] - Hazelelponi
* [[Minister of Historical Research]] - Watt of Lambrook
* [[Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies|Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] - Natalia 'The Falcon' Barossa
* [[Stipulator of Stipends|Stipulator of Stipends]] - Benedict Urban Di Tassato
<section end=Senate_Advisor/>
<section begin=Cardinal/>
* [[Cardinal of Ambition]] - Lenarius Ankarien
* [[Cardinal of Courage]] - Tulva
* [[Cardinal of Loyalty]] - Dagon
* [[Cardinal of Pride]] - Olyvar of Esther's Sanctum
* [[Cardinal of Prosperity]] - Luca i Taziel i Riqueza
* [[Cardinal of the Way]] - Tabris, Son of Armisael
* [[Cardinal of Vigilance]] - Gaelen Embercast
* [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] - Silas of the Cenotaph
<section end=Cardinal/>
<section begin=Gatekeeper/>
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Ambition]] - Amos of Tian's Return
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Courage]] - Masha Sigeling
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Loyalty]] - Teleri Thornweaver
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Pride]] - Brother Luke
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Prosperity]] - Katya Vasillova Reznikov
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Vigilance]] - Irada Von Temeschwar
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Wisdom]] - Palladius
<section end=Gatekeeper/>
<section begin=Inquisitor/>
* [[Imperial Inquisitor]] - Kalina Jadwigowna Piosnkowa Prochnost
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] - Lady Abreya De Lagriffe
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] - Maarit Suvidottir
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] - Eevi of the Gadrai
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] - Jedediah Boon
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] - Iniska
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of The Way]] - Maximillian Ankarien
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] - Brother Geoffrey Orchard
* [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] - Nim of Ebon's Hall
<section end=Inquisitor/>
<section begin=Synod_Envoy/>
* [[Arcane Inquisitor|Arcane Inquisitor]] - Galene Netherwatch
* [[Auditor of Senatorial Accountability|Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] - Vauraus Korppitkotka
* [[Basilisk of the Bourse]] - Heilyn Bronwens Rest
* [[High Exorcist]] - Belial De Courtenay-Wyldrose
* [[Chaplain Consular]] - Lepidina
* [[Mistress of Monuments|Mistress of Monuments]] - Ada Droon
* [[Seer of the Gateway]] - Alcuin
<section end=Synod_Envoy/>
<section begin=General/>
====The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Generals====
* [[Burning Falcon|General of the Burning Falcon]] - Aracelis I Erigo
* [[Fire of the South|General of the Fire of the South]] - Xenia i Erigo
* [[Red Wind Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] - Joaquim i Erigo
====The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Generals====
* [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] - Dame Aurum De Castellan
* [[Golden Sun|General of the Golden Sun]] - Lord Daemon Mortére
* [[Gryphon%27s Pride|General of the Gryphons Pride]] - Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* [[Lions of Adelmar|General of the Lions of Adelmar]] - Dame Katelyn Quinnell De Cordraco
====The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Generals====
* [[Granite Pillar|General of the Granite Pillar]] - Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* [[Pilgrim's Defiance|General of the Pilgrim's Defiance]] - Nathaniel of the Woodwych harts
* [[Seventh Wave|General of the Seventh Wave]] - Wildfyre
* [[Valiant Pegasus|General of the Valiant Pegasus]] - Lucifer
====The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Generals====
* [[Autumn Hammers|General of the Autumn Hammers]] - Ashborn Vana
* [[Summer Storm|General of the Summer Storm]] - Irontide Skorr
* [[Winter Sun|General of the Winter Sun]] - Skywise Rykana
====The [[The League|League]] Generals====
* [[Towerjacks|General of the Towerjacks]] - Gabriel Barossa
* [[Wolves of War|General of the Wolves of War]] - Jean d'Apulian
====The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Generals====
* [[Bounders|General of the Bounders]] - Mary Birchsmith
* [[Drakes|General of the Drakes]] - William Guildenstern
* [[Strong Reeds|General of the Strong Reeds]] - Amberlain P. Black
* [[Tusks|General of the Tusks]] - Jack Ashton
====The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Generals====
* [[Black Thorns|General of the Black Thorns]] - Cadwell Waystone
* [[Quiet Step|General of the Quiet Step]] - Neve Agra
====The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Generals====
* [[Argent Sword|General of the Argent Sword]] - Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer
* [[Citadel Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]] - Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was
====The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Generals====
* [[Boyar's Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] - Serafina Semenov
* [[Golden Axe|General of the Golden Axe]] - Vojsuli Cherenkov
* [[Northern Eagle|General of the Northern Eagle]] - Aksel Reznov Razoradze
====The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Generals====
* [[Bloodcloaks|General of the Bloodcloaks]] - Tager Defender of the Fallen Tyrshalt
* [[Green Shield|General of the Green Shield]] - Iron Osric
* [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] - Determination of Ice Kaisa
<section end=General/>
<section begin=Member_of_the_Military_Council/>
* [[Marshal of the Faith|Marshal of the Faith]] - Mael
* [[Warmage|Warmage]] - Ilysses of the Lighthouse-That-Was
<section end=Member_of_the_Military_Council/>
<section begin=Grandmaster/>
* [[Celestial Arch|Celestial Arch]] - Xanthippe Of the Lighthouse-That-Was
* [[Golden Pyramid|Golden Pyramid]] - Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Rod and Shield|Rod and Shield]] - Sakari Nightscale
* [[Sevenfold Path|Sevenfold Path]] - Elagabala
* [[Shuttered Lantern|Shuttered Lantern]] - Tyburn Weaver
* [[Silver Chalice|Silver Chalice]] - Fausta
* [[Unfettered Mind|Unfettered Mind]] - Zlata Ruznikova Perenel, The Dread Auntie
<section end=Grandmaster/>
<section begin=Archmage/>
* [[Archmage of Autumn]] - Vossk
* [[Archmage of Day]] - Gralka
* [[Archmage of Night]] - Bella Vicente d'Apulian
* [[Archmage of Spring]] - Ibiss Briarheart
* [[Archmage of Summer]] - Mirella of the Twisted Rose
* [[Archmage of Winter]] - Ematius 'Icebreaker' Ankarien
<section end=Archmage/>
<section begin=Dean/>
* [[Dean of the Lyceum]] - Syl
* [[Master of Ice and Darkness]] - Alexander Tallstag
<section end=Dean/>
<section begin=Agent_of_the_Conclave/>
* [[Arcane Envoy|Arcane Envoy]] - Jeziah i Radah
* [[Bursar of the Conclave]] - Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza
* [[Imperial Censor]] - Gaius Starfall i Riqueza
* [[Imperial Necromancer]] - Claudia Varkulova Remislav
* [[Imperial Warcaster|Imperial Warcaster]] - Arturo di Sarvos
* [[Master of the Koboldi]] - Dima Vasilyevna Novosad
* [[Witness of Conclave]] - Duncan of Ashill
<section end=Agent_of_the_Conclave/>
<section begin=Ilium_Bourse_Seat/>
* [[Cerevado Nets|Cerevado Nets]] - Freeborn - Ferran i Rincón i Erigo
* [[Gift of the Dwindling Star|Gift of the Dwindling Star]] - Varushkan - Fretek Sargava Slavomiryn
* [[Regario Dossier|Regario Dossier]] - League - Albrecht von Holberg
* [[Steel Fist]] - Imperial Orc - Kirrik
* [[Syrene's Wisdom]] - Imperial - Edwin de Warrenne
* [[Tassatan Hills|Tassatan Hills]] - League - Serafina di Sarvos
<section end=Ilium_Bourse_Seat/>
<section begin=Mithril_Bourse_Seat/>
* [[Brilliant Star]] - Urizeni - Volidus
* [[Eternal Shafts of Time]] - Varushkan - Dorys Delgorokov
* [[Fortress of Salt]] - Imperial - Trencher Smoulder in The Cold
* [[Fundindelve|Fundindelve]] - Imperial - Landon Hawcombe
* [[Great Mine of Briante]] - Imperial - Shiloh
* [[Great Pits of Ennerlund]] - Imperial - Astria-Khariklo
* [[Legacy|Legacy]] - League - Rafael Barossa d'Apulian
* [[Pride of Ikka's Tears]] - Wintermark - Deerlah Yrhara
* [[Sunless Depths]] - Imperial - Arkady Morazovich
* [[The Red Depths|The Red Depths]] - Freeborn - Bhagava-Khan i Hayim i Riqueza
<section end=Mithril_Bourse_Seat/>
<section begin=Weirwood_Bourse_Seat/>
* [[Canterspire Circle]] - Imperial - Arlais of The Silent Tide
* [[Castellan of Spiral Castle|Castellan of Spiral Castle]] - Dawnish - Tallis Hart
* [[Golden Trees of Seren]] - Imperial - Miriam Daughter of Esther
* [[Great Forest at Reikos]] - Imperial - Misha Kemi
* [[Heartwood of the Great Vale]] - Imperial - Borris Harrovich Prochnost
* [[Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] - Imperial - Keir Amourd
* [[Flaxen Pillars|Red-Eyed Reaper]] - League - Claus Friedrich von Holberg
* [[Weirwater Vales]] - Imperial - Bartimaeus
<section end=Weirwood_Bourse_Seat/>
<section begin=White_Granite_Bourse_Seat/>
* [[Arratan Gamble]] - Imperial - Otmar van Holberg
* [[Brilliant Shore]] - Imperial - Morgan Townsend von Holberg
* [[Damatian Cliffs]] - Imperial - Ezekial of Adina's Charge
* [[Granites of Veltsgorsk]] - Varushkan - Blazh Zbignev
* [[Night Quarry]] - Imperial - Pipski Bearonovitch Strascovich
* [[Sutton Stone Quarries]] - Imperial - Lumi Warmthbringer
* [[Vigilant Swan]] - Highborn - Vacant
<section end=White_Granite_Bourse_Seat/>
<section begin=Senate_Appointment/>
* [[Apothecary of Orieb|Apothecary of Orieb]] - Kazimir Kirovich Aristov
* [[Bailiff of Meade|Bailiff of Meade]] - Sebastian Shaw
* [[Bailiff of the Downs]] - Thomas Oak
* [[Bailiff of the Heath|Bailiff of the Heath]] - Hal Guildenstern
* [[Benefactor of Regalia]] - Yakob
* [[Blackroot Broker]] - Egan Dusk Crow
* [[Bredavoi Emissary|Bredavoi Emissary]] - Držiljudi Budiveli Danyleski
* [[Bright Threadweaver|Bright Threadweaver]] - Deorlaf Bright Thread
* [[Broken Shield Guardian|Broken Shield Guardian]] - Redhand Gezzar
* [[Magic Butcher|Butcher of the Meat and Mana Market of Temeschwar]] - Ludovig Von Temeschwar
* [[Cabalist of the Hollow Stone|Cabalist of the Hollow Stone]] - Vasili of Ossium
* [[Captain of the Senate Guard]] - Arthur Bannerman aka Bam Bam
* [[Caretaker of New Dunhall]] - Brigantia Duning
* [[Chatelaine of the Reapers%27 Repose|Chatelaine of the Reapers' Repose]] - Marikos Von Temeschwar
* [[Chef of Sergio's|Chef of Sergio's]] - Sergio Salvatore
* [[Churnspire Adjutor]] - Ianthe
* [[Collector of Prosperity's Boon]] - Ardun Bor
* [[Curator of the Twilight Demesne|Curator of the Twilight Demesne]] - Ebonmaw Nyamo
* [[Custodian of Bones|Custodian of Bones]] - Witgast Dunning
* [[Custodian of Glass Point Cove]] - Dalibor Marek van Temeschwar
* [[Custodian of Living Flame|Custodian of Living Flame]] - Ismene of the Scarlet Guard
* [[Custodian of the Bleak Tower]] - Staurakios Of the Lighthouse-That-Was
* [[Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage]] - Kanute Adelaar van Holberg
* [[Custodian of the Claw]] - Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach
* [[Custodian of the Kennels]] - Esme Beatrix de Holberg
* [[Custodian of the Pelican Tower]] - Concordia Barcaiolo di Sarvos
* [[Custodian of the Printers Guild Mausoleum|Custodian of the Printers Guild Mausoleum]] - Silvio de Tassato
* [[Custodian of the Starlight Drift]] - Lochias Of The Scarlet Guard
* [[Custodian of the Storm Vault|Custodian of the Storm Vault]] - Magrathea Stormsend
* [[Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage|Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage]] - Heliodoro Vicente
* [[Dauntless Warrior|Dauntless Warrior]] - Quint
* [[Dean of the First Voice Glade|Dean of the First Voice Glade]] - Idwynn Splitroot
* [[College_of_the_Liberated#Dean_of_the_Liberated|Dean of the Liberated]] - Ventuno di Sarvos
* [[Dean of the Thorned Rose|Dean of the Thorned Rose]] - Bledri Eternal
* [[Director of Holberg's Melodious Cascade|Director of Holberg's Melodious Cascade]] - Lula Kleist von Ennerlund
* [[Dredgemaster of Feverwater|Dredgemaster of Feverwater]] - Eosffair Farwalker
* [[Eternal Flame of Miaren|Eternal Flame of Miaren]] - Tanwen
* [[Fallsheart Guardian]] - Xenshia Dunning
* [[Farmer of Eastern Spring Farm|Farmer of Eastern Spring Farm]] - Vrak
* [[Financier of Holberg's Phantasmagorical Mementoes|Financier of Holberg's Phantasmagorical Mementoes]] - Bernhard Kleist von Ennerlund
* [[Gardener of Pallas|Gardener of Pallas]] - Vacant
* [[Gatekeeper of Falling Snow]] - Leofric Dunnsson
* [[Granger of the Golden Orchard|Granger of the Golden Orchard]] - Braithe Ashen Tear
* [[Greenwatcher|Greenwatcher]] - Vacant
* [[Grim Gardener]] - Maegruth Bearonovitch Strascovitch
* [[Grimnir of Wittal Grove]] - Theowold Vakarsson
* [[Guard of the Proud Quill Parcel|Guard of the Proud Quill Parcel]] - Cormack Dun
* [[Guardian of Dunfrith]] - Eanwyn Dunning
* [[Guardian of the Cairn]] - Tarqeq Icetongue
* [[Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal]] - Alice Hawcombe
* [[Guildmaster of the Artisans|Guildmaster of the Artisans]] - Xanthius Storm's End
* [[Hartford Brewmaster|Hartford Brewmaster]] - Edmund Forster
* [[Headmistress of the Open Fan Academy|Headmistress of the Open Fan Academy]] - Bianca Legna di Sarvos
* [[Healer of Dawn|Healer of Dawn]] - Isabella de Rondell
* [[Hearthtender of the Unbroken]] - Vacant
* [[Herbalist of the Hearth]] - Astar Lodindottir
* [[High Herbalist of Sybella]] - Juliette of Balthazar's Vineyard
* [[Jade Custodian]] - Giacomo Corvinoscuro
* [[Keeper of Aurelie's Garden|Keeper of Aurelie's Garden]] - Morgana lonestrider
* [[Keeper of the Ashen Tears|Keeper of the Ashen Tears]] - Muse Ashen Tears
* [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] - Orson BogMyrtle
* [[Keeper of the Crystal Fruit|Keeper of the Crystal Fruit]] - Grundfos Thorn's Rest
* [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] - Bill of Middleton
* [[Keeper of the Golden Fields]] - Nicolas Reaper
* [[Keeper of the Happiston Fields]] - Tilly of Chalkdown
* [[Keeper of the Iron Grove|Keeper of the Iron Grove]] - Wren Ironclaw
* [[Keeper of the Memorial Gardens of Treji]] - Mog
* [[Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]] - Raphael Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] - Sadiq i Isa i Erigo
* [[Keeper of the Stand|Keeper of the Stand]] - Sorcha Ashwood
* [[Keeper of the Study]] - Willum of Goatsbridge
* [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall|Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] - Sabina
* [[Knight of Dawnguard|Knight of Dawnguard]] - Caladain de Renard
* [[Leaseholder of Lumi's Legacy|Leaseholder of Lumi's Legacy]] - Uskolli
* [[Marshal of the Pit of Revelations|Marshal of the Pit of Revelations]] - Gra'sh
* [[Master Apothecary]] - Hagen
* [[Master of Defence of the Scholars of the Sword Academy|Master of Defence of the Scholars of the Sword Academy]] - Professor Bartolomau Vinnemakker von Holberg
* [[Master of Sarcombe Metal Market]] - John of Killinghall
* [[Master of the Clearing House]] - Aurelio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] - Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth
* [[Master of the Sword Academy of Temeschwar|Master of the Sword Academy of Temeschwar]] - Gasparo Conzaga Di Temeschwar
* [[Mayor of Caricomare]] - Aloysius di Sarvos
* [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] - Raal Dunn
* [[Merchant_Prince_of_Misericorde_Market|Merchant Prince of Misericorde Market]] - Jonah Yakovitch
* [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market|Merchant-boyar of the Stinking Market]] - Modesto Bogaty
* [[Mirrored Maschieri]] - Magdelena Alanga Di Sarvos
* [[Pitmaster|Pitmaster]] - Stonesworn Crix
* [[Polemarch of Highwatch|Polemarch of Highwatch]] - Vacant
* [[Printmaster of Cevia|Printmaster of Cevia]] - Ergot Di Cevia
* [[Raven Seer]] - The Shaman
* [[Rebeshof Roadwarden|Rebeshof Roadwarden]] - Lia Adelaar
* [[Remembrancer of Blood and Salt|Remembrancer of Blood and Salt]] - Hodwyn Aevardson
* [[Roost's Reeve|Roost's Reeve]] - Vacant
* [[Shepherd of the Great Herd]] - Sand Viper Idra
* [[Signori d'Argento Vine Tender]] - Captain Markus DeVere
* [[Smith of Ashes|Smith of Ashes]] - Task
* [[Spear of the Seven|Spear of the Seven]] - Corwyn Heartsbane
* [[Spider's Tollkeep]] - Marguerita Serafini di Sarvos
* [[Steward of the Nabarr|Steward of the Nabarr]] - Tair Drifting Bough
* [[Steward of the Sarvos Mana Exchange]] - Donnatoonlo Francesco De Temeschwar
* [[Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange]] - Virgil Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Storm Shaman|Storm Shaman]] - Pathfinder Brog
* [[Tender_of_Tekupala%27s_Hives|Tender of Tekupala's Hives]] - Kal
* [[Tender of the Blood Orchard|Tender of the Blood Orchard]] - Heidi von Holberg
* [[Thane of Floerstrand]] - Liissá Reparador Sigeing
* [[Town Clerk of Sarcombe|Town Clerk of Sarcombe]] - Millward Cowley
* [[Weigher of Worth|Weigher of Worth]] - Bloodcrow Kren
* [[Wise Arborist|Wise Arborist]] - Meep
* [[Woundbinder of the Mark]] - Conrald Mystrim
<section end=Senate_Appointment/>
<section begin=Throne_Appointment/>
* [[Captain of the Throne Guard|Captain of the Throne Guard]] - Florian von Temeschwar
* [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie|Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]] - Kay Griffinsbain
* [[Queen's Rose|Queen's Rose]] - Alaina Ferelith Meliora
<section end=Throne_Appointment/>
<section begin=Synod_Judgement/>
* [[Abbess of Reconciliation|Abbess of Reconciliation]] - Sister Rosa
* [[Arbiter of the Four Winds|Arbiter of the Four Winds]] - Athenus
* [[Archbishop of Capodomus|Archbishop of Capodomus]] - Estella Lucati
* [[Archivist of the Echoing Obelisk|Archivist of the Echoing Obelisk]] - Vacant
* [[Armarius of the Anvil Library|Armarius of the Anvil Library]] - Richardo Glostari di Sarvos
* [[Azure Sutannir|Azure Sutannir]] - Mina i Yashum i Riqueza
* [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq|Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] - Ceolmund Dreth
* [[Benefactor of High Chalcis|Benefactor of High Chalcis]] - Brother Enoch of the Navigators of Virtue
* [[Beneficiary of the Golden Cascade|Beneficiary of the Golden Cascade]] - Abel the Rounder
* [[Bishop of the Navigators|Bishop of the Navigators]] - Keziah
* [[Castellan of the Silent Sentinel]] - Rhesa
* [[Challenger in Waiting|Challenger in Waiting]] - Decimus Quayward
* [[Chaplain of the Roads|Chaplain of the Roads]] - Godfrey of The Emberclad
* [[Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast]] - Eurybia of the House of Wanderers
* [[Crimson Sutannir|Crimson Sutannir]] - Ahraz i Guerra
* [[Crow Keeper of the Rest]] - Cynerik
* [[Curator of Memories|Curator of Memories]] - Volya Vychodni Nebov
* [[Curator of the Blood Red River|Curator of the Blood Red River]] - Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* [[Curator of the Printer's Guild Museum]] - Fabio Costas d’Apulian
* [[Curator of the White City Museum]] - Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament
* [[Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] - Sarah
* [[Dean of Laroc Cathedral|Dean of Laroc Cathedral]] - Valentin Ivarovich Orzel
* [[Friar of Honour's Rest]] - Friar John of the Mourn
* [[Grieftender of the Forgotten|Grieftender of the Forgotten]] - Radomir Shallotovich Dvorak
* [[Guardian of Britta's Memorial]] - Neala Blackhawk
* [[Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] - Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos
* [[Guardian of the Maze of Zoria|Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]] - Illya Nikovitch Volkov
* [[Guide to the Lost|Guide to the Lost]] - Tut
* [[Hand of Guerra]] - Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra
* [[High Bard of the Empire]] - Mikael Reskovich
* [[Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium]] - Emilio Marsana Saverio di Sarvos
* [[Keeper of the Orchard]] - Creighton Blackewater
* [[Knight of the Greenwood|Knight of the Greenwood]] - Mordrain Sepulchre
* [[Lady of the Proffered Hand|Lady of the Proffered Hand]] - Leonel de Courtenay-Wyldrose
* [[Lantern Wolf|Lantern Wolf]] - Nadia Borodina von Holberg
* [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] - Lysimachus
* [[Mistress of Ceremonies|Mistress of Ceremonies]] - Lana Valentina de Holberg
* [[Mistress of Festivities|Mistress of Festivities]] - Vacant
* [[Patron of the Pavilion]] - Leonora 'Nora' Albertina van Holberg
* [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine|Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] - Samantha "Tongs" Barossa De Tassato Regario
* [[Prelate_of_the_Little_Mother|Prelate of the Little Mother]] - Ivana Petara Vodjavic
* [[Reeve of Greenforest Fair|Reeve of Greenforest Fair]] - Edmund Groves
* [[Singer of the Silence]] - Siân Eternal
* [[Speaker of the Crows|Speaker of the Crows]] - Ingrid
* [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] - Nicodemus of Balthazar's Vineyard
* [[Tender of the Hearth|Tender of the Hearth]] - Nikolovich Drakov
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Ambition]] - Ser Purslane Artorigus
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Courage]] - Arianwen Thornfield
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Loyalty]] - Alfredo Barossa
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Pride]] - Aldwyn the Glorious
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Prosperity]] - Isaia Pavone di Sarvos
* [[Voice of Barbs|Voice of the House of Barbs]] - Oleander Ashwood
* [[Voice of the Twin Roses|Voice of the Twin Roses]] - Nista Zaborov
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Vigilance]] - Bryce The Hare
* [[Voice of Virtue|Voice of Wisdom]] - Amris Johan Merikovich
* [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] - Rafe
* [[Watcher of Ratibor's Torch|Watcher of Ratibor's Torch]] - Vitore Van Temeschwar
* [[Watcher of the Semmerlak|Watcher of the Semmerlak]] - Romand Reinetova Remislav
<section end=Synod_Judgement/>
<section begin=Military_Council_Appointment/>
* [[Imperial Fleet Master|Imperial Fleet Master]] - Giovanni von Temeschwar
* [[Imperial Huntsmarshall|Imperial Huntsmarshall]] - 'Twig' Milos Durenovich Brekhunova
* [[Imperial Master of Works|Imperial Master of Works]] - Hebrun Weaver
* [[Keeper of the Last Battle|Keeper of the Last Battle]] - Dax
* [[Legate of the Imperial Auxiliaries|Legate of the Imperial Auxiliaries]] - Helio i Fuego i Riqueza
* [[Mistress of Medicine|Mistress of Medicine]] - Gabrielle Barossa
* [[Oblivion Sentinel|Oblivion Sentinel]] - Vacant
* [[Quartermaster of the Hanuri Garrison|Quartermaster of the Hanuri Garrison]] - Erikas Van Temeshwar
* [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] - Earl Sibylla du Maurisol
* [[Strategos|Strategos of Highguard]] - Arlandria of the Sentinels Tower
* [[Strategos of Navarr|Strategos of Navarr]] - Mouse Ddawnswraig
* [[Strategos|Strategos of the Brass Coast]] - Gael i Guerra
* [[Strategos|Strategos of the Imperial Orcs]] - Vacant
* [[Strategos|Strategos of the League]] - Gabrieli di Tassato
* [[Strategos|Strategos of the Marches]] - Vacant
* [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] - Lanius
* [[Strategos|Strategos of Varushka]] - Grymnir “Gallows”
* [[Strategos|Strategos of Wintermark]] - Verdehil
* [[Wisdom of the Tenebrous Path|Wisdom of the Tenebrous Path]] - Towlen Nighthaven
<section end=Military_Council_Appointment/>
<section begin=Declaration_Of_Candidacy/>
* [[Astral Arcanist|Astral Arcanist]] - Serenus Starsong
* [[Custodian of the Lost|Custodian of the Lost]] - Nasif I Plata I Erigo
* [[Gloaming Sentinel|Gloaming Sentinel]] - Vasilmir Radovanovna Esskivic
* [[Hand of the Healers|Hand of the Healers]] - Raewynn Farkas
* [[Imperial Seer]] - Jorma Steelhail Moralities Shield
* [[Keeper of the Cox]] - Eayn Solsviegdottir Stanislaus
* [[Penumbral Watcher]] - Izora Highwind
* [[Scholar of Kragg's Hollow|Scholar of Kragg's Hollow]] - Bloodcrow Pip
* [[Shadowed Torchbearer|Shadowed Torchbearer]] - Vanja Oddsbreaker
* [[Tender of the Phoenix Flame|Tender of the Phoenix Flame]] - Enchantress Areloe Larmallevés
* [[Watcher of the Wheel]] - Lord Tobias De Gauvain
<section end=Declaration_Of_Candidacy/>
<section begin=Bourse_Auction/>
* [[Arbiter of the Rogue Declaration|Arbiter of the Rogue Declaration]] - Allegra i Riqueza
* [[Citizens' Voice|Citizens' Voice]] - Samuel Lombardi di Sarvos
* [[Custodian of the Concordium Dock]] - Bernardo Von Temeschwar
* [[Delver of the Depths]] - Rhys Nighthaven
* [[Elosian Architect]] - Sigrid
* [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave|First Imperial Wayleave]] - Nemae Splitroot
* [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] - Aelthrik Dunning
* [[Patron of the Beurteilung|Patron of the Beurteilung]] - Nuno Vazz Di Tassato
* [[Prime Factor of the deBruin Docks]] - Marta Kotova Novikova
* [[Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] - Robin Meadowsweet
* [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave|Second Imperial Wayleave]] - Alfred Eawulfson
* [[Seer of the Spiral Sword]] - Acheron
* [[Tender of Kleist's Winter Gardens|Tender of Kleist's Winter Gardens]] - Llywelyn Ahearn
<section end=Bourse_Auction/>
<section begin=Bourse_Vote/>
* [[Alder of Meade|Alder of Meade]] - Leoric Hudson
* [[Architect of the Conscious River|Architect of the Conscious River]] - Luscidius
* [[Architect of the Crucible]] - Esteban Ezmara of Zenith Ascendant
* [[Bailiff of the Grand Market]] - Aelda Beara Ironhammer
* [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower|Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] - Vladimir Sasha Volkov
* [[Bonesetter of the Delving Market|Bonesetter of the Delving Market]] - Stonesworn Drako
* [[Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] - Bloodcrow Reek
* [[Boyar of the Iron Roads|Boyar of the Iron Roads]] - Borys Vardovich Straskovich
* [[Broker of the Invisible Cord]] - Nettle
* [[Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] - Jaerin Embracing Fold
* [[Bursar of the House of Spirits]] - Rinnah
* [[Chair of the Wolf]] - Lucrezia Corvinascura
* [[Cinderpath Custodian]] - Lydus
* [[Corsair of Oran|Corsair of Oran]] - Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra
* [[Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks|Custodian of Ivarsgard Docks]] - Vladimir Vladirovich Reznikov
* [[Custodian of the Assayer's Guild|Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] - Ricardo Almieda Desmondo di Tasetto
* [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile|Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] - Vasya Bogoslawovna Fhideli
* [[Dhomiro of Afar|Dhomiro of Afar]] - Esteban i Matresco i Erigo
* [[Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] - Iñez i Azul-Mar i Riqueza
* [[Eagle of Triosk|Eagle of Triosk]] - Dzik Lasov Petroski
* [[Envoy to the Karass|Envoy to the Karass]] - Reynard of De Gauvain
* [[Exarch of Virtue's Rest|Exarch of Virtue's Rest]] - Julius Soloman
* [[Four Seasons' Boneweaver]] - Hurn
* [[Gloaming Merchant|Gloaming Merchant]] - Spyridonakes of the Lighthouse-That-Was
* [[Hakima of Salt and Sand|Hakima of Salt and Sand]] - Bakar i Riqueza
* [[Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak|Harbourmaster of the Semmerlak]] - Triska Markova
* [[Kalpaheim Tradeholder]] - Jambert Wulfgar
* [[Keeper of the Bonehives|Keeper of the Bonehives]] - Sketchemi Justicast Mentyevik
* [[Keeper of the Bronze Bowls|Keeper of the Bronze Bowls]] - Stonesworn Atta
* [[Keeper of the Runegrott|Keeper of the Runegrott]] - Derowen
* [[Keeper of the Tome|Keeper of the Tome]] - Alexio Vicente
* [[Legion Engineer]] - Firesong Arachas
* [[Marracossa Sendito]] - Hugo i Bāmesh
* [[Master of Rings|Master of Rings]] - Laughlan Vi Temeschwar
* [[Master of the Root and Stem]] - Christian Talbot
* [[Mediator of Fisk|Mediator of Fisk]] - Lenni Voittoson
* [[Mediator of Wreck|Mediator of Wreck]] - Björn ironside
* [[Merchant Boyar of the Bittershore|Merchant Boyar of the Bittershore]] - Kostjya
* [[Merchant of the Fangs|Merchant of the Fangs]] - Juniper Wainwright
* [[Mistress_of_the_Dust_Parador|Mistress of the Dust Parador]] - Nemi i Riqueza
* [[Mistress of the Glass Parador]] - Bassim i Chort i Riqueza
* [[Northbound Trademaster]] - Antonio var Tassato
* [[Overseer of the Westward Road]] - Alexandrina Ivanova Cherenkov
* [[Preceptor of the Skarsind College of Warcasting]] - Bloodcrow Kran
* [[Quaymaster of the Hesychian Docks|Quaymaster of the Hesychian Docks]] - Telemachus of the Lighthouse-That-Was
* [[Reeve of Boar's Market|Reeve of Boar's Market]] - Cain Vortekar
* [[Reeve of Drycastle|Reeve of Drycastle]] - Seren
* [[Reeve of the Happiston Mana Exchange|Reeve of the Happiston Mana Exchange]] - Gerald Calvert
* [[Speaker to the Leshun]] - Yizhak
* [[Steward of Good Leaf Gardens]] - Coal Carefoot
* [[Steward of the Mines of Gulhule]] - Irontide Flax
* [[Steward of the Ossuary|Steward of the Ossuary]] - Nemuel
* [[Stone Smith|Stone Smith]] - Gemma Brightsmith
* [[Talon of Kauppahall|Talon of Kauppahall]] - Eerikki Korpi
* [[Thornsinger|Thornsinger]] - Orinn Embracing Fold
* [[Tolvoli Butcher|Tolvoli Butcher]] - Misha Klubnika Alexandrovich Petrov
* [[Vardstein Vandal|Vardstein Vandal]] - Gino de Sarvos
* [[Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] - Cato i Emberbright i Guerra
* [[Warden_of_the_Trees_and_Hills|Warden of the Trees and Hills]] - Askien Alanovich Vesimerov
* [[Warden of the Weary|Warden of the Weary]] - Lucien Fèvr
<section end=Bourse_Vote/>
<section begin=Not_A_Well_Worn_Path/>
* [[Doyen of the Spires]] - Ioseph
* [[Emissary to the Celestial Library]] - Xenia
* [[Brock's Toll|Keeper of Brock's Toll]] - Benthri Calvert
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]] - Earl Galahad Du Besté
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] - Clint Leohart De Licorne
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Summer]] - Artreus D'Fauntine
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] - Vacant
<section end=Not_A_Well_Worn_Path/>
<section begin=Civil_Service_Appointment/>
* [[Agent of the Bourse]] - To be elected next event
* [[Functionary of the Sun Chamber]] - Abelard the Assiduous
* [[Functionary of the Vallornguard]] - Leonardo i Del'Toro i Riqueza
* [[Prefect of the Conclave|Prefect of the Conclave]] - Abelard the Assiduous
* [[Tribune of the Synod|Tribune of the Imperial Synod]] - Leonardo i Del'Toro i Riqueza
<section end=Civil_Service_Appointment/>
<section begin=Sodality_Vote/>
* [[Burgher of Ketsov|Burgher of Ketsov]] - Vacant
* [[Counsel of the Sun Chamber|Counsel of the Sun Chamber]] - Zoria
* [[Emerald Arcanist|Emerald Arcanist]] - Viridian
* [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet Salvagemaster]] - Caleb of the Cenotaph
* [[Imperial Apothecaries Guild#Guild_Leader|Guild Leader of the Imperial Apothecaries]] - Esmé i Estrico i Erigo
* [[Speaker of the Magpies|Speaker of the Magpies]] - Morgan Waystone Path
* [[Vallornguard#Speaker_of_the_Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] - Percival Summerstrong
<section end=Sodality_Vote/>
<section begin=Champion_of_Virtue/>
* [[Champion of Ambition]] - Eldrid Vestardottir
* [[Champion_of_Courage|Champion of Courage]] - Thomir, Son of Astion
* [[Champion of Loyalty]] - Talos
* [[Champion of Pride]] - Kali Keen-Eye
* [[Champion of Prosperity]] - Tom Appleseed
* [[Champion of Vigilance]] - Jared
* [[Champion of Wisdom]] - Rhydian de Rondell
<section end=Champion_of_Virtue/>

Archive:383YE Autumn Equinox Imperial titles

2026-04-11T15:36:39Z

Dre:

==[[The Throne]]==
* [[The Throne|Imperatrix]] - Vacant

==[[Senate]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Senators===
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Kahraman]] - Delara i Fijadoz i Guerra
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Madruga]] - Adan i DelToro i Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Segura]] - Yasmeen i Zabala i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Senators===
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Astolat]] - Bohemond De Rondell
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Semmerholm]] - Zadkiel de Coeurdefer
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Weirwater]] - Lady Eve Orzel

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Senators===
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Bastion]] - Baal
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Casinea]] - Lev
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Necropolis]] - Shiloh
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Reikos]] - Gideon of the suns of Couros

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Senator===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_leadership|Senator for Skarsind]] - Rurik

===The [[The League|League]] Senators===
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Holberg]] - Irina Kardaova Arkady Von Holberg
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Sarvos]] - Nessetta Constanta
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Tassato]] - Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Temeschwar]] - Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Senators===
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Bregasland]] - Orrick
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mitwold]] - William Talbot
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mournwold]] - Alan Sheppard
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Upwold]] - Watkin

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Senators===
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Hercynia]] - Rhisiart Dancewalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Miaren]] - Llewellyn Leafstalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Therunin]] - Cybi Farkas

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Senators===
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Morrow]] - Juliana
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Redoubt]] - Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Spiral]] - Maximillian

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Senators===
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karov]] - Vuk The Wolfeater
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karsk]] - Marya Zoranova Doubek
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Miekarova]] - Yulia Kasimirova Voronov
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Ossium]] - Belakov Zakharovich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Volodmartz]] - Radomir Ivanovic Volkov

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Senators===
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Hahnmark]] - Hengest Dun
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Kallavesa]] - Vacant

===Other Titles===
* [[Master_of_the_Imperial_Mint|Master of the Imperial Mint]] - Lieselotte van Holberg
* [[Conscience_of_the_Senate|Conscience of the Senate]] - Bridget Talbot
* [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]] - Bloodcrow Yargol
* [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn|Advisor on the Vallorn]] - Siân Eternal
* [[Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade|Dean of the First Voice Glade]] - Idwynn Splitroot
* [[Farmer_of_Eastern_Spring_Farm|Farmer of Eastern Spring Farm]] - Stormcrow Dren
* [[Ambassador_to_Asavea|Ambassador to Asavea]] - Pakt
* [[Ambassador_to_Axos|Ambassador to Axos]] - Tarquinius
* [[Ambassador_to_Faraden|Ambassador to Faraden]] - Erasmo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_Jarm#Ministry|Ambassador to Jarm]] - Eli
* [[Ambassador_to_Otkodov|Ambassador to Otkodov]] - Yevgeni Katzev
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Commonwealth|Ambassador to the Commonwealth]] - Lucia Sanguineo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Iron_Confederacy|Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] - Vladimir Sasha Volkov
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sarcophan_Delves|Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] - Thanmir Hrafnar
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sumaah_Republic|Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] - Accalon
* [[Captain_of_the_Senate_Guard|Captain of the Senate Guard]] - Arthur Bannerman aka Bam Bam
* [[Crystal_Architect_of_the_Spires|Crystal Architect of the Spires]] - Vacant
* [[Custodian_of_the_Bleak_Tower|Custodian of the Bleak Tower]] - Staurakios
* [[Imperial_Advisor_for_the_Feni|Imperial Advisor for the Feni]] - Watt of Lambrook
* [[Imperial_Consul|Imperial Consul]] - Fal
* [[Imperial_Master_of_Works|Imperial Master of Works]] - Marley of Treen
* [[Imperial_Spymaster|Imperial Spymaster]] - Cayleb
* [[Keeper_of_the_Breadbasket|Keeper of the Breadbasket]] - Lily Guildenstern
* [[Master_of_Sarcombe_Metal_Market|Master of Sarcombe Metal Market]] - Aidan Weller
* [[Mediator_of_Hyljehal|Mediator of Hyljehal]] - Alfa Dunning
* [[Minister_of_Historical_Research|Minister of Historical Research]] - Severin Teyhard von Holberg
* [[Voice_of_Liberty|Voice of Liberty]] - Eska Crowspeaker
* [[High_Bard_of_the_Empire|High Bard of the Empire]] - Tiana i Zadan i Riqueza

==[[Synod]]==

===The Assembly of [[Ambition]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Ambition]] - Viviane de Coeurdefer
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] - Alfmund
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Ambition]] - Corey Wayfarer

===The Assembly of [[Courage]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Courage]] - Lady Clarice Novarion
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] - Rafe
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Courage]] - Nina of Cantiarch's Hold

===The Assembly of [[Loyalty]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Loyalty]] - Veikko Bondforger
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] - Pyngwylldwdd "Pan" The Summer Wolf
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Loyalty]] - Anastasiya Volkov

===The Assembly of [[Pride]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Pride]] - Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] - Genoveva Barossa di Tassato
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Pride]] - Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra

===The Assembly of [[Prosperity]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Prosperity]] - Onan of the Chantry of the Silver Skull
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] - Rhaego i Zemress
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Prosperity]] - Ophelia Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato

===The Assembly of [[Vigilance]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Vigilance]] - Ancél Watcher
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] - Vindictus
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Vigilance]] - Irada Von Temeschwar

===The Assembly of [[Wisdom]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Wisdom]] - Sariel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] - Palladius
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Wisdom]] - Edward Watcher

===The Assembly of [[The Way]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of The Way]] - Hywel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of The Way]] - Vacant

===Other Titles===
* [[Azure_Sutannir|Azure Sutannir]] - Hembeneth i Guerra
* [[Castellan_of_the_Silent_Sentinel|Castellan of the Silent Sentinel]] - Rhesa
* [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability|Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] - Rafael Barossa di Tassato
* [[Claviger_of_the_Basilica_of_Cora_Holdfast|Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast]] - Jared
* [[Crow_Keeper_of_the_Rest|Crow Keeper of the Rest]] - Ursa
* [[Curator_of_the_White_City_Museum|Curator of the White City Museum]] - Apollos
* [[Custodian_of_the_Imperial_War_Memorial|Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] - Jericho
* [[Dean_of_Laroc_Cathedral|Dean of Laroc Cathedral]] - Perryn Forthwright
* [[Arbiter of the Four Winds|Arbiter of the Four Winds]] - Aspar
* [[Friar_of_Honour's_Rest|Friar of Honour's Rest]] - albert fugglestone-copperHill
* [[Guardian_of_the_Maze_of_Zoria|Guardian of the Maze of Zoria]] - Illya Nikovitch Volkov
* [[High_Exorcist|High Exorcist]] - Solas
* [[Imperial_Inquisitor|Imperial Inquisitor]] - Galene Netherwatch
* [[Seer_of_the_Gateway|Seer of the Gateway]] - Livia
* [[Speaker_of_the_Highborn_Assembly|Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] - Asher
* [[Tender of the Hearth|Tender of the Hearth]] - Nikolovich Drakov
* [[Voice_of_Barbs|Voice of the House of Barbs]] - Meredith Nighthaven
* [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool|Watcher of Britta's Pool]] - Gunnbrand Ironwill
* [[Queen%27s_Rose|Queen's Rose]] - Catalina Novarion
* [[Curator_of_the_Printers%27_Guild_Museum|Curator of the Printers' Guild Museum]] - Fabio Costas de Sarvos
* [[Chaplain Consular]] - Aureliana Perpetua Nicasia Saverio di Sarvos

==[[Military Council]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Fire of South]] - Aracelis I Erigo
* [[Red_Wind_Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] - Vrael i Sol-Devorador i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Generals===
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Eastern_Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] - Vincent "The Scorpion" Vexille
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Golden_Sun|General of the Golden Sun]] - Zoran De Orzel
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Gryphon.27s_Pride|General of the Gryphons Pride]] - Garravaine De Rondell
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Hounds_of_Glory|General of the Hounds of Glory]] - Tancred

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Generals===
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Granite_Pillar|General of the Granite Pillar]] - Gideon
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|General of the Seventh Wave]] - Cuth
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Valiant_Pegasus|General of the Valiant Pegasus]] - Lucifer

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Generals===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Summer_Storm|General of the Summer Storm]] - Irontide Jarn
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Winter_Sun|General of the Winter Sun]] - Morgor

===The [[The League|League]] Generals===
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Towerjacks|General of the Towerjacks]] - Natalia "The Falcon" Barossa
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Wolves_of_War|General of the Wolves of War]] - Gabriel Barossa

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Bounders]] - Ciaphas "Black Jack" Dekar
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Drakes|General of the Drakes]] - Hal Talbot
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Strong_Reeds|General of the Strong Reeds]] - Jack Flint
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Tusks|General of the Tusks]] - Tomothy Crowle

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Generals===
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Black_Thorns|General of the Black Thorns]] - Lleu Tarw
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Quiet_Step|General of the Quiet Step]] - Brennos Brackensong

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] General===
* [[Citadel_Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]] - Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Generals===
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Golden_Axe|General of the Golden Axe]] - Katia Strascovich
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Iron_Helms|General of the Iron Helms]] - Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Northern_Eagle|General of the Northern Eagle]] - Pavel Denisovich Patriciu

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Generals===
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Bloodcloaks|General of the Blood Cloaks]] - Lofyn Blood-cloak
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Fist_of_the_Mountains|General of the Fist of Mountains]] - Kindra Edasdottir
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Green_Shield_Army|General of the Green Shield]] - Osric

===Other Titles===
* [[Quartermaster_General_of_the_Imperial_Armies|Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] - Rhoswen
* [[Imperial_Fleet_Master|Imperial Fleet Master]] - Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra

==[[Conclave]]==

===[[Archmage|Archmagi]]===
* [[Archmage|Spring Archmage]] - Ser Fabienne De Miel
* [[Archmage|Summer Archmage]] - Luke
* [[Archmage|Autumn Archmage]] - Edmundo of Damakan's forge
* [[Archmage|Winter Archmage]] - Syn Truth-Walker Returned
* [[Archmage|Day Archmage]] - Gralka
* [[Archmage|Night Archmage]] - Elyssiathain

===[[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]===
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Celestial Arch]] - Laelius of the Waxing Sun
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Golden Pyramid]] - Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Rod and Shield]] - Aethelstan Korping
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Sevenfold Path]] - Fenoren Aleyne
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Shuttered Lantern]] - Gregor
* [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Order of the Silver Chalice]] - Enchantress Livarot De Montrose
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Unfettered Mind]] - Palaphon Ankarien

===Other Titles===
* [[Arcane_Architect|Arcane Architect]] - Vitore
* [[Bursar of the Conclave|Bursar of the Conclave]] - Abel
* [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum|Dean of the Lyceum]] - Simargl, the Empty One
* [[Imperial Censor|Imperial Censor]] - Ingar Ironbreaker
* [[Imperial_Magus|Imperial Magus]] - Lucia Van Holberg
* [[Imperial_Necromancer|Imperial Necromancer]] - Lady Claudia Varkulova Remys
* [[Imperial_Seer|Imperial Seer]] - Drake De Coeurdefer
* [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|Master of Ice and Darkness]] - Ceinwen Eternal
* [[Warmage|Warmage]] - Emilia Ankarien
* [[Watcher_of_the_Wheel|Watcher of the Wheel]] - Lina of Felix's Watch

==[[Bourse]]==

===Imperial Bourse Positions===
* [[Arratan_Gamble|Arratan Gamble]] - Ames the Amiable
* [[Brilliant_Shore|Brilliant Shore]] - Erwillian Mann
* [[Brilliant_Star|Brilliant Star]] - Cormack Dun
* [[Canterspire_Circle|Canterspire Circle]] - Bors Mordssen
* [[Crawling_Depths|Crawling Depths]] - Vasiliy Krenyenkov Valeskai Strascovich
* [[Damatian_Cliffs|Damatian Cliffs]] - Henry Ap Tudywr
* [[Fortress_of_Salt|Fortress of Salt]] - Tobias Shanks
* [[Golden_Trees_of_Seren|Golden Trees of Seren]] - Arlais of The Silent Tide
* [[Great_Forest_at_Reikos|Great Forest at Reikos]] - Liora Daughter of Rebekah
* [[Great_Mine_of_Briante|Great Mine of Briante]] - Kapik
* [[Great_Pits_of_Ennerlund|Great Pits of Ennerlund]] - Vivane Knotes
* [[Heartwood_of_the_Great_Vale|Heartwood of the Great Vale]] - Bastard Tom
* [[Hunt_of_Alderei_the_Fair|Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] - Borz nikoli strazkovitch
* [[Night_Quarry|Night Quarry]] - Pavuk Vid Strascovich
* [[Sutton_Stone_Quarries|Sutton Stone Quarries]] - Katya Vasillova Reznikov
* [[Syrene%27s_Wisdom|Syrene's Wisdom]] - Edwin de Warrenne
* [[Weirwater_Vales|Weirwater Vales]] - Harry Roost

===National Bourse Positions===
* [[Castellan_of_Spiral_Castle|Castellan of Spiral Castle]] ([[Dawn]]) - Maryc
* [[Eternal_Shafts_of_Time|Eternal Shafts of Time]] ([[Varushka]]) - Tomislav Straskovic
* [[Gift_of_the_Dwindling_Star|Gift of the Dwindling Star]] ([[Varushka]]) - Pavel Novak
* [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] ([[Varushka]]) - Vitaly Grigorovich Dukov
* [[Regario_Dossier|Regario Dossier]] ([[The League]]) - Silvio de Tassato
* [[Singing_Caves|Singing Caves]] ([[The Marches]]) - Abbott Thomas Arch
* [[Steel_Fist|Steel Fist]] ([[Imperial Orcs]]) - Rasp
* [[Thimble|Thimble]] ([[Navarr]]) - Idris Eternal
* [[Vigilant_Swan|Vigilant Swan]] ([[Highguard]]) - Dagon

===Other Titles===
* [[Drusilla%27s_Obelus|Drusilla's Obelus]] - Lukash Biessek von Temeschwar
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|First Imperial Wayleave]] - Nathaniel
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Second Imperial Wayleave]] - Dura
* [[Seer_of_the_Spiral_Sword|Seer of the Spiral Sword]] - Gemma Brightsmith
* [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower|Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] - Dragomir Dragovich
* [[Cinderpath Custodian|Cinderpath Custodian]] - Bartimaeus
* [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks|Custodian of the Ivarsgard Docks]] - Falon Itineris
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Imperial Orc Wayleave]] - Vacant
* [[Master of the Root and Stem|Master of the Root and Stem]] - Henry Bywater
* [[Steward_of_Good_Leaf_Gardens|Steward of Good Leaf Gardens]] - Aubrey Shaw

==Other Imperial Titles==

===Appointment by Senate Appointment===
* [[Blackroot_Broker|Blackroot Broker]] - Twyll Eternal
* [[Broken_Shield_Guardian|Broken Shield Guardian]] - Redhand Gezzar
* [[Magic_Butcher|Butcher of the Meat and Mana Market of Temeschwar]] - Lisabeth von Temeschwar
* [[Caretaker_of_New_Dunhall|Caretaker of New Dunhall]] - Brigantia Duning
* [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper|Celesti Lighthouse Keeper]] - Bakar i Erigo
* [[Collector_of_Prosperity's_Boon|Collector of Prosperity's Boon]] - Tyr Brenna
* [[Custodian_of_Glass_Point_Cove|Custodian of Glass Point Cove]] - Dalibor Marek van Temeschwar
* [[Custodian_of_the_Bloody_Great_Sausage|Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage]] - Vacant
* [[Custodian_of_the_Claw|Custodian of the Claw]] - Valeria
* [[Custodian of the Kennels|Custodian of the Kennels]] - Alfredo von Holberg
* [[College_of_the_Liberated|Dean of the Liberated]] - Ventuno di Sarvos
* [[Dean_of_the_Thorned_Rose|Dean of the Thorned Rose]] - Bledri Eternal
* [[Dredgemaster of Feverwater|Dredgemaster of Lake Feverwater]] - Eosffair Farwalker
* [[Eastern_Broker|Eastern Broker]] - Fintan Nighthaven
* [[Emissary to the Celestial Library|Emissary to the Celestial Library]] - Tiberius
* [[Eternal_Flame_of_Miaren|Eternal Flame of Miaren]] - Tanwen
* [[Fallsheart_Guardian|Fallsheart Guardian]] - Breeta
* [[Four_Seasons%27_Boneweaver|Four Season's Boneweaver]] - Tog
* [[Gatekeeper_of_Falling_Snow|Gatekeeper of Falling Snow]] - Pendraed the Maker
* [[Granger_of_the_Golden_Orchard|Granger of the Golden Orchard]] - Merel
* [[Grim_Gardener|Grim Gardener]] - Maegruth Bearonovitch Strascovitch
* [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Shrine|Guardian of Britta's Shrine]] - Vacant
* [[Guardian_of_Dunfrith|Guardian of Dunfrith]] - Kai
* [[Guardian of the Cairn|Guardian of the Cairn]] - Tarqeq Icetongue
* [[Guardian_of_the_Prosperity_of_Afal|Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal]] - Vacant
* [[Healer of Dawn|Healer of Dawn]] - Isabella de Rondell
* [[Herbalist of the Hearth|Herbalist of the Hearth]] - Brienne-Walda Stormborn
* [[High Herbalist of Sybella|High Herbalist of Sybella]] - tolame
* [[Jade_Custodian|Jade Custodian]] - Giacomo Corvinoscuro
* [[Construct_village_expansion_in_Volodmartz|Keeper of Berislav's Rest]] - Goran Berislavin Kovacevic
* [[Keeper_of_the_Crystal_Vale|Keeper of the Crystal Vale]] - torunn Volcarona
* [[Keeper_of_the_Dour_Fens|Keeper of the Dour Fens]] - Bill of Middleton
* [[Keeper_of_the_Golden_Fields|Keeper of the Golden Fields]] - Nicolas Reaper
* [[Keeper_of_the_Memorial_Gardens_of_Treji|Keeper of the Memorial Gardens at Treji]] - gertreg
* [[Keeper_of_the_Sapphire_Stair|Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]] - Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Keeper_of_the_Spice_Gardens|Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] - Sadiq i Isa i Erigo
* [[Marshal_of_the_Pit_of_Revelations|Marshal of the Pit of Revelations]] - Laika
* [[Master_Apothecary|Master Apothecary]] - Kesa Algarsdottir
* [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House|Master of the Clearing House]] - Oscuro Kira di Tassato
* [[Master_of_the_School_of_Exorcism|Master of the School of Exorcism]] - Naomi
* [[Mayor of Caricomare|Mayor of Caricomare]] - Aria Notturno di Sarvos
* [[Merchant_Prince_of_Misericorde_Market|Merchant Prince of Misericorde Market]] - Vacant
* [[Preceptor_of_the_Skarsind_College_of_Warcasting|Preceptor of the Skarsind College of Warcasting]] - Gaterender Brik
* [[null|Raven Seer]] - Odelia Nelda
* [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd|Shepherd of the Great Herd]] - Luga
* [[Signori_d%27Argento_Vine_Tender|Signori d'Argento Vine Tender]] - Captain Markus DeVere
* [[Smith_of_Ashes|Smith of Ashes]] - Vana
* [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]] - Rafa'eet i Contra i Guerra
* [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Sarvos Mana Exchange]] - Luciana Valesi di Sarvos
* [[Steward_of_the_Tassato_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange]] - Magnus Carolus Sanguino Rezia di Tassato
* [[Storm Shaman|Storm Shaman]] - Ashborn Rauur
* [[Weigher_of_Worth|Weigher of Worth]] - Tulva

===Appointment by Bourse Auction===
* [[Custodian_of_the_Concordium_Dock|Custodian of the Concordium Dock]] - Caracalla Tarraco di Sarvos
* [[Delver_of_the_Depths|Delver of the Depths]] - Tobrytan Dunning
* [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster|Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] - Dino i Erigo
* [[Prime_Factor_of_the_Pallas_Docks|Prime Factor of the Pallas Docks]] - Pontus

===Appointment by Bourse Vote===
* [[Bailiff_of_the_Grand_Market|Bailiff of the Grand Market]] - Mud
* [[Bonesetter_of_Torfast_Trading_Post|Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] - Rek
* [[Broker_of_Treji_Wayhouse|Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] - Trystan
* [[Burgher_of_Ketsov|Burgher of Ketsov]] - Pipski Bearonovitch Strascovich
* [[Custodian_of_the_Assayer%27s_Guild|Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] - Giustiniano Del Giorno
* [[Dhomiro_of_the_Cinnabar_Hills|Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] - Aurélio i Valiente i Erigo
* [[Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule|Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule]] - Irontide Flax
* [[Kalpaheim_Tradeholder|Kalpaheim Tradeholder]] - Torven Krigerson
* [[Mistress_of_the_Glass_Parador|Mistress of the Glass Parador]] - Anselmo i Valiente i Erigo
* [[Northbound_Trademaster|Northbound Trademaster]] - Claus Friedrich von Holberg
* [[Overseer_of_the_Cavabianca_Dock|Overseer of the Cavabianca Dock]] - Alain Davos D'Sarvos
* [[Overseer_of_the_Westward_Road|Overseer of the Westward Road]] - Borys Vardovich Straskovich
* [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel|Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] - Xandra i Marusa i Riqueza

===Appointment by Conclave Declaration===
* [[Gloaming_Sentinel|Gloaming Sentinel]] - Vacant
* [[Keeper_of_the_Cox|Keeper of the Cox]] - Gideon
* [[Penumbral_Watcher|Penumbral Watcher]] - Asenath

===Appointment by Synod Judgement===
* [[Guardian_of_Giselle%27s_Tomb|Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] - Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos
* [[Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium|Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium]] - Emilio Marsana Saverio di Sarvos
* [[Liaison_to_the_Temple_in_Nemoria|Liaison to the Temple in Nemoria]] - Franco i Erigo
* [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails|Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] - Able the Taller

===Appointment by Throne Appointment===
* [[null|Captain of the Throne Guard]] - Vacant
* [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie|Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]] - Kay Griffinsbain

===Appointment by Not A Well Worn Path===
* [[Doyen of the Spires|Doyen of the Spires]] - Tenaes
* [[Keeper_of_Aurelie%27s_Garden|Keeper of Aurelie's Garden]] - Knight Commander Cinder Hearthsong
* [[Brock%27s_Toll|Keeper of Brock's Toll]] - Bryn Marshal
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Autumn]] - Garadan
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] - Logan Tallstag
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Summer]] - Lady Izett, the Mournful
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] - Vulgaris Vicarious

[[Category:Elections]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:384YE]]

Archive:383YE Summer Solstice Imperial titles

2026-04-11T15:36:28Z

Dre:

==[[The Throne]]==
* [[The Throne|Imperatrix]] - Lisabetta Giacomi von Holberg

==[[Senate]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Senators===
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Feroz]] - Chiara Zayden Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Kahraman]] - Qusay i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Madruga]] - Adan i DelToro i Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Segura]] - Yasmeen i Zabala i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Senators===
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Astolat]] - Bohemond De Rondell
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Semmerholm]] - Zadkiel de Coeurdefer
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Weirwater]] - Lady Eve Orzel

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Senators===
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Bastion]] - Baal
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Casinea]] - Alys
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Necropolis]] - Shiloh
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Reikos]] - Gideon of the Suns of Couros

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Senator===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_leadership|Senator for Skarsind]] - Rurik

===The [[The League|League]] Senators===
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Holberg]] - Irina Kardaovich
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Sarvos]] - Nessetta Constanta
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Tassato]] - Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Temeschwar]] - Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Senators===
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Bregasland]] - Orrick
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mitwold]] - William Talbot
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mournwold]] - Alan Sheppard
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Upwold]] - Landon of Longridge

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Senators===
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Hercynia]] - Rhisiart Dancewalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Miaren]] - Llewellyn Leafstalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Therunin]] - Cybi Farkas

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Senators===
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Morrow]] - Ariadne
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Redoubt]] - Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Spiral]] - Maximillian

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Senators===
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karov]] - Vuk The Wolfeater
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karsk]] - Marya Zoranova Doubek
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Miekarova]] - Yulia Kasimirova Voronov
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Ossium]] - Belakov Zakharovich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Volodmartz]] - Radomir Ivanovic Volkov

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Senators===
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Hahnmark]] - Hengest Dun
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Kallavesa]] - Edythe Dunne

===Other Titles===
* [[Master_of_the_Imperial_Mint|Master of the Imperial Mint]] - Lieselotte van Holberg
* [[Conscience_of_the_Senate|Conscience of the Senate]] - Elyan
* [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]] - Bloodcrow Yargol
* [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn|Advisor on the Vallorn]] - Siân Eternal
* [[Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade|Dean of the First Voice Glade]] - Idwynn Splitroot
* [[Farmer_of_Eastern_Spring_Farm|Farmer of Eastern Spring Farm]] - Stormcrow Dren
* [[Ambassador_to_Asavea|Ambassador to Asavea]] - Pakt
* [[Ambassador_to_Axos|Ambassador to Axos]] - Tarquinius
* [[Ambassador_to_Faraden|Ambassador to Faraden]] - Erasmo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_Jarm#Ministry|Ambassador to Jarm]] - Izsák Blár Skipstjóri
* [[Ambassador_to_Otkodov|Ambassador to Otkodov]] - Yevgeni Katzev
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Commonwealth|Ambassador to the Commonwealth]] - Lucia Sanguineo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Iron_Confederacy|Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] - Vladimir Sasha Volkov
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sarcophan_Delves|Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] - Thanmir Hrafnar
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sumaah_Republic|Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] - Accalon
* [[Captain_of_the_Senate_Guard|Captain of the Senate Guard]] - Vacant
* [[Crystal_Architect_of_the_Spires|Crystal Architect of the Spires]] - Vacant
* [[Custodian_of_the_Bleak_Tower|Custodian of the Bleak Tower]] - Staurakios
* [[Dean_of_the_Academy|Dean of the Academy]] - Morana
* [[Imperial_Advisor_for_the_Feni|Imperial Advisor for the Feni]] - Watt of Lambrook
* [[Imperial_Consul|Imperial Consul]] - Fal
* [[Imperial_Master_of_Works|Imperial Master of Works]] - Marley of Treen
* [[Imperial_Spymaster|Imperial Spymaster]] - Cayleb
* [[Keeper_of_the_Breadbasket|Keeper of the Breadbasket]] - Lily Guildenstern
* [[Master_of_Sarcombe_Metal_Market|Master of Sarcombe Metal Market]] - Aidan Weller
* [[Mediator_of_Hyljehal|Mediator of Hyljehal]] - Alfa Dunning
* [[Minister_of_Historical_Research|Minister of Historical Research]] - Caleb
* [[Voice_of_Liberty|Voice of Liberty]] - Eska Crowspeaker
* [[High_Bard_of_the_Empire|High Bard of the Empire]] - Tiana i Zadan i Riqueza

==[[Synod]]==

===The Assembly of [[Ambition]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Ambition]] - Viviane de Coeurdefer
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] - Ranae de Rondel
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Ambition]] - Corey Wayfarer

===The Assembly of [[Courage]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Courage]] - Lady Clarice Novarion
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] - Rafe
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Courage]] - Nina of Cantiarch's Hold

===The Assembly of [[Loyalty]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Loyalty]] - Veikko Bondforger
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] - Pyngwylldwdd "Pan" The Summer Wolf
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Loyalty]] - Anastasiya Volkov

===The Assembly of [[Pride]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Pride]] - Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] - Genoveva Barossa di Tassato
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Pride]] - Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra

===The Assembly of [[Prosperity]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Prosperity]] - Onan of the Chantry of the Silver Skull
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] - Rhaego i Zemress
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Prosperity]] - Ophelia Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato

===The Assembly of [[Vigilance]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Vigilance]] - Ancél Watcher
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] - Vindictus
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Vigilance]] - Irada Von Temeschwar

===The Assembly of [[Wisdom]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Wisdom]] - Sariel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] - Vacant
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Wisdom]] - Vacant

===The Assembly of [[The Way]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of The Way]] - Hywel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of The Way]] - Vacant

===Other Titles===
* [[Azure_Sutannir|Azure Sutannir]] - Hembeneth i Guerra
* [[Castellan_of_the_Silent_Sentinel|Castellan of the Silent Sentinel]] - Rhesa
* [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability|Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] - Rafael Barossa di Tassato
* [[Claviger_of_the_Basilica_of_Cora_Holdfast|Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast]] - Jared
* [[Crow_Keeper_of_the_Rest|Crow Keeper of the Rest]] - Ursa
* [[Curator_of_the_White_City_Museum|Curator of the White City Museum]] - Apollos
* [[Custodian_of_the_Imperial_War_Memorial|Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] - Jericho
* [[Dean_of_Laroc_Cathedral|Dean of Laroc Cathedral]] - Perryn Forthwright
* [[Friar_of_Honour's_Rest|Friar of Honour's Rest]] - albert fugglestone-copperHill
* [[High_Exorcist|High Exorcist]] - Solas
* [[Imperial_Inquisitor|Imperial Inquisitor]] - Galene Netherwatch
* [[Seer_of_the_Gateway|Seer of the Gateway]] - Livia
* [[Speaker_of_the_Highborn_Assembly|Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] - Vacant
* [[Tender of the Hearth|Tender of the Hearth]] - Nikolovich Drakov
* [[Voice_of_Barbs|Voice of the House of Barbs]] - Meredith Nighthaven
* [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool|Watcher of Britta's Pool]] - Gunnbrand Ironwill
* [[Queen%27s_Rose|Queen's Rose]] - Catalina Novarion
* [[Curator_of_the_Printers%27_Guild_Museum|Curator of the Printers' Guild Museum]] - Fabio Costas de Sarvos
* [[Chaplain Consular]] - Aureliana Perpetua Nicasia Saverio di Sarvos

==[[Military Council]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Fire of South]] - Aracelis I Erigo
* [[Red_Wind_Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] - Vrael i Sol-Devorador i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Generals===
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Eastern_Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] - Vincent "The Scorpion" Vexille
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Golden_Sun|General of the Golden Sun]] - Zoran De Orzel
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Gryphon.27s_Pride|General of the Gryphons Pride]] - Garravaine De Rondell
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Hounds_of_Glory|General of the Hounds of Glory]] - Tancred

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Generals===
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Granite_Pillar|General of the Granite Pillar]] - Gideon
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|General of the Seventh Wave]] - Cuth
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Valiant_Pegasus|General of the Valiant Pegasus]] - Lucifer

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Generals===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Summer_Storm|General of the Summer Storm]] - Irontide Jarn
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Winter_Sun|General of the Winter Sun]] - Morgor

===The [[The League|League]] Generals===
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Towerjacks|General of the Towerjacks]] - Natalia "The Falcon" Barossa
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Wolves_of_War|General of the Wolves of War]] - Gabriel Barossa

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Bounders]] - Ciaphas "Black Jack" Dekar
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Drakes|General of the Drakes]] - Vacant
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Strong_Reeds|General of the Strong Reeds]] - Jack Flint
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Tusks|General of the Tusks]] - Tomothy Crowle

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Generals===
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Black_Thorns|General of the Black Thorns]] - Lleu Tarw
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Quiet_Step|General of the Quiet Step]] - Brennos Brackensong

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] General===
* [[Citadel_Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]] - Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Generals===
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Golden_Axe|General of the Golden Axe]] - Katia Strascovich
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Iron_Helms|General of the Iron Helms]] - Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Northern_Eagle|General of the Northern Eagle]] - Pavel Denisovich Patriciu

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Generals===
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Bloodcloaks|General of the Blood Cloaks]] - Lofyn Blood-cloak
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Fist_of_the_Mountains|General of the Fist of Mountains]] - Kindra Edasdottir
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Green_Shield_Army|General of the Green Shield]] - Osric

===Other Titles===
* [[Quartermaster_General_of_the_Imperial_Armies|Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] - Brendan
* [[Imperial_Fleet_Master|Imperial Fleet Master]] - Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra

==[[Conclave]]==

===[[Archmage|Archmagi]]===
* [[Archmage|Spring Archmage]] - Ser Fabienne De Miel
* [[Archmage|Summer Archmage]] - Luke
* [[Archmage|Autumn Archmage]] - Edmundo of Damakan's forge
* [[Archmage|Winter Archmage]] - Syn Truth-Walker Returned
* [[Archmage|Day Archmage]] - Gralka
* [[Archmage|Night Archmage]] - Elyssiathain

===[[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]===
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Celestial Arch]] - Laelius
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Golden Pyramid]] - Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Rod and Shield]] - Aethelstan Korping
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Sevenfold Path]] - Fenoren Aleyne
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Shuttered Lantern]] - Gregor
* [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Order of the Silver Chalice]] - Enchantress Livarot De Montrose
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Unfettered Mind]] - Palaphon Ankarien

===Other Titles===
* [[Arcane_Architect|Arcane Architect]] - Vitore
* [[Bursar of the Conclave|Bursar of the Conclave]] - Abel
* [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum|Dean of the Lyceum]] - Simargl, the Empty One
* [[Imperial Censor|Imperial Censor]] - Ingar Ironbreaker
* [[Imperial_Magus|Imperial Magus]] - Juha, the Cave Spider
* [[Imperial_Necromancer|Imperial Necromancer]] - Lady Claudia Varkulova Remys
* [[Imperial_Seer|Imperial Seer]] - Drake De Coeurdefer
* [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|Master of Ice and Darkness]] - Ceinwen Eternal
* [[Warmage|Warmage]] - Emilia
* [[Watcher_of_the_Wheel|Watcher of the Wheel]] - Lina of Felix's Watch

==[[Bourse]]==

===Imperial Bourse Positions===
* [[Arratan_Gamble|Arratan Gamble]] - Ames the Amiable
* [[Brilliant_Shore|Brilliant Shore]] - Erwillian Mann
* [[Brilliant_Star|Brilliant Star]] - Adoraim
* [[Canterspire_Circle|Canterspire Circle]] - Vacant
* [[Crawling_Depths|Crawling Depths]] - Bron Mordssen
* [[Damatian_Cliffs|Damatian Cliffs]] - Henry Ap Tudywr
* [[Fortress_of_Salt|Fortress of Salt]] - Vasiliy Krenyenkov Valeskai Strascovich
* [[Golden_Trees_of_Seren|Golden Trees of Seren]] - Arlais of The Silent Tide
* [[Great_Forest_at_Reikos|Great Forest at Reikos]] - Liora Daughter of Rebekah
* [[Great_Mine_of_Briante|Great Mine of Briante]] - Tobias Shanks
* [[Great_Pits_of_Ennerlund|Great Pits of Ennerlund]] - Abaris
* [[Heartwood_of_the_Great_Vale|Heartwood of the Great Vale]] - Bastard Tom
* [[Hunt_of_Alderei_the_Fair|Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] - Borz nikoli strazkovitch
* [[Night_Quarry|Night Quarry]] - Pavuk Vid Strascovich
* [[Sutton_Stone_Quarries|Sutton Stone Quarries]] - Katya Vasillova Reznikov
* [[Syrene%27s_Wisdom|Syrene's Wisdom]] - Edwin de Warrenne
* [[Weirwater_Vales|Weirwater Vales]] - Harry Roost

===National Bourse Positions===
* [[Castellan_of_Spiral_Castle|Castellan of Spiral Castle]] ([[Dawn]]) - Maryc
* [[Eternal_Shafts_of_Time|Eternal Shafts of Time]] ([[Varushka]]) - Tomasz
* [[Gift_of_the_Dwindling_Star|Gift of the Dwindling Star]] ([[Varushka]]) - Pavel Novak
* [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] ([[Varushka]]) - Vitaly Grigorovich Dukov
* [[Regario_Dossier|Regario Dossier]] ([[The League]]) - Silvio de Tassato
* [[Singing_Caves|Singing Caves]] ([[The Marches]]) - Abbott Thomas Arch
* [[Steel_Fist|Steel Fist]] ([[Imperial Orcs]]) - Vacant
* [[Thimble|Thimble]] ([[Navarr]]) - Idris Eternal
* [[Vigilant_Swan|Vigilant Swan]] ([[Highguard]]) - Dagon

===Other Titles===
* [[Drusilla%27s_Obelus|Drusilla's Obelus]] - Lukash Biessek von Temeschwar
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|First Imperial Wayleave]] - Dragomir Dragovich
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Second Imperial Wayleave]] - Tristan
* [[Seer_of_the_Spiral_Sword|Seer of the Spiral Sword]] - Gemma Brightsmith
* [[Cinderpath Custodian|Cinderpath Custodian]] - Bartimaeus
* [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks|Custodian of the Ivarsgard Docks]] - Falon Itineris
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Imperial Orc Wayleave]] - Krunk
* [[Master of the Root and Stem|Master of the Root and Stem]] - Henry Bywater
* [[Steward_of_Good_Leaf_Gardens|Steward of Good Leaf Gardens]] - Aubrey Shaw

==Other Imperial Titles==

===Appointment by Senate Appointment===
* [[Blackroot_Broker|Blackroot Broker]] - Twyll Eternal
* [[Broken_Shield_Guardian|Broken Shield Guardian]] - Redhand Gezzar
* [[Magic_Butcher|Butcher of the Meat and Mana Market of Temeschwar]] - Lisabeth von Temeschwar
* [[Caretaker_of_New_Dunhall|Caretaker of New Dunhall]] - Brigantia Duning
* [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper|Celesti Lighthouse Keeper]] - Bakar i Erigo
* [[Collector_of_Prosperity's_Boon|Collector of Prosperity's Boon]] - Tyr Brenna
* [[Custodian_of_Glass_Point_Cove|Custodian of Glass Point Cove]] - Dalibor Marek van Temeschwar
* [[Custodian_of_the_Bloody_Great_Sausage|Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage]] - Vacant
* [[Custodian_of_the_Claw|Custodian of the Claw]] - Valeria
* [[Custodian of the Kennels|Custodian of the Kennels]] - Alfredo von Holberg
* [[College_of_the_Liberated|Dean of the Liberated]] - Ventuno di Sarvos
* [[Dean_of_the_Thorned_Rose|Dean of the Thorned Rose]] - Bledri Eternal
* [[Dredgemaster of Feverwater|Dredgemaster of Lake Feverwater]] - Eleri Bronwen's Rest
* [[Eastern_Broker|Eastern Broker]] - Fintan Nighthaven
* [[Eternal_Flame_of_Miaren|Eternal Flame of Miaren]] - Tanwen
* [[Fallsheart_Guardian|Fallsheart Guardian]] - Breeta
* [[Four_Seasons%27_Boneweaver|Four Season's Boneweaver]] - Tog
* [[Gatekeeper_of_Falling_Snow|Gatekeeper of Falling Snow]] - Pendraed the Maker
* [[Granger_of_the_Golden_Orchard|Granger of the Golden Orchard]] - Merel
* [[Grim_Gardener|Grim Gardener]] - Maegruth Bearonovitch Strascovitch
* [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Shrine|Guardian of Britta's Shrine]] - Vacant
* [[Guardian_of_Dunfrith|Guardian of Dunfrith]] - Kai
* [[Guardian of the Cairn|Guardian of the Cairn]] - Tarqeq Icetongue
* [[Guardian_of_the_Prosperity_of_Afal|Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal]] - Gerraint Black
* [[Healer of Dawn|Healer of Dawn]] - Isabella de Rondell
* [[Herbalist of the Hearth|Herbalist of the Hearth]] - Brienne-Walda Stormborn
* [[High Herbalist of Sybella|High Herbalist of Sybella]] - tolame
* [[Jade_Custodian|Jade Custodian]] - Giacomo Corvinoscuro
* [[Construct_village_expansion_in_Volodmartz|Keeper of Berislav's Rest]] - Goran Berislavin Kovacevic
* [[Keeper_of_the_Crystal_Vale|Keeper of the Crystal Vale]] - torunn Volcarona
* [[Keeper_of_the_Dour_Fens|Keeper of the Dour Fens]] - Bill of Middleton
* [[Keeper_of_the_Golden_Fields|Keeper of the Golden Fields]] - Nicolas Reaper
* [[Keeper_of_the_Memorial_Gardens_of_Treji|Keeper of the Memorial Gardens at Treji]] - gertreg
* [[Keeper_of_the_Sapphire_Stair|Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]] - Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Keeper_of_the_Spice_Gardens|Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] - Sadiq Isa
* [[Marshal_of_the_Pit_of_Revelations|Marshal of the Pit of Revelations]] - Laika
* [[Master_Apothecary|Master Apothecary]] - Kesa Algarsdottir
* [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House|Master of the Clearing House]] - Oscuro Kira di Tassato
* [[Master_of_the_School_of_Exorcism|Master of the School of Exorcism]] - Naomi
* [[Mayor of Caricomare|Mayor of Caricomare]] - Aria Notturno di Sarvos
* [[Preceptor_of_the_Skarsind_College_of_Warcasting|Preceptor of the Skarsind College of Warcasting]] - Gaterender Brik
* [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd|Shepherd of the Great Herd]] - Luga
* [[Signori_d%27Argento_Vine_Tender|Signori d'Argento Vine Tender]] - Captain Markus DeVere
* [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]] - Rafa'eet i Contra i Guerra
* [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Sarvos Mana Exchange]] - Luciana Valesi di Sarvos
* [[Steward_of_the_Tassato_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange]] - Magnus Carolus Sanguino Rezia di Tassato
* [[Storm Shaman|Storm Shaman]] - Ashborn Rauur
* [[Weigher_of_Worth|Weigher of Worth]] - Taal

===Appointment by Bourse Auction===
* [[Custodian_of_the_Concordium_Dock|Custodian of the Concordium Dock]] - Caracalla Tarraco di Sarvos
* [[Delver_of_the_Depths|Delver of the Depths]] - Tobrytan Dunning
* [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster|Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] - Dino i Erigo
* [[Prime_Factor_of_the_Pallas_Docks|Prime Factor of the Pallas Docks]] - Pontus

===Appointment by Bourse Vote===
* [[Bailiff_of_the_Grand_Market|Bailiff of the Grand Market]] - Mud
* [[Bonesetter_of_Torfast_Trading_Post|Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] - Rek
* [[Broker_of_Treji_Wayhouse|Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] - Trystan
* [[Burgher_of_Ketsov|Burgher of Ketsov]] - Pipski Bearonovitch Strascovich
* [[Custodian_of_the_Assayer%27s_Guild|Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] - Giustiniano Del Giorno
* [[Dhomiro_of_the_Cinnabar_Hills|Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] - Demetrio Taziel i Riqueza
* [[Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule|Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule]] - Irontide Flax
* [[Kalpaheim_Tradeholder|Kalpaheim Tradeholder]] - Vacant
* [[Mistress_of_the_Glass_Parador|Mistress of the Glass Parador]] - Anselmo i Valiente i Erigo
* [[Northbound_Trademaster|Northbound Trademaster]] - Claus Friedrich von Holberg
* [[Overseer_of_the_Cavabianca_Dock|Overseer of the Cavabianca Dock]] - Alain Davos D'Sarvos
* [[Overseer_of_the_Westward_Road|Overseer of the Westward Road]] - Borys Vardovich Straskovich
* [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel|Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] - Xandra i Marusa i Riqueza

===Appointment by Conclave Declaration===
* [[Gloaming_Sentinel|Gloaming Sentinel]] - Terah
* [[Keeper_of_the_Cox|Keeper of the Cox]] - Gideon
* [[Penumbral_Watcher|Penumbral Watcher]] - Asenath

===Appointment by Synod Judgement===
* [[Guardian_of_Giselle%27s_Tomb|Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] - Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos
* [[Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium|Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium]] - Emilio Marsana Saverio di Sarvos
* [[Liaison_to_the_Temple_in_Nemoria|Liaison to the Temple in Nemoria]] - Franco i Erigo
* [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails|Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] - Able

===Appointment by Throne Appointment===
* [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie|Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]] - Kay Griffinsbain

===Appointment by Not A Well Worn Path===
* [[Doyen of the Spires|Doyen of the Spires]] - Tenaes
* [[Keeper_of_Aurelie%27s_Garden|Keeper of Aurelie's Garden]] - Vacant
* [[Brock%27s_Toll|Keeper of Brock's Toll]] - Bryn Marshal
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] - Logan Tallstag
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Summer]] - Lady Izett, the Mournful
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] - Vulgaris Vicarious

[[Category:Elections]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:383YE Summer]]

Archive:383YE Spring Equinox Imperial titles

2026-04-11T15:36:21Z

Dre:

==[[The Throne]]==
* [[The Throne|Imperatrix]] - Lisabetta Giacomi von Holberg

==[[Senate]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Senators===
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Feroz]] - Chiara Zayden Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Kahraman]] - Qusay i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Madruga]] - Adan i DelToro i Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Segura]] - Yasmeen i Zabala i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Senators===
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Astolat]] - Bohemond De Rondell
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Semmerholm]] - Zadkiel de Coeurdefer
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Weirwater]] - Lady Eve Orzel

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Senators===
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Bastion]] - Job
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Casinea]] - Alys
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Necropolis]] - Shiloh
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Reikos]] - Gregoire De Gauvain

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Senator===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_leadership|Senator for Skarsind]] - Rurik

===The [[The League|League]] Senators===
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Holberg]] - Irina Kardaovich
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Sarvos]] - Magdelena Alagna Di Sarvos
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Tassato]] - Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Temeschwar]] - Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Senators===
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Bregasland]] - Orrick
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mitwold]] - William Guildenstern
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mournwold]] - Alan Sheppard
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Upwold]] - Landon of Longridge

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Senators===
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Hercynia]] - Rhisiart Dancewalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Miaren]] - Llewellyn Leafstalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Therunin]] - Cybi Farkas

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Senators===
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Morrow]] - Ariadne
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Redoubt]] - Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Spiral]] - Maximillian

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Senators===
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karov]] - Vuk The Wolfeater
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karsk]] - Marya Zoranova Doubek
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Miekarova]] - Yulia Kasimirova Voronov
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Ossium]] - Belakov Zakharovich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Volodmartz]] - Pavuk Vid Strascovich

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Senators===
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Hahnmark]] - Hengest Dun
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Kallavesa]] - Edythe Dunne

===Other Titles===
* [[Master_of_the_Imperial_Mint|Master of the Imperial Mint]] - Lieselotte van Holberg
* [[Conscience_of_the_Senate|Conscience of the Senate]] - Elyan
* [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]] - Vacant
* [[Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade|Dean of the First Voice Glade]] - Idwynn Splitroot
* [[Farmer_of_Eastern_Spring_Farm|Farmer of Eastern Spring Farm]] - Stormcrow Dren
* [[Ambassador_to_Asavea|Ambassador to Asavea]] - Jarrigk Orzel
* [[Ambassador_to_Axos|Ambassador to Axos]] - Tarquinius
* [[Ambassador_to_Faraden|Ambassador to Faraden]] - Erasmo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_Jarm#Ministry|Ambassador to Jarm]] - IZSÁK BLÁR SKIPSTJÓRI
* [[Ambassador_to_Otkodov|Ambassador to Otkodov]] - Yevgeni Katzev
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Commonwealth|Ambassador to the Commonwealth]] - Lucia Sanguineo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Iron_Confederacy|Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] - Lord Colwynn de Rondell
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sarcophan_Delves|Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] - Thanmir Hrafnar
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sumaah_Republic|Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] - Accalon
* [[Captain_of_the_Senate_Guard|Captain of the Senate Guard]] - Arthur Bannerman aka Bam Bam
* [[Crystal_Architect_of_the_Spires|Crystal Architect of the Spires]] - Vacant
* [[Dean_of_the_Academy|Dean of the Academy]] - Morana
* [[Imperial_Consul|Imperial Consul]] - Fal
* [[Imperial_Master_of_Works|Imperial Master of Works]] - Ainsley of Treen
* [[Keeper_of_the_Breadbasket|Keeper of the Breadbasket]] - Lily Guildenstern
* [[Master_of_Sarcombe_Metal_Market|Master of Sarcombe Metal Market]] - Aidan Weller
* [[Minister_of_Historical_Research|Minister of Historical Research]] - Caleb
* [[High_Bard_of_the_Empire|High Bard of the Empire]] - Tiana i Zadan i Riqueza
* [[Advisor on the Vallorn]] - Siân Eternal

==[[Synod]]==

===The Assembly of [[Ambition]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Ambition]] - Viviane de Coeurdefer
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] - Ranae de Rondel
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Ambition]] - Corey Wayfarer

===The Assembly of [[Courage]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Courage]] - Lady Clarice Novarion
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] - Rafe
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Courage]] - Nina of Cantiarch's Hold

===The Assembly of [[Loyalty]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Loyalty]] - Veikko Bondforger
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] - Pyngwylldwdd "Pan" The Summer Wolf
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Loyalty]] - Anastasiya Volkov

===The Assembly of [[Pride]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Pride]] - Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] - Genoveva Barossa di Tassato
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Pride]] - Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra

===The Assembly of [[Prosperity]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Prosperity]] - Onan of the Chantry of the Silver Skull
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] - Yarona of The Chantry
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Prosperity]] - Ophelia Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato

===The Assembly of [[Vigilance]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Vigilance]] - Ancél Watcher
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] - Vindictus
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Vigilance]] - Irada Von Temeschwar

===The Assembly of [[Wisdom]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Wisdom]] - Sariel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] - Galene Netherwatch
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Wisdom]] - Edward Watcher

===The Assembly of [[The Way]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of The Way]] - Hywel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of The Way]] - Hazelelponi

===Other Titles===
* [[Azure_Sutannir|Azure Sutannir]] - Hembeneth i Guerra
* [[Castellan_of_the_Silent_Sentinel|Castellan of the Silent Sentinel]] - Rhesa
* [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability|Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] - Rafael Barossa di Tassato
* [[Claviger_of_the_Basilica_of_Cora_Holdfast|Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast]] - Jared
* [[Crow_Keeper_of_the_Rest|Crow Keeper of the Rest]] - Ursa
* [[Curator_of_the_White_City_Museum|Curator of the White City Museum]] - Apollos
* [[Custodian_of_the_Imperial_War_Memorial|Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] - Jericho
* [[Dean_of_Laroc_Cathedral|Dean of Laroc Cathedral]] - Perryn Forthwright
* [[Friar_of_Honour's_Rest|Friar of Honour's Rest]] - albert fugglestone-copperHill
* [[High_Exorcist|High Exorcist]] - Solas
* [[Imperial_Inquisitor|Imperial Inquisitor]] - Corwyn Leafstalker
* [[Tender of the Hearth|Tender of the Hearth]] - Nikolovich Drakov
* [[Voice_of_Barbs|Voice of the House of Barbs]] - Meredith Nighthaven
* [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool|Watcher of Britta's Pool]] - Gunnbrand Ironwill
* [[Queen%27s_Rose|Queen's Rose]] - Catalina Novarion
* [[Curator_of_the_Printers%27_Guild_Museum|Curator of the Printers' Guild Museum]] - Fabio Costas de Sarvos
* [[Chaplain Consular]] - Aureliana Perpetua Nicasia Saverio di Sarvos

==[[Military Council]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Fire of South]] - Aracelis I Erigo
* [[Red_Wind_Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] - Vrael i Sol-Devorador i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Generals===
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Eastern_Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] - Vincent "The Scorpion" Vexille
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Golden_Sun|General of the Golden Sun]] - Zoran De Orzel
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Gryphon.27s_Pride|General of the Gryphons Pride]] - Garravaine De Rondell
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Hounds_of_Glory|General of the Hounds of Glory]] - Tancred

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Generals===
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Granite_Pillar|General of the Granite Pillar]] - mathayus
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|General of the Seventh Wave]] - Cuth
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Valiant_Pegasus|General of the Valiant Pegasus]] - Lucifer

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Generals===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Summer_Storm|General of the Summer Storm]] - Irontide Kragg
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Winter_Sun|General of the Winter Sun]] - Morgor

===The [[The League|League]] Generals===
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Towerjacks|General of the Towerjacks]] - Natalia "The Falcon" Barossa
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Wolves_of_War|General of the Wolves of War]] - Gabriel Barossa

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Bounders]] - Ciaphas "Black Jack" Dekar
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Drakes|General of the Drakes]] - William Talbot
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Strong_Reeds|General of the Strong Reeds]] - Jack Flint
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Tusks|General of the Tusks]] - Marius Woodville-Talbot

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Generals===
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Black_Thorns|General of the Black Thorns]] - Lleu Tarw
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Quiet_Step|General of the Quiet Step]] - Brennos Brackensong

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] General===
* [[Citadel_Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]] - Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Generals===
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Golden_Axe|General of the Golden Axe]] - Katia Strascovich
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Iron_Helms|General of the Iron Helms]] - Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Northern_Eagle|General of the Northern Eagle]] - Vacant

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Generals===
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Bloodcloaks|General of the Blood Cloaks]] - Lofyn Blood-cloak
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Fist_of_the_Mountains|General of the Fist of Mountains]] - "Axehind" Aedric Dunning
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Green_Shield_Army|General of the Green Shield]] - Osric

===Other Titles===
* [[Quartermaster_General_of_the_Imperial_Armies|Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] - Brendan
* [[Imperial_Fleet_Master|Imperial Fleet Master]] - Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra

==[[Conclave]]==

===[[Archmage|Archmagi]]===
* [[Archmage|Spring Archmage]] - Ser Fabienne De Miel
* [[Archmage|Summer Archmage]] - Luke
* [[Archmage|Autumn Archmage]] - Edmundo of Damakan's forge
* [[Archmage|Winter Archmage]] - Syn Truth-Walker Returned
* [[Archmage|Day Archmage]] - Gralka
* [[Archmage|Night Archmage]] - Elyssiathain

===[[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]===
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Celestial Arch]] - Laelius
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Golden Pyramid]] - Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Rod and Shield]] - Aethelstan Korping
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Sevenfold Path]] - Fenoren
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Shuttered Lantern]] - Gregor
* [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Order of the Silver Chalice]] - Livarot De Montrose
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Unfettered Mind]] - Lord Severin De Rondell

===Other Titles===
* [[Arcane_Architect|Arcane Architect]] - Vitore
* [[Bursar of the Conclave|Bursar of the Conclave]] - Abel
* [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum|Dean of the Lyceum]] - Simargl, the Empty One
* [[Imperial Censor|Imperial Censor]] - Ingar Ironbreaker
* [[Imperial_Magus|Imperial Magus]] - Juha, the Cave Spider
* [[Imperial_Seer|Imperial Seer]] - Drake De Coeurdefer
* [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|Master of Ice and Darkness]] - Ceinwen Eternal
* [[Warmage|Warmage]] - Heilyn Bronwens Rest
* [[Watcher_of_the_Wheel|Watcher of the Wheel]] - Lina of Felix's Watch

==[[Bourse]]==

===Imperial Bourse Positions===
* [[Arratan_Gamble|Arratan Gamble]] - Dagon
* [[Brilliant_Shore|Brilliant Shore]] - Valkyr Jarikson
* [[Brilliant_Star|Brilliant Star]] - Adoraim
* [[Canterspire_Circle|Canterspire Circle]] - Balder
* [[Crawling_Depths|Crawling Depths]] - Bron Mordssen
* [[Damatian_Cliffs|Damatian Cliffs]] - Vacant
* [[Fortress_of_Salt|Fortress of Salt]] - Vasiliy Krenyenkov Valeskai Strascovich
* [[Golden_Trees_of_Seren|Golden Trees of Seren]] - Arlais of The Silent Tide
* [[Great_Forest_at_Reikos|Great Forest at Reikos]] - Liora Daughter of Rebekah
* [[Great_Mine_of_Briante|Great Mine of Briante]] - Tobias Shanks
* [[Great_Pits_of_Ennerlund|Great Pits of Ennerlund]] - Abaris
* [[Heartwood_of_the_Great_Vale|Heartwood of the Great Vale]] - Bastard Tom
* [[Hunt_of_Alderei_the_Fair|Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] - Borz nikoli strazkovitch
* [[Night_Quarry|Night Quarry]] - Tomislav Straskovic
* [[Sutton_Stone_Quarries|Sutton Stone Quarries]] - Peter Carter
* [[Syrene%27s_Wisdom|Syrene's Wisdom]] - Edwin de Warrenne
* [[Weirwater_Vales|Weirwater Vales]] - Harry Roost

===National Bourse Positions===
* [[Castellan_of_Spiral_Castle|Castellan of Spiral Castle]] ([[Dawn]]) - Maric
* [[Eternal_Shafts_of_Time|Eternal Shafts of Time]] ([[Varushka]]) - Tomasz
* [[Gift_of_the_Dwindling_Star|Gift of the Dwindling Star]] ([[Varushka]]) - Pavel Novak
* [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] ([[Varushka]]) - Vitaly Grigorovich Dukov
* [[Legacy|Legacy]] ([[Urizen]]) - Thalia
* [[Regario_Dossier|Regario Dossier]] ([[The League]]) - Silvio de Tassato
* [[Singing_Caves|Singing Caves]] ([[The Marches]]) - Abbott Thomas Arch
* [[Steel_Fist|Steel Fist]] ([[Imperial Orcs]]) - Rasp
* [[Thimble|Thimble]] ([[Navarr]]) - Idris Eternal
* [[Vigilant_Swan|Vigilant Swan]] ([[Highguard]]) - Bartimaeus

===Other Titles===
* [[Drusilla%27s_Obelus|Drusilla's Obelus]] - Lukash Biessek von Temeschwar
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|First Imperial Wayleave]] - Irina Vasillova Dukov
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Second Imperial Wayleave]] - Caleb son of Moses
* [[Seer_of_the_Spiral_Sword|Seer of the Spiral Sword]] - Gemma Brightsmith
* [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks|Custodian of the Ivarsgard Docks]] - Falon Itineris
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Imperial Orc Wayleave]] - Krunk
* [[Steward_of_Good_Leaf_Gardens|Steward of Good Leaf Gardens]] - Aubrey Shaw

==Other Imperial Titles==

===Appointment by Senate Appointment===
* [[Blackroot_Broker|Blackroot Broker]] - Twyll Eternal
* [[Broken_Shield_Guardian|Broken Shield Guardian]] - Redhand Gezzar
* [[Magic_Butcher|Butcher of the Meat and Mana Market of Temeschwar]] - Lisabeth von Temeschwar
* [[Caretaker_of_New_Dunhall|Caretaker of New Dunhall]] - Brigantia Duning
* [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper|Celesti Lighthouse Keeper]] - Bakar i Erigo
* [[Collector_of_Prosperity's_Boon|Collector of Prosperity's Boon]] - Tyr Brenna
* [[Custodian_of_Glass_Point_Cove|Custodian of Glass Point Cove]] - Dalibor Marek van Temeschwar
* [[Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage|Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage]] - Kurt Kaiser
* [[Custodian_of_the_Claw|Custodian of the Claw]] - Valeria
* [[Custodian of the Kennels|Custodian of the Kennels]] - Alfredo von Holberg
* [[College_of_the_Liberated|Dean of the Liberated]] - Ventuno di Sarvos
* [[Dean_of_the_Thorned_Rose|Dean of the Thorned Rose]] - Bledri Eternal
* [[Dredgemaster of Feverwater|Dredgemaster of Lake Feverwater]] - Eleri Bronwen's Rest
* [[Eastern_Broker|Eastern Broker]] - Kiarten Twofeet
* [[Eternal_Flame_of_Miaren|Eternal Flame of Miaren]] - Tanwen
* [[Fallsheart_Guardian|Fallsheart Guardian]] - Breeta
* [[Four_Seasons%27_Boneweaver|Four Season's Boneweaver]] - Tog
* [[Gatekeeper_of_Falling_Snow|Gatekeeper of Falling Snow]] - Pendraed the Maker
* [[Granger_of_the_Golden_Orchard|Granger of the Golden Orchard]] - Merel
* [[Grim_Gardener|Grim Gardener]] - Maegruth Bearonovitch Strascovitch
* [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Shrine|Guardian of Britta's Shrine]] - Vacant
* [[Guardian_of_Dunfrith|Guardian of Dunfrith]] - Kai
* [[Guardian of the Cairn|Guardian of the Cairn]] - Tarqeq Icetongue
* [[Guardian_of_the_Prosperity_of_Afal|Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal]] - Gerraint Black
* [[Healer of Dawn|Healer of Dawn]] - Isabella de Rondell
* [[Herbalist of the Hearth|Herbalist of the Hearth]] - Brienne-Walda Stormborn
* [[High Herbalist of Sybella|High Herbalist of Sybella]] - tolame
* [[Jade_Custodian|Jade Custodian]] - Giacomo Corvinoscuro
* [[Construct_village_expansion_in_Volodmartz|Keeper of Berislav's Rest]] - Goran Berislavin Kovacevic
* [[Keeper_of_the_Crystal_Vale|Keeper of the Crystal Vale]] - torunn Volcarona
* [[Keeper_of_the_Dour_Fens|Keeper of the Dour Fens]] - Bill of Middleton
* [[Keeper_of_the_Golden_Fields|Keeper of the Golden Fields]] - Nicolas Reaper
* [[Keeper_of_the_Memorial_Gardens_of_Treji|Keeper of the Memorial Gardens at Treji]] - gertreg
* [[Keeper_of_the_Sapphire_Stair|Keeper of the Sapphire Stair]] - Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Keeper_of_the_Spice_Gardens|Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] - Sadiq Isa
* [[Master_Apothecary|Master Apothecary]] - Kesa Algarsdottir
* [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House|Master of the Clearing House]] - Beatrix Amalia De Rondell zu Holberg
* [[Master_of_the_School_of_Exorcism|Master of the School of Exorcism]] - Naomi
* [[Mayor of Caricomare|Mayor of Caricomare]] - Aria Notturno di Sarvos
* [[Preceptor_of_the_Skarsind_College_of_Warcasting|Preceptor of the Skarsind College of Warcasting]] - Gaterender Brik
* [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd|Shepherd of the Great Herd]] - Luga
* [[Signori_d%27Argento_Vine_Tender|Signori d'Argento Vine Tender]] - Captain Markus DeVere
* [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]] - Rafa'eet i Contra i Guerra
* [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Sarvos Mana Exchange]] - Luciana Valesi di Sarvos
* [[Steward_of_the_Tassato_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange]] - Edwin Rogerius Sanguineo
* [[Storm Shaman|Storm Shaman]] - Ashborn Rauur
* [[Weigher_of_Worth|Weigher of Worth]] - Taal

===Appointment by Bourse Auction===
* [[Custodian_of_the_Concordium_Dock|Custodian of the Concordium Dock]] - Guy Grimbold the Elder
* [[Delver_of_the_Depths|Delver of the Depths]] - Tobrytan Dunning
* [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster|Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] - Dino i Erigo
* [[Prime_Factor_of_the_Pallas_Docks|Prime Factor of the Pallas Docks]] - Pontus

===Appointment by Bourse Vote===
* [[Bailiff_of_the_Grand_Market|Bailiff of the Grand Market]] - Mud
* [[Bonesetter_of_Torfast_Trading_Post|Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] - Rek
* [[Broker_of_Treji_Wayhouse|Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] - Trystan
* [[Custodian_of_the_Assayer%27s_Guild|Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] - Giustiniano Del Giorno
* [[Dhomiro_of_the_Cinnabar_Hills|Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] - Demetrio Taziel i Riqueza
* [[Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule|Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule]] - Irontide Flax
* [[Mistress_of_the_Glass_Parador|Mistress of the Glass Parador]] - Safya i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[Northbound_Trademaster|Northbound Trademaster]] - Aurèlio Duarte
* [[Overseer_of_the_Cavabianca_Dock|Overseer of the Cavabianca Dock]] - Benedict Pacelli Von Holberg
* [[Overseer_of_the_Westward_Road|Overseer of the Westward Road]] - Borys Vardovich Straskovich
* [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel|Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] - Xandra i Marusa i Riqueza

===Appointment by Conclave Declaration===
* [[Gloaming_Sentinel|Gloaming Sentinel]] - Terah
* [[Keeper_of_the_Cox|Keeper of the Cox]] - Gideon
* [[Penumbral_Watcher|Penumbral Watcher]] - Asenath

===Appointment by Synod Judgement===
* [[Guardian_of_Giselle%27s_Tomb|Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] - Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos
* [[Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium|Keeper of Emilio's Herbarium]] - Emilio Marsana Saverio di Sarvos
* [[Liaison_to_the_Temple_in_Nemoria|Liaison to the Temple in Nemoria]] - Franco i Erigo
* [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails|Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] - Able

===Appointment by Throne Appointment===
* [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie|Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]] - Kay Griffinsbain

===Appointment by Not A Well Worn Path===
* [[Doyen of the Spires|Doyen of the Spires]] - Ioseph
* [[Keeper_of_Aurelie%27s_Garden|Keeper of Aurelie's Garden]] - Vacant
* [[Brock%27s_Toll|Keeper of Brock's Toll]] - Tomothy Crowle
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] - The Civil Service is currently awaiting the result from the Dawnish Egregore...
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] - Vulgaris Vicarious

[[Category:Elections]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:383YE Spring]]

Archive:382YE Winter Solstice Imperial titles

2026-04-11T15:36:13Z

Dre:

==[[The Throne]]==
* [[The Throne|Imperatrix]] - Lisabetta Giacomi von Holberg

==[[Senate]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Senators===
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Feroz]] - Chiara Zayden Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Kahraman]] - Qusay i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Madruga]] - Adan i DelToro i Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Segura]] - Avisena i Kharizmi i Guerra

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Senators===
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Astolat]] - Bohemond De Rondell
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Semmerholm]] - Zadkiel de Coeurdefer
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Weirwater]] - Lady Eve Orzel

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Senators===
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Bastion]] - Job
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Casinea]] - Alys
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Necropolis]] - Shiloh
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Reikos]] - Cadeus

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Senator===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_leadership|Senator for Skarsind]] - Rurik

===The [[The League|League]] Senators===
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Holberg]] - Caerwyn Von Holberg of The Feasting Crow
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Sarvos]] - Magdelena Alagna Di Sarvos
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Tassato]] - Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Temeschwar]] - Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Senators===
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Bregasland]] - Orrick
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mitwold]] - William Guildenstern
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mournwold]] - Robert Dunlain
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Upwold]] - Landon of Longridge

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Senators===
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Hercynia]] - Rhisiart Dancewalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Miaren]] - Llewellyn Leafstalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Therunin]] - Cybi Farkas

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Senators===
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Morrow]] - Ariadne
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Redoubt]] - Andronikos
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Spiral]] - Maximillian

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Senators===
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karov]] - Vuk The Wolfeater
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karsk]] - Maarit
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Miekarova]] - Yulia Kasimirova Voronov
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Ossium]] - Belakov Zakharovich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Volodmartz]] - Pavuk Vid Strascovich

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Senators===
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Hahnmark]] - Hengest Dun
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Kallavesa]] - Edythe Dunne

===Other Titles===
* [[Master_of_the_Imperial_Mint|Master of the Imperial Mint]] - Lieselotte van Holberg
* [[Conscience_of_the_Senate|Conscience of the Senate]] - Elyan
* [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]] - Bloodcrow Yargol
* [[Dean of the First Voice Glade]] - Idwynn Splitroot
* [[Farmer of Eastern Spring Farm]] - Stormcrow Dren
* [[Ambassador_to_Asavea|Ambassador to Asavea]] - Jarrigk Wegwandelaar
* [[Ambassador_to_Axos|Ambassador to Axos]] - Tarquinius
* [[Ambassador_to_Faraden|Ambassador to Faraden]] - Gonzalo i Riqueza
* [[Ambassador_to_Jarm#Ministry|Ambassador to Jarm]] - IZSÁK BLÁR SKIPSTJÓRI
* [[Ambassador_to_Otkodov|Ambassador to Otkodov]] - Yevgeni Katzev
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Commonwealth|Ambassador to the Commonwealth]] - Lucia Sanguineo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Iron_Confederacy|Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] - Lord Colwynn de Rondell
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sarcophan_Delves|Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] - Thanmir Hrafnar
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sumaah_Republic|Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] - Accalon
* [[Captain_of_the_Senate_Guard|Captain of the Senate Guard]] - Arthur Bannerman aka Bam Bam
* [[Crystal_Architect_of_the_Spires|Crystal Architect of the Spires]] - Vacant
* [[Dean_of_the_Academy|Dean of the Academy]] - Morana
* [[High_Bard_of_the_Empire|High Bard of the Empire]] - Irina Akulinovna Kotor
* [[Imperial_Consul|Imperial Consul]] - Fal
* [[Imperial_Master_of_Works|Imperial Master of Works]] - Ainsley of Treen
* [[Keeper_of_the_Breadbasket|Keeper of the Breadbasket]] - Lily Guildenstern
* [[Master_of_Sarcombe_Metal_Market|Master of Sarcombe Metal Market]] - Aidan Weller
* [[Minister_of_Historical_Research|Minister of Historical Research]] - Caleb

==[[Synod]]==

===The Assembly of [[Ambition]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Ambition]] - Viviane de Coeurdefer
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] - Ranae de Rondel
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Ambition]] - Corey Wayfarer

===The Assembly of [[Courage]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Courage]] - Lady Clarice Novarion
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] - Rafe
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Courage]] - Nina of Cantiarch's Hold

===The Assembly of [[Loyalty]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Loyalty]] - Veikko Bondforger
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] - Pyngwylldwdd "Pan" The Summer Wolf
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Loyalty]] - Anastasiya Volkov

===The Assembly of [[Pride]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Pride]] - Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] - Rane Sherarding
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Pride]] - Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra

===The Assembly of [[Prosperity]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Prosperity]] - Onan of the Chantry of the Silver Skull
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] - Yarona of The Chantry
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Prosperity]] - Ophelia Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato

===The Assembly of [[Vigilance]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Vigilance]] - Irada Von Temeschwar
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] - Vindictus
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Vigilance]] - Sela

===The Assembly of [[Wisdom]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Wisdom]] - Sariel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] - Galene Netherwatch
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Wisdom]] - Edward Watcher

===The Assembly of [[The Way]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of The Way]] - Hywel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of The Way]] - Hazelelponi

===Other Titles===
* [[Azure_Sutannir|Azure Sutannir]] - Hembeneth i Guerra
* [[Castellan_of_the_Silent_Sentinel|Castellan of the Silent Sentinel]] - Rhesa
* [[Auditor_of_Senatorial_Accountability|Auditor of Senatorial Accountability]] - Vacant
* [[Claviger_of_the_Basilica_of_Cora_Holdfast|Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast]] - Jared
* [[Custodian_of_the_Imperial_War_Memorial|Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] - Jericho
* [[High_Exorcist|High Exorcist]] - Solas
* [[Imperial_Inquisitor|Imperial Inquisitor]] - Corwyn Leafstalker
* [[Voice_of_Barbs|Voice of the House of Barbs]] - Meredith Nighthaven
* [[Queen%27s_Rose|Queen's Rose]] - Catalina Novarion
* [[Chaplain Consular]] - Snark

==[[Military Council]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Fire of South]] - Aracelis I Erigo
* [[Red_Wind_Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] - Vrael i Sol-Devorador i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Generals===
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Eastern_Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] - Vincent "The Scorpion" Vexille
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Golden_Sun|General of the Golden Sun]] - Zoran De Orzel
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Gryphon.27s_Pride|General of the Gryphons Pride]] - Garravaine De Rondell
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Hounds_of_Glory|General of the Hounds of Glory]] - Tancred

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Generals===
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Granite_Pillar|General of the Granite Pillar]] - mathayus
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|General of the Seventh Wave]] - Cuth
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Valiant_Pegasus|General of the Valiant Pegasus]] - Lucifer

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Generals===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Summer_Storm|General of the Summer Storm]] - Irontide Kragg
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Winter_Sun|General of the Winter Sun]] - Morgor

===The [[The League|League]] Generals===
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Towerjacks|General of the Towerjacks]] - Natalia "The Falcon" Barossa
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Wolves_of_War|General of the Wolves of War]] - Gabriel Barossa

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Bounders]] - Ciaphas "Black Jack" Dekar
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Drakes|General of the Drakes]] - William Talbot
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Strong_Reeds|General of the Strong Reeds]] - Jack Flint
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Tusks|General of the Tusks]] - Marius Woodville-Talbot

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Generals===
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Black_Thorns|General of the Black Thorns]] - Lleu Tarw
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Quiet_Step|General of the Quiet Step]] - Brennos Brackensong

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] General===
* [[Citadel_Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]] - Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Generals===
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Golden_Axe|General of the Golden Axe]] - Katia Strascovich
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Iron_Helms|General of the Iron Helms]] - Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Northern_Eagle|General of the Northern Eagle]] - Akstis Eigulys

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Generals===
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Bloodcloaks|General of the Blood Cloaks]] - Lofyn Blood-cloak
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Fist_of_the_Mountains|General of the Fist of Mountains]] - "Axehind" Aedric Dunning
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Green_Shield_Army|General of the Green Shield]] - Osric

===Other Titles===
* [[Quartermaster_General_of_the_Imperial_Armies|Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] - Brendan
* [[Imperial_Fleet_Master|Imperial Fleet Master]] - Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra

==[[Conclave]]==

===[[Archmage|Archmagi]]===
* [[Archmage|Spring Archmage]] - Ser Fabienne De Miel
* [[Archmage|Summer Archmage]] - Luke
* [[Archmage|Autumn Archmage]] - Edmundo of Damakan's forge
* [[Archmage|Winter Archmage]] - Syn Truth-Walker Returned
* [[Archmage|Day Archmage]] - Gralka
* [[Archmage|Night Archmage]] - Elyssiathain

===[[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]===
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Celestial Arch]] - Laelius
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Golden Pyramid]] - Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Rod and Shield]] - Aethelstan Korping
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Sevenfold Path]] - Zephaniah
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Shuttered Lantern]] - Gregor
* [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Order of the Silver Chalice]] - Livarot De Montrose
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Unfettered Mind]] - Lord Severin De Rondell

===Other Titles===
* [[Arcane_Architect|Arcane Architect]] - Vitore
* [[Bursar of the Conclave|Bursar of the Conclave]] - Abel
* [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum|Dean of the Lyceum]] - Simargl, the Empty One
* [[Imperial_Magus|Imperial Magus]] - Juha, the Cave Spider
* [[Imperial_Seer|Imperial Seer]] - Drake De Coeurdefer
* [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|Master of Ice and Darkness]] - Ceinwen Eternal
* [[Warmage|Warmage]] - Heilyn Bronwens Rest
* [[Watcher_of_the_Wheel|Watcher of the Wheel]] - Lina of Felix's Watch

==[[Bourse]]==

===Imperial Bourse Positions===
* [[Arratan_Gamble|Arratan Gamble]] - Dagon
* [[Brilliant_Shore|Brilliant Shore]] - Valkyr Jarikson
* [[Brilliant_Star|Brilliant Star]] - Adoraim
* [[Canterspire_Circle|Canterspire Circle]] - Balder
* [[Crawling_Depths|Crawling Depths]] - Bron Mordssen
* [[Damatian_Cliffs|Damatian Cliffs]] - Lorenzo “La Volpe” Macelliao von Temeschwar
* [[Fortress_of_Salt|Fortress of Salt]] - Vasiliy Krenyenkov Valeskai Strascovich
* [[Golden_Trees_of_Seren|Golden Trees of Seren]] - Arlais
* [[Great_Forest_at_Reikos|Great Forest at Reikos]] - Liora Daughter of Rebekah
* [[Great_Mine_of_Briante|Great Mine of Briante]] - Tobias Shanks
* [[Great_Pits_of_Ennerlund|Great Pits of Ennerlund]] - Abaris
* [[Heartwood_of_the_Great_Vale|Heartwood of the Great Vale]] - Bastard Tom
* [[Hunt_of_Alderei_the_Fair|Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] - Borz nikoli strazkovitch
* [[Night_Quarry|Night Quarry]] - Tomislav Straskovic
* [[Scorrero_Nets|Scorrero Nets]] - To be reappointed next summit
* [[Sutton_Stone_Quarries|Sutton Stone Quarries]] - Peter Carter
* [[Syrene%27s_Wisdom|Syrene's Wisdom]] - To be reappointed next summit
* [[Weirwater_Vales|Weirwater Vales]] - Harry Roost

===National Bourse Positions===
* [[Broken_Shore_Bounty|Broken Shore Bounty]] ([[The Brass Coast]]) - To be reappointed next summit
* [[Castellan_of_Spiral_Castle|Castellan of Spiral Castle]] ([[Dawn]]) - Maric
* [[Eternal_Shafts_of_Time|Eternal Shafts of Time]] ([[Varushka]]) - Tomasz
* [[Gift_of_the_Dwindling_Star|Gift of the Dwindling Star]] ([[Varushka]]) - To be reappointed next summit
* [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] ([[Varushka]]) - Vitaly Grigorovich Dukov
* [[Legacy|Legacy]] ([[Urizen]]) - Thalia
* [[Regario_Dossier|Regario Dossier]] ([[The League]]) - To be reappointed next summit
* [[Singing_Caves|Singing Caves]] ([[The Marches]]) - Abbott Thomas Arch
* [[Steel_Fist|Steel Fist]] ([[Imperial Orcs]]) - To be reappointed next summit
* [[Thimble|Thimble]] ([[Navarr]]) - Idris Eternal
* [[Vigilant_Swan|Vigilant Swan]] ([[Highguard]]) - Bartimaeus

===Other Titles===
* [[Drusilla%27s_Obelus|Drusilla's Obelus]] - Lukash Biessek von Temeschwar
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|First Imperial Wayleave]] - Tyr Brenna
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Second Imperial Wayleave]] - Nikolovich Drakov
* [[Seer_of_the_Spiral_Sword|Seer of the Spiral Sword]] - Gemma Brightsmith
* [[Custodian_of_Ivarsgard_Docks|Custodian of the Ivarsgard Docks]] - Vacant
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Imperial Orc Wayleave]] - Krunk
* [[Steward_of_Good_Leaf_Gardens|Steward of Good Leaf Gardens]] - Aubrey Shaw

==Other Imperial Titles==

===Appointment by Senate Appointment===
* [[Blackroot_Broker|Blackroot Broker]] - Twyll Eternal
* [[Broken_Shield_Guardian|Broken Shield Guardian]] - Gezzar
* [[Magic_Butcher|Butcher of the Meat and Mana Market of Temeschwar]] - Lisabeth von Temeschwar
* [[Caretaker_of_New_Dunhall|Caretaker of New Dunhall]] - Brigantia Duning
* [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper|Celesti Lighthouse Keeper]] - Bakar i Erigo
* [[Collector_of_Prosperity's_Boon|Collector of Prosperity's Boon]] - Tyr Brenna
* [[Custodian_of_Glass_Point_Cove|Custodian of Glass Point Cove]] - Dalibor Marek van Temeschwar
* [[Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage|Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage]] - Kurt Kaiser
* [[Custodian_of_the_Claw|Custodian of the Claw]] - Valeria
* [[College_of_the_Liberated|Dean of the Liberated]] - Ventuno di Sarvos
* [[Dean_of_the_Thorned_Rose|Dean of the Thorned Rose]] - Bledri Eternal
* [[Dredgemaster of Feverwater|Dredgemaster of Lake Feverwater]] - Eleri Bronwen's Rest
* [[Eastern_Broker|Eastern Broker]] - Kiarten Twofeet
* [[Eternal_Flame_of_Miaren|Eternal Flame of Miaren]] - Tanwen
* [[Fallsheart_Guardian|Fallsheart Guardian]] - Breeta
* [[Four_Seasons%27_Boneweaver|Four Season's Boneweaver]] - Tog
* [[Gatekeeper_of_Falling_Snow|Gatekeeper of Falling Snow]] - Pendraed the Maker
* [[Granger_of_the_Golden_Orchard|Granger of the Golden Orchard]] - Merel
* [[Grim_Gardener|Grim Gardener]] - Maegruth Bearonovitch Strascovitch
* [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Shrine|Guardian of Britta's Shrine]] - Vacant
* [[Guardian_of_Dunfrith|Guardian of Dunfrith]] - Kai
* [[Guardian of the Cairn|Guardian of the Cairn]] - Tarqeq Icetongue
* [[Guardian_of_the_Prosperity_of_Afal|Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal]] - Gerraint Black
* [[Healer of Dawn|Healer of Dawn]] - Isabella de Rondell
* [[Herbalist of the Hearth|Herbalist of the Hearth]] - Brienne-Walda Stormborn
* [[High Herbalist of Sybella|High Herbalist of Sybella]] - tolame
* [[Jade_Custodian|Jade Custodian]] - Giacomo Corvinoscuro
* [[Construct_village_expansion_in_Volodmartz|Keeper of Berislav's Rest]] - Goran Berislavin Kovacevic
* [[Keeper_of_the_Crystal_Vale|Keeper of the Crystal Vale]] - torunn Volcarona
* [[Keeper_of_the_Dour_Fens|Keeper of the Dour Fens]] - Bill of Middleton
* [[Keeper_of_the_Golden_Fields|Keeper of the Golden Fields]] - Nicolas Reaper
* [[Keeper_of_the_Memorial_Gardens_of_Treji|Keeper of the Memorial Gardens at Treji]] - gertreg
* [[Keeper_of_the_Spice_Gardens|Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] - Sadiq Isa
* [[Master_Apothecary|Master Apothecary]] - Kesa Algarsdottir
* [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House|Master of the Clearing House]] - Beatrix Amalia De Rondell zu Holberg
* [[Mayor of Caricomare|Mayor of Caricomare]] - Aria Notturno di Sarvos
* [[Preceptor_of_the_Skarsind_College_of_Warcasting|Preceptor of the Skarsind College of Warcasting]] - Gaterender Brik
* [[Keeper_of_the_Sapphire_Stair|Sapphire Stair]] - Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Master_of_the_School_of_Exorcism|School of Exorcism]] - Naomi
* [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd|Shepherd of the Great Herd]] - Luga
* [[Signori_d%27Argento_Vine_Tender|Signori d'Argento Vine Tender]] - Captain Markus DeVere
* [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]] - Rafa'eet i Contra i Guerra
* [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Sarvos Mana Exchange]] - Vacant
* [[Steward_of_the_Tassato_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange]] - Edwin Rogerius Sanguineo
* [[Storm Shaman|Storm Shaman]] - Ashborn Rauur
* [[Weigher_of_Worth|Weigher of Worth]] - Taal

===Appointment by Bourse Auction===
* [[Custodian_of_the_Concordium_Dock|Custodian of the Concordium Dock]] - Guy Grimbold the Elder
* [[Delver_of_the_Depths|Delver of the Depths]] - Tobrytan Dunning
* [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster|Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] - Dino i Erigo
* [[Prime_Factor_of_the_Pallas_Docks|Prime Factor of the Pallas Docks]] - Pontus

===Appointment by Bourse Vote===
* [[Bailiff_of_the_Grand_Market|Bailiff of the Grand Market]] - Mud
* [[Bonesetter_of_Torfast_Trading_Post|Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] - Tulva
* [[Broker_of_Treji_Wayhouse|Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] - Trystan
* [[Custodian_of_the_Assayer%27s_Guild|Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] - Johan Van Den Berghe
* [[Dhomiro_of_the_Cinnabar_Hills|Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] - Demetrio Taziel i Riqueza
* [[Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule|Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule]] - Irontide Flax
* [[Mistress_of_the_Glass_Parador|Mistress of the Glass Parador]] - Safya i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[Northbound_Trademaster|Northbound Trademaster]] - Aurèlio Duarte
* [[Overseer_of_the_Cavabianca_Dock|Overseer of the Cavabianca Dock]] - Benedict Pacelli Von Holberg
* [[Overseer_of_the_Westward_Road|Overseer of the Westward Road]] - Borys Vardovich Straskovich
* [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel|Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] - Esteban i Ezmara i Erigo

===Appointment by Conclave Declaration===
* [[Gloaming_Sentinel|Gloaming Sentinel]] - Terah
* [[Keeper_of_the_Cox|Keeper of the Cox]] - Gideon
* [[Penumbral_Watcher|Penumbral Watcher]] - Asenath

===Appointment by Synod Judgement===
* [[Crow_Keeper_of_the_Rest|Crow Keeper of the Rest]] - Vacant
* [[Curator_of_the_White_City_Museum|Curator of the White City Museum]] - Apollos
* [[Friar_of_Honour's_Rest|Friar of Honour's Rest]] - albert fugglestone-copperHill
* [[Guardian_of_Giselle%27s_Tomb|Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] - Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos
* [[Dean_of_Laroc_Cathedral|Laroc Cathedral]] - Odelina
* [[Liaison_to_the_Temple_in_Nemoria|Liaison to the Temple in Nemoria]] - Franco i Erigo
* [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails|Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] - Able
* [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool|Watcher of Britta's Pool]] - Gunnbrand Ironwill

===Appointment by Throne Appointment===
* [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie|Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]] - Kay Griffinsbain

===Appointment by Cardinal Appointment===
* [[Curator_of_the_Printers%27_Guild_Museum|Curator of the Printers' Guild Museum]] - Fabio Costas de Sarvos

===Appointment by Not A Well Worn Path===
* [[Keeper_of_Aurelie%27s_Garden|Keeper of Aurelie's Garden]] - Vacant
* [[Brock%27s_Toll|Keeper of Brock's Toll]] - Tomothy Crowle
* [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Winter]] - Vacant

[[Category:Elections]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:382YE Winter]]

Archive:382YE Autumn Equinox Imperial titles

2026-04-11T15:36:06Z

Dre:

==[[The Throne]]==
* [[The Throne|Imperatrix]] - Lisabetta Giacomi von Holberg

==[[Senate]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Senators===
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Feroz]] - Chiara Zayden Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Kahraman]] - Qusay i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Madruga]] - Adan i DelToro i Riqueza
* [[The_Brass_Coast_leadership|Senator for Segura]] - Avisena i Kharizmi i Guerra

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Senators===
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Astolat]] - Bohemond De Rondell
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Semmerholm]] - Zadkiel de Coeurdefer
* [[Dawn_leadership|Senator for Weirwater]] - Lady Eve Orzel

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Senators===
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Bastion]] - Sammual
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Casinea]] - Alys
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Necropolis]] - Jeconiah
* [[Highguard_leadership|Senator for Reikos]] - Cadeus

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Senator===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_leadership|Senator for Skarsind]] - Irontide Vio

===The [[The League|League]] Senators===
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Holberg]] - Caerwyn Von Holberg of The Feasting Crow
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Sarvos]] - Magdelena Alagna Di Sarvos
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Tassato]] - Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato
* [[The_League_leadership|Senator for Temeschwar]] - Giuseppe Sanguineo von Temeschwar

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Senators===
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Bregasland]] - Orrick
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mitwold]] - William Guildenstern
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Mournwold]] - Robert Dunlain
* [[The_Marches_leadership|Senator for Upwold]] - Landon of Longridge

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Senators===
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Hercynia]] - Rhisiart Dancewalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Miaren]] - Llewellyn Leafstalker
* [[Navarr_leadership|Senator for Therunin]] - Cybi Farkas

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] Senators===
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Morrow]] - Ariadne
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Redoubt]] - Andronikos
* [[Urizen_leadership|Senator for Spiral]] - Maximillian

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Senators===
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karov]] - Vuk The Wolfeater
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Karsk]] - Maarit
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Miekarova]] - Nikolovich Drakov
* [[Varushka_leadership|Senator for Volodmartz]] - Pavuk Vid Strascovich

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Senators===
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Hahnmark]] - Hengest Dun
* [[Wintermark_political_leadership|Senator for Kallavesa]] - Edythe Dunne

===Other Titles===
* [[Master_of_the_Imperial_Mint|Master of the Imperial Mint]] - Lieselotte van Holberg
* [[Conscience_of_the_Senate|Conscience of the Senate]] - Elyan
* [[Ambassador_to_Asavea|Ambassador to Asavea]] - Jarrigk Wegwandelaar
* [[Ambassador_to_Axos|Ambassador to Axos]] - Tarquinius
* [[Ambassador_to_Faraden|Ambassador to Faraden]] - Gonzalo i Riqueza
* [[Ambassador_to_Jarm#Ministry|Ambassador to Jarm]] - IZSÁK BLÁR SKIPSTJÓRI
* [[Ambassador_to_Otkodov|Ambassador to Otkodov]] - Yevgeni Katzev
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Commonwealth|Ambassador to the Commonwealth]] - Lucia Sanguineo di Tassato
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Iron_Confederacy|Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] - Lord Colwynn de Rondell
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sarcophan_Delves|Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves]] - Thanmir Hrafnar
* [[Ambassador_to_the_Sumaah_Republic|Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic]] - Accalon
* [[Captain_of_the_Senate_Guard|Captain of the Senate Guard]] - Arthur Bannerman aka Bam Bam
* [[Crystal_Architect_of_the_Spires|Crystal Architect of the Spires]] - Vacant
* [[Dean_of_the_Academy|Dean of the Academy]] - Morana
* [[High_Bard_of_the_Empire|High Bard of the Empire]] - Irina Akulinovna Kotor
* [[Imperial_Consul|Imperial Consul]] - Fal
* [[Imperial_Master_of_Works|Imperial Master of Works]] - Ainsley of Treen
* [[Minister_of_Historical_Research|Minister of Historical Research]] - Caleb

==[[Synod]]==

===The Assembly of [[Ambition]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Ambition]] - Viviane de Coeurdefer
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Ambition]] - Ranae de Rondel
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Ambition]] - Corey Wayfarer

===The Assembly of [[Courage]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Courage]] - Lady Clarice Novarion
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Courage]] - Lucifer Son of Cyrus
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Courage]] - Nina of Cantiarch's Hold

===The Assembly of [[Loyalty]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Loyalty]] - Veikko Bondforger
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Loyalty]] - Pyngwylldwdd "Pan" The Summer Wolf
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Loyalty]] - Josephine Joanna Andolini Dei Liberi

===The Assembly of [[Pride]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Pride]] - Astrid Fjellrevening Rezia di Tassato
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Pride]] - Rane Sherarding
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Pride]] - Constanza i Kalamar i Guerra

===The Assembly of [[Prosperity]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Prosperity]] - Cesare Enzo Di Trivento
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] - Yarona of The Chantry
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Prosperity]] - Morgan Leafstalker

===The Assembly of [[Wisdom]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Wisdom]] - Sariel
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Wisdom]] - Galene Netherwatch
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Wisdom]] - Seaver

===The Assembly of [[Vigilance]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of Vigilance]] - Irada Von Temeschwar
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of Vigilance]] - Vindictus
* [[Gatekeeper|Gatekeeper of Vigilance]] - Sela

===The Assembly of [[The Way]]===
* [[Cardinal|Cardinal of The Way]] - Atla
* [[Virtue_inquisitor|Inquisitor of The Way]] - Hazelelponi

===Other Titles===
* [[Azure_Sutannir|Azure Sutannir]] - Hembeneth i Guerra
* [[Castellan_of_the_Silent_Sentinel|Castellan of the Silent Sentinel]] - Rhesa
* [[Claviger_of_the_Basilica_of_Cora_Holdfast|Claviger of the Basilica of Cora Holdfast]] - Jared
* [[Custodian_of_the_Imperial_War_Memorial|Custodian of the Imperial War Memorial]] - Jericho
* [[High_Exorcist|High Exorcist]] - Solas
* [[Imperial_Inquisitor|Imperial Inquisitor]] - Corwyn Leafstalker
* [[Voice_of_Barbs|Voice of the House of Barbs]] - Meredith Nighthaven
* [[Queen%27s_Rose|Queen's Rose]] - Catalina Novarion
* [[Chaplain Consular]] - Snark

==[[Military Council]]==

===The [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Fire of South]] - Aracelis
* [[Red_Wind_Corsairs|General of the Red Wind Corsairs]] - Vrael i Sol-Devorador i Erigo

===The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] Generals===
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Eastern_Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]] - Vincent "The Scorpion" Vexille
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Golden_Sun|General of the Golden Sun]] - Zoran De Orzel
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Gryphon.27s_Pride|General of the Gryphons Pride]] - Garravaine De Rondell
* [[Dawn_military_concerns#The_Hounds_of_Glory|General of the Hounds of Glory]] - Tancred

===The [[Highguard|Highborn]] Generals===
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Granite_Pillar|General of the Granite Pillar]] - mathayus
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|General of the Seventh Wave]] - Cuth
* [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Valiant_Pegasus|General of the Valiant Pegasus]] - Lucifer

===The [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] Generals===
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Summer_Storm|General of the Summer Storm]] - Irontide Kragg
* [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Winter_Sun|General of the Winter Sun]] - Morgor

===The [[The League|League]] Generals===
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Towerjacks|General of the Towerjacks]] - Natalia "The Falcon" Barossa
* [[The_League_military_concerns#The_Wolves_of_War|General of the Wolves of War]] - Gabriel Barossa

===The [[The Marches|Marcher]] Generals===
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#Bounders|General of the Bounders]] - Ciaphas "Black Jack" Dekar
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Drakes|General of the Drakes]] - William Talbot
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Strong_Reeds|General of the Strong Reeds]] - Jack Flint
* [[The_Marches_military_concerns#The_Tusks|General of the Tusks]] - Marius Woodville-Talbot

===The [[Navarr|Navarr]] Generals===
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Black_Thorns|General of the Black Thorns]] - Lleu Tarw
* [[Navarr_military_concerns#The_Quiet_Step|General of the Quiet Step]] - Brennos Brackensong

===The [[Urizen|Urizeni]] General===
* [[Citadel_Guard|General of the Citadel Guard]] - Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach

===The [[Varushka|Varushkan]] Generals===
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Golden_Axe|General of the Golden Axe]] - Belakov Zakharovich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Iron_Helms|General of the Iron Helms]] - Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost
* [[Varushka_military_concerns#The_Army_of_the_Northern_Eagle|General of the Northern Eagle]] - Akstis Eigulys

===The [[Wintermark|Wintermark]] Generals===
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Bloodcloaks|General of the Blood Cloaks]] - Lofyn Blood-cloak
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Fist_of_the_Mountains|General of the Fist of Mountains]] - "Axehind" Aedric Dunning
* [[Wintermark_military_concerns#The_Green_Shield_Army|General of the Green Shield]] - Osric

===Other Titles===
* [[Quartermaster_General_of_the_Imperial_Armies|Quartermaster General of the Imperial Armies]] - Brendan
* [[Imperial_Fleet_Master|Imperial Fleet Master]] - Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra

==[[Conclave]]==

===[[Archmage|Archmagi]]===
* [[Archmage|Spring Archmage]] - Ser Fabienne De Miel
* [[Archmage|Summer Archmage]] - Luke
* [[Archmage|Autumn Archmage]] - Marcus
* [[Archmage|Winter Archmage]] - Syn Truth-Walker Returned
* [[Archmage|Day Archmage]] - Gancius della Notte di Sarvos
* [[Archmage|Night Archmage]] - Elyssiathain

===[[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]]===
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Celestial Arch]] - Reichard Callan Remidos von Holmaur
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Golden Pyramid]] - Arsenio Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Rod and Shield]] - Aethelstan Korping
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Sevenfold Path]] - Zephaniah
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Shuttered Lantern]] - Gregor
* [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Order of the Silver Chalice]] - Livarot De Montrose
* [[Grandmaster|Grandmaster of the Order of the Unfettered Mind]] - Lord Severin De Rondell

===Other Titles===
* [[Arcane_Architect|Arcane Architect]] - Vitore
* [[Bursar of the Conclave|Bursar of the Conclave]] - Abel
* [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum|Dean of the Lyceum]] - Simargl, the Empty One
* [[Imperial_Magus|Imperial Magus]] - Juha, the Cave Spider
* [[Imperial_Seer|Imperial Seer]] - Drake De Coeurdefer
* [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|Master of Ice and Darkness]] - Ceinwen Eternal
* [[Warmage|Warmage]] - Heilyn Bronwens Rest

==[[Bourse]]==

===Imperial Bourse Positions===
* [[Arratan_Gamble|Arratan Gamble]] - Dagon
* [[Brilliant_Shore|Brilliant Shore]] - Valkyr Jarikson
* [[Brilliant_Star|Brilliant Star]] - Adoraim
* [[Canterspire_Circle|Canterspire Circle]] - Bron Mordssen
* [[Damatian_Cliffs|Damatian Cliffs]] - Vacant
* [[Fortress_of_Salt|Fortress of Salt]] - Vasiliy Krenyenkov Valeskai Strascovich
* [[Golden_Trees_of_Seren|Golden Trees of Seren]] - Watkin
* [[Great_Forest_at_Reikos|Great Forest at Reikos]] - Issachar
* [[Great_Mine_of_Briante|Great Mine of Briante]] - Tobias Shanks
* [[Great_Pits_of_Ennerlund|Great Pits of Ennerlund]] - Abaris
* [[Heartwood_of_the_Great_Vale|Heartwood of the Great Vale]] - Matilda Reaper
* [[Hunt_of_Alderei_the_Fair|Hunt of Alderei the Fair]] - Raknar Dunning
* [[Night_Quarry|Night Quarry]] - Tomislav Straskovic
* [[Scorrero_Nets|Scorrero Nets]] - Giles 'longshanks'
* [[Sutton_Stone_Quarries|Sutton Stone Quarries]] - Peter Carter
* [[Syrene%27s_Wisdom|Syrene's Wisdom]] - Misha Kemi
* [[Weirwater_Vales|Weirwater Vales]] - Rada

===National Bourse Positions===
* [[Broken_Shore_Bounty|Broken Shore Bounty]] ([[The Brass Coast]]) - Jeziah i Radah
* [[Castellan_of_Spiral_Castle|Castellan of Spiral Castle]] ([[Dawn]]) - Maric
* [[Eternal_Shafts_of_Time|Eternal Shafts of Time]] ([[Varushka]]) - Tomasz
* [[Gift_of_the_Dwindling_Star|Gift of the Dwindling Star]] ([[Varushka]]) - Jarek the Peaceful
* [[Granites_of_Veltsgorsk|Granites of Veltsgorsk]] ([[Varushka]]) - Vitaly Grigorovich Dukov
* [[Legacy|Legacy]] ([[Urizen]]) - Thalia
* [[Pride_of_Ikka%27s_Tears|Pride of Ikka's Tears]] ([[Wintermark]]) - Balder
* [[Regario_Dossier|Regario Dossier]] ([[The League]]) - Rodrigo Barossa de Tassato Regario
* [[Singing_Caves|Singing Caves]] ([[The Marches]]) - Abbott Thomas Arch
* [[Steel_Fist|Steel Fist]] ([[Imperial Orcs]]) - Bloodcrow Losak
* [[Thimble|Thimble]] ([[Navarr]]) - Idris Eternal
* [[Vigilant_Swan|Vigilant Swan]] ([[Highguard]]) - Bartimaeus

===Other Titles===
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|First Imperial Wayleave]] - Lukash Biessek von Temeschwar
* [[Bearer_of_an_Imperial_Wayleave|Second Imperial Wayleave]] - Matt
* [[null|Imperial Orc Wayleave]] - Krunk

==Other Imperial Titles==

===Appointment by Senate Appointment===
* [[Blackroot_Broker|Blackroot Broker]] - Twyll Eternal
* [[Broken_Shield_Guardian|Broken Shield Guardian]] - Gezzar
* [[Magic_Butcher|Butcher of the Meat and Mana Market of Temeschwar]] - Lisabeth von Temeschwar
* [[Caretaker_of_New_Dunhall|Caretaker of New Dunhall]] - Brigantia Duning
* [[Celesti_Lighthouse_Keeper|Celesti Lighthouse Keeper]] - Bakar i Erigo
* [[Collector_of_Prosperity's_Boon|Collector of Prosperity's Boon]] - Vacant
* [[Custodian_of_Glass_Point_Cove|Custodian of Glass Point Cove]] - Dalibor Marek van Temeschwar
* [[Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage|Custodian of the Bloody Great Sausage]] - Kurt Kaiser
* [[Custodian_of_the_Claw|Custodian of the Claw]] - Valeria
* [[Dean_of_Pilgrims|Dean of Pilgrims]] - Vacant
* [[Dean_of_the_Thorned_Rose|Dean of the Thorned Rose]] - Bledri Eternal
* [[Dredgemaster of Feverwater|Dredgemaster of Lake Feverwater]] - Eleri Bronwen's Rest
* [[Eastern_Broker|Eastern Broker]] - Kiarten Twofeet
* [[Eternal_Flame_of_Miaren|Eternal Flame of Miaren]] - Tanwen
* [[Fallsheart_Guardian|Fallsheart Guardian]] - Breeta
* [[Four_Seasons%27_Boneweaver|Four Season's Boneweaver]] - Tog
* [[Gatekeeper_of_Falling_Snow|Gatekeeper of Falling Snow]] - Pendraed the Maker
* [[Granger_of_the_Golden_Orchard|Granger of the Golden Orchard]] - Merel
* [[Grim_Gardener|Grim Gardener]] - Maegruth Bearonovitch Strascovitch
* [[Guardian_of_Britta%27s_Shrine|Guardian of Britta's Shrine]] - Ruth
* [[Guardian_of_Dunfrith|Guardian of Dunfrith]] - Kai
* [[Guardian of the Cairn|Guardian of the Cairn]] - Tarqeq Icetongue
* [[Guardian_of_the_Prosperity_of_Afal|Guardian of the Prosperity of Afal]] - Gerraint Black
* [[Healer of Dawn|Healer of Dawn]] - Isabella de Rondell
* [[Herbalist of the Hearth|Herbalist of the Hearth]] - Brienne-Walda Stormborn
* [[High Herbalist of Sybella|High Herbalist of Sybella]] - tolame
* [[Jade_Custodian|Jade Custodian]] - Giacomo Corvinoscuro
* [[Construct_village_expansion_in_Volodmartz|Keeper of Berislav's Rest]] - Goran Berislavin Kovacevic
* [[Keeper_of_the_Crystal_Vale|Keeper of the Crystal Vale]] - torunn Volcarona
* [[Keeper_of_the_Dour_Fens|Keeper of the Dour Fens]] - Bill of Middleton
* [[Keeper_of_the_Golden_Fields|Keeper of the Golden Fields]] - Nicolas Reaper
* [[Keeper_of_the_Memorial_Gardens_of_Treji|Keeper of the Memorial Gardens at Treji]] - gertreg
* [[Keeper_of_the_Spice_Gardens|Keeper of the Spice Gardens]] - Reina i Shartha i Riquez
* [[Master_Apothecary|Master Apothecary]] - Kesa Algarsdottir
* [[Master_of_the_Clearing_House|Master of the Clearing House]] - Beatrix Amalia De Rondell zu Holberg
* [[Mayor of Caricomare|Mayor of Caricomare]] - Aria Notturno di Sarvos
* [[Preceptor_of_the_Skarsind_College_of_Warcasting|Preceptor of the Skarsind College of Warcasting]] - Gaterender Brik
* [[Keeper_of_the_Sapphire_Stair|Sapphire Stair]] - Domitila Sanguineo Rezia di Tassato
* [[Master_of_the_School_of_Exorcism|School of Exorcism]] - Naomi
* [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd|Shepherd of the Great Herd]] - Luga
* [[Signori_d%27Argento_Vine_Tender|Signori d'Argento Vine Tender]] - Captain Markus DeVere
* [[Spider%27s_Tollkeep|Spider's Tollkeep]] - Rafa'eet i Contra i Guerra
* [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Sarvos Mana Exchange]] - Vacant
* [[Steward_of_the_Tassato_Mana_Exchange|Steward of the Tassato Mana Exchange]] - Edwin Rogerius Sanguineo
* [[Storm Shaman|Storm Shaman]] - Ashborn Rauur
* [[Weigher_of_Worth|Weigher of Worth]] - Taal

===Appointment by Bourse Auction===
* [[Custodian_of_the_Concordium_Dock|Custodian of the Concordium Dock]] - Amulius
* [[Delver_of_the_Depths|Delver of the Depths]] - Tobrytan Dunning
* [[Kruidenkenner Trademaster|Kruidenkenner Trademaster]] - Dino i Erigo
* [[Prime_Factor_of_the_Pallas_Docks|Prime Factor of the Pallas Docks]] - Caesar
* [[Seer_of_the_Spiral_Sword|Seer of the Spiral Sword]] - Gemma Brightsmith

===Appointment by Bourse Vote===
* [[Bailiff_of_the_Grand_Market|Bailiff of the Grand Market]] - Mud
* [[Bonesetter_of_Torfast_Trading_Post|Bonesetter of Torfast Trading Post]] - Vacant
* [[Broker_of_Treji_Wayhouse|Broker of Treji Wayhouse]] - Trystan
* [[Custodian_of_the_Assayer%27s_Guild|Custodian of the Assayer's Guild]] - Johan Van Den Berghe
* [[Dhomiro_of_the_Cinnabar_Hills|Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] - Demetrio Taziel i Riqueza
* [[Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule|Foreman of the Mines of Gulhule]] - Irontide Flax
* [[Mistress_of_the_Glass_Parador|Mistress of the Glass Parador]] - Safya i Kalamar i Guerra
* [[Northbound_Trademaster|Northbound Trademaster]] - Aurèlio Duarte
* [[Overseer_of_the_Cavabianca_Dock|Overseer of the Cavabianca Dock]] - Benedict Pacelli Von Holberg
* [[Overseer_of_the_Westward_Road|Overseer of the Westward Road]] - Borys Vardovich Straskovich
* [[Vizier_of_the_Incarnadine_Satchel|Vizier of the Incarnadine Satchel]] - Esteban i Ezmara i Erigo

===Appointment by Conclave Declaration===
* [[Gloaming_Sentinel|Gloaming Sentinel]] - Terah
* [[Keeper_of_the_Cox|Keeper of the Cox]] - Gideon
* [[Penumbral_Watcher|Penumbral Watcher]] - Asenath

===Appointment by Synod Judgement===
* [[Crow_Keeper_of_the_Rest|Crow Keeper of the Rest]] - Nils Bardstrom
* [[Curator_of_the_White_City_Museum|Curator of the White City Museum]] - Apollos
* [[Friar_of_Honour's_Rest|Friar of Honour's Rest]] - Sister Meredith Stellamaris
* [[Guardian_of_Giselle%27s_Tomb|Guardian of Giselle's Tomb]] - Casimir Marcelino di Sarvos
* [[Dean_of_Laroc_Cathedral|Laroc Cathedral]] - Odelina
* [[Liaison_to_the_Temple_in_Nemoria|Liaison to the Temple in Nemoria]] - Franco i Erigo
* [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails|Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] - Able
* [[Watcher_of_Britta%27s_Pool|Watcher of Britta's Pool]] - Gunnbrand Ironwill

===Appointment by Throne Appointment===
* [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie|Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]] - Kay Griffinsbain

===Appointment by Cardinal Appointment===
* [[Curator_of_the_Printers%27_Guild_Museum|Curator of the Printers' Guild Museum]] - Taddea Ginori

===Appointment by Not A Well Worn Path===
* [[Keeper_of_Aurelie%27s_Garden|Keeper of Aurelie's Garden]] - Vacant
* [[Brock%27s_Toll|Keeper of Brock's Toll]] - Tomothy Crowle

[[Category:Elections]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:382YE Autumn]]