A mountain of vipers - Revision history

Twiggy at 15:57, 28 March 2026

2026-03-28T15:57:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:57, 28 March 2026
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	{{mandate\|assembly=Assembly of Nine or General Assembly\|mandate=In Wisdom the Synod judges liao trade with the Axos to be an acceptable activity that is neither virtuous nor unvirtuous. We send {named priest} with 25 liao to reassure the citizens of the Empire that selling or trading liao with the people of Axos is as virtuous and Prosperous as any other trade.}}		{{mandate\|assembly=Assembly of Nine or General Assembly\|mandate=In Wisdom the Synod judges liao trade with the Axos to be an acceptable activity that is neither virtuous nor unvirtuous. We send {named priest} with 25 liao to reassure the citizens of the Empire that selling or trading liao with the people of Axos is as virtuous and Prosperous as any other trade.}}

	The change in wording is subtle, but significant, and builds on an [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Statements_of_Principle\|earlier statement by the general assembly]] that stated "''In Wisdom the Synod judges Liao trade with the Axos to be an acceptable activity that is neither virtuous nor unvirtuous.''" The earlier mandate says it is acceptable to trade liao to ''anyone'' whereas ~~Tarquinis~~' alternative makes it clear this applies ''only'' to trade with Axos and not to questionable groups such as the Hand of Dumon. As such it is in [[Mandate#Competing Mandates\|competition]] with the earlier mandate.		The change in wording is subtle, but significant, and builds on an [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Statements_of_Principle\|earlier statement by the general assembly]] that stated "''In Wisdom the Synod judges Liao trade with the Axos to be an acceptable activity that is neither virtuous nor unvirtuous.''" The earlier mandate says it is acceptable to trade liao to ''anyone'' whereas Tarquinius' alternative makes it clear this applies ''only'' to trade with Axos and not to questionable groups such as the Hand of Dumon. As such it is in [[Mandate#Competing Mandates\|competition]] with the earlier mandate.

	==The Elosian Docks==		==The Elosian Docks==

Twiggy at 02:24, 15 August 2025

2025-08-15T02:24:40Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:24, 15 August 2025
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	===Traders from Issyk===		===Traders from Issyk===
	* '''Traders from the Issyk and Maykop offer new opportunities to the Quaymaster of the Black Sails and the Eastern Broker'''		* '''Traders from the Issyk and Maykop offer new opportunities to the Quaymaster of the Black Sails and the Eastern Broker'''
	With the Chambers of Issyk now looking for closer ties with the Empire, and the Halls of Maykop at worst neutral, existing arrangements with the Axou are also benefiting from the drive to improve trade relations.The Chambers of Issyk need [[liao]] after all, and as a consequence the demand for the precious material through the [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails#Black_Sails_Quay\|Black Sails Quay]] has increased. The merchants of Issyk and Maykop are considerably more direct than those from Kantor and Ipotavo however; they want to buy liao directly. As a consequence, the [[Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] now has a second stream to their [[ministry]] which allows them to sell bulk amounts of liao directly to Axou traders in return for coin.		With the Chambers of Issyk now looking for closer ties with the Empire, and the Halls of Maykop at worst neutral, existing arrangements with the Axou are also benefiting from the drive to improve trade relations. The Chambers of Issyk need [[liao]] after all, and as a consequence the demand for the precious material through the [[Quaymaster_of_the_Black_Sails#Black_Sails_Quay\|Black Sails Quay]] has increased. The merchants of Issyk and Maykop are considerably more direct than those from Kantor and Ipotavo however; they want to buy liao directly. As a consequence, the [[Quaymaster of the Black Sails]] now has a second stream to their [[ministry]] which allows them to sell bulk amounts of liao directly to Axou traders in return for coin.

	The offices of the [[Eastern Broker]] are [[Rise_of_Terunael#Therunin\|under threat]] from the [[vallorn]] but if they survive, the traders of Issyk would be equally interested in dealing with the Navarr in that easternmost territory. As such, the Eastern Broker would receive a third stream to their ministry allowing them to purchase cerulean mazzarine, ambergelt, and green iron from Issyk.		The offices of the [[Eastern Broker]] are [[Rise_of_Terunael#Therunin\|under threat]] from the [[vallorn]] but if they survive, the traders of Issyk would be equally interested in dealing with the Navarr in that easternmost territory. As such, the Eastern Broker would receive a third stream to their ministry allowing them to purchase cerulean mazzarine, ambergelt, and green iron from Issyk.
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	==Limited opportunities==		==Limited opportunities==
	Each of the [[opportunity\|opportunities]] detailed here are available until the end of the Winter Solstice 383YE. After this time the impact of the [[mandate]] will have faded. While it is not impossible that the [[Ambassador to Axos]] might be able to extend the opportunities, or revisit them at a later date, doing so would require shrewd negotiation and there is no guarantee that they would be available in the same form. The scholars of Maykop, for example, are likely to receive a warm welcome in the Universities of the Commonwealth, while the ~~Sacrophan~~ Delves would be more than happy to take as much white granite off the hands of the Axou as they could fit in their boats.		Each of the [[opportunity\|opportunities]] detailed here are available until the end of the Winter Solstice 383YE. After this time the impact of the [[mandate]] will have faded. While it is not impossible that the [[Ambassador to Axos]] might be able to extend the opportunities, or revisit them at a later date, doing so would require shrewd negotiation and there is no guarantee that they would be available in the same form. The scholars of Maykop, for example, are likely to receive a warm welcome in the Universities of the Commonwealth, while the Sarcophan Delves would be more than happy to take as much white granite off the hands of the Axou as they could fit in their boats.

	<quote by="Mercadia de Sarvos, Diplomatic dispatches, 196YE">"It is as if someone has taken the city of Tassato, or perhaps a nest of vipers, and built it into the side of a mountain."</quote>		<quote by="Mercadia de Sarvos, Diplomatic dispatches, 196YE">"It is as if someone has taken the city of Tassato, or perhaps a nest of vipers, and built it into the side of a mountain."</quote>
	{{Axos Links}}		{{Axos Links}}

Twiggy at 11:04, 19 July 2025

2025-07-19T11:04:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:04, 19 July 2025
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	Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.		Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.

	If the motion is passed, then enthusiastic Axou students would begin looking to enrol at the University of Holberg, [[Sarvos#Diora_University\|Diora University]], the [[Tassato#The_School_of_Epistemology\|School of Epistemology]], the [[~~Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian\|~~Great Library of Hacynian]], the many places of learning scattered across Urizen, and of course the prestigious [[Necropolis#The_Litharge\|Litharge]] in [[Necropolis]]. If both the motion is passed and the House of Spirits constructed then not only would the Empire gain valuable star metal but the relationship with Maykop would be significantly improved.		If the motion is passed, then enthusiastic Axou students would begin looking to enrol at the University of Holberg, [[Sarvos#Diora_University\|Diora University]], the [[Tassato#The_School_of_Epistemology\|School of Epistemology]], the [[Great Library of Hacynian]], the many places of learning scattered across Urizen, and of course the prestigious [[Necropolis#The_Litharge\|Litharge]] in [[Necropolis]]. If both the motion is passed and the House of Spirits constructed then not only would the Empire gain valuable star metal but the relationship with Maykop would be significantly improved.

	==Limited opportunities==		==Limited opportunities==

Twiggy at 01:53, 18 July 2025

2025-07-18T01:53:55Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:53, 18 July 2025
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	==A Scholarly Overture==		==A Scholarly Overture==
	* '''A merchant arm of the Halls of Maykop is interested in sending students to the Empire'''		* '''A merchant arm of the Halls of Maykop is interested in sending students to the Empire'''
	* '''They are prepared to sell [[ilium]] to an Imperial ~~liason~~'''		* '''They are prepared to sell [[ilium]] to an Imperial liaison'''
	The Halls of Maykop have been largely ambivalent to the Empire to date, but with the threat of civil war averted and repeated Imperial overtures of friendship the Grand Ilarch Keloparia and her council of Iles have looked up from their dusty tomes and recognised an opportunity. As described by a Navarr scholar [[Terunael_in_Axos#The_Halls_of_Maykop\|during a recent visit]], the Halls of Maykop are the home to a grand university - the College of Necromantia from which all the citadel's power flows. The greatest magicians in a nation ruled by magic study in Maykop, mastering the mundane disciplines of leadership, history, natural philosophy, and the arts as well as the macabre magical practice of the ''necromantia''.		The Halls of Maykop have been largely ambivalent to the Empire to date, but with the threat of civil war averted and repeated Imperial overtures of friendship the Grand Ilarch Keloparia and her council of Iles have looked up from their dusty tomes and recognised an opportunity. As described by a Navarr scholar [[Terunael_in_Axos#The_Halls_of_Maykop\|during a recent visit]], the Halls of Maykop are the home to a grand university - the College of Necromantia from which all the citadel's power flows. The greatest magicians in a nation ruled by magic study in Maykop, mastering the mundane disciplines of leadership, history, natural philosophy, and the arts as well as the macabre magical practice of the ''necromantia''.

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	The Senate motion alone would generate goodwill between the Halls of Maykop and the Empire. However it would also create an opportunity to establish a remote campus for the Halls of Maykop somewhere in the Empire. Mistress Isephenia is not concerned about anything ostentatious - a tower and a couple of residences to be employed as a base of operations for the faculty and students when they are visiting the Empire would be more than sufficient, along with an Imperial citizen to liaise with the folk of Maykop on any matters that might come up.		The Senate motion alone would generate goodwill between the Halls of Maykop and the Empire. However it would also create an opportunity to establish a remote campus for the Halls of Maykop somewhere in the Empire. Mistress Isephenia is not concerned about anything ostentatious - a tower and a couple of residences to be employed as a base of operations for the faculty and students when they are visiting the Empire would be more than sufficient, along with an Imperial citizen to liaise with the folk of Maykop on any matters that might come up.

	The kind of residence Mistress Isephenia is proposing would cost 20 wains of white granite and 10 wains of mithril, 60 crowns in labour costs, and be completed in three months. Its construction could be [[commission\|commissioned]] in the same [[Senate motion]] that opens the universities of the Empire to Axou students. The building itself could be built anywhere "civilised" - the only requirement Mistress Isephenia places is that it be built somewhere along the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] for the convenience of the students and professors alike (this means somewhere in [[Temeschwar]], [[Sarvos]], [[Tassato]], [[Holberg]], [[Casinea]], [[Astolat]], [[Semmerholm]], [[Upwold]], [[Hahnmark]], [[Miaren]], [[Karov]], or [[Madruga]]). The ~~liason~~ - perhaps ''Bursar of the House of Spirits'' - would receive control of a ministry, and would be an Imperial title that the civil service suggest might most profitably be auctioned through the Imperial Bourse. Given the nature of the title, it would make most sense for it to be an Imperial title - there are places of learning in many nations after all.		The kind of residence Mistress Isephenia is proposing would cost 20 wains of white granite and 10 wains of mithril, 60 crowns in labour costs, and be completed in three months. Its construction could be [[commission\|commissioned]] in the same [[Senate motion]] that opens the universities of the Empire to Axou students. The building itself could be built anywhere "civilised" - the only requirement Mistress Isephenia places is that it be built somewhere along the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] for the convenience of the students and professors alike (this means somewhere in [[Temeschwar]], [[Sarvos]], [[Tassato]], [[Holberg]], [[Casinea]], [[Astolat]], [[Semmerholm]], [[Upwold]], [[Hahnmark]], [[Miaren]], [[Karov]], or [[Madruga]]). The liaison - perhaps ''Bursar of the House of Spirits'' - would receive control of a ministry, and would be an Imperial title that the civil service suggest might most profitably be auctioned through the Imperial Bourse. Given the nature of the title, it would make most sense for it to be an Imperial title - there are places of learning in many nations after all.

	Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.		Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.

Rafferty at 10:57, 28 June 2025

2025-06-28T10:57:05Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:57, 28 June 2025
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	<quote by="Mercadia de Sarvos, Diplomatic dispatches, 196YE">"It is as if someone has taken the city of Tassato, or perhaps a nest of vipers, and built it into the side of a mountain."</quote>		<quote by="Mercadia de Sarvos, Diplomatic dispatches, 196YE">"It is as if someone has taken the city of Tassato, or perhaps a nest of vipers, and built it into the side of a mountain."</quote>
			{{Axos Links}}

Matt at 14:31, 16 July 2024

2024-07-16T14:31:13Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:31, 16 July 2024
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	Rafael seemed unconvinced, "I don't understand what the problem is. They have almost no liao of their own, if we can keep the Sumaah out, we could have a captive market!"		Rafael seemed unconvinced, "I don't understand what the problem is. They have almost no liao of their own, if we can keep the Sumaah out, we could have a captive market!"

	Mariana lifted her glass and took a sip. She wasn't thirsty, but it always helped to have a moment to collect your thoughts and pick your words at times like this. "Have you ever met an ~~Axiou~~ priest? They're not at all like our cardinals... I don't just mean that some follow the false virtues, though that ''is'' true. It is more than that; their view of the world is very different to ours."		Mariana lifted her glass and took a sip. She wasn't thirsty, but it always helped to have a moment to collect your thoughts and pick your words at times like this. "Have you ever met an Axou priest? They're not at all like our cardinals... I don't just mean that some follow the false virtues, though that ''is'' true. It is more than that; their view of the world is very different to ours."

	Rafael only shrugged. Few members of the Purple Sails were all that concerned with matters of virtue and he was no different. Work hard and be prosperous and you would get through the Labyrinth. What else did a person need to know?		Rafael only shrugged. Few members of the Purple Sails were all that concerned with matters of virtue and he was no different. Work hard and be prosperous and you would get through the Labyrinth. What else did a person need to know?

	The Prince continued, happy to hold forth. "It is not so long ago that the Empire toyed with outlawing the sale of liao altogether. The point is that an increase in the price of liao across the Empire might please the Synod less than you think. And if that happens then the strange beliefs of the ~~Axiou~~ might provide a convenient reason to condemn those who had encouraged the trade..." She let the threat trail off, her guest's face fell as his imagination filled in the rest.		The Prince continued, happy to hold forth. "It is not so long ago that the Empire toyed with outlawing the sale of liao altogether. The point is that an increase in the price of liao across the Empire might please the Synod less than you think. And if that happens then the strange beliefs of the Axou might provide a convenient reason to condemn those who had encouraged the trade..." She let the threat trail off, her guest's face fell as his imagination filled in the rest.

	"Fear not" she said, "a potential solution is at hand." Having shaken his confidence, now was the time to reel him in. "We simply need to ask for the Synod's blessing. Once we have that, nobody will be able to condemn us later if they suddenly change their mind."		"Fear not" she said, "a potential solution is at hand." Having shaken his confidence, now was the time to reel him in. "We simply need to ask for the Synod's blessing. Once we have that, nobody will be able to condemn us later if they suddenly change their mind."

Beeswax: /* A Scholarly Overture */

2023-03-26T19:12:13Z

A Scholarly Overture

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:12, 26 March 2023
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	Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.		Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.

	If the motion is passed, then enthusiastic Axou students would begin looking to enrol at the University of Holberg, [[Sarvos#Diora_University\|Diora University]], the [[Tassato#The_School_of_Epistemology\|School of Epistemology]], the [Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian\|Great Library of Hacynian]], the many places of learning scattered across Urizen, and of course the prestigious [[Necropolis#The_Litharge\|Litharge]] in [[Necropolis]]. If both the motion is passed and the House of Spirits constructed then not only would the Empire gain valuable star metal but the relationship with Maykop would be significantly improved.		If the motion is passed, then enthusiastic Axou students would begin looking to enrol at the University of Holberg, [[Sarvos#Diora_University\|Diora University]], the [[Tassato#The_School_of_Epistemology\|School of Epistemology]], the [[Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian\|Great Library of Hacynian]], the many places of learning scattered across Urizen, and of course the prestigious [[Necropolis#The_Litharge\|Litharge]] in [[Necropolis]]. If both the motion is passed and the House of Spirits constructed then not only would the Empire gain valuable star metal but the relationship with Maykop would be significantly improved.

	==Limited opportunities==		==Limited opportunities==

Rafferty at 12:19, 1 September 2022

2022-09-01T12:19:54Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:19, 1 September 2022
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	Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.		Mistress Isephenia is quick to point out that the College is ''not'' looking to study at the Empire's [[College of magic\|magical colleges]] - and likewise is offering Imperial students a chance to study the mundane disciplines taught at the Halls of Maykop and ''not'' the arts of ''necromantia''. While history, philosophy, the natural sciences, engineering, rhetoric and the like may not match the sheer power wielded by the application of magic they are nonetheless worthy pursuits that can help a sorcerer gain the insight needed to employ their magic effectively.

	If the motion is passed, then enthusiastic Axou students would begin looking to enrol at the University of Holberg, [[Sarvos#Diora_University\|Diora University]], the [[Tassato#The_School_of_Epistemology\|School of Epistemology]], the [~~[Great_Library_of_Hacynian~~\|Great Library of Hacynian]], the many places of learning scattered across Urizen, and of course the prestigious [[Necropolis#The_Litharge\|Litharge]] in [[Necropolis]]. If both the motion is passed and the House of Spirits constructed then not only would the Empire gain valuable star metal but the relationship with Maykop would be significantly improved.		If the motion is passed, then enthusiastic Axou students would begin looking to enrol at the University of Holberg, [[Sarvos#Diora_University\|Diora University]], the [[Tassato#The_School_of_Epistemology\|School of Epistemology]], the [Advisor_on_the_Vallorn#The_Great_Library_of_Hacynian\|Great Library of Hacynian]], the many places of learning scattered across Urizen, and of course the prestigious [[Necropolis#The_Litharge\|Litharge]] in [[Necropolis]]. If both the motion is passed and the House of Spirits constructed then not only would the Empire gain valuable star metal but the relationship with Maykop would be significantly improved.

	==Limited opportunities==		==Limited opportunities==

Noserenda at 18:00, 8 September 2019

2019-09-08T18:00:58Z

Rafferty: /* The Liao Trade */

2019-09-08T14:05:54Z

The Liao Trade

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:05, 8 September 2019
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	The second effect will be a marked increase in the number of Axos ships visiting Imperial ports where the Empire's businessfolk will sell them all the liao they might desire. The increase in trade and the additional tariffs will see an additional 10 Thrones each season added to the Imperial Treasury.		The second effect will be a marked increase in the number of Axos ships visiting Imperial ports where the Empire's businessfolk will sell them all the liao they might desire. The increase in trade and the additional tariffs will see an additional 10 Thrones each season added to the Imperial Treasury.

	The Ambassador to Axos, '''Tarquinius Ankarien'' has suggested an[[Mandate#Alternative_Mandates\|alternative]] to this mandate.		The Ambassador to Axos, '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' has suggested an [[Mandate#Alternative_Mandates\|alternative]] to this mandate.

	{{mandate\|assembly=Assembly of Nine or General Assembly\|mandate=In Wisdom the Synod judges liao trade with the Axos to be an acceptable activity that is neither virtuous nor unvirtuous. We send {named priest} with 25 liao to reassure the citizens of the Empire that selling or trading liao with the people of Axos is as virtuous and Prosperous as any other trade.}}		{{mandate\|assembly=Assembly of Nine or General Assembly\|mandate=In Wisdom the Synod judges liao trade with the Axos to be an acceptable activity that is neither virtuous nor unvirtuous. We send {named priest} with 25 liao to reassure the citizens of the Empire that selling or trading liao with the people of Axos is as virtuous and Prosperous as any other trade.}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:00, 8 September 2019
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	Mariana lifted her glass and took a sip. She wasn't thirsty, but it always helped to have a moment to collect your thoughts and pick your words at times like this. "Have you ever met an Axiou priest? They're not at all like our cardinals... I don't just mean that some follow the false virtues, though that ''is'' true. It is more than that; their view of the world is very different to ours."		Mariana lifted her glass and took a sip. She wasn't thirsty, but it always helped to have a moment to collect your thoughts and pick your words at times like this. "Have you ever met an Axiou priest? They're not at all like our cardinals... I don't just mean that some follow the false virtues, though that ''is'' true. It is more than that; their view of the world is very different to ours."

	Rafael only shrugged. Few members of the Purple Sails were all that concerned with matters of virtue and he was no different. Work hard and be prosperous and you would get through the ~~Labryinth~~. What else did a person need to know?		Rafael only shrugged. Few members of the Purple Sails were all that concerned with matters of virtue and he was no different. Work hard and be prosperous and you would get through the Labyrinth. What else did a person need to know?

	The Prince continued, happy to hold forth. "It is not so long ago that the Empire toyed with outlawing the sale of liao altogether. The point is that an increase in the price of liao across the Empire might please the Synod less than you think. And if that happens then the strange beliefs of the Axiou might provide a convenient reason to condemn those who had encouraged the trade..." She let the threat trail off, her guest's face fell as his imagination filled in the rest.		The Prince continued, happy to hold forth. "It is not so long ago that the Empire toyed with outlawing the sale of liao altogether. The point is that an increase in the price of liao across the Empire might please the Synod less than you think. And if that happens then the strange beliefs of the Axiou might provide a convenient reason to condemn those who had encouraged the trade..." She let the threat trail off, her guest's face fell as his imagination filled in the rest.
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	* '''The Grand Ilarch Andronicus has invited investment in reconstruction of the docks in the port'''		* '''The Grand Ilarch Andronicus has invited investment in reconstruction of the docks in the port'''
	* '''Constructing the docks would cost 30 wains of weirwood, and 60 crowns labour'''		* '''Constructing the docks would cost 30 wains of weirwood, and 60 crowns labour'''
	Until very recently, the Grand Ilarch of the Chambers of Issyk sought alliance with the [[Grendel\|orcs of the Broken Shore]]. Following the ratification of the Liberty Pact, the Grand Ilarch was overthrown in a violent coup. The new ''Grand Ilarch Andronicus'' has proved to be much more moderate in his politics, being critical of Issyk's involvement with the Grendel, and interested in mending fences not only with the other citadels but with the Empire as well. Past ~~misundertstandings~~ and grievances have been put to one side, and The Ilarchs of the Chambers of Issyk have begun sending out ships to the Empire - to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach\|Crown's Quay]], and [[Redoubt#Cargo\|Cargo]] - with news that the quayside of Issyk is as welcoming of Imperial trade as the docks at the Towers of Kantor.		Until very recently, the Grand Ilarch of the Chambers of Issyk sought alliance with the [[Grendel\|orcs of the Broken Shore]]. Following the ratification of the Liberty Pact, the Grand Ilarch was overthrown in a violent coup. The new ''Grand Ilarch Andronicus'' has proved to be much more moderate in his politics, being critical of Issyk's involvement with the Grendel, and interested in mending fences not only with the other citadels but with the Empire as well. Past misunderstandings and grievances have been put to one side, and The Ilarchs of the Chambers of Issyk have begun sending out ships to the Empire - to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach\|Crown's Quay]], and [[Redoubt#Cargo\|Cargo]] - with news that the quayside of Issyk is as welcoming of Imperial trade as the docks at the Towers of Kantor.

	Welcoming they might be - but realistically Issyk cannot compare to the docks at Kantor. Over the last few years the quayside has been expanded - specifically to deal with increased trade from the Grendel - but it is still nowhere near as developed as Imperial captains are used to dealing with when they visit Kantor. While the amount of trade with the [[Principalities of Jarm\|Jarmish]] has tailed off significantly since the Axou became signatories to the Liberty pact, there are still ship captains that make the journey from the Principality and along with enthusiastic traders from [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]], the two nations have secured extensive docking rights in the citadel. An advisor to the Grand Ilarch has presented a plan for improving imperial trade.		Welcoming they might be - but realistically Issyk cannot compare to the docks at Kantor. Over the last few years the quayside has been expanded - specifically to deal with increased trade from the Grendel - but it is still nowhere near as developed as Imperial captains are used to dealing with when they visit Kantor. While the amount of trade with the [[Principalities of Jarm\|Jarmish]] has tailed off significantly since the Axou became signatories to the Liberty pact, there are still ship captains that make the journey from the Principality and along with enthusiastic traders from [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]], the two nations have secured extensive docking rights in the citadel. An advisor to the Grand Ilarch has presented a plan for improving imperial trade.

	The people of Issyk offer an opportunity for the Empire to build warehouses and residences on the seafront, and to take custody of several piers which would be specifically set aside for Imperial fleet captains. The construction would require 30 wains of weirwood, cost 60 crowns, and take three months to complete. It would require a [[Senate motion]] to ~~authorize~~, but as the work would be largely overseen by the Chambers of Issyk, and the actual construction undertaken by Axou labourers, it would not require one of the Senate's limited supply of [[commission\|commissions]]. While the economic advantage to Imperial captains would be clear, the construction would also generate notable goodwill with the citizens of Issyk and help them gloss over past difficulties.		The people of Issyk offer an opportunity for the Empire to build warehouses and residences on the seafront, and to take custody of several piers which would be specifically set aside for Imperial fleet captains. The construction would require 30 wains of weirwood, cost 60 crowns, and take three months to complete. It would require a [[Senate motion]] to authorise, but as the work would be largely overseen by the Chambers of Issyk, and the actual construction undertaken by Axou labourers, it would not require one of the Senate's limited supply of [[commission\|commissions]]. While the economic advantage to Imperial captains would be clear, the construction would also generate notable goodwill with the citizens of Issyk and help them gloss over past difficulties.

	The Grand Ilarch has made this [[opportunity]] open to the Empire until the start of the Spring Equinox 384YE - if construction has not been completed by this time then the real estate will instead be snapped up by traders from the Delves. The port would still stay open - but the opportunity for Imperial fleets to secure a prime place on the docks would be lost for the time being.		The Grand Ilarch has made this [[opportunity]] open to the Empire until the start of the Spring Equinox 384YE - if construction has not been completed by this time then the real estate will instead be snapped up by traders from the Delves. The port would still stay open - but the opportunity for Imperial fleets to secure a prime place on the docks would be lost for the time being.
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	Following on from the previous [[mandate]] that inspired the interest in trade with Axos, either the General Assembly or the Assembly of Nine may pass this mandate to reassure Imperial priests, [[business]] owners, and traders of all stripes that it is entirely acceptable to sell liao to the Axou regardless of what they may do with it. If it is enacted - and thanks to the intervention of the Wisdom assembly and the [[sword scholar\|sword scholars]] this will require a [[greater majority]] - then it will remove lingering doubts that the Axou should not acquire liao from the Empire.		Following on from the previous [[mandate]] that inspired the interest in trade with Axos, either the General Assembly or the Assembly of Nine may pass this mandate to reassure Imperial priests, [[business]] owners, and traders of all stripes that it is entirely acceptable to sell liao to the Axou regardless of what they may do with it. If it is enacted - and thanks to the intervention of the Wisdom assembly and the [[sword scholar\|sword scholars]] this will require a [[greater majority]] - then it will remove lingering doubts that the Axou should not acquire liao from the Empire.

	The first effect will be that the amount of money received for selling liao via congregation will increase from 18 rings a dose to a full crown, and remain stable at that price for the ~~forseeable~~ future.		The first effect will be that the amount of money received for selling liao via congregation will increase from 18 rings a dose to a full crown, and remain stable at that price for the foreseeable future.

	The second effect will be a marked increase in the number of Axos ships visiting Imperial ports where the Empire's ~~businessfolk~~ will sell them all the liao they might desire. The increase in trade and the additional tariffs will see an additional 10 Thrones each season added to the Imperial Treasury.		The second effect will be a marked increase in the number of Axos ships visiting Imperial ports where the Empire's business-folk will sell them all the liao they might desire. The increase in trade and the additional tariffs will see an additional 10 Thrones each season added to the Imperial Treasury.

	The Ambassador to Axos, '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' has suggested an [[Mandate#Alternative_Mandates\|alternative]] to this mandate.		The Ambassador to Axos, '''Tarquinius Ankarien''' has suggested an [[Mandate#Alternative_Mandates\|alternative]] to this mandate.
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	If the Imperial Senate is prepared to formally invite the people of Maykop to allow select students at the College to apply for places studying at the great centres of learning in the Empire then not only would the College extend a similar invitation, but they would potentially be prepared to offer small amounts of precious [[ilium]] in return for the privilege.		If the Imperial Senate is prepared to formally invite the people of Maykop to allow select students at the College to apply for places studying at the great centres of learning in the Empire then not only would the College extend a similar invitation, but they would potentially be prepared to offer small amounts of precious [[ilium]] in return for the privilege.

	The Senate motion alone would generate goodwill between the Halls of Maykop and the Empire. However it would also create an opportunity to establish a remote campus for the Halls of Maykop somewhere in the Empire. Mistress Isephenia is not concerned about anything ostentatious - a tower and a couple of residences to be employed as a base of operations for the faculty and students when they are visiting the Empire would be more than sufficient, along with an Imperial citizen to ~~liase~~ with the folk of Maykop on any matters that might come up.		The Senate motion alone would generate goodwill between the Halls of Maykop and the Empire. However it would also create an opportunity to establish a remote campus for the Halls of Maykop somewhere in the Empire. Mistress Isephenia is not concerned about anything ostentatious - a tower and a couple of residences to be employed as a base of operations for the faculty and students when they are visiting the Empire would be more than sufficient, along with an Imperial citizen to liaise with the folk of Maykop on any matters that might come up.

	The kind of residence Mistress Isephenia is proposing would cost 20 wains of white granite and 10 wains of mithril, 60 crowns in labour costs, and be completed in three months. Its construction could be [[commission\|commissioned]] in the same [[Senate motion]] that opens the universities of the Empire to Axou students. The building itself could be built anywhere "civilised" - the only requirement Mistress Isephenia places is that it be built somewhere along the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] for the convenience of the students and professors alike (this means somewhere in [[Temeschwar]], [[Sarvos]], [[Tassato]], [[Holberg]], [[Casinea]], [[Astolat]], [[Semmerholm]], [[Upwold]], [[Hahnmark]], [[Miaren]], [[Karov]], or [[Madruga]]). The liason - perhaps ''Bursar of the House of Spirits'' - would receive control of a ministry, and would be an Imperial title that the civil service suggest might most profitably be auctioned through the Imperial Bourse. Given the nature of the title, it would make most sense for it to be an Imperial title - there are places of learning in many nations after all.		The kind of residence Mistress Isephenia is proposing would cost 20 wains of white granite and 10 wains of mithril, 60 crowns in labour costs, and be completed in three months. Its construction could be [[commission\|commissioned]] in the same [[Senate motion]] that opens the universities of the Empire to Axou students. The building itself could be built anywhere "civilised" - the only requirement Mistress Isephenia places is that it be built somewhere along the [[Lorenzo%27s_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads\|Blood Red Roads]] for the convenience of the students and professors alike (this means somewhere in [[Temeschwar]], [[Sarvos]], [[Tassato]], [[Holberg]], [[Casinea]], [[Astolat]], [[Semmerholm]], [[Upwold]], [[Hahnmark]], [[Miaren]], [[Karov]], or [[Madruga]]). The liason - perhaps ''Bursar of the House of Spirits'' - would receive control of a ministry, and would be an Imperial title that the civil service suggest might most profitably be auctioned through the Imperial Bourse. Given the nature of the title, it would make most sense for it to be an Imperial title - there are places of learning in many nations after all.
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	==Limited opportunities==		==Limited opportunities==
	Each of the [[opportunity\|opportunities]] detailed here are available until the end of the Winter Solstice 383YE. After this time the impact of the [[mandate]] will have faded. While it is not impossible that the [[Ambassador to Axos]] might be able to extend the opportunities, or revisit them at a later date, doing so would require shrewd negotiation and there is no ~~garauntee~~ that they would be available in the same form. The scholars of Maykop, for example, are likely to receive a warm welcome in the Universities of the Commonwealth, while the Sacrophan Delves would be more than happy to take as much white granite off the hands of the Axou as they could fit in their boats.		Each of the [[opportunity\|opportunities]] detailed here are available until the end of the Winter Solstice 383YE. After this time the impact of the [[mandate]] will have faded. While it is not impossible that the [[Ambassador to Axos]] might be able to extend the opportunities, or revisit them at a later date, doing so would require shrewd negotiation and there is no guarantee that they would be available in the same form. The scholars of Maykop, for example, are likely to receive a warm welcome in the Universities of the Commonwealth, while the Sacrophan Delves would be more than happy to take as much white granite off the hands of the Axou as they could fit in their boats.

	<quote by="Mercadia de Sarvos, Diplomatic dispatches, 196YE">"It is as if someone has taken the city of Tassato, or perhaps a nest of vipers, and built it into the side of a mountain."</quote>		<quote by="Mercadia de Sarvos, Diplomatic dispatches, 196YE">"It is as if someone has taken the city of Tassato, or perhaps a nest of vipers, and built it into the side of a mountain."</quote>