Any port in a storm - Revision history

Twiggy at 00:08, 20 August 2026

2026-08-20T00:08:13Z

Rafferty at 15:39, 23 January 2026

2026-01-23T15:39:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:39, 23 January 2026
Line 1:		Line 1:
	[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]		[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Appraisal]]
	<ic>The group of academics leaned back on the bog chairs their hosts had provided. The evening meal, a mixed seafood grill had been delicious. Served on a bed of rice and artfully presented on thick green leaves that also added a subtle flavour to the meal. It had made a pleasant change from the spiced and cured sausage that was the mainstay of many Holberg meals. What was needed now was a few tankards of the city's finest ale, but sadly that was in very short supply way out here in Misericorde.		<ic>The group of academics leaned back on the bog chairs their hosts had provided. The evening meal, a mixed seafood grill had been delicious. Served on a bed of rice and artfully presented on thick green leaves that also added a subtle flavour to the meal. It had made a pleasant change from the spiced and cured sausage that was the mainstay of many Holberg meals. What was needed now was a few tankards of the city's finest ale, but sadly that was in very short supply way out here in Misericorde.

Matt: Text replacement - "Senate" to "Senate"

2026-01-15T22:23:14Z

Text replacement - "Senate" to "Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:23, 15 January 2026
Line 23:		Line 23:
	The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.		The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.

	There was [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port\|talk of more ports]] on [[the Semmerlak]] when [[Ossium]] was conquered. The [[Karov#Malimorzi\|docks of Korotny]] were eventually expanded, but ideas to expand [[Semmerholm#Lacuve\|Lacre]] in [[Dawn]] and to build a new port in the north of Holberg never emerged. Now, the timing seems apposite - the Sand Fisher [[orc\|orcs]] are eager to support any investment in the north of the territory and one of the powerful [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] families, [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever\|The Lijkkever]], have likewise [[Can't_give_everything_away#Schuyler_and_Holberg\|expressed an interest]] in the prospect of trade with the greatest city in the world. At the Summer Solstice, the [[~~Senate\|~~Senate]] instructed the civil service to send [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest\|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[appraisal\|look into the matter]], to see what such plans might cost and what the benefits would be.		There was [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port\|talk of more ports]] on [[the Semmerlak]] when [[Ossium]] was conquered. The [[Karov#Malimorzi\|docks of Korotny]] were eventually expanded, but ideas to expand [[Semmerholm#Lacuve\|Lacre]] in [[Dawn]] and to build a new port in the north of Holberg never emerged. Now, the timing seems apposite - the Sand Fisher [[orc\|orcs]] are eager to support any investment in the north of the territory and one of the powerful [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] families, [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever\|The Lijkkever]], have likewise [[Can't_give_everything_away#Schuyler_and_Holberg\|expressed an interest]] in the prospect of trade with the greatest city in the world. At the Summer Solstice, the [[Senate]] instructed the civil service to send [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest\|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[appraisal\|look into the matter]], to see what such plans might cost and what the benefits would be.

	<quote by ="Senate motion, Proposed Holberg, Seconded Casinea">To instruct the Prognosticator's Office to send Naomi of Virtue's Rest to appraise constructing a port in Utterlund, in Holberg, as laid out in the suggestion from the Lijkkever families of the Sarcophan Delves. We ask Naomi to negotiate with the Lijkkever and the Sand Fisher Orcs of Misericorde for their assistance in constructing the port and associated necessary infrastructure.</quote>		<quote by ="Senate motion, Proposed Holberg, Seconded Casinea">To instruct the Prognosticator's Office to send Naomi of Virtue's Rest to appraise constructing a port in Utterlund, in Holberg, as laid out in the suggestion from the Lijkkever families of the Sarcophan Delves. We ask Naomi to negotiate with the Lijkkever and the Sand Fisher Orcs of Misericorde for their assistance in constructing the port and associated necessary infrastructure.</quote>

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

2026-01-15T12:31:46Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:31, 15 January 2026
Line 23:		Line 23:
	The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.		The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.

	There was [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port\|talk of more ports]] on [[the Semmerlak]] when [[Ossium]] was conquered. The [[Karov#Malimorzi\|docks of Korotny]] were eventually expanded, but ideas to expand [[Semmerholm#Lacuve\|Lacre]] in [[Dawn]] and to build a new port in the north of Holberg never emerged. Now, the timing seems apposite - the Sand Fisher [[orc\|orcs]] are eager to support any investment in the north of the territory and one of the powerful [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] families, [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever\|The Lijkkever]], have likewise [[Can't_give_everything_away#Schuyler_and_Holberg\|expressed an interest]] in the prospect of trade with the greatest city in the world. At the Summer Solstice, the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate\|Senate]] instructed the civil service to send [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest\|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[appraisal\|look into the matter]], to see what such plans might cost and what the benefits would be.		There was [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port\|talk of more ports]] on [[the Semmerlak]] when [[Ossium]] was conquered. The [[Karov#Malimorzi\|docks of Korotny]] were eventually expanded, but ideas to expand [[Semmerholm#Lacuve\|Lacre]] in [[Dawn]] and to build a new port in the north of Holberg never emerged. Now, the timing seems apposite - the Sand Fisher [[orc\|orcs]] are eager to support any investment in the north of the territory and one of the powerful [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] families, [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever\|The Lijkkever]], have likewise [[Can't_give_everything_away#Schuyler_and_Holberg\|expressed an interest]] in the prospect of trade with the greatest city in the world. At the Summer Solstice, the [[Senate\|Senate]] instructed the civil service to send [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest\|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[appraisal\|look into the matter]], to see what such plans might cost and what the benefits would be.

	<quote by ="Senate motion, Proposed Holberg, Seconded Casinea">To instruct the Prognosticator's Office to send Naomi of Virtue's Rest to appraise constructing a port in Utterlund, in Holberg, as laid out in the suggestion from the Lijkkever families of the Sarcophan Delves. We ask Naomi to negotiate with the Lijkkever and the Sand Fisher Orcs of Misericorde for their assistance in constructing the port and associated necessary infrastructure.</quote>		<quote by ="Senate motion, Proposed Holberg, Seconded Casinea">To instruct the Prognosticator's Office to send Naomi of Virtue's Rest to appraise constructing a port in Utterlund, in Holberg, as laid out in the suggestion from the Lijkkever families of the Sarcophan Delves. We ask Naomi to negotiate with the Lijkkever and the Sand Fisher Orcs of Misericorde for their assistance in constructing the port and associated necessary infrastructure.</quote>

Novemberalice at 21:09, 4 September 2025

2025-09-04T21:09:29Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:09, 4 September 2025
Line 20:		Line 20:
	<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=GreatestCity5.png\|caption=Holberg is regarded as the greatest city in the League - and perhaps even the world.\|align=left\|width=500}}</div>		<div style="float:left; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=GreatestCity5.png\|caption=Holberg is regarded as the greatest city in the League - and perhaps even the world.\|align=left\|width=500}}</div>
	==Overview==		==Overview==
			{{audio\|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fpt08-13dgM}}
	The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.		The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.

Twiggy at 12:24, 3 September 2025

2025-09-03T12:24:42Z

Noserenda: /* Back At The Office */

2025-09-03T10:43:40Z

Back At The Office

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:43, 3 September 2025
Line 147:		Line 147:
	The Senate also [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Grant_Sabbatical_to_Eilian_Sweetwater\|approved]] a request by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] to take a sabbatical from the Prognosticator's Office to perform a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#An_Extensive_Prospect\|thorough investigation]] of the Empire's historic lighthouses. Unfortunately, his first such investigation into the destroyed Lighthouse of Nikophoros in [[Redoubt]] coincided with a [[To ruin\|major offensive]] by the [[Grendel]]. Eilian's whereabouts are [[To_ruin#And_Finally...\|currently unknown]], although hopefully wherever he is he and his companions are safe and well.		The Senate also [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Grant_Sabbatical_to_Eilian_Sweetwater\|approved]] a request by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] to take a sabbatical from the Prognosticator's Office to perform a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#An_Extensive_Prospect\|thorough investigation]] of the Empire's historic lighthouses. Unfortunately, his first such investigation into the destroyed Lighthouse of Nikophoros in [[Redoubt]] coincided with a [[To ruin\|major offensive]] by the [[Grendel]]. Eilian's whereabouts are [[To_ruin#And_Finally...\|currently unknown]], although hopefully wherever he is he and his companions are safe and well.

	Finally, during the Summer Solstice, there was [[Hope_and_fear#Further_Appraisal\|an opportunity]] to encourage the retired[[Appraisal#Retired_Prognosticators\|Mladen Escovitch]] to return to work at the Prognosticators' Office. After giving the matter due consideration, the [[Assembly of the Nine]] and the Senate decided to leave the former [[general]] to enjoy his retirement.		Finally, during the Summer Solstice, there was [[Hope_and_fear#Further_Appraisal\|an opportunity]] to encourage the retired [[Appraisal#Retired_Prognosticators\|Mladen Escovitch]] to return to work at the Prognosticators' Office. After giving the matter due consideration, the [[Assembly of the Nine]] and the Senate decided to leave the former [[general]] to enjoy his retirement.

	As such, there are only two members of the Prognosticator's Office available to perform appraisals at the Autumn Equinox - Naomi, and [[Appraisal#Lutomysla_Niegoslava\|Lutomysla Niegoslava]]. They both have particular areas of expertise - Naomi is adept at finding diplomatic solutions to problems, and Lutomysla is an experienced magician with a flair for dealing with magical problems or finding magical answers to thorny questions. As always, if the Senate do not specify which of the Imperial prognosticators will undertake an appraisal that decision will be made by the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury.		As such, there are only two members of the Prognosticator's Office available to perform appraisals at the Autumn Equinox - Naomi, and [[Appraisal#Lutomysla_Niegoslava\|Lutomysla Niegoslava]]. They both have particular areas of expertise - Naomi is adept at finding diplomatic solutions to problems, and Lutomysla is an experienced magician with a flair for dealing with magical problems or finding magical answers to thorny questions. As always, if the Senate do not specify which of the Imperial prognosticators will undertake an appraisal that decision will be made by the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury.

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==
	* [[Holberg]]		* [[Holberg]]

Noserenda: /* The Sandfisher Contribution */

2025-09-03T10:43:04Z

The Sandfisher Contribution

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:43, 3 September 2025
Line 127:		Line 127:
	Inspired by that goal, the sept acquired the materials to build their own [[Schools_and_sawmills#Holberg:_The_Sand_Fisher_Port\|sawmills]] and have been busy preparing large stocks of timber. Kiln-dried hard wood ready for construction and surprisingly substantial stocks of [[weirwood]] have been carefully hoarded for just this moment.		Inspired by that goal, the sept acquired the materials to build their own [[Schools_and_sawmills#Holberg:_The_Sand_Fisher_Port\|sawmills]] and have been busy preparing large stocks of timber. Kiln-dried hard wood ready for construction and surprisingly substantial stocks of [[weirwood]] have been carefully hoarded for just this moment.

	Their original plan, when they expected the port to be built in Misericorde, was to contribute 20 wains of weirwood to the commission of the new port. However, since the port is now being planned for Utterlund, they have a request to make. They have apparently been speaking with the Sarcophan and have discovered the existence of the [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave\|~~The_Alivetti_Enclave~~]] in Sarvos. In return for their weirwood and help with the labour building the port, they would like their own enclave.		Their original plan, when they expected the port to be built in Misericorde, was to contribute 20 wains of weirwood to the commission of the new port. However, since the port is now being planned for Utterlund, they have a request to make. They have apparently been speaking with the Sarcophan and have discovered the existence of the [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave\|The Alivetti Enclave]] in Sarvos. In return for their weirwood and help with the labour building the port, they would like their own enclave.

	Their plan is a modest building that will include a small storehouse where they can keep goods to sell to visiting traders. They understand the League might not object to them bringing goods to the port to sell anyway, but the sept believe that having their own enclave would give them some credibility with merchants which will increase the prices they can get for them. Technically it would mean that Sandfisher law was relevant inside the building but the sept don't seem to care about that; they're more concerned about the impression the enclave will give the Sarcophan and other visitors.		Their plan is a modest building that will include a small storehouse where they can keep goods to sell to visiting traders. They understand the League might not object to them bringing goods to the port to sell anyway, but the sept believe that having their own enclave would give them some credibility with merchants which will increase the prices they can get for them. Technically it would mean that Sandfisher law was relevant inside the building but the sept don't seem to care about that; they're more concerned about the impression the enclave will give the Sarcophan and other visitors.
Line 136:		Line 136:
	* '''A companion appraisal is being performed by Commonwealth Professor Gelberg that may have bearing on the matter of the port		* '''A companion appraisal is being performed by Commonwealth Professor Gelberg that may have bearing on the matter of the port
	At the same time that Naomi is engaged in her appraisal, the [[Commonwealth]] academics led by Professor Gelberg are also talking to the Sand Fishers. While Naomi's efforts are focussed on what support the sept would be able to provide for the new port, Professor Gelberg is exploring [[Threats_that_are_to_come#The_Common_Good\|the possibility of the Sandfishers acquiring farms in Utterlund and Rebeshof]].		At the same time that Naomi is engaged in her appraisal, the [[Commonwealth]] academics led by Professor Gelberg are also talking to the Sand Fishers. While Naomi's efforts are focussed on what support the sept would be able to provide for the new port, Professor Gelberg is exploring [[Threats_that_are_to_come#The_Common_Good\|the possibility of the Sandfishers acquiring farms in Utterlund and Rebeshof]].

	==Back At The Office==		==Back At The Office==
	* '''Graciana is not available to perform an appraisal during the Autumn Equinox		* '''Graciana is not available to perform an appraisal during the Autumn Equinox

Noserenda: /* A New Port */

2025-09-03T10:42:25Z

A New Port

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:42, 3 September 2025
Line 74:		Line 74:
	The plans themselves are not Naomi's area of speciality, but the Lijkkever have a great deal of experience with such matters and they are eager to help. In other circumstances, they might demand payment for the work done for the Empire by their skilled architects and engineers, but Naomi adroitly persuades them to provide their assistance as a sign of good faith and support for the project. She also recruits some of the most capable professionals from Holberg to work on the plans by slyly suggesting that they might not want to be outdone by their Sarcophan rivals. Together, the two groups are able to meet the brief - to create an Ambitious set of plans for a set of docks that would draw ships, businesses, and people to the shores of Holberg.		The plans themselves are not Naomi's area of speciality, but the Lijkkever have a great deal of experience with such matters and they are eager to help. In other circumstances, they might demand payment for the work done for the Empire by their skilled architects and engineers, but Naomi adroitly persuades them to provide their assistance as a sign of good faith and support for the project. She also recruits some of the most capable professionals from Holberg to work on the plans by slyly suggesting that they might not want to be outdone by their Sarcophan rivals. Together, the two groups are able to meet the brief - to create an Ambitious set of plans for a set of docks that would draw ships, businesses, and people to the shores of Holberg.

	The port would be operational as soon as it was complete, enabling trade to flow to and from Holberg to the port. The [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_the_Lakesedge_Highway\|recently completed Lakesedge Highway]] that runs from [[Holberg#Holmauer_Park\|Holmauer Gate]] to [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] would need to be extended to reach the new port on Utterlund's coast, but that work is small and the costs included in the proposed [[commission]]. Once established the port the bustling trade would cause a port town to spring up and would establish an office to oversee operations. The Docks have been provisionally titled the ''Imperatrix Docks'' in honour of the most famous scion of Holberg in living memory, the [[~~Empress_Lisabetta~~]].		The port would be operational as soon as it was complete, enabling trade to flow to and from Holberg to the port. The [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_the_Lakesedge_Highway\|recently completed Lakesedge Highway]] that runs from [[Holberg#Holmauer_Park\|Holmauer Gate]] to [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] would need to be extended to reach the new port on Utterlund's coast, but that work is small and the costs included in the proposed [[commission]]. Once established the port the bustling trade would cause a port town to spring up and would establish an office to oversee operations. The Docks have been provisionally titled the ''Imperatrix Docks'' in honour of the most famous scion of Holberg in living memory, the [[Empress Lisabetta]].

	The Merchant-Prince of the Imperatrix Docks would be responsible for the docks and the trade, ensuring that things ran smoothly. They would have the opportunity to purchase some of the wains being sold in the port - and could use their influence with the Sarcophan to set what resources were brought to the port to sell. If they sent a [[Call Winged Messenger\|winged messenger]] to Ambassador Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike at a summit, then they could determine whether it was [[mithril]], [[white granite]] or [[weirwood]] that arrived at the docks for sale. There would be a significant delay for any changes; manifests take time to be arranged so the type of wains available would change in the trade season after the following summit (that is three to six months later), so it would be prudent for [[the League]] to select a far-sighted candidate to the position.		The Merchant-Prince of the Imperatrix Docks would be responsible for the docks and the trade, ensuring that things ran smoothly. They would have the opportunity to purchase some of the wains being sold in the port - and could use their influence with the Sarcophan to set what resources were brought to the port to sell. If they sent a [[Call Winged Messenger\|winged messenger]] to Ambassador Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike at a summit, then they could determine whether it was [[mithril]], [[white granite]] or [[weirwood]] that arrived at the docks for sale. There would be a significant delay for any changes; manifests take time to be arranged so the type of wains available would change in the trade season after the following summit (that is three to six months later), so it would be prudent for [[the League]] to select a far-sighted candidate to the position.

Dre at 09:54, 3 September 2025

2025-09-03T09:54:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:08, 20 August 2026
Line 110:		Line 110:
	Any exclusivity would need the legal agreement of the Imperial Senate, so it would ''have'' to be included in the [[Senate motion]] or [[Senate announcement\|announcement]] for the commission - it could not be included later, without a separate Senate motion.		Any exclusivity would need the legal agreement of the Imperial Senate, so it would ''have'' to be included in the [[Senate motion]] or [[Senate announcement\|announcement]] for the commission - it could not be included later, without a separate Senate motion.

	==The ~~Sandfisher~~ Contribution==		==The Sand Fisher Contribution==
	The ~~Sandfishers~~ are a little nonplussed that the Empire is now looking at building a port in Utterlund rather than [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] as [[Schools_and_sawmills#The_Lakesedge_Highway\|originally proposed by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''']]. The Empire had built a fine road that now runs all the way from Holmauer Gate to the Misericorde coast with the stated intention of building a port at the end of it.		The Sand Fishers are a little nonplussed that the Empire is now looking at building a port in Utterlund rather than [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] as [[Schools_and_sawmills#The_Lakesedge_Highway\|originally proposed by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''']]. The Empire had built a fine road that now runs all the way from Holmauer Gate to the Misericorde coast with the stated intention of building a port at the end of it.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
	<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''~~Sandfisher~~ '''</tr>		<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Sand Fisher'''</tr>
	<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Amendment to Imperatrix Docks</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Amendment to Imperatrix Docks</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Requirements:''' Grant the ~~Sandfishers~~ their own trade enclave in the new port		<tr><td>'''Requirements:''' Grant the Sand Fishers their own trade enclave in the new port
	<tr><td>'''Effects:'''		<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
	* Reduces the cost of the docks by 20 weirwood and 60 crowns		* Reduces the cost of the docks by 20 weirwood and 60 crowns
Line 122:		Line 122:
	</table>		</table>
	</div>		</div>
	However, they are not slow to grasp that with the help of the Lijkkever, the Empire won't have to worry about the costs of building in the wet marshes of Utterlund. The orcs are shrewd enough to understand that the Lijkkever have very effectively undercut their offer. If they are disappointed they hide it well. They cheerfully concede that while they won't do half as well from a port built in Utterlund, as Misericorde, they're still much better off than with no port at all. And once the town develops there will be growing demand for the foodstuffs produced by the ~~Sandfishers~~ with a market that is right on their doorstep.		However, they are not slow to grasp that with the help of the Lijkkever, the Empire won't have to worry about the costs of building in the wet marshes of Utterlund. The orcs are shrewd enough to understand that the Lijkkever have very effectively undercut their offer. If they are disappointed they hide it well. They cheerfully concede that while they won't do half as well from a port built in Utterlund, as Misericorde, they're still much better off than with no port at all. And once the town develops there will be growing demand for the foodstuffs produced by the Sand Fishers with a market that is right on their doorstep.

	Crucially, it appears that the sept have been painstakingly preparing for something like this project for years. In Winter 383YE, [[Across_the_Abyss#Prosperity\|members of the sept asked what they might do to repay the League]] for the generous gifts they had been given, the lands of Misericorde and so forth. They insisted this was important - that [[Prosperity]] demanded that they despise those who take without giving (a phrase that some ~~Sandfishers~~ increasingly use as a reference to the Druj). In response, the League Assembly endorsed a [[statement of principle]] by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''' which suggested one way the sept could help would be to support investments in the wealth of the territory.		Crucially, it appears that the sept have been painstakingly preparing for something like this project for years. In Winter 383YE, [[Across_the_Abyss#Prosperity\|members of the sept asked what they might do to repay the League]] for the generous gifts they had been given, the lands of Misericorde and so forth. They insisted this was important - that [[Prosperity]] demanded that they despise those who take without giving (a phrase that some Sand Fishers increasingly use as a reference to the Druj). In response, the League Assembly endorsed a [[statement of principle]] by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''' which suggested one way the sept could help would be to support investments in the wealth of the territory.

	Inspired by that goal, the sept acquired the materials to build their own [[Schools_and_sawmills#Holberg:_The_Sand_Fisher_Port\|sawmills]] and have been busy preparing large stocks of timber. Kiln-dried hard wood ready for construction and surprisingly substantial stocks of [[weirwood]] have been carefully hoarded for just this moment.		Inspired by that goal, the sept acquired the materials to build their own [[Schools_and_sawmills#Holberg:_The_Sand_Fisher_Port\|sawmills]] and have been busy preparing large stocks of timber. Kiln-dried hard wood ready for construction and surprisingly substantial stocks of [[weirwood]] have been carefully hoarded for just this moment.
Line 130:		Line 130:
	Their original plan, when they expected the port to be built in Misericorde, was to contribute 20 wains of weirwood to the commission of the new port. However, since the port is now being planned for Utterlund, they have a request to make. They have apparently been speaking with the Sarcophan and have discovered the existence of the [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave\|The Alivetti Enclave]] in Sarvos. In return for their weirwood and help with the labour building the port, they would like their own enclave.		Their original plan, when they expected the port to be built in Misericorde, was to contribute 20 wains of weirwood to the commission of the new port. However, since the port is now being planned for Utterlund, they have a request to make. They have apparently been speaking with the Sarcophan and have discovered the existence of the [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave\|The Alivetti Enclave]] in Sarvos. In return for their weirwood and help with the labour building the port, they would like their own enclave.

	Their plan is a modest building that will include a small storehouse where they can keep goods to sell to visiting traders. They understand the League might not object to them bringing goods to the port to sell anyway, but the sept believe that having their own enclave would give them some credibility with merchants which will increase the prices they can get for them. Technically it would mean that ~~Sandfisher~~ law was relevant inside the building but the sept don't seem to care about that; they're more concerned about the impression the enclave will give the Sarcophan and other visitors.		Their plan is a modest building that will include a small storehouse where they can keep goods to sell to visiting traders. They understand the League might not object to them bringing goods to the port to sell anyway, but the sept believe that having their own enclave would give them some credibility with merchants which will increase the prices they can get for them. Technically it would mean that Sand Fisher law was relevant inside the building but the sept don't seem to care about that; they're more concerned about the impression the enclave will give the Sarcophan and other visitors.

	There don't seem to be many ''obvious'' drawbacks to the plan, but there may be political issues that make it impossible. The lone economic flaw is that if the Empire found a way to sell weirwood through its ports, they wouldn't be able to sell weirwood at the new port, since the ~~Sandfishers~~ would meet any demand in that regard, from their share of the [[Holberg#The_Flaxen_Pillars\|Flaxen Pillars]].		There don't seem to be many ''obvious'' drawbacks to the plan, but there may be political issues that make it impossible. The lone economic flaw is that if the Empire found a way to sell weirwood through its ports, they wouldn't be able to sell weirwood at the new port, since the Sand Fishers would meet any demand in that regard, from their share of the [[Holberg#The_Flaxen_Pillars\|Flaxen Pillars]].

	===Good Neighbours===		===Good Neighbours===
	* '''A companion appraisal is being performed by Commonwealth Professor Gelberg that may have bearing on the matter of the port		* '''A companion appraisal is being performed by Commonwealth Professor Gelberg that may have bearing on the matter of the port
	At the same time that Naomi is engaged in her appraisal, the [[Commonwealth]] academics led by Professor Gelberg are also talking to the Sand Fishers. While Naomi's efforts are focussed on what support the sept would be able to provide for the new port, Professor Gelberg is exploring [[Threats_that_are_to_come#The_Common_Good\|the possibility of the ~~Sandfishers~~ acquiring farms in Utterlund and Rebeshof]].		At the same time that Naomi is engaged in her appraisal, the [[Commonwealth]] academics led by Professor Gelberg are also talking to the Sand Fishers. While Naomi's efforts are focussed on what support the sept would be able to provide for the new port, Professor Gelberg is exploring [[Threats_that_are_to_come#The_Common_Good\|the possibility of the Sand Fishers acquiring farms in Utterlund and Rebeshof]].

	==Back At The Office==		==Back At The Office==
Line 146:		Line 146:
	At the Summer Solstice the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Ministries\|instructed]] the Prognosticators to look into ways to provide new options to some of the Empire's [[ministry\|ministries]]. In the absence of specific guidance from the Senate, the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury, ''Gerard La Salle'', assigned [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra\|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to oversee the matter. This appraisal is quite challenging, and will take another three months to complete - it will not be finished until the Winter Solstice 387YE. As such, Graciana is not available to perform any other appraisals until that time.		At the Summer Solstice the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Ministries\|instructed]] the Prognosticators to look into ways to provide new options to some of the Empire's [[ministry\|ministries]]. In the absence of specific guidance from the Senate, the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury, ''Gerard La Salle'', assigned [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra\|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to oversee the matter. This appraisal is quite challenging, and will take another three months to complete - it will not be finished until the Winter Solstice 387YE. As such, Graciana is not available to perform any other appraisals until that time.

	The Senate also [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Grant_Sabbatical_to_Eilian_Sweetwater\|approved]] a request by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] to take a sabbatical from the Prognosticator's Office to perform a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#An_Extensive_Prospect\|thorough investigation]] of the Empire's historic lighthouses. Unfortunately, his first such investigation into the destroyed Lighthouse of ~~Nikophoros~~ in [[Redoubt]] coincided with a [[To ruin\|major offensive]] by the [[Grendel]]. Eilian's whereabouts are [[To_ruin#And_Finally...\|currently unknown]], although hopefully wherever he is he and his companions are safe and well.		The Senate also [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Grant_Sabbatical_to_Eilian_Sweetwater\|approved]] a request by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] to take a sabbatical from the Prognosticator's Office to perform a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#An_Extensive_Prospect\|thorough investigation]] of the Empire's historic lighthouses. Unfortunately, his first such investigation into the destroyed Lighthouse of Nikephoros in [[Redoubt]] coincided with a [[To ruin\|major offensive]] by the [[Grendel]]. Eilian's whereabouts are [[To_ruin#And_Finally...\|currently unknown]], although hopefully wherever he is he and his companions are safe and well.

	Finally, during the Summer Solstice, there was [[Hope_and_fear#Further_Appraisal\|an opportunity]] to encourage the retired [[Appraisal#Retired_Prognosticators\|Mladen Escovitch]] to return to work at the Prognosticators' Office. After giving the matter due consideration, the [[Assembly of the Nine]] and the Senate decided to leave the former [[general]] to enjoy his retirement.		Finally, during the Summer Solstice, there was [[Hope_and_fear#Further_Appraisal\|an opportunity]] to encourage the retired [[Appraisal#Retired_Prognosticators\|Mladen Escovitch]] to return to work at the Prognosticators' Office. After giving the matter due consideration, the [[Assembly of the Nine]] and the Senate decided to leave the former [[general]] to enjoy his retirement.

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:24, 3 September 2025
Line 1:		Line 1:
	[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]		[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
	<ic>The group of academics leaned back on the bog chairs their hosts had provided. The evening meal, a mixed ~~sea food~~ grill had been delicious. Served on a bed of rice and artfully presented on thick green leaves that also added a subtle flavour to the meal. It had made a pleasant change from the spiced and cured sausage that was the mainstay of many Holberg meals. What was needed now was a few tankards of the city's finest ale, but sadly that was in very short supply way out here in Misericorde.		<ic>The group of academics leaned back on the bog chairs their hosts had provided. The evening meal, a mixed seafood grill had been delicious. Served on a bed of rice and artfully presented on thick green leaves that also added a subtle flavour to the meal. It had made a pleasant change from the spiced and cured sausage that was the mainstay of many Holberg meals. What was needed now was a few tankards of the city's finest ale, but sadly that was in very short supply way out here in Misericorde.

	"I don't think I've ever been spied on before! Well not by such charming hosts." Gelberg grinned at his colleagues.		"I don't think I've ever been spied on before! Well, not by such charming hosts." Gelberg grinned at his colleagues.

	"I hardly think the girl's a spy!" said Heinrich openly laughing at the suggestion. "She's a guide - and a damn good one too. I would have trod in that bog up to my waist if she hadn't been there to point it out."		"I hardly think the girl's a spy!" said Heinrich openly laughing at the suggestion. "She's a guide - and a damn good one too. I would have trod in that bog up to my waist if she hadn't been there to point it out."
Line 12:		Line 12:
	"Inquisitive? I think not. Have you noticed that she occasionally sneaks off? You said she was off playing with the other kids. Well she wasn't - I caught her. She was writing everything I said down... She was making notes! She could be working for the Jarmish!"		"Inquisitive? I think not. Have you noticed that she occasionally sneaks off? You said she was off playing with the other kids. Well she wasn't - I caught her. She was writing everything I said down... She was making notes! She could be working for the Jarmish!"

	Gelberg's tone was one of outrage, but Heinrich still couldn't quite tell if his boss was ~~being~~ being serious or whether it was just mock indignation. "You're not... actually worried about her... are you Immy? She's our host's niece, she seems lovely."		Gelberg's tone was one of outrage, but Heinrich still couldn't quite tell if his boss was being serious or whether it was just mock indignation. "You're not... actually worried about her... are you Immy? She's our host's niece, she seems lovely."

	"Don't be fooled by that!" said Gelberg and spread his hands wide as if to encapsulate some terrible danger before unveiling the punch line. "I know a student searching for extra-credit when I see one!"		"Don't be fooled by that!" said Gelberg and spread his hands wide as if to encapsulate some terrible danger before unveiling the punch line. "I know a student searching for extra-credit when I see one!"
Line 22:		Line 22:
	The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.		The idea of building a port in [[Holberg]] is not a new one. Long before it was near-universally acknowledged as [[the greatest city in the world]], the merchant-princes of the east dreamed of establishing a port to boost trade. Such dreams were little more than fancies while the [[Druj]] held the outlying regions and threatened to take the city. Now that the Empire is pushing east and driving the Druj back, there is a chance to seize the initiative and help make Holberg even more Prosperous.

	There was [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port\|talk of more ports]] on [[the Semmerlak]] when [[Ossium]] was conquered. The [[Karov#Malimorzi\|docks of Korotny]] were eventually expanded, but ideas to expand [[Semmerholm#Lacuve\|Lacre]] in [[Dawn]] and to build a new port in the north of Holberg never emerged. Now, the timing seems apposite - the Sand Fisher [[orc\|orcs]] are eager to support any investment in the north of the territory and one of the powerful [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] families, ~~the~~ [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever\|The Lijkkever]], have likewise [[Can't_give_everything_away#Schuyler_and_Holberg\|expressed an interest]] in the prospect of trade with the greatest city in the world. At the Summer Solstice, the [[Imperial Senate\|Senate]] instructed the civil service to send [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest\|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[appraisal\|look into the matter]], to see what such plans might cost and what the benefits would be.		There was [[Thousands_or_more#A_New_Port\|talk of more ports]] on [[the Semmerlak]] when [[Ossium]] was conquered. The [[Karov#Malimorzi\|docks of Korotny]] were eventually expanded, but ideas to expand [[Semmerholm#Lacuve\|Lacre]] in [[Dawn]] and to build a new port in the north of Holberg never emerged. Now, the timing seems apposite - the Sand Fisher [[orc\|orcs]] are eager to support any investment in the north of the territory and one of the powerful [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] families, [[Founders_of_the_Delves#The_Lijkkever\|The Lijkkever]], have likewise [[Can't_give_everything_away#Schuyler_and_Holberg\|expressed an interest]] in the prospect of trade with the greatest city in the world. At the Summer Solstice, the [[Imperial Senate\|Senate]] instructed the civil service to send [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest\|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to [[appraisal\|look into the matter]], to see what such plans might cost and what the benefits would be.

	<quote by ="Senate motion, Proposed Holberg, Seconded Casinea">To instruct the Prognosticator's Office to send Naomi of Virtue's Rest to appraise constructing a port in Utterlund, in Holberg, as laid out in the suggestion from the Lijkkever families of the Sarcophan Delves. We ask Naomi to negotiate with the Lijkkever and the Sand Fisher Orcs of Misericorde for their assistance in constructing the port and associated necessary infrastructure.</quote>		<quote by ="Senate motion, Proposed Holberg, Seconded Casinea">To instruct the Prognosticator's Office to send Naomi of Virtue's Rest to appraise constructing a port in Utterlund, in Holberg, as laid out in the suggestion from the Lijkkever families of the Sarcophan Delves. We ask Naomi to negotiate with the Lijkkever and the Sand Fisher Orcs of Misericorde for their assistance in constructing the port and associated necessary infrastructure.</quote>
Line 30:		Line 30:
	* '''The port would provide an array of benefits and slowly establish a new town at the location'''		* '''The port would provide an array of benefits and slowly establish a new town at the location'''
	* '''Building the new port will harm trade at Varushkan ports on the Semmerlak'''		* '''Building the new port will harm trade at Varushkan ports on the Semmerlak'''
	* '''Increases purchase prices at Korotny Docks and ~~Kostjya's~~ Respite in Varushka by a tenth'''		* '''Increases purchase prices at Korotny Docks and Kostjyas Respite in Varushka by a tenth'''
	The Senate can't create a new town from nothing, but nobody is in any doubt that if the Empire builds a decent-sized port on Holberg's coast, then it will quickly grow into a thriving conurbation that might one day rival [[Sarvos#Trivento\|Trivento]]. With ships bringing in valuable trade goods, there will be a constant need for stevedores to work the docks; there will be a demand for inns and hostelries to entertain landbound sailors and warehouses to hold the goods; and if the port is big enough it will draw people to it like flies to honey, and within two years a new town will have sprung up.		The Senate can't create a new town from nothing, but nobody is in any doubt that if the Empire builds a decent-sized port on Holberg's coast, then it will quickly grow into a thriving conurbation that might one day rival [[Sarvos#Trivento\|Trivento]]. With ships bringing in valuable trade goods, there will be a constant need for stevedores to work the docks; there will be a demand for inns and hostelries to entertain landbound sailors and warehouses to hold the goods; and if the port is big enough it will draw people to it like flies to honey, and within two years a new town will have sprung up.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
Line 110:		Line 110:

	==The Sandfisher Contribution==		==The Sandfisher Contribution==
	The Sandfishers are a little nonplussed that the Empire is now looking at building at port in Utterlund rather than [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] as [[Schools_and_sawmills#The_Lakesedge_Highway\|originally proposed by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''']]. The Empire had built a fine road that now runs all the way from Holmauer Gate to the Misericorde coast with the stated intention of building a port at the end of it.		The Sandfishers are a little nonplussed that the Empire is now looking at building a port in Utterlund rather than [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] as [[Schools_and_sawmills#The_Lakesedge_Highway\|originally proposed by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''']]. The Empire had built a fine road that now runs all the way from Holmauer Gate to the Misericorde coast with the stated intention of building a port at the end of it.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
	<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Sandfisher '''</tr>		<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Sandfisher '''</tr>

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:54, 3 September 2025
Line 30:		Line 30:
	* '''The port would provide an array of benefits and slowly establish a new town at the location'''		* '''The port would provide an array of benefits and slowly establish a new town at the location'''
	* '''Building the new port will harm trade at Varushkan ports on the Semmerlak'''		* '''Building the new port will harm trade at Varushkan ports on the Semmerlak'''
	* '''Increases purchase prices at Korotny Docks and ~~Kostjyas~~ Respite in Varushka by a tenth'''		* '''Increases purchase prices at Korotny Docks and Kostjya's Respite in Varushka by a tenth'''
	The Senate can't create a new town from nothing, but nobody is in any doubt that if the Empire builds a decent-sized port on Holberg's coast, then it will quickly grow into a thriving conurbation that might one day rival [[Sarvos#Trivento\|Trivento]]. With ships bringing in valuable trade goods, there will be a constant need for stevedores to work the docks; there will be a demand for inns and hostelries to entertain landbound sailors and warehouses to hold the goods; and if the port is big enough it will draw people to it like flies to honey, and within two years a new town will have sprung up.		The Senate can't create a new town from nothing, but nobody is in any doubt that if the Empire builds a decent-sized port on Holberg's coast, then it will quickly grow into a thriving conurbation that might one day rival [[Sarvos#Trivento\|Trivento]]. With ships bringing in valuable trade goods, there will be a constant need for stevedores to work the docks; there will be a demand for inns and hostelries to entertain landbound sailors and warehouses to hold the goods; and if the port is big enough it will draw people to it like flies to honey, and within two years a new town will have sprung up.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
Line 45:		Line 45:
	* Boosts taxation from the territories bordering the Semmerlak by a total of 15 thrones a season		* Boosts taxation from the territories bordering the Semmerlak by a total of 15 thrones a season
	* Establishes a new town on the Holberg coast		* Establishes a new town on the Holberg coast
	* Establishes a ferry across the ~~Namless~~ River allowing easy travel from Holberg to Ossium boosting trade between the two territories		* Establishes a ferry across the Nameless River allowing easy travel from Holberg to Ossium boosting trade between the two territories
	* Reduces the cost for Holberg characters to upgrade businesses by one white granite for a year after completion		* Reduces the cost for Holberg characters to upgrade businesses by one white granite for a year after completion
	* Creates the League position Prince of the Imperatrix Docks		* Creates the League position Prince of the Imperatrix Docks
Line 74:		Line 74:
	The plans themselves are not Naomi's area of speciality, but the Lijkkever have a great deal of experience with such matters and they are eager to help. In other circumstances, they might demand payment for the work done for the Empire by their skilled architects and engineers, but Naomi adroitly persuades them to provide their assistance as a sign of good faith and support for the project. She also recruits some of the most capable professionals from Holberg to work on the plans by slyly suggesting that they might not want to be outdone by their Sarcophan rivals. Together, the two groups are able to meet the brief - to create an Ambitious set of plans for a set of docks that would draw ships, businesses, and people to the shores of Holberg.		The plans themselves are not Naomi's area of speciality, but the Lijkkever have a great deal of experience with such matters and they are eager to help. In other circumstances, they might demand payment for the work done for the Empire by their skilled architects and engineers, but Naomi adroitly persuades them to provide their assistance as a sign of good faith and support for the project. She also recruits some of the most capable professionals from Holberg to work on the plans by slyly suggesting that they might not want to be outdone by their Sarcophan rivals. Together, the two groups are able to meet the brief - to create an Ambitious set of plans for a set of docks that would draw ships, businesses, and people to the shores of Holberg.

	The port would be operational as soon as it was complete, enabling trade to flow to and from Holberg to the port. The [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_the_Lakesedge_Highway\|recently completed Lakesedge Highway]] that runs from [[Holberg#Holmauer_Park\|Holmauer Gate]] to [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] would need to be extended to reach the new port on ~~Utterlunds~~ coast, but that work is small and the costs included in the proposed [[commission]]. Once established the port the bustling trade would cause a port town to spring up and would establish an office to oversee operations. The Docks have been provisionally titled the ''Imperatrix Docks'' in honour of the most famous scion of Holberg in living memory, the [[Empress_Lisabetta]].		The port would be operational as soon as it was complete, enabling trade to flow to and from Holberg to the port. The [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_the_Lakesedge_Highway\|recently completed Lakesedge Highway]] that runs from [[Holberg#Holmauer_Park\|Holmauer Gate]] to [[Holberg#Misericorde\|Misericorde]] would need to be extended to reach the new port on Utterlund's coast, but that work is small and the costs included in the proposed [[commission]]. Once established the port the bustling trade would cause a port town to spring up and would establish an office to oversee operations. The Docks have been provisionally titled the ''Imperatrix Docks'' in honour of the most famous scion of Holberg in living memory, the [[Empress_Lisabetta]].

	The Merchant-Prince of the Imperatrix Docks would be responsible for the docks and the trade, ensuring that things ran smoothly. They would have the opportunity to purchase some of the wains being sold in the port - and could use their influence with the Sarcophan to set what resources were brought to the port to sell. If they sent a [[Call Winged Messenger\|winged messenger]] to Ambassador Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike at a summit, then they could determine whether it was [[mithril]], [[white granite]] or [[weirwood]] that arrived at the docks for sale. There would be a significant delay for any changes; manifests take time to be arranged so the type of wains available would change in the trade season after the following summit (that is three to six months later), so it would be prudent for [[the League]] to select a far-sighted candidate to the position.		The Merchant-Prince of the Imperatrix Docks would be responsible for the docks and the trade, ensuring that things ran smoothly. They would have the opportunity to purchase some of the wains being sold in the port - and could use their influence with the Sarcophan to set what resources were brought to the port to sell. If they sent a [[Call Winged Messenger\|winged messenger]] to Ambassador Bedelaar Huisbaas Annike at a summit, then they could determine whether it was [[mithril]], [[white granite]] or [[weirwood]] that arrived at the docks for sale. There would be a significant delay for any changes; manifests take time to be arranged so the type of wains available would change in the trade season after the following summit (that is three to six months later), so it would be prudent for [[the League]] to select a far-sighted candidate to the position.
Line 96:		Line 96:
	* Reduces the cost of the docks by 20 white granite and 60 Crowns		* Reduces the cost of the docks by 20 white granite and 60 Crowns
	* Removes the penalty to build any commissions in the marshes of Holberg		* Removes the penalty to build any commissions in the marshes of Holberg
	* Reduces the ~~increse~~ in taxation in adjoining territories from 15 to 10 thrones		* Reduces the increase in taxation in adjoining territories from 15 to 10 thrones
	</td></tr>		</td></tr>
	</table>		</table>
Line 125:		Line 125:
	Crucially, it appears that the sept have been painstakingly preparing for something like this project for years. In Winter 383YE, [[Across_the_Abyss#Prosperity\|members of the sept asked what they might do to repay the League]] for the generous gifts they had been given, the lands of Misericorde and so forth. They insisted this was important - that [[Prosperity]] demanded that they despise those who take without giving (a phrase that some Sandfishers increasingly use as a reference to the Druj). In response, the League Assembly endorsed a [[statement of principle]] by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''' which suggested one way the sept could help would be to support investments in the wealth of the territory.		Crucially, it appears that the sept have been painstakingly preparing for something like this project for years. In Winter 383YE, [[Across_the_Abyss#Prosperity\|members of the sept asked what they might do to repay the League]] for the generous gifts they had been given, the lands of Misericorde and so forth. They insisted this was important - that [[Prosperity]] demanded that they despise those who take without giving (a phrase that some Sandfishers increasingly use as a reference to the Druj). In response, the League Assembly endorsed a [[statement of principle]] by '''Lia Adelaar van Holberg''' which suggested one way the sept could help would be to support investments in the wealth of the territory.

	Inspired by that goal, the sept acquired the materials to build their own [[Schools_and_sawmills#Holberg:_The_Sand_Fisher_Port\|sawmills]] and have been busy preparing large stocks of timber. Kiln-dried hard wood ready for construction and surprisingly substantial stocks of [[weirwood]] have ~~beencarefully~~ hoarded for just this moment.		Inspired by that goal, the sept acquired the materials to build their own [[Schools_and_sawmills#Holberg:_The_Sand_Fisher_Port\|sawmills]] and have been busy preparing large stocks of timber. Kiln-dried hard wood ready for construction and surprisingly substantial stocks of [[weirwood]] have been carefully hoarded for just this moment.

	Their original plan, when they expected the port to be built in Misericorde, was to contribute 20 wains of weirwood to the commission of the new port. However, since the port is now being planned for Utterlund, they have a request to make. They have apparently been speaking with the Sarcophan and have discovered the existence of the [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave\|The_Alivetti_Enclave]] in Sarvos. In return for their weirwood and help with the labour building the port, they would like their own enclave.		Their original plan, when they expected the port to be built in Misericorde, was to contribute 20 wains of weirwood to the commission of the new port. However, since the port is now being planned for Utterlund, they have a request to make. They have apparently been speaking with the Sarcophan and have discovered the existence of the [[Houses_of_Silence#The_Alivetti_Enclave\|The_Alivetti_Enclave]] in Sarvos. In return for their weirwood and help with the labour building the port, they would like their own enclave.
Line 131:		Line 131:
	Their plan is a modest building that will include a small storehouse where they can keep goods to sell to visiting traders. They understand the League might not object to them bringing goods to the port to sell anyway, but the sept believe that having their own enclave would give them some credibility with merchants which will increase the prices they can get for them. Technically it would mean that Sandfisher law was relevant inside the building but the sept don't seem to care about that; they're more concerned about the impression the enclave will give the Sarcophan and other visitors.		Their plan is a modest building that will include a small storehouse where they can keep goods to sell to visiting traders. They understand the League might not object to them bringing goods to the port to sell anyway, but the sept believe that having their own enclave would give them some credibility with merchants which will increase the prices they can get for them. Technically it would mean that Sandfisher law was relevant inside the building but the sept don't seem to care about that; they're more concerned about the impression the enclave will give the Sarcophan and other visitors.

	There don't seem to be many ''obvious'' drawbacks to the plan, but there may be political issues that make it impossible. The lone economic flaw is that if the Empire found a way to sell weirwood through ~~it's~~ ports, they wouldn't be able to sell weirwood at the new port, since the Sandfishers would meet any demand in that regard, from their share of the [[Holberg#The_Flaxen_Pillars\|Flaxen Pillars]].		There don't seem to be many ''obvious'' drawbacks to the plan, but there may be political issues that make it impossible. The lone economic flaw is that if the Empire found a way to sell weirwood through its ports, they wouldn't be able to sell weirwood at the new port, since the Sandfishers would meet any demand in that regard, from their share of the [[Holberg#The_Flaxen_Pillars\|Flaxen Pillars]].

	===Good Neighbours===		===Good Neighbours===
	* '''A companion appraisal is being performed by Commonwealth ~~Professer~~ Gelberg that may have bearing on the matter of the port		* '''A companion appraisal is being performed by Commonwealth Professor Gelberg that may have bearing on the matter of the port
	At the same time that Naomi is engaged in her appraisal, the [[Commonwealth]] academics ~~lead~~ by Professor Gelberg are also talking to the Sand Fishers. While Naomi's efforts are focussed on what support the sept would be able to provide for the new port, Professor Gelberg is exploring [[Threats_that_are_to_come#The_Common_Good\|the possibility of the Sandfishers acquiring farms in Utterlund and Rebeshof]].		At the same time that Naomi is engaged in her appraisal, the [[Commonwealth]] academics led by Professor Gelberg are also talking to the Sand Fishers. While Naomi's efforts are focussed on what support the sept would be able to provide for the new port, Professor Gelberg is exploring [[Threats_that_are_to_come#The_Common_Good\|the possibility of the Sandfishers acquiring farms in Utterlund and Rebeshof]].
	==Back At The Office==		==Back At The Office==
	* '''Graciana is not available to perform an appraisal during the Autumn Equinox		* '''Graciana is not available to perform an appraisal during the Autumn Equinox
Line 144:		Line 144:
	At the Summer Solstice the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Ministries\|instructed]] the Prognosticators to look into ways to provide new options to some of the Empire's [[ministry\|ministries]]. In the absence of specific guidance from the Senate, the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury, ''Gerard La Salle'', assigned [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra\|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to oversee the matter. This appraisal is quite challenging, and will take another three months to complete - it will not be finished until the Winter Solstice 387YE. As such, Graciana is not available to perform any other appraisals until that time.		At the Summer Solstice the Senate [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Ministries\|instructed]] the Prognosticators to look into ways to provide new options to some of the Empire's [[ministry\|ministries]]. In the absence of specific guidance from the Senate, the Auditor of the Imperial Treasury, ''Gerard La Salle'', assigned [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra\|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to oversee the matter. This appraisal is quite challenging, and will take another three months to complete - it will not be finished until the Winter Solstice 387YE. As such, Graciana is not available to perform any other appraisals until that time.

	The Senate also [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Grant_Sabbatical_to_Eilian_Sweetwater\|approved]] a request by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] to take a sabbatical from the Prognosticator's Office to perform a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#An_Extensive_Prospect\|thorough investigation]] of the Empire's historic lighthouses. Unfortunately, his first such investigation into the destroyed Lighthouse of Nikophoros in [{Redoubt]] coincided with a [[To ruin\|major offensive]] by the [[Grendel]]. Eilian's whereabouts are [[To_ruin#And_Finally...\|currently unknown]], although hopefully wherever he is he and his companions are safe and well.		The Senate also [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Grant_Sabbatical_to_Eilian_Sweetwater\|approved]] a request by [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] to take a sabbatical from the Prognosticator's Office to perform a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#An_Extensive_Prospect\|thorough investigation]] of the Empire's historic lighthouses. Unfortunately, his first such investigation into the destroyed Lighthouse of Nikophoros in [[Redoubt]] coincided with a [[To ruin\|major offensive]] by the [[Grendel]]. Eilian's whereabouts are [[To_ruin#And_Finally...\|currently unknown]], although hopefully wherever he is he and his companions are safe and well.

	Finally, during the Summer Solstice, there was [[Hope_and_fear#Further_Appraisal\|an opportunity]] to encourage the retired[[Appraisal#Retired_Prognosticators\|Mladen Escovitch]] to return to work at the Prognosticators' Office. After giving the matter due consideration, the [[Assembly of the Nine]] and the Senate decided to leave the former [[general]] to enjoy his retirement.		Finally, during the Summer Solstice, there was [[Hope_and_fear#Further_Appraisal\|an opportunity]] to encourage the retired[[Appraisal#Retired_Prognosticators\|Mladen Escovitch]] to return to work at the Prognosticators' Office. After giving the matter due consideration, the [[Assembly of the Nine]] and the Senate decided to leave the former [[general]] to enjoy his retirement.