Ephisis' Scale - Revision history

Matt: Text replacement - "Bourse" to "Bourse"

2026-01-16T09:36:40Z

Text replacement - "Bourse" to "Bourse"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:36, 16 January 2026
Line 17:		Line 17:
	This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].		This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].
	===Assurance===		===Assurance===
	This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[~~Bourse\|~~Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.		This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>

Twiggy at 19:59, 15 January 2026

2026-01-15T19:59:32Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:59, 15 January 2026
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	==Description==		==Description==
	This ritual allows magicians to engage in measured trade with the ~~Realm~~ of Autumn, specifically with the [[eternal]] [[Ephisis]] and the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead. These denizens often act as brokers, finding potential buyers from their City, the other cities of their realm, or even mortals who use similar rituals to trade with them. They are known to be scrupulous in their commitment to fair trades - wherever possible, the goods offered are considered to have at least equal value to the goods that have been offered. Sometimes this assessment is unbalanced, most often because of complex economic factors of supply and demand. Some ritualists attempt to influence the counter-offers by including a scroll or letter with the submitted goods, but there is no guarantee that such documents will have any impact.		This ritual allows magicians to engage in measured trade with the realm of Autumn, specifically with the [[eternal]] [[Ephisis]] and the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead. These denizens often act as brokers, finding potential buyers from their City, the other cities of their realm, or even mortals who use similar rituals to trade with them. They are known to be scrupulous in their commitment to fair trades - wherever possible, the goods offered are considered to have at least equal value to the goods that have been offered. Sometimes this assessment is unbalanced, most often because of complex economic factors of supply and demand. Some ritualists attempt to influence the counter-offers by including a scroll or letter with the submitted goods, but there is no guarantee that such documents will have any impact.

	Common goods offered for past trades using this ritual have included examples of all the [[Materials\|special materials]] known on the Mortal realm, as well as [[Game items#Herbs\|herbs]], [[Potion\|potions]] and other preparations (even [[liao]] on a few occasions), coins both [[Currency#Imperial_Coins\|Imperial]] and (occasionally) otherwise, [[magic items]] (especially [[Magic_items#Talismans\|talismans]]), and [[vis]] (most often [[vis#Warm Ashes\|warm ashes]] but occasionally other kinds as well).		Common goods offered for past trades using this ritual have included examples of all the [[Materials\|special materials]] known on the Mortal realm, as well as [[Game items#Herbs\|herbs]], [[Potion\|potions]] and other preparations (even [[liao]] on a few occasions), coins both [[Currency#Imperial_Coins\|Imperial]] and (occasionally) otherwise, [[magic items]] (especially [[Magic_items#Talismans\|talismans]]), and [[vis]] (most often [[vis#Warm Ashes\|warm ashes]] but occasionally other kinds as well).

	More exotic items reported over the years have included unique substances; unfamiliar potions and narcotics; unique gemstones unknown in the mortal ~~Realm~~; scrolls of unknown ritual magic; deeds of ownership, sometimes Imperial sometimes otherwise; a miraculous mechanical golden bird that whispered prophecies to its owner for seven years before slowly winding down; a copper-and-agate beetle with the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses; and a pair of rings that allowed instantaneous communication with no apparent limitation of distance.		More exotic items reported over the years have included unique substances; unfamiliar potions and narcotics; unique gemstones unknown in the mortal realm; scrolls of unknown ritual magic; deeds of ownership, sometimes Imperial sometimes otherwise; a miraculous mechanical golden bird that whispered prophecies to its owner for seven years before slowly winding down; a copper-and-agate beetle with the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses; and a pair of rings that allowed instantaneous communication with no apparent limitation of distance.

	One element that troubles some Imperial citizens is that the City of Gold and Lead seems unbothered by questions of legality. They are equally happy to deal in illegal goods, both accepting them via this ritual and potentially offering them in exchange. This is not a result of ignorance; indeed a herald might cheerfully point out that an item offered in trade is illegal or take steps to ensure that the trade does not attract undue attention. Questions of local legality simply do not seem to concern them in any way.		One element that troubles some Imperial citizens is that the City of Gold and Lead seems unbothered by questions of legality. They are equally happy to deal in illegal goods, both accepting them via this ritual and potentially offering them in exchange. This is not a result of ignorance; indeed a herald might cheerfully point out that an item offered in trade is illegal or take steps to ensure that the trade does not attract undue attention. Questions of local legality simply do not seem to concern them in any way.

	Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.		Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn ~~Realm~~ replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>
	As with [[Missive for Sadogua]] and similar eternal-themed rituals, 'Ephisis' Scale' uses a small amount of mana to open a conduit to the eternal in question, allowing a small amount of material to be transferred. The additional magnitudes reinforce or recognise the nature of an agreed pact - in this case that Ephisis or her factotums will consider an object or objects offered in trade and offer something of equal value in return. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] scholar Serval i Riqueza of the [[Unfettered Mind]], who made a study of several of these rituals, posited that the additional magnitude served as a 'handling fee' for Ephisis, to ensure that the eternal always made a slight profit even when the suggested trade was not accepted.		As with [[Missive for Sadogua]] and similar eternal-themed rituals, 'Ephisis' Scale' uses a small amount of mana to open a conduit to the eternal in question, allowing a small amount of material to be transferred. The additional magnitudes reinforce or recognise the nature of an agreed pact - in this case that Ephisis or her factotums will consider an object or objects offered in trade and offer something of equal value in return. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] scholar Serval i Riqueza of the [[Unfettered Mind]], who made a study of several of these rituals, posited that the additional magnitude served as a 'handling fee' for Ephisis, to ensure that the eternal always made a slight profit even when the suggested trade was not accepted.

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

2026-01-15T12:46:44Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Bourse" to "[[Bourse"

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:46, 15 January 2026
Line 17:		Line 17:
	This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].		This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].
	===Assurance===		===Assurance===
	This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[~~Imperial~~ Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.		This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>

Twiggy at 23:53, 1 August 2025

2025-08-01T23:53:02Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:53, 1 August 2025
Line 17:		Line 17:
	This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].		This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].
	===Assurance===		===Assurance===
	This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[~~Ritual_theory~~#~~Agreement~~\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Imperial Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.		This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Imperial Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>

Twiggy: Undo revision 123174 by Twiggy (talk)

2025-07-10T21:56:36Z

Undo revision 123174 by Twiggy (talk)

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:56, 10 July 2025
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	A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.		A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.

	A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to claim it.		A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to to claim it.

	A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.		A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.

Twiggy at 21:55, 10 July 2025

2025-07-10T21:55:21Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:55, 10 July 2025
Line 41:		Line 41:
	A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.		A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.

	A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to to claim it.		A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to claim it.

	A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.		A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.

Hailmur: /* Assurance */

2025-03-13T16:05:00Z

Assurance

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:05, 13 March 2025
Line 17:		Line 17:
	This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].		This ritual is sometimes used to arrange unique trades with the City of Gold and Lead, other Autumn eternals, or mortal magicians who have negotiated a deal with Ephisis or her heralds. In this case, there will usually be a token that can be placed in the box to indicate that the contents are part of a specific deal. For example, in the past there have been cases where including specific items and something marked with the Lann rune results in a pre-arranged exchange. These are invariably related to [[opportunities]].
	===Assurance===		===Assurance===
	This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this ''assurance'' was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Imperial Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.		This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this [[Ritual_theory#Agreement\|assurance]] was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Imperial Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>

	==Description==		==Description==
	This ritual allows magicians to engage in measured trade with the Realm of Autumn, specifically with the [[eternal]] [[Ephisis]] and the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead. These denizens often act as brokers, finding potential buyers from their City, the other cities of their realm, or even mortals who use similar rituals to trade with them. They are known to be scrupulous in their commitment to fair trades - wherever possible, the goods offered are considered to have at least equal value to the goods that have been offered. Sometimes this assessment is unbalanced, most often because of complex economic factors of supply and demand. Some ritualists attempt to influence the counter-offers by including a scroll or letter with the submitted goods, but there is no guarantee that such documents will have any impact.		This ritual allows magicians to engage in measured trade with the Realm of Autumn, specifically with the [[eternal]] [[Ephisis]] and the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead. These denizens often act as brokers, finding potential buyers from their City, the other cities of their realm, or even mortals who use similar rituals to trade with them. They are known to be scrupulous in their commitment to fair trades - wherever possible, the goods offered are considered to have at least equal value to the goods that have been offered. Sometimes this assessment is unbalanced, most often because of complex economic factors of supply and demand. Some ritualists attempt to influence the counter-offers by including a scroll or letter with the submitted goods, but there is no guarantee that such documents will have any impact.

Hailmur at 19:57, 4 July 2024

2024-07-04T19:57:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:57, 4 July 2024
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	===Assurance===		===Assurance===
	This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this ''assurance'' was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Imperial Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.		This ritual draws directly on the eternal [[Ephisis]] for its power. As with [[Ritual theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals\|most such rituals]], there is an [[Ritual theory#Agreement\|agreement]] that certain behaviour will cause it to become nonfunctional. Following the Winter Solstice 385YE this ''assurance'' was confirmed to be that the Empire must continue to [[Public auction\|publicly]] [[Auction of the Seats\|auction]] as Imperial positions at least one [[mithril]], one [[weirwood]], one [[white granite]], and one [[ilium]] [[Imperial Bourse\|Bourse]] seat each year. Should a calendar year pass (Spring through Winter) in which no seats of a certain material are auctioned publicly to any Imperial citizen, the ritual would either lose its power or the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead would be freed from their agreement to offer equitable trades. While it is certainly possible for the eternal to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, there is no guarantee that it would work the same way it did previously.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: ~~lefht~~;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Briarheart Box.png\|width=400\|title=Box belonging to Jacob Cappelli, picture with permission\|caption=Despite the relatively small size, it's possible to fit a lot of valuables in an "Ephisis Box".\|align=right}}</div>
	==Description==		==Description==
	This ritual allows magicians to engage in measured trade with the Realm of Autumn, specifically with the [[eternal]] [[Ephisis]] and the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead. These denizens often act as brokers, finding potential buyers from their City, the other cities of their realm, or even mortals who use similar rituals to trade with them. They are known to be scrupulous in their commitment to fair trades - wherever possible, the goods offered are considered to have at least equal value to the goods that have been offered. Sometimes this assessment is unbalanced, most often because of complex economic factors of supply and demand. Some ritualists attempt to influence the counter-offers by including a scroll or letter with the submitted goods, but there is no guarantee that such documents will have any impact.		This ritual allows magicians to engage in measured trade with the Realm of Autumn, specifically with the [[eternal]] [[Ephisis]] and the denizens of the City of Gold and Lead. These denizens often act as brokers, finding potential buyers from their City, the other cities of their realm, or even mortals who use similar rituals to trade with them. They are known to be scrupulous in their commitment to fair trades - wherever possible, the goods offered are considered to have at least equal value to the goods that have been offered. Sometimes this assessment is unbalanced, most often because of complex economic factors of supply and demand. Some ritualists attempt to influence the counter-offers by including a scroll or letter with the submitted goods, but there is no guarantee that such documents will have any impact.
Line 29:		Line 29:

	Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.		Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: ~~lefht~~;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn Realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn Realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>
	As with [[Missive for Sadogua]] and similar eternal-themed rituals, 'Ephisis' Scale' uses a small amount of mana to open a conduit to the eternal in question, allowing a small amount of material to be transferred. The additional magnitudes reinforce or recognise the nature of an agreed pact - in this case that Ephisis or her factotums will consider an object or objects offered in trade and offer something of equal value in return. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] scholar Serval i Riqueza of the [[Unfettered Mind]], who made a study of several of these rituals, posited that the additional magnitude served as a 'handling fee' for Ephisis, to ensure that the eternal always made a slight profit even when the suggested trade was not accepted.		As with [[Missive for Sadogua]] and similar eternal-themed rituals, 'Ephisis' Scale' uses a small amount of mana to open a conduit to the eternal in question, allowing a small amount of material to be transferred. The additional magnitudes reinforce or recognise the nature of an agreed pact - in this case that Ephisis or her factotums will consider an object or objects offered in trade and offer something of equal value in return. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] scholar Serval i Riqueza of the [[Unfettered Mind]], who made a study of several of these rituals, posited that the additional magnitude served as a 'handling fee' for Ephisis, to ensure that the eternal always made a slight profit even when the suggested trade was not accepted.

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	Prior to Summer 385YE, the ritual worked somewhat differently. Trades were arranged in an hour, but there was no capacity for negotiation; the contents of the box were merely "swapped" for other valuables and the ritualists had the choice to accept the offer in its totality or reject it. It is unlikely to be coincidence that the [[Inkpot gods#LINK\|reassessment of the ritual]] took place as Imperial magicians performed a potent Autumn enchantment that [[:Category:Imperial Enchantment\|covered the entire Empire]]. There was some discussion that the heralds of the City of Gold and Lead wanted to explore different ways to trade with Imperial citizens - and after what was presumably a successful experiment, permanently changed the way the ritual worked starting with the Winter Solstice. Indications from foreign nations such as [[Principalities of Jarm\|Jarm]], [[Faraden]], and the [[Commonwealth]] suggest that their versions of this ritual have been altered in a similar fashion.		Prior to Summer 385YE, the ritual worked somewhat differently. Trades were arranged in an hour, but there was no capacity for negotiation; the contents of the box were merely "swapped" for other valuables and the ritualists had the choice to accept the offer in its totality or reject it. It is unlikely to be coincidence that the [[Inkpot gods#LINK\|reassessment of the ritual]] took place as Imperial magicians performed a potent Autumn enchantment that [[:Category:Imperial Enchantment\|covered the entire Empire]]. There was some discussion that the heralds of the City of Gold and Lead wanted to explore different ways to trade with Imperial citizens - and after what was presumably a successful experiment, permanently changed the way the ritual worked starting with the Winter Solstice. Indications from foreign nations such as [[Principalities of Jarm\|Jarm]], [[Faraden]], and the [[Commonwealth]] suggest that their versions of this ritual have been altered in a similar fashion.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: ~~lefht~~;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Lann box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=This box, belonging to Richardo Glostari di Sarvos, is marked with the [[Lann\|Rune of Bargains]]; the [[Queros\|Rune of Conspiracy]] is often used for boxes employed in more dubious deals.\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Lann box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=This box, belonging to Richardo Glostari di Sarvos, is marked with the [[Lann\|Rune of Bargains]]; the [[Queros\|Rune of Conspiracy]] is often used for boxes employed in more dubious deals.\|align=right}}</div>

	==Common Elements==		==Common Elements==

Hailmur at 19:52, 4 July 2024

2024-07-04T19:52:21Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:52, 4 July 2024
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	One element that troubles some Imperial citizens is that the City of Gold and Lead seems unbothered by questions of legality. They are equally happy to deal in illegal goods, both accepting them via this ritual and potentially offering them in exchange. This is not a result of ignorance; indeed a herald might cheerfully point out that an item offered in trade is illegal or take steps to ensure that the trade does not attract undue attention. Questions of local legality simply do not seem to concern them in any way.		One element that troubles some Imperial citizens is that the City of Gold and Lead seems unbothered by questions of legality. They are equally happy to deal in illegal goods, both accepting them via this ritual and potentially offering them in exchange. This is not a result of ignorance; indeed a herald might cheerfully point out that an item offered in trade is illegal or take steps to ensure that the trade does not attract undue attention. Questions of local legality simply do not seem to concern them in any way.

			Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: lefht;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn Realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: lefht;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn Realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>
	Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.

	As with [[Missive for Sadogua]] and similar eternal-themed rituals, 'Ephisis' Scale' uses a small amount of mana to open a conduit to the eternal in question, allowing a small amount of material to be transferred. The additional magnitudes reinforce or recognise the nature of an agreed pact - in this case that Ephisis or her factotums will consider an object or objects offered in trade and offer something of equal value in return. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] scholar Serval i Riqueza of the [[Unfettered Mind]], who made a study of several of these rituals, posited that the additional magnitude served as a 'handling fee' for Ephisis, to ensure that the eternal always made a slight profit even when the suggested trade was not accepted.		As with [[Missive for Sadogua]] and similar eternal-themed rituals, 'Ephisis' Scale' uses a small amount of mana to open a conduit to the eternal in question, allowing a small amount of material to be transferred. The additional magnitudes reinforce or recognise the nature of an agreed pact - in this case that Ephisis or her factotums will consider an object or objects offered in trade and offer something of equal value in return. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] scholar Serval i Riqueza of the [[Unfettered Mind]], who made a study of several of these rituals, posited that the additional magnitude served as a 'handling fee' for Ephisis, to ensure that the eternal always made a slight profit even when the suggested trade was not accepted.

Rafferty at 15:48, 9 May 2024

2024-05-09T15:48:52Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:48, 9 May 2024
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	More exotic items reported over the years have included unique substances; unfamiliar potions and narcotics; unique gemstones unknown in the mortal Realm; scrolls of unknown ritual magic; deeds of ownership, sometimes Imperial sometimes otherwise; a miraculous mechanical golden bird that whispered prophecies to its owner for seven years before slowly winding down; a copper-and-agate beetle with the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses; and a pair of rings that allowed instantaneous communication with no apparent limitation of distance.		More exotic items reported over the years have included unique substances; unfamiliar potions and narcotics; unique gemstones unknown in the mortal Realm; scrolls of unknown ritual magic; deeds of ownership, sometimes Imperial sometimes otherwise; a miraculous mechanical golden bird that whispered prophecies to its owner for seven years before slowly winding down; a copper-and-agate beetle with the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses; and a pair of rings that allowed instantaneous communication with no apparent limitation of distance.

			One element that troubles some Imperial citizens is that the City of Gold and Lead seems unbothered by questions of legality. They are equally happy to deal in illegal goods, both accepting them via this ritual and potentially offering them in exchange. This is not a result of ignorance; indeed a herald might cheerfully point out that an item offered in trade is illegal or take steps to ensure that the trade does not attract undue attention. Questions of local legality simply do not seem to concern them in any way.
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: lefht;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn Realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: lefht;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Magical box.jpg\|width=400\|caption=Once the trade is made, the heralds of the Autumn Realm replace the offered contents with the agreed payment, as seen with this box belonging to Freeborn magician Iñez i Azul-Mar i Erigo.\|align=right}}</div>
	One element that troubles some Imperial citizens is that the City of Gold and Lead seems unbothered by questions of legality. They are equally happy to deal in illegal goods, both accepting them via this ritual and potentially offering them in exchange. This is not a result of ignorance; indeed a herald might cheerfully point out that an item offered in trade is illegal or take steps to ensure that the trade does not attract undue attention. Questions of local legality simply do not seem to concern them in any way.

	Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.		Some ritualists have bargained with Ephisis for larger containers in which to place goods. For example, the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] mage-smith Alan of Cotter's Barn was known to possess a weirwood case 6' long and 2' wide and deep with which he traded the fruits of his crafting with Ephisis. It is also possible to arrange special agreements with Ephisis or her factotums. The [[The League\|League]] [[Surgical skills#Apothecary\|apothecary]] Helena Jung von Holberg apparently possessed an oak-and-brass potion case, for example, that ensured that trades offered for potions would always involve herbs or other potions.

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:56, 10 July 2025
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	A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.		A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.

	A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to claim it.		A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to to claim it.

	A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.		A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:55, 10 July 2025
Line 41:		Line 41:
	A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.		A box or sack, often of rare woods. fine silk or velvet, is the obvious focus used with this ritual, A [[Groups#Coven\|coven]] or ritualist often has a specific container that they favour for use with this ritual, of the standard dimensions. The container is often inscribed with the rune [[Lann]], or sometimes with the rune [[Queros]] when used to offer items that are either of dubious legality in the Empire - or even flat out illegal. Sigils representing [[Prosperity]] (apples and sheaves of wheat are common, piles of money are often considered a little gauche) or the tools and transportation methods of merchants - weights and scales, ships, wagons, and market stalls. Ink and parchment may be used to write down the exact contents of the box; it is common to draw attention to any special provenance or properties of the offered goods that might otherwise be overlooked.

	A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to to claim it.		A [[Dramaturgy\|dramaturgical]] ritual commonly takes the form of a scene set in [[the Counting House]], in which a [[The Cup\|Cup]], [[The Coin\|Coin]], or [[The Ring\|Ring]] is placed in a container and then becomes the focus of an intrigue, trade, or misunderstanding. [[The_Marches_magical_traditions#Mummers\|Mummers]] and [[Dawn_magical_traditions#Guisers\|guisers]] both are known to favour a broad face full of mistaken identity and confusion where the container ends up in the wrong hands, or is mixed up with other containers; [[the League\|League]] magicians tend to favour more serious, intrigue-laden plots in which the container gains value due to the lengths rivals are prepared to go to claim it.

	A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.		A [[blood magic\|blood mage]] is likely to anoint the container with blood donated by a [[cambion]] or a respected merchant, with the [[Blood_magic#The_Cut\|cut]] often made at the thumb, the side of the eye, or very rarely the tongue itself. Winding patterns representing the idea of the container passing from hand to hand until it finds someone prepared to offer a fair trade resonate well with the ritual.