Nightfall in Apulian - Revision history

Twiggy at 19:01, 15 February 2026

2026-02-15T19:01:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:01, 15 February 2026
Line 30:		Line 30:

	{{SOP\|statement=Knowledge is incomplete. Encourage the study of dramaturgy in Spiral and the spread of findings in Urizen. We should expand Urizen learning whether the League build a college or not. The League should not be burdened alone in furthering our understanding of a major tradition & choosing next steps. Look to the example of the Astral Arcanist for what can be achieved.\|by=Donato of the Crucible, Urizen Assembly\|vote=168-10\|when=Spring Equinox 387YE}}		{{SOP\|statement=Knowledge is incomplete. Encourage the study of dramaturgy in Spiral and the spread of findings in Urizen. We should expand Urizen learning whether the League build a college or not. The League should not be burdened alone in furthering our understanding of a major tradition & choosing next steps. Look to the example of the Astral Arcanist for what can be achieved.\|by=Donato of the Crucible, Urizen Assembly\|vote=168-10\|when=Spring Equinox 387YE}}
	The confluence appears to have begun in the wake of a marked increase in the influence of the Night ~~Realm~~ in the city, but it was ''probably'' not caused by it - rather, the infusion of Night acted to quicken the still-beating heart of the city's dramatic potential: whatever that means. This dramaturgical confluence appears to be growing, and while it isn't causing a problem, some people are very concerned that ''might'' cause a problem. The ''[[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Curiouser_and_Curiouser\|Academy of Dramaturgy]]'' - or its greater cousin, the ''University of Dramaturgy'' - would be one way to solve the problem, but they are expensive to commission. There is popular support for the commission, especially from Urizeni magicians eager for a chance to study dramaturgy but it would certainly be easier simply to wait for this strange confluence to pass as all conjunctions ultimately do.		The confluence appears to have begun in the wake of a marked increase in the influence of the Night realm in the city, but it was ''probably'' not caused by it - rather, the infusion of Night acted to quicken the still-beating heart of the city's dramatic potential: whatever that means. This dramaturgical confluence appears to be growing, and while it isn't causing a problem, some people are very concerned that ''might'' cause a problem. The ''[[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Curiouser_and_Curiouser\|Academy of Dramaturgy]]'' - or its greater cousin, the ''University of Dramaturgy'' - would be one way to solve the problem, but they are expensive to commission. There is popular support for the commission, especially from Urizeni magicians eager for a chance to study dramaturgy but it would certainly be easier simply to wait for this strange confluence to pass as all conjunctions ultimately do.

	===Participation===		===Participation===
Line 62:		Line 62:
	For first time visitors to the city, the effects are utterly bewildering. A fact that could be quite useful... good luck to any [[Grendel]] [[Army\|army]] trying to invade Apulian right now! They'd turn right down Bleeker Street thinking to move on the town square and that would be the last anyone would see of them. But it's been months now and the locals are starting to get used to it. Ok, it can be a little annoying when it suddenly takes twice as long as it should have done to get over to the Aviary Carving House on Morl Street for a business dinner with your accountant, but the city pays you back with interest for the inconvenience when it should take the best part of an hour to meet your cicisbeo to take in a performance of Saluk's The Terrible Owl at Sutlers Theatre and you discover them waiting for you on your very doorstep.		For first time visitors to the city, the effects are utterly bewildering. A fact that could be quite useful... good luck to any [[Grendel]] [[Army\|army]] trying to invade Apulian right now! They'd turn right down Bleeker Street thinking to move on the town square and that would be the last anyone would see of them. But it's been months now and the locals are starting to get used to it. Ok, it can be a little annoying when it suddenly takes twice as long as it should have done to get over to the Aviary Carving House on Morl Street for a business dinner with your accountant, but the city pays you back with interest for the inconvenience when it should take the best part of an hour to meet your cicisbeo to take in a performance of Saluk's The Terrible Owl at Sutlers Theatre and you discover them waiting for you on your very doorstep.

	It's trivial for magicians to confirm this is a powerful [[Night magic]] effect - what else could it possibly be? And where previously it was a whisper, now it is a roar. It's not an [[enchantment]], which is to say it's not a [[rituals\|ritual]]. It just seems that the city of Apulian has been enticed a little closer to the ~~Realm~~ of Night than is entirely normal. It can be a problem, even for residents, but those who catch on to how it works are soon able to turn it to their advantage. One of the laws of the city seems to be that the more enjoyable something is... the closer it is... the more boring it is... the longer it takes to get there. Some magicians find themselves developing a "knack" for navigating the city. The [[Little Mother\|Church of the Little Mother]] has even begun training their most magically adept students to act as guides. This has proved to quite profitable, especially with visitors and new arrivals.		It's trivial for magicians to confirm this is a powerful [[Night magic]] effect - what else could it possibly be? And where previously it was a whisper, now it is a roar. It's not an [[enchantment]], which is to say it's not a [[rituals\|ritual]]. It just seems that the city of Apulian has been enticed a little closer to the realm of Night than is entirely normal. It can be a problem, even for residents, but those who catch on to how it works are soon able to turn it to their advantage. One of the laws of the city seems to be that the more enjoyable something is... the closer it is... the more boring it is... the longer it takes to get there. Some magicians find themselves developing a "knack" for navigating the city. The [[Little Mother\|Church of the Little Mother]] has even begun training their most magically adept students to act as guides. This has proved to quite profitable, especially with visitors and new arrivals.

	Another rule is that subterfuge seems to infuse the streets. It may simply be the knowledge that there is a Grendel espionage ring active in the city - something that is now common knowledge after recent events. People keep an eye out for anyone engaged in illicit activity and once you look for it, it seems to be everywhere. A gaggle of [[mountebank\|mountebanks]] having a clandestine meeting in the back of the tavern, two lovers from rival guilds trying to keep their affair a secret, children lurking on street corners paid to keep an eye on what is going on. All of the great cities of the League are prone to a degree of "careful dealing", but another rule of Apulian is that if you're going somewhere you really shouldn't then before you know it, you're already there.		Another rule is that subterfuge seems to infuse the streets. It may simply be the knowledge that there is a Grendel espionage ring active in the city - something that is now common knowledge after recent events. People keep an eye out for anyone engaged in illicit activity and once you look for it, it seems to be everywhere. A gaggle of [[mountebank\|mountebanks]] having a clandestine meeting in the back of the tavern, two lovers from rival guilds trying to keep their affair a secret, children lurking on street corners paid to keep an eye on what is going on. All of the great cities of the League are prone to a degree of "careful dealing", but another rule of Apulian is that if you're going somewhere you really shouldn't then before you know it, you're already there.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

2026-01-16T09:43:13Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:43, 16 January 2026
Line 60:		Line 60:
	While the waterfront at least remains predictable, as it flips from night to day and back, away from the water's edge the geography grows ever more kaleidoscopic. Streets seem to shift position almost at random. On Tuesday, Worthing Road ran from Margate Street all the way round to Briar Grove, but by Wednesday Briar Grove is at the far side of the city, Margate Street is nowhere to be found and Worthing Road now runs all the way down to the jetty at Pelican's Landing. Still not to worry, because odds are, it all change again tomorrow.		While the waterfront at least remains predictable, as it flips from night to day and back, away from the water's edge the geography grows ever more kaleidoscopic. Streets seem to shift position almost at random. On Tuesday, Worthing Road ran from Margate Street all the way round to Briar Grove, but by Wednesday Briar Grove is at the far side of the city, Margate Street is nowhere to be found and Worthing Road now runs all the way down to the jetty at Pelican's Landing. Still not to worry, because odds are, it all change again tomorrow.

	For first time visitors to the city, the effects are utterly bewildering. A fact that could be quite useful... good luck to any [[Grendel]] [[~~Imperial army~~\|army]] trying to invade Apulian right now! They'd turn right down Bleeker Street thinking to move on the town square and that would be the last anyone would see of them. But it's been months now and the locals are starting to get used to it. Ok, it can be a little annoying when it suddenly takes twice as long as it should have done to get over to the Aviary Carving House on Morl Street for a business dinner with your accountant, but the city pays you back with interest for the inconvenience when it should take the best part of an hour to meet your cicisbeo to take in a performance of Saluk's The Terrible Owl at Sutlers Theatre and you discover them waiting for you on your very doorstep.		For first time visitors to the city, the effects are utterly bewildering. A fact that could be quite useful... good luck to any [[Grendel]] [[Army\|army]] trying to invade Apulian right now! They'd turn right down Bleeker Street thinking to move on the town square and that would be the last anyone would see of them. But it's been months now and the locals are starting to get used to it. Ok, it can be a little annoying when it suddenly takes twice as long as it should have done to get over to the Aviary Carving House on Morl Street for a business dinner with your accountant, but the city pays you back with interest for the inconvenience when it should take the best part of an hour to meet your cicisbeo to take in a performance of Saluk's The Terrible Owl at Sutlers Theatre and you discover them waiting for you on your very doorstep.

	It's trivial for magicians to confirm this is a powerful [[Night magic]] effect - what else could it possibly be? And where previously it was a whisper, now it is a roar. It's not an [[enchantment]], which is to say it's not a [[rituals\|ritual]]. It just seems that the city of Apulian has been enticed a little closer to the Realm of Night than is entirely normal. It can be a problem, even for residents, but those who catch on to how it works are soon able to turn it to their advantage. One of the laws of the city seems to be that the more enjoyable something is... the closer it is... the more boring it is... the longer it takes to get there. Some magicians find themselves developing a "knack" for navigating the city. The [[Little Mother\|Church of the Little Mother]] has even begun training their most magically adept students to act as guides. This has proved to quite profitable, especially with visitors and new arrivals.		It's trivial for magicians to confirm this is a powerful [[Night magic]] effect - what else could it possibly be? And where previously it was a whisper, now it is a roar. It's not an [[enchantment]], which is to say it's not a [[rituals\|ritual]]. It just seems that the city of Apulian has been enticed a little closer to the Realm of Night than is entirely normal. It can be a problem, even for residents, but those who catch on to how it works are soon able to turn it to their advantage. One of the laws of the city seems to be that the more enjoyable something is... the closer it is... the more boring it is... the longer it takes to get there. Some magicians find themselves developing a "knack" for navigating the city. The [[Little Mother\|Church of the Little Mother]] has even begun training their most magically adept students to act as guides. This has proved to quite profitable, especially with visitors and new arrivals.

Matt: Text replacement - "Military Council" to "Military Council"

2026-01-16T09:33:14Z

Text replacement - "Military Council" to "Military Council"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:33, 16 January 2026
Line 103:		Line 103:
	Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.		Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.

	However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[~~Military Council\|~~Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.		However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.

	In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.		In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.

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

2026-01-15T22:29:45Z

Text replacement - "Senate" to "Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:29, 15 January 2026
Line 103:		Line 103:
	Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.		Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.

	However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[Military Council\|Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[~~Senate\|~~Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.		However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[Military Council\|Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.

	In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.		In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.
Line 114:		Line 114:
	* '''The Salt Council will gain no local information from Spiral without establishing a new outpost in the territory'''		* '''The Salt Council will gain no local information from Spiral without establishing a new outpost in the territory'''
	* '''This is guaranteed to work		* '''This is guaranteed to work
	The [[~~Senate\|~~Senate]] could use a Senate motion to instruct the magistrates to seize the jewel. They could arrest everyone that Victo has made contact with and interrogate them to find out more. This option would be guaranteed to succeed - the espionage ring will be damaged, it will cease to function for a season, and the office in Spiral will be destroyed. The Grendel will not be able to obtain any ''local information'' for Spiral until they are able to set a new jewel in the ring here.		The [[Senate]] could use a Senate motion to instruct the magistrates to seize the jewel. They could arrest everyone that Victo has made contact with and interrogate them to find out more. This option would be guaranteed to succeed - the espionage ring will be damaged, it will cease to function for a season, and the office in Spiral will be destroyed. The Grendel will not be able to obtain any ''local information'' for Spiral until they are able to set a new jewel in the ring here.

	===Burnish the Jewel===		===Burnish the Jewel===

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

2026-01-15T21:31:19Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Synod" to "[[Synod"

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:31, 15 January 2026
Line 84:		Line 84:
	Teodore's sources - and as a reckoner they at least claim to have impeccable sources - indicates that Rafael Barossa is the true force behind the building of the Chamber of Euphony. He claims to have received information proving Rafael to have persistently encouraged [[Religious_crime#Idolatry\|idolatrous]] acts in [[Asavean Archipelago\|Asavea]] involving the eternal [[Janon]]. This included sacrificing the virtue of well-meaning converts on the altar of his dark crusade against the Asavean Plenum. He points to Rafael's recent attempt to have the [[Conclave\|Conclaves]] [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]] against the [[Whisper Gallery]] [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Whisper_Gallery,_Neutrality\|removed]] - a [[declaration]] he brought forward under the [[Grandmaster#Veil_of_Night\|Veil of Night]] - as evidence that he has a persistently lax and, yes, idolatrous attitude towards the eternals of the Night realm. He accuses Rafael and Genoveva - they are in the same guild after all - of working together to have the Chamber of Euphony as part of his persistent and [[Religious_crime#Heresy\|heretical]] secret worship of the Night eternals, and suggests that it is his hand that has caused the shadowed city to rise in Apulian - as part of his pact with Sung.		Teodore's sources - and as a reckoner they at least claim to have impeccable sources - indicates that Rafael Barossa is the true force behind the building of the Chamber of Euphony. He claims to have received information proving Rafael to have persistently encouraged [[Religious_crime#Idolatry\|idolatrous]] acts in [[Asavean Archipelago\|Asavea]] involving the eternal [[Janon]]. This included sacrificing the virtue of well-meaning converts on the altar of his dark crusade against the Asavean Plenum. He points to Rafael's recent attempt to have the [[Conclave\|Conclaves]] [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]] against the [[Whisper Gallery]] [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Whisper_Gallery,_Neutrality\|removed]] - a [[declaration]] he brought forward under the [[Grandmaster#Veil_of_Night\|Veil of Night]] - as evidence that he has a persistently lax and, yes, idolatrous attitude towards the eternals of the Night realm. He accuses Rafael and Genoveva - they are in the same guild after all - of working together to have the Chamber of Euphony as part of his persistent and [[Religious_crime#Heresy\|heretical]] secret worship of the Night eternals, and suggests that it is his hand that has caused the shadowed city to rise in Apulian - as part of his pact with Sung.

	Obviously, this is all very exciting even if most people don't believe a word of it. Teodore is a slightly tremulous [[merrow]] who many struggle to take seriously, especially when he becomes excited and his words tumble over each other, whereas Rafael and Genoveva are both of the Camorra Barossa and held to be influential citizens of the League who are generally held to be highly virtuous, likewise Cesare is one of the longest-serving senators in Imperial history. Still - some say there's no smoke without fire. There is a suggestion that perhaps the [[~~Imperial~~ Synod]] might want to look into the matter, and if Rafael Barossa is going around purchasing [[mithril]], some searching questions can be asked about whether his name still has a question mark over it - and whether it might be worth looking into the other individuals named as being complicit - even if the more conspiratorial ramblings of Teodore seem basically absurd.		Obviously, this is all very exciting even if most people don't believe a word of it. Teodore is a slightly tremulous [[merrow]] who many struggle to take seriously, especially when he becomes excited and his words tumble over each other, whereas Rafael and Genoveva are both of the Camorra Barossa and held to be influential citizens of the League who are generally held to be highly virtuous, likewise Cesare is one of the longest-serving senators in Imperial history. Still - some say there's no smoke without fire. There is a suggestion that perhaps the [[Synod]] might want to look into the matter, and if Rafael Barossa is going around purchasing [[mithril]], some searching questions can be asked about whether his name still has a question mark over it - and whether it might be worth looking into the other individuals named as being complicit - even if the more conspiratorial ramblings of Teodore seem basically absurd.
	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=ApulianOrc.jpg\|width=500\|align=right\|caption=Many League orcs are cautious about talking too much about Grendel politics because acting on out-of-date information can often be more dangerous than acting on no information.}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=ApulianOrc.jpg\|width=500\|align=right\|caption=Many League orcs are cautious about talking too much about Grendel politics because acting on out-of-date information can often be more dangerous than acting on no information.}}</div>

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

2026-01-15T16:58:08Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:58, 15 January 2026
Line 82:		Line 82:
	That logic hasn't stopped the suspicions of those who have spoken out against her. The DuSesna Guild, a prominent [[The_League_culture_and_customs#Reckoners\|reckoners]] camorra of [[Tassato\|Tassatan]] extraction, have publicly denounced the building of the ''[[Construct Chamber of Euphony\|Chamber of Euphony]]'' as folly. Their leader, ''Teodore duSesna'', has publicly condemned the [[Senator]] for Spiral, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', who proposed the motion to commission the fane and the Senator for Tassato, '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''', for seconding it. He has decried the good sense and virtuous character of '''Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below''', whose judgement endorsing the fane was supported in the League Assembly with a greater majority. The greatest portion of his ire, however, is reserved for one '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian''', until recently [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] (under which aegis he also supported the fane) and who has held any number of titles before that.		That logic hasn't stopped the suspicions of those who have spoken out against her. The DuSesna Guild, a prominent [[The_League_culture_and_customs#Reckoners\|reckoners]] camorra of [[Tassato\|Tassatan]] extraction, have publicly denounced the building of the ''[[Construct Chamber of Euphony\|Chamber of Euphony]]'' as folly. Their leader, ''Teodore duSesna'', has publicly condemned the [[Senator]] for Spiral, '''Genoveva Barossa d'Apulian''', who proposed the motion to commission the fane and the Senator for Tassato, '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''', for seconding it. He has decried the good sense and virtuous character of '''Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below''', whose judgement endorsing the fane was supported in the League Assembly with a greater majority. The greatest portion of his ire, however, is reserved for one '''Rafael Barossa d'Apulian''', until recently [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] (under which aegis he also supported the fane) and who has held any number of titles before that.

	Teodore's sources - and as a reckoner they at least claim to have impeccable sources - indicates that Rafael Barossa is the true force behind the building of the Chamber of Euphony. He claims to have received information proving Rafael to have persistently encouraged [[Religious_crime#Idolatry\|idolatrous]] acts in [[Asavean Archipelago\|Asavea]] involving the eternal [[Janon]]. This included sacrificing the virtue of well-meaning converts on the altar of his dark crusade against the Asavean Plenum. He points to Rafael's recent attempt to have the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave\|Conclaves]] [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]] against the [[Whisper Gallery]] [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Whisper_Gallery,_Neutrality\|removed]] - a [[declaration]] he brought forward under the [[Grandmaster#Veil_of_Night\|Veil of Night]] - as evidence that he has a persistently lax and, yes, idolatrous attitude towards the eternals of the Night realm. He accuses Rafael and Genoveva - they are in the same guild after all - of working together to have the Chamber of Euphony as part of his persistent and [[Religious_crime#Heresy\|heretical]] secret worship of the Night eternals, and suggests that it is his hand that has caused the shadowed city to rise in Apulian - as part of his pact with Sung.		Teodore's sources - and as a reckoner they at least claim to have impeccable sources - indicates that Rafael Barossa is the true force behind the building of the Chamber of Euphony. He claims to have received information proving Rafael to have persistently encouraged [[Religious_crime#Idolatry\|idolatrous]] acts in [[Asavean Archipelago\|Asavea]] involving the eternal [[Janon]]. This included sacrificing the virtue of well-meaning converts on the altar of his dark crusade against the Asavean Plenum. He points to Rafael's recent attempt to have the [[Conclave\|Conclaves]] [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]] against the [[Whisper Gallery]] [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Whisper_Gallery,_Neutrality\|removed]] - a [[declaration]] he brought forward under the [[Grandmaster#Veil_of_Night\|Veil of Night]] - as evidence that he has a persistently lax and, yes, idolatrous attitude towards the eternals of the Night realm. He accuses Rafael and Genoveva - they are in the same guild after all - of working together to have the Chamber of Euphony as part of his persistent and [[Religious_crime#Heresy\|heretical]] secret worship of the Night eternals, and suggests that it is his hand that has caused the shadowed city to rise in Apulian - as part of his pact with Sung.

	Obviously, this is all very exciting even if most people don't believe a word of it. Teodore is a slightly tremulous [[merrow]] who many struggle to take seriously, especially when he becomes excited and his words tumble over each other, whereas Rafael and Genoveva are both of the Camorra Barossa and held to be influential citizens of the League who are generally held to be highly virtuous, likewise Cesare is one of the longest-serving senators in Imperial history. Still - some say there's no smoke without fire. There is a suggestion that perhaps the [[Imperial Synod]] might want to look into the matter, and if Rafael Barossa is going around purchasing [[mithril]], some searching questions can be asked about whether his name still has a question mark over it - and whether it might be worth looking into the other individuals named as being complicit - even if the more conspiratorial ramblings of Teodore seem basically absurd.		Obviously, this is all very exciting even if most people don't believe a word of it. Teodore is a slightly tremulous [[merrow]] who many struggle to take seriously, especially when he becomes excited and his words tumble over each other, whereas Rafael and Genoveva are both of the Camorra Barossa and held to be influential citizens of the League who are generally held to be highly virtuous, likewise Cesare is one of the longest-serving senators in Imperial history. Still - some say there's no smoke without fire. There is a suggestion that perhaps the [[Imperial Synod]] might want to look into the matter, and if Rafael Barossa is going around purchasing [[mithril]], some searching questions can be asked about whether his name still has a question mark over it - and whether it might be worth looking into the other individuals named as being complicit - even if the more conspiratorial ramblings of Teodore seem basically absurd.

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

2026-01-15T15:06:14Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:06, 15 January 2026
Line 103:		Line 103:
	Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.		Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.

	However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[Military Council\|Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate\|Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.		However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[Military Council\|Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[Senate\|Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.

	In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.		In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.
Line 114:		Line 114:
	* '''The Salt Council will gain no local information from Spiral without establishing a new outpost in the territory'''		* '''The Salt Council will gain no local information from Spiral without establishing a new outpost in the territory'''
	* '''This is guaranteed to work		* '''This is guaranteed to work
	The [[~~Imperial~~ Senate\|Senate]] could use a Senate motion to instruct the magistrates to seize the jewel. They could arrest everyone that Victo has made contact with and interrogate them to find out more. This option would be guaranteed to succeed - the espionage ring will be damaged, it will cease to function for a season, and the office in Spiral will be destroyed. The Grendel will not be able to obtain any ''local information'' for Spiral until they are able to set a new jewel in the ring here.		The [[Senate\|Senate]] could use a Senate motion to instruct the magistrates to seize the jewel. They could arrest everyone that Victo has made contact with and interrogate them to find out more. This option would be guaranteed to succeed - the espionage ring will be damaged, it will cease to function for a season, and the office in Spiral will be destroyed. The Grendel will not be able to obtain any ''local information'' for Spiral until they are able to set a new jewel in the ring here.

	===Burnish the Jewel===		===Burnish the Jewel===

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

2026-01-15T13:13:31Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:13, 15 January 2026
Line 99:		Line 99:
	Provided the ring has at least one jewel in an Imperial territory then they can use it to find out what orders [[general\|generals]] have submitted to their armies in the previous season. Although this information comes too late to immediately counter the orders, the Salt Council still find it invaluable to know what Imperial strategy looks like and periodically the orders include information on what a general plans to do next - which may contain valuable insights.		Provided the ring has at least one jewel in an Imperial territory then they can use it to find out what orders [[general\|generals]] have submitted to their armies in the previous season. Although this information comes too late to immediately counter the orders, the Salt Council still find it invaluable to know what Imperial strategy looks like and periodically the orders include information on what a general plans to do next - which may contain valuable insights.

	In addition, any territory with a jewel in it, provides ''local information''. This includes details on any [[fortification\|forts]] that are in the territory, their size, capabilities and current status. Furthermore Grendel spies pay for information on great works, and any [[Edifice#Grandeur\|grandiose]] civilian commissions (buildings over 50 wains in size), collating reports on size and status of existing and new [[commission\|commissions]]. They are always keen to know what is happening with the Empire's [[~~Imperial~~ Bourse\|Bourse resources]], especially if any new ones have been discovered. Finally, informants are also paid to provide information on any army that moves through, or ends a season in, the territory, providing them with information on the size, status and capabilities of the army.		In addition, any territory with a jewel in it, provides ''local information''. This includes details on any [[fortification\|forts]] that are in the territory, their size, capabilities and current status. Furthermore Grendel spies pay for information on great works, and any [[Edifice#Grandeur\|grandiose]] civilian commissions (buildings over 50 wains in size), collating reports on size and status of existing and new [[commission\|commissions]]. They are always keen to know what is happening with the Empire's [[Bourse\|Bourse resources]], especially if any new ones have been discovered. Finally, informants are also paid to provide information on any army that moves through, or ends a season in, the territory, providing them with information on the size, status and capabilities of the army.

	Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.		Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Military Council" to "[[Military Council"

2026-01-15T12:23:16Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Military Council" to "[[Military Council"

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:23, 15 January 2026
Line 103:		Line 103:
	Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.		Based on the information provided by Victo and the crucial role he has played in infiltrating the espionage ring, the Empire faces several tricky choices. They could simply destroy the jewel they have found in Apulian, but they could also risk engaging in counter-espionage. The idea of feeding false information to the Grendel may seem attractive, but if the attempt fails, they will know their operations in that territory are compromised. If that happens, they will move all their agents and the opportunity to destroy the jewel will be lost.

	However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[~~Imperial~~ Military Council\|Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[Imperial Senate\|Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.		However, there is an issue - it really is not clear to whom the responsibility to act on this information falls. The Voice of Vigilance has ably assisted thus far - and Victo's investigation was inspired by Berechiah and aided by the [[Silent Bell (Sodality)\|Silent Bell]] - but the Voice of Vigilance does not have any real authority over matters of espionage. The [[Regario Dossier]] handles foreign intelligence but it does not have any responsibility for counter-intelligence, which is surely more of a [[Military Council\|Military Council]] matter. Winding up the espionage ring would be a job for the magistrates, and only the [[Imperial Senate\|Senate]] has the authority to direct them. The [[Imperial Spymaster]] has a position that sounds ideal - but in actuality the responsibilities of that title are quite narrow, relating strictly to the creation and decommissioning of spy networks. If the Senate had commissioned a proper restoration of [[Knocking_on_every_door#The_Basilica_in_Bastion\|Berechiah's Basilica]] in [[Bastion]] and created the title of the ''Clavem Iudicii'', they would be a clear person to attain this responsibility - but the Senate declined to do so.

	In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.		In lieu of a clear constitutional responsibility, the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional Court\|Constitutional Court]] have determined that the decision to wind up the jewel in Spiral or not lies with the Senate, but if the Senate demur, then the Military Council may decide what counter-espionage strategy to employ. The civil service will not raise an [[Senate_motion#Administrative_Motions\|administrative motion]] in the Senate - the default state will be that the jewel simply continues operating. The [[Herald of the Council]], working together with members of the Council to set the agenda of the Council sessions, can determine when a vote on the counter-espionage action will occur if one is requested.

Twiggy at 21:22, 30 July 2025

2025-07-30T21:22:44Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:22, 30 July 2025
Line 147:		Line 147:

	* [[Daybreak in Spiral]]- 387YE Summer wind of fortune, a companion piece to this dealing with wider Spiral events		* [[Daybreak in Spiral]]- 387YE Summer wind of fortune, a companion piece to this dealing with wider Spiral events
	* [[Our eyes in Spiral]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune ~~summarizing~~ the situation in Spiral		* [[Our eyes in Spiral]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune summarising the situation in Spiral
	* [[The play that came to Apulian]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune about happenings in Apulian		* [[The play that came to Apulian]] - 387YE Spring wind of fortune about happenings in Apulian

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:01, 15 February 2026
Line 30:		Line 30:

	{{SOP\|statement=Knowledge is incomplete. Encourage the study of dramaturgy in Spiral and the spread of findings in Urizen. We should expand Urizen learning whether the League build a college or not. The League should not be burdened alone in furthering our understanding of a major tradition & choosing next steps. Look to the example of the Astral Arcanist for what can be achieved.\|by=Donato of the Crucible, Urizen Assembly\|vote=168-10\|when=Spring Equinox 387YE}}		{{SOP\|statement=Knowledge is incomplete. Encourage the study of dramaturgy in Spiral and the spread of findings in Urizen. We should expand Urizen learning whether the League build a college or not. The League should not be burdened alone in furthering our understanding of a major tradition & choosing next steps. Look to the example of the Astral Arcanist for what can be achieved.\|by=Donato of the Crucible, Urizen Assembly\|vote=168-10\|when=Spring Equinox 387YE}}
	The confluence appears to have begun in the wake of a marked increase in the influence of the Night ~~Realm~~ in the city, but it was ''probably'' not caused by it - rather, the infusion of Night acted to quicken the still-beating heart of the city's dramatic potential: whatever that means. This dramaturgical confluence appears to be growing, and while it isn't causing a problem, some people are very concerned that ''might'' cause a problem. The ''[[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Curiouser_and_Curiouser\|Academy of Dramaturgy]]'' - or its greater cousin, the ''University of Dramaturgy'' - would be one way to solve the problem, but they are expensive to commission. There is popular support for the commission, especially from Urizeni magicians eager for a chance to study dramaturgy but it would certainly be easier simply to wait for this strange confluence to pass as all conjunctions ultimately do.		The confluence appears to have begun in the wake of a marked increase in the influence of the Night realm in the city, but it was ''probably'' not caused by it - rather, the infusion of Night acted to quicken the still-beating heart of the city's dramatic potential: whatever that means. This dramaturgical confluence appears to be growing, and while it isn't causing a problem, some people are very concerned that ''might'' cause a problem. The ''[[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Curiouser_and_Curiouser\|Academy of Dramaturgy]]'' - or its greater cousin, the ''University of Dramaturgy'' - would be one way to solve the problem, but they are expensive to commission. There is popular support for the commission, especially from Urizeni magicians eager for a chance to study dramaturgy but it would certainly be easier simply to wait for this strange confluence to pass as all conjunctions ultimately do.

	===Participation===		===Participation===
Line 62:		Line 62:
	For first time visitors to the city, the effects are utterly bewildering. A fact that could be quite useful... good luck to any [[Grendel]] [[Army\|army]] trying to invade Apulian right now! They'd turn right down Bleeker Street thinking to move on the town square and that would be the last anyone would see of them. But it's been months now and the locals are starting to get used to it. Ok, it can be a little annoying when it suddenly takes twice as long as it should have done to get over to the Aviary Carving House on Morl Street for a business dinner with your accountant, but the city pays you back with interest for the inconvenience when it should take the best part of an hour to meet your cicisbeo to take in a performance of Saluk's The Terrible Owl at Sutlers Theatre and you discover them waiting for you on your very doorstep.		For first time visitors to the city, the effects are utterly bewildering. A fact that could be quite useful... good luck to any [[Grendel]] [[Army\|army]] trying to invade Apulian right now! They'd turn right down Bleeker Street thinking to move on the town square and that would be the last anyone would see of them. But it's been months now and the locals are starting to get used to it. Ok, it can be a little annoying when it suddenly takes twice as long as it should have done to get over to the Aviary Carving House on Morl Street for a business dinner with your accountant, but the city pays you back with interest for the inconvenience when it should take the best part of an hour to meet your cicisbeo to take in a performance of Saluk's The Terrible Owl at Sutlers Theatre and you discover them waiting for you on your very doorstep.

	It's trivial for magicians to confirm this is a powerful [[Night magic]] effect - what else could it possibly be? And where previously it was a whisper, now it is a roar. It's not an [[enchantment]], which is to say it's not a [[rituals\|ritual]]. It just seems that the city of Apulian has been enticed a little closer to the ~~Realm~~ of Night than is entirely normal. It can be a problem, even for residents, but those who catch on to how it works are soon able to turn it to their advantage. One of the laws of the city seems to be that the more enjoyable something is... the closer it is... the more boring it is... the longer it takes to get there. Some magicians find themselves developing a "knack" for navigating the city. The [[Little Mother\|Church of the Little Mother]] has even begun training their most magically adept students to act as guides. This has proved to quite profitable, especially with visitors and new arrivals.		It's trivial for magicians to confirm this is a powerful [[Night magic]] effect - what else could it possibly be? And where previously it was a whisper, now it is a roar. It's not an [[enchantment]], which is to say it's not a [[rituals\|ritual]]. It just seems that the city of Apulian has been enticed a little closer to the realm of Night than is entirely normal. It can be a problem, even for residents, but those who catch on to how it works are soon able to turn it to their advantage. One of the laws of the city seems to be that the more enjoyable something is... the closer it is... the more boring it is... the longer it takes to get there. Some magicians find themselves developing a "knack" for navigating the city. The [[Little Mother\|Church of the Little Mother]] has even begun training their most magically adept students to act as guides. This has proved to quite profitable, especially with visitors and new arrivals.

	Another rule is that subterfuge seems to infuse the streets. It may simply be the knowledge that there is a Grendel espionage ring active in the city - something that is now common knowledge after recent events. People keep an eye out for anyone engaged in illicit activity and once you look for it, it seems to be everywhere. A gaggle of [[mountebank\|mountebanks]] having a clandestine meeting in the back of the tavern, two lovers from rival guilds trying to keep their affair a secret, children lurking on street corners paid to keep an eye on what is going on. All of the great cities of the League are prone to a degree of "careful dealing", but another rule of Apulian is that if you're going somewhere you really shouldn't then before you know it, you're already there.		Another rule is that subterfuge seems to infuse the streets. It may simply be the knowledge that there is a Grendel espionage ring active in the city - something that is now common knowledge after recent events. People keep an eye out for anyone engaged in illicit activity and once you look for it, it seems to be everywhere. A gaggle of [[mountebank\|mountebanks]] having a clandestine meeting in the back of the tavern, two lovers from rival guilds trying to keep their affair a secret, children lurking on street corners paid to keep an eye on what is going on. All of the great cities of the League are prone to a degree of "careful dealing", but another rule of Apulian is that if you're going somewhere you really shouldn't then before you know it, you're already there.