Empire - User contributions [en]

No Matter What

2026-07-22T21:29:26Z

Apoth: Created page with "<ic> "If're we're going to make a camp down here, then I want to know what's going on with the Suranni. Someone should be keeping an eye on them." Steelbane Rosk spat into the dust and pointed at the horizon where the border with the Iron Confederacy began. "It's difficult. Ideally I guess we'd create some kind of spy network. But most of our people are merchants, not spies. It's dangerous work being a spy if you're not prepared to lie to people. "They're slavers aren..."

<ic>
"If're we're going to make a camp down here, then I want to know what's going on with the Suranni. Someone should be keeping an eye on them." Steelbane Rosk spat into the dust and pointed at the horizon where the border with the Iron Confederacy began.

"It's difficult. Ideally I guess we'd create some kind of spy network. But most of our people are merchants, not spies. It's dangerous work being a spy if you're not prepared to lie to people.

"They're slavers aren't they? What's wrong with lying to slavers?" demanded Rosk. Ok, they're "serfs" but we all know what that means. What's wrong with lying to serfers?"

"Lying splits your soul in two." explained Estaban. We Freeborn prize honesty above all other Virtues.

Rosk's left eye flickered slightly but he let it pass. "Maybe your soul does." he said. "But I like lying to slavers. Not as much as I like running one through with my spear, but lying 'll do if there's nothing better."

The Sunstorm stopped for a moment to consider something then he grinned. "Maybe there's a way we can work together on that. You do the trading, we'll do the lying, and then when the right moment comes we can take the fight to them together?"
</ic>

==Overview==
A year and a half ago, the [[Imperial Orc|Imperial Orcs]] began to seriously address the problems of aridity faced in their new territory of [[Mareave]]. Since then, amongst other wonders where once there was desert there is now an oasis in the region of Icarion. This was in large part possible because of expert Freeborn advice. That advice was not dearly, it seems they genuinely wished to aid their fellows. After all, the Imperial Orcs and the Freeborn have a bond forged by the Exemplar Ahraz that is a flame eternal.

However, the [[Brass Coast|Freeborn]] aid did not go unacknowledged. The Imperial Orc Assembly passed a mandate calling on the [[Sunstorm]] sept to go and offer what aid they could to the impoverished territory of [[Feroz]]. While it took a couple of seasons for the Qanat to be commissioned and for this effort to begin in earnest, for the last year members of the Sunstorm sept have been visiting Feroz to learn about the problems that beset it. Now, they are finally ready to present their ideas to the people of dust, flame, and glass - their siblings in [[Courage]].

==Forged in battle==
* '''The Sunstorm sept could set up a military training camp in Afarjasse'''
* '''The region would no longer be abandoned'''
* '''It would form a good basis for an appraisal into supplying the Fire of the South out of Feroz.'''

Of course, the Imperial Orc armies have members of all the septs amongst their number. However, two septs are the foundation of the Imperial Orc's military strength. The Autumn Hammers, who draw the majority of their number from the Ethengraw, and the Summer Storm and Winter Sun, who give their name to the Sunstorm sept that founded them. More than any other sept amongst the Unshackled, the Sunstorm have a history tightly bound with the history of orcs in the Empire and the decades of their history following [[the Orc Rebellion]] when they had no home to call their own. During this time, the nation lived in camps across the Empire, such as the small settlement that still exists in [[Semmerholm#Estmure|Estcastle]] - and, in fact, in the Brass Coast, whose rolling hills and plains provided an ample place for the nascent legions to hone their skills.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Ajarjasse Training Camp'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Afarjasse, Feroz</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 16 white granite and 48 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title of Drill Sergeant of Afarjasse Camp
* Provides the Winter Sun and Summer Storm with basic training in operating in humid regions
* Removes the abandoned quality from Afarjasse
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Drill Sergent of Afarjasse Camp'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' National (Imperial Orcs)</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Imperial Orc generals</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Receives 288 rings a season. </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To lead Sunstorm training and military readiness for operations in hot, humid terrain</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Restrictions:''' If a member of a sept other than the Sunstorm sept is appointed, it will cause significant problems</td></tr>
</table></div>

These times are fondly remembered by many of the older orcs in the Sunstorm sept - a time of learning to exist alongside humans as friends and allies, after Ahraz's hard-won peace and the subsequent end of centuries of enslavement. The legion camps are mostly gone now - while small settlements and outposts do exist, many members of the Sunstorm settled in Skarsind when it was granted to them by the Senate, and many more are looking to make a home in Mareave.

This has some in the Sunstorm concerned. It is great that the Imperial Orc nation achieved its first [[Ambition]] and won its own land, and that many septs have made a home for themselves in the nation. However, what makes the Sunstorm unique is that history of being forged not just in the heat of battle but in the discipline and order of legion life. Obviously the Winter Sun and the Summer Storm benefit from this tradition every time they resupply, but outside the fifteen thousand or so soldiers who make up those armies, there are many more orcs who would once have been part of smaller banners and legions, who do not seek to live the [[Reavers|reaving]] life.

The Sunstorm who have travelled here have noted that Afarjasse is in many ways the region of the territory in the greatest predicament. While the herds of Afar have restored a small measure of prosperity to the struggling region, Afar itself was never large even in its heydey. The issue is that there is simply no reason to come here. Yet, the Sunstorm point out, these languid hills that roll hot and humid in the south would be a perfect place for a training encampment. That's interesting to them because Feroz is not like Mareave, which is hot but also notoriously dry, and it is certainly nothing like Skarsind, of course.

Yet in time, they envisage, the Empire will surely go to conquer the rest of the Broken Shore, and that will mean dealing with hot and humid regions. There are said to be some parts of Claudheel, for instance, that are thick jungle. Feroz doesn't have that, but it is an excellent place for soldiers to learn how to cope with high [[Wikipedia:Wet-bulb temperature|wet bulb temperatures]], for instance. If a Sunstorm training camp was built here, it would mean that the two armies who draw their supply from the Sunstorm would have no issues operating in regions with the humid quality. It's quite likely that Claudheel, at least, has regions which are humid.

An Imperial title would be created: the Drill Sergeant of Afarjasse Camp would take the lead of running the camp, and be paid a fair wage for their troubles. Though, it has to be said, while no restriction can legally be put on Imperial titles by sept, if a member of another sept were appointed it could well cause issues and would certainly be storing up trouble for later.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Appraise Freeborn Supply'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Appraise ways to increase the supply of Freeborn armies from Feroz</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Vainakoma Dawnstongue named as appraiser</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' Appraisal (Senate Motion) </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE </td></tr>
</table></div>
Moreover, if a Sunstorm training camp was built here, in Afarjasse, then it would immediately create a market that canny Freeborn could surely be encouraged to take advantage of. A training camp needs food, it needs water, it needs entertainment (for nothing is worse for discipline than a bored soldier). If a training camp was built here, it would remove the abandoned quality from Afarjasse. However, it would be possible to go further. After all - the Brass Coast too possesses warriors who always enjoy the chance to stretch themselves.

The Fire of the South draw much of their supply - traditionally at least - from the plans of Segura and Feroz. In recent years, however, they have really been supported primarily by the Iron Qanat alone, and certainly not by the people of underpopulated Feroz. Once the training camp was built, it would be possible to appraise - in the usual manner - the problem of supplying the Fire of the South out of Feroz.

It's hard to say what the outcome of such an appraisal would be, but it would almost certainly address the issue of Feroz's underpopulation. With the expert military insight of the Sunstorm, perhaps the Fire of the South might also be able to [[Army_qualities#Advanced_Qualities|advance]] their own military cunning. The appraiser Vainakoma Dawnstongue could be the best choice for this endeavour, given her military background.

Of course, there could also be the potential for collaboration with the Protectorate of Morajasse, who are also relatively martially-minded and who might well enjoy the opportunity for joint exercises with the Sunstorm. That would be a matter for the Imperial Consul to independently pursue, however.

==Break the chains==
* '''A spy network targeting Arbonne could be set up camouflaged as a cattle wrangling market'''

The Sunstorm are also characterised by a strong and total rejection of the institution of slavery and the need for liberation that goes above and beyond the general antipathy that most Imperial citizens or even most other Imperial Orcs possess. They are joined in this passion, however, by the Freeborn. While other nations of the Empire have a chequered past that necessarily involves some degree of culpability in the institution of slavery, the Freeborn were passionate voices in favour of abolition from long before they joined the Empire.

One group who certainly do ''not'' value the freedom of the individual as guaranteed in the Imperial Constitution is the Suranni, who control Arbonne, the territory to the south of Feroz. While the Iron Confederacy claim that they do not keep slaves, every account that exists of the reality of life as a serf is one that ''strongly'' resembles slavery, especially because the Suranni believe the importance of bloodlines and inheritance. Once a serf, always a serf, and so true for all your children and children's children.
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Wranglers Market'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Spy Network</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Arbonne</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 14 weirwood and 42 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title of Chief Wrangler
* Provides the Imperial Orc military units with a way to spy on the Suranni in Arbonne
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the end of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Drill Sergent of Afarjasse Camp'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Brass Coast</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Tally of the Votes</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:''' Can purchase orichalcum and weltsilver </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To ensure enough cattle are traded to allow scouts to spy on the Suranni</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background-color:LightYellow;">'''Ministry'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>Cost</td><td>Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>140 Rings</td><td>6 orichalcum and 6 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>340 Rings</td><td>12 orichalcum and 12 weltsilver</td></tr>
<tr><td>600 Rings</td><td>18 orichalcum and 18 weltsilver</td></tr>
</table>
</div>

It's an unpleasant reality. Once, Arbonne - then Kalino - was controlled by the Lasambrian Orcs. Once they were bandits and scoundrels but these days, they have embraced Virtue, if not [[the Way]]. Now the [[Iron Confederacy]] is on the doorstep of the Freeborn. More than that, the Cazar Straits are in fact now under Suranni control. They have become a daily reminder that the Empire has an uneasy peace with a people whose way of life is inimical to the Freeborn and the values of the Sunstorm.

Now, while the Empire is at peace with the Iron Confederacy... there are ways the Freeborn and the Sunstorm could join forces to, perhaps, test the bounds of that state of affairs. Arbonne is unmapped by the Empire... so a spy network in the territory would be prudent and technically legal.

There is a brutal truth that many Freeborn are not ''great'' at spying. They excel at scouting, but the hard work of spying is a problem for people who can't tell a lie. But working together Imperial Orcs and Freeborn might cover each other's strengths. There is the perfect cover right there in Afar, where of course the herds have recently been re-established thanks to the Great Cattle Market of '87. The Sunstorm are familiar with cattle themselves - the Great Herds of Skarsind and Mareave were established under the aegis of members of the sept.

At Bramar, a Wrangler's Market could be set up, and a Chief Wrangler appointed to manage the cattle trade there, working with the Dhomiro of Afar whose interests also lie squarely in this area. This would operate much like any other ministry, trading with the Iron Confederacy in rings (representing the exchange of cattle) in return for orichalcum and weltsilver, which the Iron Confederacy is rich in.

But the suggestion of the Sunstorm is that the Imperial Orcs could use Wrangler's Market as a front to spy on Arbonne. Moreover, as long as the ministry was operated each season, the Suranni would have no way at all to discover the network. Indeed it would be in the interests of corrupt officials - of which the Confederacy most certainly has its fair portion - to not look too closely and even to cover up any evidence of spying that they did discover - because it might disrupt the lucrative trade.

With the Freeborn moving large numbers of cattle through the Wranglers Market, it would be easy for Sunstorm military units to use the trade to spy on Arbonne. They could accompany the herds as they moved south, on the face of it acting like guards and wranglers, whilst actually spying on the slavers.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T20:44:53Z

Apoth: /* Warriors' Gate */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider Synod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

===Beneath a Moonless Sky===
* '''Wintermark, especially fleet captains; Mediator of Hyljehal; fans of Sermersuaq

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] has seen they work bear fruit this season as one of the leaders of the Hylje, Koskinen, has made contact with matters of interest.

You can read about the goings on of the curious sea people in the '''[[Beneath a moonless sky]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Visitation (Vistors)===
* '''Golden Fleet Salvagemaster; Marisol i Erigo (whoever that may be); competitive citizens; fans of Bloodcrow Knott

People visit Anvil for all kinds of reasons. Trade, wonderment, and a chance to meet with the movers and shakers of the Empire. It is no surprise that Anvil is seen as the place to be if you want to get anything of importance done.

You can find out more about some of the folk coming to Anvil this season in '''[[The Visitation]]''' wind of fortune.

===Warriors' Gate===
* '''Those interested in exploring the mysterious land of Tsirku; Imperial Spymaster; Imperial Orcs; Varushka; People who like doing crimes with the Whisper Gallery.

It's cold! It's mysterious! It's Tsirku!

You can find out about the ongoing efforts to map the frozen wastes of Tsirku in the '''[[Warriors' Gate]]''' wind of fortune.

===No Matter What===
* '''Imperial Orcs; Freeborn; those who would perform espionage on the Suranni

Some time ago, the Imperial Orcs decided to return the favour to the Freeborn who helped them in Mareave by seeing what they could do to help the impoverished territory of Feroz.

You can find out about just how they propose to do this in the '''[[No Matter What]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
[[Push_for_victory#See_That_We_Fight|The raid on Leen]] was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

Warriors' Gate

2026-07-22T20:32:23Z

Apoth: Created page with "<ic>Vladimir shaded his eyes, and watched as the Suaq tried again to show the half a dozen orcs how to slide their feet in such a way that their wooden skies slid across the surface of the snow. One of the warriors made such a hash of it they actually managed to snap the ski somehow. The Varushkan shook his head ruefully, and went back to strapping his much more practical snowshoes to his sturdy boots. Skiing was fine for getting from a high place to a low place, but he..."

<ic>Vladimir shaded his eyes, and watched as the Suaq tried again to show the half a dozen orcs how to slide their feet in such a way that their wooden skies slid across the surface of the snow. One of the warriors made such a hash of it they actually managed to snap the ski somehow. The Varushkan shook his head ruefully, and went back to strapping his much more practical snowshoes to his sturdy boots. Skiing was fine for getting from a high place to a low place, but he had no patience for cross-country skiing and did not envy the Wintermark hunter their job of trying to teach a bunch of enthusiastic amateurs from the arid plains of Mareave the best way to do so.

His cousin Estragon was still talking, annoyingly. Vladimir had been trying to tune him out, with only minimal success. He loved his cousin, most likely, but his voice could cut wood when he started off on one of his drawn-out tirades about something he was passionate about. Right now he was complaining about the decision the leader of their band had made to come and look at Tsirku. Illyana had been quite fired up when she'd heard the call to arms from Rosanna Vtrachenich and immediately insisted they bring their wagons to the arse-end of the Empire.

"... and its not even as if there are any sovereigns here!" Estragon finished, as if that was his trump card.

Vladimir finished strapping himself up, stood, and whacked his cousin around the back of the head.

"What was that for!", demanded Estragon, outraged.

"If you don't know I'm not going to tell you," said Vladimir, making sure the wooden snow-goggles he'd bought during their visit to Hunter's Hall were tied securely in place. "There may not be sovereigns, you dolt, but what there ''probably'' is, is a thousand years of untouched wealth buried under all this snow just waiting for someone to rip it up and take it home."

He glanced over at Estragon, who was rubbing the back of his head with a surly expression on his face.

"Honestly," sighed the big wagon raider. "Sometimes I wonder if you are even a Varushkan, cousin" </ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Snowy wastes.jpg|align=left|caption=Tsirku is a cold and desolate wasteland.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''The first steps have been taken to explore the wilderness of Tsirku'''
The frozen wasteland of Tsirku to the north of Sermersuaq is truly ''terra incognita'' as the old [[Asavean Archipelago|Asaveans]] would have it. [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil|Last season]] a bold endeavour was set in motion to explore the unknown land, to learn more of what lies in its trackless tundra and ice fields, and if possible to make it part of Wintermark.

The first preliminary steps into Tsirku have been a resounding success. A large number of [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]], and a single band of [[Navarr]], challenged the Northern Lights, the eternal storm of Sydanjaa, and the dangers of the wastes. Slowly they have begun to build a picture of this enigmatic, vast stretch of land that lies between the Empire, the [[Jotun]], the [[Thule]], and who-knows-what else. Meanwhile a large number of Winterfolk and some [[Dawn|Dawnish]] adventurers pushed into Tsirku, [[Tsirku is Enticing|seeking adventure]], and seeing what treasures might lie in the boundless wastes.

==Warriors Gate==
* '''Scouts and adventurers have explored the region of Warriors Gate
* '''They have identified several landmarks but the region is mostly snow-blown tundra
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'><tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th><th>Nation</th></tr>
<tr><td>Powell Open-Skies</td><td>Open Skies</td><td>Navarr</td></tr>
<tr><td>Aaro</td><td>Bloodforge Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Aelson Dunhearth</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Aengel Dunn</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ailfryn Issigsbarn</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ailsa</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Alwyn Croft</td><td>The Winter Wolfborn</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Arja Riftweaver</td><td>House Gerís</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Artic</td><td>The Winter Wolfborn</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Blaidd Sinan</td><td>House Gerís</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Bronn Dunwolf</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Calvayne</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ceolmund Dreth</td><td>End’s Hearth</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ciara</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Dart Orias</td><td>Hall Stonesworn</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Duwana</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Eahlstan Yarricson</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Elgar Angusson Krakenring</td><td>Kraken's Vanguard</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Eodin Swiftstride</td><td>Shield Wolves</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Finn ulson</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Gerrick Wind Ward's Guardian</td><td>Kraken's Vanguard</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ghelwyn</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Guthelm Fleetfoot</td><td>Eira Spire</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Guthrum Bjorning</td><td>Bjornholt</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Hazen Marking</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Kaisa</td><td>Shield Wolves</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Kara</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Kraxis Asherson</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Loki</td><td>Shield Wolves</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Miguel Oakshotte</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Nerian Hererinc</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Oona</td><td>Stormspire</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Quintaras Halivor</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Rek Martinez Dunqueza</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Reu'Hrokr</td><td>Corvenhal</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Rolf Boarson</td><td>Shield Wolves</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Runik Frostborn</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Seht Ravenson of Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sylvi</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tarn Myreson</td><td>Hall Stonesworn</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Theomere Swiftstride</td><td>Shield Wolves</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tostig</td><td>Corvenhal</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tyburn Natkysset</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ulfric Ursine</td><td></td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ulric Baersonling</td><td>Corvenhal</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Utread Broadmeadow</td><td>The Winter Wolfborn</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Utred Tiberiuson</td><td>Shield Wolves</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Vidor Broadmeadow</td><td>The Winter Wolfborn</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Witgast Dunning</td><td>Dunhearth Hall</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Yorrick</td><td>Kraken's Vanguard</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
<tr><td>Yrsir</td><td>Stormspire</td><td>Wintermark</td></tr>
</table></div>
Tsirku isn't impossible to map, as such, but there are a large number of challenges that need to be overcome. One is that [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Big|Tsirku is big]] - meaning that unlike a traditional [[spy network]] scouts cannot hope to explore the entire place in a single season. With the Summer Solstice approaching, then, the Winterfolk (and their Navarr ally) have mostly explored a single region, which is named ''Warriors Gate''.

Warriors Gate lies north of Suaq Fount and takes its name from the fact that it is the gateway to Tsirku, and that the path of those who walk into Sydanjaa passes through it. It is cold - even with Summer approaching it is significantly colder than northern Sermersuaq. Snowfalls are not uncommon, and water regularly freezes overnight. Yet it is by no means barren. In the south particularly there are areas of scrubby grass, heather, and hardy thornbushes. A few bent trees grow here, and where their roots spread there are oases of life. Pale hares, equally pale foxes, wolves, and even the occasional massive snow bear are found here. There are also huddles of the massive white [[Mundane_beasts#Dire_Beasts|dire penguins]] native to the north-west of the Empire here, in numbers hitherto unknown. They provide good eating for those brave enough to hunt them.

The place is also a cornucopia of unfamiliar plants and berries growing here - treasures of Tsirku that are unfamiliar to southern explorers. It's not that the place is ''lush'' precisely, more that the plants that survive here are hardy and perhaps possessed of some additional virtue. A few magicians speculate that the threads of mana here, left to flow freely without tampering by human or orc, infuse the landscape. Others point to the baleful influence of the Northern Lights, while still others note that this wasteland may be touched by the magic of the [[realms]] in ways that settled lands are not. Finally, a few suggest that it is just that the most dangerous locations tend to be the most rich - they point to [[Varushka]] and [[Otkodov]] as examples of this and the wealth of the wild [[the Barrens|Barrens]].

Warriors Gate is flat, and has comparatively few significant geographical features. There is a frozen lake here in the northern part of the region called the ''Lake of Sighs'', which is frozen solid nine months of the year. The "pilgrims' trail" to Sydanjaa passes over the ice of the lake. There is also a scrubby forest in the east of the region dubbed ''Courtier's Wood'' because the hardy trees that make it up are bent over like bowing diplomats. Beggarwood is found in profusion here, along with patches of [[bladeroot]], but there are also reports of odd creatures like furred spiders the size of wolves that move around in the place. They scurry away from explorers, and nobody gets more than a glimpse of them, but they may prove to be a danger.

There is no Jotun or Thule presence here. The sole sign that anyone other than Winterfolk pilgrims has ever been here is only a short distance across the border of Sermersuaq - a trilithon of white stone carved with stylised depictions of mammoths, hares, penguins, and deer as well as symbols of Summer. It puts the Navarr who see it immediately in mind of the [[Hercynia#The_Gate_of_Summer|Gate of Summer]] in [[Hercynia]]. The monument is dubbed the ''Gate of Winter'', and like the structure in the south it has absolutely no magic associated with it.

The only other common faeture are cairns - four of them - that mark a kind of trail that wends north through Warriors Gate. Most of the stones that mark these cairns come from the local area, but a few have been carried from further afield. Many are marked with [[runes]], and in amongst them are odd relics such as long-rusted blades, animals of carved bone, scraps of fabric hung as flags, and the like. These are pilgrim cairns, created over the centuries by those taking the long walk from Sermersuaq to Sydanjaa. Even the beasts of Agramant do not interfere with these monuments.
===Claiming Warriors Gate===
* '''Warriors Gate has been explored but is too inhospitable for an army to claim it for the Empire'''
* '''The Citadel of the Warm Hearth would anchor the exploration and an Imperial claim to the region'''

[[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Trackless|Tsirku is trackless]], barren, and vast. Armies cannot conquer regions of this wasteland, and attempting to do so would result in significant casualties just due to the cold. However, the explorers identify several locations in the region where the ''Citadel of the Warm Hearth'' proposed by ''Firebird Eorling'' could be built. All that is required is a [[commission]], and a massive investment of [[white granite]] and [[mithril]]. If the citadel were completed, there would be an opportunity to "conquer" Warriors Gate and begin the ultimate ambition of bringing the wasteland under control of Wintermark.

Previously, there was insufficient knowledge about the region to allow such a castle - or indeed anything else - to be built. Now sites have been found, and the shape of the region is known, the [[opportunity]] is there to establish an anchor for Wintermark's expansion and further exploration.
{{CaptionedImage|file=ArchmageSummer.jpg|caption='''Mirella of the Twisted Rose''', Archmage of Summer|align=right|width=300}}
The citadel is a serious endeavour in and of itself, but some [[runesmith|runesmiths]] suggest that it might be possible to secure assistance from the spirits of the realms. Both [[Cathan Canae]] and [[Adamant]] would have reasons to offer their aid - the former because the citadel represents a profound test of fortitude and the beginning of a glorious conquest, the latter because a massive castle of white granite in an impossible location is just the kind of thing the ''King Under the Mountain'' likes.

Of course eternals rarely offer their aid without a cost, and given the current attitudes of the [[Synod]] to trafficking with the eternals it ''might'' be better to go it alone. But perhaps the [[Archmage of Summer]] '''Mirella of the Twisted Rose''' could be persuaded to use their power of [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] to help Wintermark engage with the eternals?

==Summer in Tsirku==
* '''There are three regions that might be explored next'''
* '''The Imperial Spymaster determines which region to explore next'''
From Warriors Gate there are three ways the exploration could proceed.
* Westward, toward [[Tromsa]], lies a region that preliminary exploration identifies as "''barren, windswept, with wide and unsettling skies''". It's likely that Lake Nutjuitoq extends into this area, and there may be a connection to the [[Sea of Snow]] given that there must be ''some'' way for the great sea beasts to reach the [[Sermersuaq#The_Grave_of_the_Giants|Grave of the Giants]]. The ''hylje'' have [[Beneath_a_moonless_sky#As_Semersuaq_strode|offered aid]] in exploring this region, should Wintermark wish to avail themselves of it.
* Eastward, towards [[Otkodov#Urdur|Urdur]] lies a region described as "''rocky, with scattered trees, that feels ominous''". It's possible that the region actually abuts Urdur and if it does that increases the likelihood of some kind of Thule presence there.
* Northward, towards [[Sermersuaq#Sydanjaa|Sydanjaa]] is a region described as "''icy, covered in snow, with vicious looking chasms''". It doesn't seem that Sydanjaa extends ''into'' this region, but it is one that those walking that way would pass through.
The decision on where to focus exploration after the Summer Solstice lies with the [[Imperial Spymaster]], although they may receive counsel from the people of Wintermark. At the very least, the Imperial Spymaster should let the Wintermark people know which direction to head in, and the best way to do that would be to address their muster during the Summer Solstice. The Wintermark egregores should be able to arrange such an opportunity for them.

Notably, the season of exploration following the Summer Solstice will be the last before the weather [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Barren|begins to turn]]. After the Autumn Equinox, until the Spring Equinox, the strength required to gain any information from the Tsirku spy network is doubled (something that might make the aid offered by the hylje particularly valuable).

==Dangers and Hunters==
* '''Creatures of ''Blood-on-the-Snow'' threaten explorers in Warriors Gate
Warriors Gate is indeed dangerous. Explorers here are passing through a [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_the_Wasteland|wasteland]] unprotected by the [[alignment#enmity|wards of the Conclave]]. Specifically, every warband has a story of encountering what can only be beasts or [[inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]] from the demesne of [[Agramant|Blood-on-the-Snow]]. They include black-eyed, emaciated white bears, skin hanging like damp cloth over their twisted bones, that speak with human voices; viciously grinning snaggle-toothed humans and orcs garbed in suspicious leather and blood-soaked fur who offer aid to lost or hungry travellers; and at least one massive creature combining the worse elements of forest ape, wolverine, and stag that simply stands a short distance away from an encampment and watches the explorers with cold, dead eyes.

Fortunately, steps have been taken to mitigate the risks of the creatures of the [[Realms#Winter|eternal Wasteland]]. Following the advice of the [[Wintermark_military_concerns#Banner-bearers|banner-bearers]] of Wintermark, the [[Senate]] has [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Banner-bearer_of_Atkonaroq|expanded]] the [[Banner-bearer_of_Atkonaroq#Responsibilities|responsibilities]] of the [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]]. They now contribute their expertise, and the support of the [[Banner-bearer_of_Atkonaroq#Hall_of_the_Hunters|Hall of the Hunters]] towards protecting the explorers of Tsirku from the threat of Agramant's beasts.

One of the first "points of interest" in Warriors Gate discovered by the explorers are a pair of [[regio]] in different parts of the region that are clearly claimed by ''Blood-on-the-Snow''. Both sites are marked by rocks and ice protrusions that weep a horrible, thick, blood-like substance familiar to those who remember the [[Anyone_but_you#The_Bleeding_Ice|Bleeding Ice]] discovered in [[Sermersuaq#Tanikipari|Tanikipari]] by the [[Shuttered Lantern]] three years ago. These powerful Winter regio are guarded by dozens of servants of the ''Wastewalker'', and are clearly the "staging posts" for the creatures that he sends south to bedevil northern Sermersuaq.

There's also reports of the fallen [[thane]], [[Anyone_but_you#Wemba_the_Bloody|Wemba the Bloody]], whose spirit snapped when the Jotun claimed his hall in Atalaq. Now a cannibal who has sworn to eat only the flesh of his defeated enemies, he and his warband are clearly using these regio to commune with Agramant and receive his boons. The two sites are dubbed the ''Bloody Teeth'' and the ''Treachers Dagger'' by scouts. The explorers aren't able to get close to them, but they're able to mark their locations.

The new responsibilities of the Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq provide a possible way to try and deal with the two regio. Bands of heroes use the Hall of Hunters as their base from which to [[Venture#Hunt_the_Suaq_Wastes|Hunt the Suaq Wastes]]. The [[venture]] is only available to Wintermark and bold [[Dawn|Dawnish]] captains, and there are fewer and fewer beasts actually ''in'' Sermersuaq to hunt. However, this presents an opportunity.

{{Mandate|mandate=The servants of Agramant gather in Warriors Gate and must be dealt with. We send the Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq with 25 doses of liao to lead heroes and glory-seekers alike to face the dangers of (the Bloody Teeth/Treachers Dagger) and drive them back from whence they came.|assembly=Wintermark National Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, it will focus the efforts of the ''Hunt the Suaq Wastes'' [[venture]] on taking the fight to the servants of Agramant at the named regio. Provided at least 5,000 strength supports the venture after the Summer solstice, the servants of Agramant there will be scattered and an opportunity to permanently sever the regio will be provided.

The Bloody Teeth is clearly a source of [[Vis#Heart's Blood|Heart's Blood]], similar to the Bleeding Stone. If this target is chosen, a standard military unit will receive three pawns of Winter vis in place of the rewards they would usually get, with [[military unit#upgraded|upgraded]] or [[enchantment|enchanted]] resources gaining more.

''Treachers Dagger'' however is where Wemba the Bloody and their entourage were last seen, and is where the mortal servants of the eternal seem to be congregated. In this case, military units will each receive a ribbon for an enchanted item seized from the slain enemies in place of the standard rewards for the venture.

If the mandate is enacted this season, and the raid is successful, an opportunity to attack the other regio may be presented at the Autumn Equinox, along with an opportunity to use the [[Sentinel Gate]] to deal with the regio permanently.

The only people not ''entirely'' enthused about this are a handful of [[maggot|maggots]] who point out that if the Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq is successful at destroying the two regio, they'll be basically putting themselves out of a job. The ''Feast of Famine'' will still be a threat to folk exploring the north - these are surely far from the only regio that are available to the eternal - but there'll be no more monsters coming south to attack Sermersuaq. Which will spell the end for the venture to ''Hunt the Suaq Wastes'' and potentially the entire purpose of the Banner-bearer.

==Securing Allies==
* '''Wintermark has begun sharing their expertise in surviving arctic conditions with the rest of the Empire
* '''The Smokehouse of Atalaq is providing food to explorers in the wasteland
The task of mastering Tsirku is [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Comprehensible|truly ambitious]], and Wintermark is unlikely to achieve it on its own. During the Spring Equinox, the Wintermark Assembly sought allies from the other Imperial nations. They [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_48|sent]] '''Thritt''', themselvs a banner-bearer, to encourage those familiar with the cold and the arctic conditions of Tsirku to share their knowledge with the rest of the Empire. Captains, explorers, trappers, trackers, and travellers have all begun to take advantage of this offer, learning how to deal with the frigid conditions north of Sermersuaq.

At the same time '''Hildelith Kaukosdottir''' [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_126|arranged further support]] by encouraging the farmers of Wintermark to provide [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Comprehensible|surplus provisions]], suitable for use in Tsirku, to those scouting the wastes. As such, each season a strength of 500 will be commited to the scouting network. It isn't enough to operate the network by itself, but it will bolster efforts in the north. More importantly for some, though, it means that anyone taking part in the endeavour has a ready supply of compact, easy to carry, nutritious food that can give them the strength to push through the hostile landscape. This comes at the cost, however, of removing the usual benefits provided by the [[Smokehouse of Atalaq]] - it will no longer provide additional production to the [[farm|farms]] of Sermersuaq.

==Siglings and Guides==
{{SOP|statement=We in Varushka understand the importance of building roads into the unknown. In this regard we in the Varushkan National Assembly support our little siblings in Wintermark and their exploration of the unknown wastes of Tsirku.|by=Rosanna Vtrachenich, Varushkan Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 208-30|when=Spring Equinox 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The Imperial Orc nation accepts the wisdom of the northern folk. Teach us the ways of snow and climb, let us learn from those who came before us. Varushka and Wintermark be our guide as we share your journey into Tsirku.|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orcs Assembly|vote=Greater Majority 60-0|when=Spring Equinox 388YE|size=small}}
* '''The Imperial Orcs and Varushka passed statements of principle pledging support for Wintermark
* '''Champions from both nations can take part in the Adventure in Tsirku venture
* '''The Varushkan has an opportunity to contribute by helping explore and exploit the wastes
* '''The Imperial Orcs are focused on their highest calling
Two nations responded with [[statement of principle|statements of principle]] - [[Varushka]] and the [[Imperial Orcs]]. The main consequence at the moment is that the opportunity to ''Adventure in Tsirku'' is now available to [[military unit|captains and champions]] of those two nations, alongside the Winterfolk and the people of Dawn. The Varushkans are already experienced in the kind of conditions they might find in Tsirku, and the expertise shared by Wintermark mean that the Imperial Orcs can embrace this adventure nearly as effectively as the more practiced explorers.

While the aid of the Unshackled is appreciated, the efforts of the Imperial Orcs are currently focused on their [[highest calling]] - to explore the ancestors and spiritual beliefs of other septs who are not part of the Empire. There is some hope that once they have finished their own ambitious undertaking, they will still be enthusiastic about helping in the north. It's likely that the endeavour will not be complete any time soon, after all.

Varushka on the other hand does not ''have'' a highest calling. Like Wintermark, it rejects the idea of such things, and so it is free to encourage virtue where it wishes. The words of Rosanna Vtrachenich strike a chord with many who learn of them. The statement refers to the historical connection between Wintermark and Varushka - as [[People of the North]] lays out, the Suaq, Kallavesi, and ancient Ushkan folk likely are branches of the same family, and the Vard are the elder siblings to the Steinr. Their history has not always been peaceful, but perhaps more than any other Imperial nations there is a connection between the two. Indeed, before the recent arrival of the Imperial Orcs and the Thule, they even shared a border (for good and ill).

{{Mandate|mandate=There are old ties between the people of Varushka and those of Wintermark; we are cousins to Suaq and Kallavesa and siblings to the Steinr. They seek to master Tsirku, and we are wise in the ways of taming dangerous lands. We send (named priest) with 100 doses of liao to urge the folk of Varushka to remember our old bonds, and to help our cousins secure their future.|assembly=Varushkan National Assembly}}

If this mandate is passed, it will inspire the people of Varushka to offer their help to the people of Wintermark in their exploration of Tsirku. There will be an [[opportunity]] at the Autumn Equinox for members of the nation to support the exploration with a particular eye towards sharing expertise with supernatural threats, and locating resources to exploit. However, the mandate also holds within it an assertion that [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Wintermark|Tsirku is Wintermark]] - recognising their claim to the land. Should it ever be necessary to do so, the people of Varushka will expect their assembly to support that claim.

However, for the next year, the idea of mastering the wasteland and its resources, exploring its dangers, and working beside Wintermark will excite and inspire the people of the nation. Any further attempt to move the people of the nation to support some other grand endeavour will have no effect until a full year has passed.

==Whispered Opposition==
* '''The Whisper Gallery offers an opportunity for those who wish to interfere in the exploration of Tsirku'''
* '''The ''Snap rope and foil explorers'' scouting venture allows military units to oppose the exploration'''
* '''In return they receive treasures and potentially wonders of the wasteland and Night vis'''
* '''Taking this action is a crime, should an individual be found out, but evidence will be difficult to find'''
* '''Only those who have made themselves known to the Whisper Gallery will be invited to snap rope and foil explorers'''
* '''Any military unit that takes this action will be listed alongside the other explorers'''

Nothing is ever easy, of course. [[Snap_rope_and_pass_foil#Tsirku_is_Secret|Tsirku is secret]], full of things unknown in the Empire. Arguably, full of things no living mortal has ''ever'' laid eyes on. The warnings of ''[[Sung|Night Singer]]'' and the ''[[Sadogua|Brother of Wizards]]'' last season spoke of opposition from the ''[[Whisper Gallery|Stewards of the Shadowed Throne]]'' who are apparently ''very'' unhappy to see Imperial scouts exploring Tsirku. It seems that with the first explorers penetrating the secrets of Tsirku, the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne'' is prepared to take action.

Normally the [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] of the [[Conclave]] would keep the agents of the ''Cavalcade of Masks'' at bay but that protection does not extend to Tsirku. Fortunately, the baroque creature is attempting some over-complicated method of recruiting suitable allies which thus far is restricting its appeal. Perhaps to compensate for that, the eternal is increasing the rewards on offer.

Following the Summer Solstice select military units can participate in the ''Snap ropes and foil explorers'' [[Military_unit#Scouting|scouting ]][[venture]]. This venture is aimed at causing trouble for the explorers supporting the Imperial [[spy network]] in Tsirku.
Any military unit that takes it will be listed alongside those military units who are sincerely supporting efforts to understand Tsirku, but their effective strength will be ''subtracted'' from the amount achieved rather than added to it.

No military unit may take advantage of this opportunity unless they have made themselves known to the Whisper Gallery. If they do that, then they will be invited to take part.

Any military unit that takes part will receive a little guidance from the Whisper Gallery - they can offer aid to find secret things after all - meaning they will receive three ''treasures of the wasteland'' (consumables representing unique resources found in Tsirku) and three pawns of [[Vis#Crystal_Fire|crystal fire]] as a direct gift from the ''Ministers of the Chiaroscuran Palace''. A military unit that has an effective rank of at least 8 (counting enchantment and upgrades) will also receive assistance in finding a ''wonder of the wasteland'', a much rarer consumable.

It's notable that any military units taking the ''Snap ropes and foil explorers'' action will still suffer the same penalty to do so they would suffer when taking any ''other'' action in Tsirku - and in a way Wintermark's enthusiasm for securing allies has played a little into the hands of the Whisper Gallery by reducing those difficulties.

There is unfortunately no way to tell whether someone supporting the spy network is doing so honestly, or with nefarious intent. The civil service will continue to publish the list of who is working on the spy network, but everyone taking the ''Snap ropes and foil explorers'' action will appear alongside their less treacherous compatriots.

Obviously, taking boons from the Whisper Gallery in this fashion is a crime.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T20:28:08Z

Apoth: /* The Visitation (Vistors) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider Synod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

===Beneath a Moonless Sky===
* '''Wintermark, especially fleet captains; Mediator of Hyljehal; fans of Sermersuaq

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] has seen they work bear fruit this season as one of the leaders of the Hylje, Koskinen, has made contact with matters of interest.

You can read about the goings on of the curious sea people in the '''[[Beneath a Moonless Sky]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Visitation (Vistors)===
* '''Golden Fleet Salvagemaster; Marisol i Erigo (whoever that may be); competitive citizens; fans of Bloodcrow Knott

People visit Anvil for all kinds of reasons. Trade, wonderment, and a chance to meet with the movers and shakers of the Empire. It is no surprise that Anvil is seen as the place to be if you want to get anything of importance done.

You can find out more about some of the folk coming to Anvil this season in '''[[The Visitation]]''' wind of fortune.

===Warriors' Gate===
* '''Those interested in exploring the mysterious land of Tsirku; Imperial Spymaster; Imperial Orcs; Varushka; People who like doing crimes with the Whisper Gallery.

It's cold! It's mysterious! It's Tsirku!

You can find out about the ongoing efforts to map the frozen wastes of Tsirku in the '''[[Warriors' Gate]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
[[Push_for_victory#See_That_We_Fight|The raid on Leen]] was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:16:05Z

Apoth: /* Rains in Mareave */

[[Category:388YE Summer ]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ripple effect on water.jpg|caption=Ripples spread from a single drop of water, as consequences spread from a single decision.|align=left|width=450}}</div>
==Overview==
Magic fills the known world. It rides the winds, it rises with the sun and the stars, it flows in great currents through the forests and the seas and the sky. It is part of the rivers and the forests, the seas and the skies. It is studied, mastered, examined, and debated. It is mysterious, enigmatic, unpredictable, and yet follows its own strange laws. All mortals practice magic, and yet they are not the only sources of magic in the world. It comes from rattling runes, from the heavens, from the wellspring of blood, from the shapes and symbols of creation, and while it can be bidden it cannot always be restrained. Wonder is all around, an endless wordless tune that winds and weaves around all things.

This wind of fortune rounds up a roundup of assorted strange events, some arising from mortal actions some with less explicable causes. There are several companion pieces to this wind. '''[[The keys of blood]]''' deals with things relating specifically to the [[eternal|eternals]] of the [[Realms|six realms]] while [[Ambassadors of death]] addresses the [[Archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages of the [[Archmage|archmages]].

==Magical Chaos==
* '''The astronomantic constellations continue to exert strange influences on the Empire
* '''Territory-scale magic is much more likely to have additional unlooked for effects when performed at the Spring Equinox
* '''These effects will never invalidate the listed mechanical effect of a ritual
The magical chaos that [[What regulates the wheel?|began]] shortly before the Winter Solstice, and [[Things go awry|continued through]] the Spring Equinox, has not abated. The good news is that the immediate effects of that chaos have reached a plateau - they don't seem to be actively getting worse at least at the moment. The ''bad'' news is that they are still going on. There are stories from across the Empire of magical rituals going wonky, especially those that are cast over a large area such as [[Rivers of Life]]. They still work, but as well as their expected effects there are side-effects nobody could have predicted.
===Broken===
* '''It remains impossible to enhance ritual lore using the Imperial regio
* '''Other properties of the Imperial regio are unchanged
The Imperial regio at Anvil remains "[[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Broken_Regio|broken]]", despite another slew of [[divination|divinations]] performed during the Equinox. The key power that so many Imperial magicians have relied on for nearly four centuries - to improve their [[Magical skills#Ritual lores|realm lore]] while working a ritual at the regio - is no longer available. Attempts to draw on that power simply find... nothing. Interestingly, there was at least one incident during the Equinox that spoke of a powerful regio ''outside'' Anvil that provided the ability to draw strength for performing rituals of a single realm, and there are stories that there are other regio that still have that power. Some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] (left in the Empire while so many of their fellow magicians are in [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] and the [[Commonwealth]] fighting [[Cold Sun]]) speculate that a given regio can only have ''one'' special property, and that the bonus strengthening of ritual lore by the Anvil regio at the same time it connected to all realms and the entire Empire, was an aberration. They've no evidence for that, just worrying speculation. if it was an aberration its one that lasted nearly four centuries, after all.

In other respects, the regio continues to function as normal. It still allows rituals that in other circumstances would require ten minutes to cast to instead be performed in five minutes. It is still a "strong regio", connected to all six realms of magic. Rituals that must be performed at a strong regio can still be performed using the Imperial regio, and it still remains connected to every Imperial territory. It can still be used in conjunction with the [[Citadel Guard]] to focus magic and channel rituals through the Urizen [[army]]. Bargains with [[eternal|eternals]] that allow magicians to use [[operate portal]] to send or receive boons function normally although its not clear exactly ''how'' they are working. Rituals that specifically require the Imperial regio to work such as [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] still operate normally.

Any ritual that targets a [[territory]] or the Empire as a whole performed during the Summer Solstice is much more likely to have unexpected effects. All magic used on the territory scale can have unlooked for side effects - circumstances constantly influence what happens and all such rituals are mentioned in the winds of fortune or the winds of war (or both). This season, those side effects will be much more pronounced. They will never prevent the ritual having its mechanical effects; that will always happen as described in the appropriate ritual.
===Light in the Dark===
* '''Magicians using the Imperial regio find a peculiar source of spiritual strength
Magicians who perform a ritual at the Imperial regio during the Summer Solstice experience a roleplaying effect: ''You sense that what you are doing is important, and that as long as you continue to believe in yourself and embrace action, you can succeed even though the way may be hard.''

While contributing to a ritual, this sensation provides a source of spiritual strength that allows a magician to overcome any other roleplaying effect, if they wish to use it. The strength fades within a few minutes of the ritual being completed, and any roleplaying effect that was overcome will reassert itself, but for the duration of the peformance and a short time therafter, negative roleplaying effects are suppressed. There is however a lingering effect.

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.
==Bonded==
* '''During the Summer Solstice covens can cooperate with other covens in their own nation without needing additional assistance
The effects marked by [[Astronomancy|astronomancers]] before the Winter solstice, allowing different covens within the same nation to cooperate when casting powerful rituals, still persists. Any coven can work with any other coven or covens from their own nation without needing anything to facilitate it. Of course the universal magical law that prevents covens and magicians from ''different nations'' cooperating are still in place, and these limitations show absolutely no sign of weakening.
{{Anchor|Participation: Working Together}}
<br><br>'''<big>Participation: Working Together'''</big><br>
During the Spring Equinox any number of covens from the same nation can work together to perform a ritual as if they were using the [[Archmage#Belt_of_Stars|Belt of Stars]]. Cooperative rituals count as a daily ritual use by every coven involved. While they may be performing a ritual together, they are still treated as separate covens for all other purposes (for example, a ritual that affects an entire coven will only affect one target coven). Each coven can use their own paraphernalia while performing this joint ritual. The effects of the [[Volhov's Robe]] seem to be unchanged; they still allow a magician who is not part of a coven to work with any other coven without difficulty.

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.
==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion|Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir|Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

The greenery cannot last - and as the magic of ''Rivers of Life'' fades so too does the supernatural vitality of the vegetation. A week or so before the Summer Solstice, all this fecund plant life has died and dried out in the sun. Some of it is collected for agricultural use - it's still rich with nutrients that will serve the soil - or to feed to herd animals. For a few brief months, northern Mareave was a garden, something that inspires wonder but also a sense of sorrow in those who know that it was just a fleeting mirage of what will never be.

Among the random greenery, however, there are a number of rare and precious plants and fruit that are truly remarkable. An [[Yerende]] magician who examines some of them is excited to note that they were ''donahorti'' - plants from the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] itself - that have magical properties. There aren't a huge number of them, but they seem to be most common around [[mana site|mana sites]], [[farm|farms]], and [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. Unfortunately, they're short-lived, and as the magic of Rivers of Life begins to diee so do the ''donahorti''. Although, as the Yerende magician realises, they are hardier than more mundane vegetation and there is still a chance to preserve them...

Provided a [[territory]]-effecting [[enchantment]] or [[curse]] of [[Spring magic]] is performed again on Mareave at the Summer Solstice, there will be another opportunity to take advantage of the ''donahorti''. Every [[herb garden]], [[farm]], [[mana site]], and [[business]] in the territory will receive two ''donahorti'' at the Autumn Equinox. The problem is that these fruits of the Spring Realm are drawn from the domains of the [[eternal|eternals]] of those realms. Some are known by the Empire - those from the realms of [[Yaw'nagrah]] and [[Llofir]] in particular - but others are not. Worse, there are legal considerations around those drawn from the domains of entities who are under the [[Alignment#enmity|enmity]] of the Conclave. There's also the question of which magic to use, if any, to secure this bounty. [[Rivers of Life]] is a curse, after all, and the magical chaos caused by he stars is still ongoing. The other large-scale magic of the Spring realm tends to be indiscriminately destructive. [[Regrow the Land's Heart]] seems the safest choice, but that may cause problems of its own...

Because nfortunately there is a downside to the magic infusing Mareave this season. The greenery ''also'' appears around the many ruins and abandoned structures of northern Mareave, and does what Spring magic-infused vegetation so often does. It tears them apart. Across the northern regions the story is the same every time - the greenery swallows up the remnants of Skoura and the Grendel, and of Urizen, and when it finally dies and collapses it takes the ruins with it. The effect is perhaps most pronounced in Icarion - the ruins of abandoned spires are left as little more than rubble covered in scrubby grass and odd yellow- and orange-petalled flowers. The greatest loss is the ruined lighthouse that stood for centuries on the cliffs above the [[Bay of Catazar]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Serenus Starsong.jpg|caption='''Serenus Starsong''', Astral Arcanist|align=right|width=250}}

==Key of the Stars==
* '''Stargazers, astronomancers, diviners, and seers have reported odd dreams since the Spring Equinox
Since the Spring Equinox, strange dreams have been experienced by practitioners of [[astronomancy]], stargazers and star watchers of all kinds, skilled diviners, seers, dedicates of Wisdom, and readers of omens of all kinds. Anyone with a focus on exploring the unknown, on charting mysteries, on trying to discern the future, report similar dreams. The details differ wildly but they all contain the same element.

A naga with pale blue and turquoise scales, atired in a beautiful blue gown in the style of Urizen, holds a key of silver set with a single sapphire. When the dreamer notices them, they turn their eyes upwards toward the heavens. The dreamer follows their gaze, and immediately sees a new star in the heavens - one that matches the colour of the naga's outfit. When they look back, both naga and star are gone and the dream resumes its usual course.

Those who knew them are certain that the naga is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.
==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitudeof at least 60 woth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

Apparently, the enchantment was not only been empowered by invocation of the ''[[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|First Ward]]'' as some cabalists name it, but it has been bound up with a significant parcel of [[ilium]]. Whether this is solely the result of the ongoing magical chaos surrounding the stars, or something else, or a combination of factors, nobody can say. But what's clear is that the shrouding magic preventing access to the Painted Caves is now ''permanent'', and removing it will require a significant investment of star metal. Cautious estimates suggest that only a performance of [[Piercing Light of Revelation]] targeting the caves with a magnitude of at least sixty ''coupled with'' sixty rings of ilium will end the enchantment prematurely. This could be attempted from the [[Regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]], but the amount of ilium required means that it would be a significant magical endeavour if it were.

The orcs of Otkodov are unhappy, to put it mildly, and intend to [[Myth_makers#An_Imperfect_Forum|raise the matter]] during their meeting with the [[Ambassador to the Otkodov]] '''Kindra Surefoot'''.

===Rants and Roses===
* '''Last summit, [[Ripple_of_Echoes|Queen Igraine's Regio in the Castle of Thorns was acting strangely]]'''
* '''Imperial magicians cast [[Align the Celestial Net]] and realigned it to Summer as it should be]]
* '''The situation seems to have grown worse, some thing has caused it to align to Spring again'''
* '''There is a conjunction to the regio at 6.30pm on Friday for a small number of people'''
* '''The Senator for Astolat is once again responsible for dealing with this problematic regio'''

For a time after [[Align the Celestial Net]] was cast, the garden in the Castle of Thorns returned to normal. However, over the next season, snow once again began to appear and the thorn bushes are back with a vengeance, hard as iron and envenoming anyone who is pricked by their thorns. Strange noises have also been heard in the vicinity of the regio, though due to the thick and impassable foliage nobody has been able to investigate further.

Sometimes, there is the sound of wailing and crying, and other times a woman has been heard ranting and raving about something, though nobody has been able to make out her words. It seems casting divinatory rituals such as [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]], [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]], and [[Shadowed Glass of Sung]] prompts these unusual sounds to occur with more frequency, though no information seems to be learned these rituals.

The area that these enchanted roses are growing seems to be expanding, and if unchecked they may begin to damage the walls of the Castle of Thorns or worse.

===The Song Remains The Same===
* '''The magical song that has echoed throughout the Empire is slowly beginning to fade'''
After a [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#A_Peculiar_Opportunity_(Lashonar)|peculiar opportunity]] in Autumn of last year, the song [https://soundcloud.com/gabrielle-joanne-198076671/painted Painted] began to resonate along the trods and throughout the Empire. Astonishment at the spread of this magical effect only grew when [[Ripple_of_echoes#Can't_Stop_The_Music|the song persisted]] into the Spring. There were questions about how long this would persist for, yet as Spring turns into Summer, it seems that the crescendo has passed. The song still echoes, yet the power of it seems to slowly be fading. Some express disappointment, but wiser heads point out that most magic is temporary. Unless [[ilium]] was infused into the casting, the chorus was always going to come to an end.

Yet the diminuendo does not come quickly. For all its power is fading, the work of Idwynn Splitroot still plays in the dreams of many. It simply remains to be seen how long this will last.

====Participation====
* '''Any character may have heard the echoes of the song'''
* '''Navarr characters who embrace the song may choose to experience a roleplaying effect'''
Any Navarr character may choose to have heard the song, experienced the dreams of singing voices either directly or via half-remembered echoes, or to have seen what appears to be Lashonar. Those who do experience a roleplaying effect during the Spring Equinox: You feel a sense of immense pride in the oaths that you have sworn and the tattoos and other marks you wear to commemorate them. It feels good and right to celebrate this element of your culture, and to encourage others to follow suit.

Characters who are not Navarr, but who feel a personal connection to that nation, to the trods, or to the fight against the vallorn are also free to roleplay having had the dream or heard the echoes of the music. They do not receive the roleplaying effect however.

===Heads or Tails===
* '''A number of traders in the northern Empire have developed odd superstitions around accepting cash'''
Those buying and selling goods within the Northern areas of the Empire may have noticed some traders treating their money with suspicion. Wintermark merchants are often found whispering of soot within their purses, with no clear purpose or reason behind it. But while it isn't unheard of for a scrupulous Wintermark shopkeeper to ask to see the coins before payment, the habit seems to be spreading.

Some Navar, League, and Varushkan merchants have also begun to ask customers to place their money on a counter before it can be counted and accepted in return for goods. When asked, there is rarely a clear answer as to why the behaviour is necessary, except for vague mentions of tip-offs from fellow colleagues.

Certainly, if there ''is'' some underlying problem with the mint, it hasn't yet caught the attention of the [[civil Service]].

A wizard did it

2026-07-22T20:15:13Z

Apoth: Created page with "Category:388YE Summer Category:Winds of FortuneCategory:Winds of Magic <div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ripple effect on water.jpg|caption=Ripples spread from a single drop of water, as consequences spread from a single decision.|align=left|width=450}}</div> ==Overview== Magic fills the known world. It rides the winds, it rises with the sun and the stars, it flows in great currents through the forests and the seas and..."

[[Category:388YE Summer ]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 450px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ripple effect on water.jpg|caption=Ripples spread from a single drop of water, as consequences spread from a single decision.|align=left|width=450}}</div>
==Overview==
Magic fills the known world. It rides the winds, it rises with the sun and the stars, it flows in great currents through the forests and the seas and the sky. It is part of the rivers and the forests, the seas and the skies. It is studied, mastered, examined, and debated. It is mysterious, enigmatic, unpredictable, and yet follows its own strange laws. All mortals practice magic, and yet they are not the only sources of magic in the world. It comes from rattling runes, from the heavens, from the wellspring of blood, from the shapes and symbols of creation, and while it can be bidden it cannot always be restrained. Wonder is all around, an endless wordless tune that winds and weaves around all things.

This wind of fortune rounds up a roundup of assorted strange events, some arising from mortal actions some with less explicable causes. There are several companion pieces to this wind. '''[[The keys of blood]]''' deals with things relating specifically to the [[eternal|eternals]] of the [[Realms|six realms]] while [[Ambassadors of death]] addresses the [[Archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages of the [[Archmage|archmages]].

==Magical Chaos==
* '''The astronomantic constellations continue to exert strange influences on the Empire
* '''Territory-scale magic is much more likely to have additional unlooked for effects when performed at the Spring Equinox
* '''These effects will never invalidate the listed mechanical effect of a ritual
The magical chaos that [[What regulates the wheel?|began]] shortly before the Winter Solstice, and [[Things go awry|continued through]] the Spring Equinox, has not abated. The good news is that the immediate effects of that chaos have reached a plateau - they don't seem to be actively getting worse at least at the moment. The ''bad'' news is that they are still going on. There are stories from across the Empire of magical rituals going wonky, especially those that are cast over a large area such as [[Rivers of Life]]. They still work, but as well as their expected effects there are side-effects nobody could have predicted.
===Broken===
* '''It remains impossible to enhance ritual lore using the Imperial regio
* '''Other properties of the Imperial regio are unchanged
The Imperial regio at Anvil remains "[[What_regulates_the_wheel%3F#Broken_Regio|broken]]", despite another slew of [[divination|divinations]] performed during the Equinox. The key power that so many Imperial magicians have relied on for nearly four centuries - to improve their [[Magical skills#Ritual lores|realm lore]] while working a ritual at the regio - is no longer available. Attempts to draw on that power simply find... nothing. Interestingly, there was at least one incident during the Equinox that spoke of a powerful regio ''outside'' Anvil that provided the ability to draw strength for performing rituals of a single realm, and there are stories that there are other regio that still have that power. Some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] (left in the Empire while so many of their fellow magicians are in [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] and the [[Commonwealth]] fighting [[Cold Sun]]) speculate that a given regio can only have ''one'' special property, and that the bonus strengthening of ritual lore by the Anvil regio at the same time it connected to all realms and the entire Empire, was an aberration. They've no evidence for that, just worrying speculation. if it was an aberration its one that lasted nearly four centuries, after all.

In other respects, the regio continues to function as normal. It still allows rituals that in other circumstances would require ten minutes to cast to instead be performed in five minutes. It is still a "strong regio", connected to all six realms of magic. Rituals that must be performed at a strong regio can still be performed using the Imperial regio, and it still remains connected to every Imperial territory. It can still be used in conjunction with the [[Citadel Guard]] to focus magic and channel rituals through the Urizen [[army]]. Bargains with [[eternal|eternals]] that allow magicians to use [[operate portal]] to send or receive boons function normally although its not clear exactly ''how'' they are working. Rituals that specifically require the Imperial regio to work such as [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] still operate normally.

Any ritual that targets a [[territory]] or the Empire as a whole performed during the Summer Solstice is much more likely to have unexpected effects. All magic used on the territory scale can have unlooked for side effects - circumstances constantly influence what happens and all such rituals are mentioned in the winds of fortune or the winds of war (or both). This season, those side effects will be much more pronounced. They will never prevent the ritual having its mechanical effects; that will always happen as described in the appropriate ritual.
===Light in the Dark===
* '''Magicians using the Imperial regio find a peculiar source of spiritual strength
Magicians who perform a ritual at the Imperial regio during the Summer Solstice experience a roleplaying effect: ''You sense that what you are doing is important, and that as long as you continue to believe in yourself and embrace action, you can succeed even though the way may be hard.''

While contributing to a ritual, this sensation provides a source of spiritual strength that allows a magician to overcome any other roleplaying effect, if they wish to use it. The strength fades within a few minutes of the ritual being completed, and any roleplaying effect that was overcome will reassert itself, but for the duration of the peformance and a short time therafter, negative roleplaying effects are suppressed. There is however a lingering effect.

Until the next sunset or sunrise, whichever comes first, any magician who contributed to a ritual at the Imperial regio can expend a point of personal mana at any time to justify remaining calm and collected when exposed to a roleplaying effect (as if they had spent a hero point). The ability to use mana in this way has the same restrictions as casting a spell.
==Bonded==
* '''During the Summer Solstice covens can cooperate with other covens in their own nation without needing additional assistance
The effects marked by [[Astronomancy|astronomancers]] before the Winter solstice, allowing different covens within the same nation to cooperate when casting powerful rituals, still persists. Any coven can work with any other coven or covens from their own nation without needing anything to facilitate it. Of course the universal magical law that prevents covens and magicians from ''different nations'' cooperating are still in place, and these limitations show absolutely no sign of weakening.
{{Anchor|Participation: Working Together}}
<br><br>'''<big>Participation: Working Together'''</big><br>
During the Spring Equinox any number of covens from the same nation can work together to perform a ritual as if they were using the [[Archmage#Belt_of_Stars|Belt of Stars]]. Cooperative rituals count as a daily ritual use by every coven involved. While they may be performing a ritual together, they are still treated as separate covens for all other purposes (for example, a ritual that affects an entire coven will only affect one target coven). Each coven can use their own paraphernalia while performing this joint ritual. The effects of the [[Volhov's Robe]] seem to be unchanged; they still allow a magician who is not part of a coven to work with any other coven without difficulty.

Anyone cooperating in this fashion experiences a notable sense of connection to members of the other coven, along with a strong sense of being bound together or united by a common cause. It is hard to put this sensation into words and it takes many different forms. Early experimenters spoke of feeling a familial bond to strangers they barely new, as if they were cousins or siblings they had not seen in many years. Others felt an almost physical connection, their breathing and heartbeats synching up so it felt as if they were many people with one body. Still others talk of an almost precognitive sense, as if they instinctually knew what another contributor to the ritual was going to say or do moments before they did it.
==Rains in Mareave==
* '''Mareave has become verdant for possibly the first time ever
Talking of magical chaos... there was only a single performance of [[Rivers of Life]] in the Empire at the Spring Equinox, targeting the Imperial Orcs territory of [[Mareave]]. While [[Mithril and rope|war raged in the south]], the magic protected those fighting there from all save the most serious injuries. Elsewhere in the territory, however, the magic rather ran amok, filling the scarse waters of [[Mareave#Icarion]], [[Mareave#Nadir]], [[Mareave#Eoradal|Eoradal]], and [[Mareave#Sinfoyard|Sinfoyard]]. For the first time possibly in forever, the arid lands here turned green. Creepers and grasses erupted around lakes and secluded wells, sweeping outward to the surprise and chagrin of the orcs living there. They brought with them unfamiliar fruit, and also sparked a wave of fertility in the cattle of the regions... but also in the drakes that prey on them. Hunters in Nadir in particular have done a roaring trade capturing and killing young, hungry lizards that would otherwise be preying on the farms and on the Great Southern Herd.

The greenery cannot last - and as the magic of ''Rivers of Life'' fades so too does the supernatural vitality of the vegetation. A week or so before the Summer Solstice, all this fecund plant life has died and dried out in the sun. Some of it is collected for agricultural use - it's still rich with nutrients that will serve the soil - or to feed to herd animals. For a few brief months, northern Mareave was a garden, something that inspires wonder but also a sense of sorrow in those who know that it was just a fleeting mirage of what will never be.

Among the random greenery, however, there are a number of rare and precious plants and fruit that are truly remarkable. An [[Yerende]] magician who examines some of them is excited to note that they were ''donahorti'' - plants from the [[Realms#Spring|Spring realm]] itself - that have magical properties. There aren't a huge number of them, but they seem to be most common around [[mana site|mana sites]], [[farm|farms]], and [[herb garden|herb gardens]]. Unfortunately, they're short-lived, and as the magic of Rivers of Life begins to diee so do the ''donahorti''. Although, as the Yerende magician realises, they are hardier than more mundane vegetation and there is still a chance to preserve them...

Provided a [[territory]]-effecting [[enchantment]] or [[curse]] of [[Spring magic]] is performed again on Mareave at the Summer Solstice, there will be another opportunity to take advantage of the ''donahorti''. Every [[herb garden]], [[farm]], [[mana site]], and [[business]] in the territory will receive two ''donahorti'' at the Autumn Equinox. The problem is that these fruits of the Spring Realm are drawn from the domains of the [[eternal|eternals]] of those realms. Some are known by the Empire - those from the realms of [[Yaw'nagrah]] and [[Llofir]] in particular - but others are not. Worse, there are legal considerations around those drawn from the domains of entities who are under the [[Alignment#enmity|enmity]] of the Conclave. There's also the question of which magic to use, if any, to secure this bounty. [[Rivers of Life]] is a curse, after all, and the magical chaos caused by he stars is still ongoing. The other large-scale magic of the Spring realm tends to be indiscriminately destructive. [[Regrow the Land's Heart]] seems the safest choice, but that may cause problems of its own...

Because nfortunately there is a downside to the magic infusing Mareave this season. The greenery ''also'' appears around the many ruins and abandoned structures of northern Mareave, and does what Spring magic-infused vegetation so often does. It tears them apart. Across the northern regions the story is the same every time - the greenery swallows up the remnants of Skoura and the Grendel, and of Urizen, and when it finally dies and collapses it takes the ruins with it. The effect is perhaps most pronounced in Icarion - the ruins of abandoned spires are left as little more than rubble covered in scrubby grass and odd yellow- and orange-petalled flowers. The greatest loss is the ruined lighthouse that stood for centuries on the cliffs above the [[Bay of Catazar]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Serenus Starsong.jpg|caption='''Serenus Starsong''', Astral Arcanist|align=right|width=250}}

==Key of the Stars==
* '''Stargazers, astronomancers, diviners, and seers have reported odd dreams since the Spring Equinox
Since the Spring Equinox, strange dreams have been experienced by practitioners of [[astronomancy]], stargazers and star watchers of all kinds, skilled diviners, seers, dedicates of Wisdom, and readers of omens of all kinds. Anyone with a focus on exploring the unknown, on charting mysteries, on trying to discern the future, report similar dreams. The details differ wildly but they all contain the same element.

A naga with pale blue and turquoise scales, atired in a beautiful blue gown in the style of Urizen, holds a key of silver set with a single sapphire. When the dreamer notices them, they turn their eyes upwards toward the heavens. The dreamer follows their gaze, and immediately sees a new star in the heavens - one that matches the colour of the naga's outfit. When they look back, both naga and star are gone and the dream resumes its usual course.

Those who knew them are certain that the naga is '''Serenus Starsong''', who was the first and only [[Astral Arcanist]]. Attempts to learn more about the dream with magic have uniformly failed, and the dreams themselves fade away as the Summer Solstice approaches. Given the reported death of Severus Starsong at the Spring Equinox, there is some discussion as to whether this might be their ghost haunting the dreams of Imperial citizens, or given the prop they are conspicuously holding, a [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|magical vision]] of some kind, perhaps created with subtle ritual magic. This would not be the first time in recent years that [[Night magic]] was used to send seemingly portentous dreams.
==Painted Caves==
* '''A powerful enchantment has been permanently laid over the Painted caves in Miekarova'''
* '''It would take a casting of Piercing light of revelation at magnitudeof at least 60 woth at least 60 rings of illium to remove'''
* '''The magic appears to have angered the Thule'''
At the Spring Equinox, there was a [[Things_go_awry#A_Malachite_Casket|certain amount of furore]] about magical mists that had settled around the [[Miekarova#The_Painted_Caves|Painted Caves]] in [[Miekarova]]. The [[Thule]] in particular were rather put-out about this, as the caves are in a region ceded to them as part of a treaty with the Empire. Dire consequences were hinted at should the mists persist... which they did.

Apparently, the enchantment was not only been empowered by invocation of the ''[[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Lock|First Ward]]'' as some cabalists name it, but it has been bound up with a significant parcel of [[ilium]]. Whether this is solely the result of the ongoing magical chaos surrounding the stars, or something else, or a combination of factors, nobody can say. But what's clear is that the shrouding magic preventing access to the Painted Caves is now ''permanent'', and removing it will require a significant investment of star metal. Cautious estimates suggest that only a performance of [[Piercing Light of Revelation]] targeting the caves with a magnitude of at least sixty ''coupled with'' sixty rings of ilium will end the enchantment prematurely. This could be attempted from the [[Regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]], but the amount of ilium required means that it would be a significant magical endeavour if it were.

The orcs of Otkodov are unhappy, to put it mildly, and intend to [[Myth_makers#An_Imperfect_Forum|raise the matter]] during their meeting with the [[Ambassador to the Otkodov]] '''Kindra Surefoot'''.

===Rants and Roses===
* '''Last summit, [[Ripple_of_Echoes|Queen Igraine's Regio in the Castle of Thorns was acting strangely]]'''
* '''Imperial magicians cast [[Align the Celestial Net]] and realigned it to Summer as it should be]]
* '''The situation seems to have grown worse, some thing has caused it to align to Spring again'''
* '''There is a conjunction to the regio at 6.30pm on Friday for a small number of people'''
* '''The Senator for Astolat is once again responsible for dealing with this problematic regio'''

For a time after [[Align the Celestial Net]] was cast, the garden in the Castle of Thorns returned to normal. However, over the next season, snow once again began to appear and the thorn bushes are back with a vengeance, hard as iron and envenoming anyone who is pricked by their thorns. Strange noises have also been heard in the vicinity of the regio, though due to the thick and impassable foliage nobody has been able to investigate further.

Sometimes, there is the sound of wailing and crying, and other times a woman has been heard ranting and raving about something, though nobody has been able to make out her words. It seems casting divinatory rituals such as [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]], [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]], and [[Shadowed Glass of Sung]] prompts these unusual sounds to occur with more frequency, though no information seems to be learned these rituals.

The area that these enchanted roses are growing seems to be expanding, and if unchecked they may begin to damage the walls of the Castle of Thorns or worse.

===The Song Remains The Same===
* '''The magical song that has echoed throughout the Empire is slowly beginning to fade'''
After a [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#A_Peculiar_Opportunity_(Lashonar)|peculiar opportunity]] in Autumn of last year, the song [https://soundcloud.com/gabrielle-joanne-198076671/painted Painted] began to resonate along the trods and throughout the Empire. Astonishment at the spread of this magical effect only grew when [[Ripple_of_echoes#Can't_Stop_The_Music|the song persisted]] into the Spring. There were questions about how long this would persist for, yet as Spring turns into Summer, it seems that the crescendo has passed. The song still echoes, yet the power of it seems to slowly be fading. Some express disappointment, but wiser heads point out that most magic is temporary. Unless [[ilium]] was infused into the casting, the chorus was always going to come to an end.

Yet the diminuendo does not come quickly. For all its power is fading, the work of Idwynn Splitroot still plays in the dreams of many. It simply remains to be seen how long this will last.

====Participation====
* '''Any character may have heard the echoes of the song'''
* '''Navarr characters who embrace the song may choose to experience a roleplaying effect'''
Any Navarr character may choose to have heard the song, experienced the dreams of singing voices either directly or via half-remembered echoes, or to have seen what appears to be Lashonar. Those who do experience a roleplaying effect during the Spring Equinox: You feel a sense of immense pride in the oaths that you have sworn and the tattoos and other marks you wear to commemorate them. It feels good and right to celebrate this element of your culture, and to encourage others to follow suit.

Characters who are not Navarr, but who feel a personal connection to that nation, to the trods, or to the fight against the vallorn are also free to roleplay having had the dream or heard the echoes of the music. They do not receive the roleplaying effect however.

===Heads or Tails===
* '''A number of traders in the northern Empire have developed odd superstitions around accepting cash'''
Those buying and selling goods within the Northern areas of the Empire may have noticed some traders treating their money with suspicion. Wintermark merchants are often found whispering of soot within their purses, with no clear purpose or reason behind it. But while it isn't unheard of for a scrupulous Wintermark shopkeeper to ask to see the coins before payment, the habit seems to be spreading.

Some Navar, League, and Varushkan merchants have also begun to ask customers to place their money on a counter before it can be counted and accepted in return for goods. When asked, there is rarely a clear answer as to why the behaviour is necessary, except for vague mentions of tip-offs from fellow colleagues.

Certainly, if there ''is'' some underlying problem with the mint, it hasn't yet caught the attention of the [[civil Service]].

The Visitation

2026-07-22T20:06:13Z

Apoth: /* Jetsam */

==Overview==
It is not just the great and the good of the Empire who come to [[Anvil]] each equinox and solstice. The tent-city that springs up around the [[Anvil#The_Forge|the Forge]] attracts visitors from all over the known world, and beyond. Some are drawn by the promise of wealth, some by the need to find the wisest and the bravest to help them resolve their dilemmas, some seek to influence those who wield true power in the Empire, and others come to celebrate and forge new relationships with those drawn to the heart of Imperial power.

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

==Flotsam==
* '''There is a delay in the deliveries for the Golden Fleet Salvagemaster'''
* '''A group of irate stewards from Oreb's Vault are angry about something'''
* '''The couriers aim to meet the Salvagemaster at the Sentinel Gate at 10:20 on Saturday to take him to where the salvage is and hopefully have him deal with the irate stewards'''
There appears to have been some difficulty with the delivery for the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster]]. The details are unclear, but it would seem that when the shipment was unloaded at Crown's Quay in Necropolis for onward transport to Anvil, something about it caused a great deal of commotion. Since then, the cart carrying the goods has been harassed and delayed at every turn by a group of irate stewards of the dead from the small chapter house at Oreb's Vault. As such, the delivery will not even make it to Anvil until early on the Saturday morning.

One of the couriers managing the delivery will meet the Salvagemaster at the Sentinel Gate at '''10:20 on Saturday''', to explain, apologise, and take him and up to five others to the delivery warehouse to try and resolve the dispute over the delivery. It is in outer Anvil, so there will be no need to use the Sentinel Gate, but it is a convenient meeting spot. The Magistrates advise there is no question over the ownership of whatever items are in the shipment: they unequivocally belong to the Salvagemaster. But something has stirred up the Stewards of Oreb's Vault, and it would be helpful if he could placate them.

==Jetsam==
* '''An odd letter has been found at the regio, the day before the summit begins'''
A letter is found the day before the summit, lying on the ground at the Imperial regio. It is addressed to "Marisol i Erigo", but no such person is listed in the Civil Service's records. They have chosen to publish the contents of the letter to try and ensure that the information makes its way to the correct place. Presumably, someone knows what this is about.

<ic>
Marisol i Erigo,

Your appointment marker should now be active. Activating it will provide you with your appointment details. Please ensure that you bring suitable proof of identity according to the contract, as the City of Bar and Bond will, of course, take any and all necessary measures to prevent fraud. You should be accompanied by the caster of the ritual by which you made your claim (if a person other than yourself). You should also bring two witnesses.

If any of those you bring will require assistance entering a chamber, and you are unable to arrange for such assistance, we will be able to provide this - at a price.

On behalf of the Sovereign Lords of the City
</ic>

==Nothing Beats Rock==
<div {{float}}><quote by="Samuel, son of Shem">Of course it's "one, two, three, ''throw''!" If you pause after three, that just makes it confusing and weird</quote></div>
* '''A grand tournament is taking place in the Hall of Worlds between 13:00 and 14:00 on Saturday'''
* '''The tournament involves playing ''rock, paper, scissors'' to win ribbons from other participants'''
* '''Each participant starts with five pieces of ribbon and the loser must hand over one of their ribbons'''
* '''Anyone can take part by simply paying five rings'''
* '''The winner will receive half the pot of collected money'''
Landskeeper Shem, magician and one-time visitor to Anvil, has spent the last month travelling across Upwold with spools of ribbon and a dream. A dream to host the greatest tournament the Empire has ever seen. This isn't some tournament for nobles, nor is it arranged by an eternal. No, this is a tournament of pure skill, grit, and determination. This is a tournament of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_paper_scissors rock, paper, scissors] to establish who is the greatest tactician alive... at least when it comes to playing games of rock, paper, scissors.

The landskeeper has spoken with the civil service and arranged for the Hall of Worlds to be used for the tournament from 13:00 until 14:00 on Saturday of the summit. ''Shem'' is clear that anyone can take part, especially anyone from the Academy, and that it will only cost five rings for each person to take part, though anyone can choose to pay more if they wish (no change will be given). At the end of the hour, the person with the most ribbons will receive half of the collected money; a quarter will go to the Academy in time for the Autumn Equinox to help support the heroes of tomorrow; and the rest will go back with Shem to Upwold to help with the myriad of problems that come with being a landskeeper in these trying times.

==Untangling the Knott==
*'''Wayblade Skana, a Preacher from Mareave, will be arriving at the Imperial Orc camp at 2pm on Saturday'''
*'''It is understood that Skana is interested in learning more about the life and death of Bloodcrow Knott'''

Bloodcrow Knott recently pled guilty to the crime of [[Religious_crime#Heresy|heresy]] and was [[Court_Reports|sentenced to execution by Chief Magistrate i Zuhri i Guerra]]. Knott was condemned by Maarit Suvidottir for teaching orcs that they did not need Virtue, and in so doing denying the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Enlightenment|Doctrine of Enlightenment]] and the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Ancestors|Doctrine of the Ancestors]]. He gave a moving and compelling speech about the necessity of his actions, his lack of remorse, and was clear of his intent to continue regardless of consequence. After his death, however, Bloodcrow Knott was added to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#Annals_of_the_Ancestors|Annals of the Ancestors]], suggesting that he is an important ancestor and his words are worth remembering. Wayblade Skana is fascinated by this clear contradiction and is coming to Anvil to learn more about the life and death of this important figure.

The Visitation

2026-07-22T20:05:56Z

Apoth: Created page with "==Overview== It is not just the great and the good of the Empire who come to Anvil each equinox and solstice. The tent-city that springs up around the the Forge attracts visitors from all over the known world, and beyond. Some are drawn by the promise of wealth, some by the need to find the wisest and the bravest to help them resolve their dilemmas, some seek to influence those who wield true power in the Empire, and others come to celebrate and f..."

==Overview==
It is not just the great and the good of the Empire who come to [[Anvil]] each equinox and solstice. The tent-city that springs up around the [[Anvil#The_Forge|the Forge]] attracts visitors from all over the known world, and beyond. Some are drawn by the promise of wealth, some by the need to find the wisest and the bravest to help them resolve their dilemmas, some seek to influence those who wield true power in the Empire, and others come to celebrate and forge new relationships with those drawn to the heart of Imperial power.

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

==Flotsam==
* '''There is a delay in the deliveries for the Golden Fleet Salvagemaster'''
* '''A group of irate stewards from Oreb's Vault are angry about something'''
* '''The couriers aim to meet the Salvagemaster at the Sentinel Gate at 10:20 on Saturday to take him to where the salvage is and hopefully have him deal with the irate stewards'''
There appears to have been some difficulty with the delivery for the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster]]. The details are unclear, but it would seem that when the shipment was unloaded at Crown's Quay in Necropolis for onward transport to Anvil, something about it caused a great deal of commotion. Since then, the cart carrying the goods has been harassed and delayed at every turn by a group of irate stewards of the dead from the small chapter house at Oreb's Vault. As such, the delivery will not even make it to Anvil until early on the Saturday morning.

One of the couriers managing the delivery will meet the Salvagemaster at the Sentinel Gate at '''10:20 on Saturday''', to explain, apologise, and take him and up to five others to the delivery warehouse to try and resolve the dispute over the delivery. It is in outer Anvil, so there will be no need to use the Sentinel Gate, but it is a convenient meeting spot. The Magistrates advise there is no question over the ownership of whatever items are in the shipment: they unequivocally belong to the Salvagemaster. But something has stirred up the Stewards of Oreb's Vault, and it would be helpful if he could placate them.

==Jetsam==
* '''An odd letter has been found at the regio, the day before the summit begins'''
A letter is found the day before the summit, lying on the ground at the Imperial regio. It is addressed to "Marisol i Erigo", but no such person is listed in the Civil Service's records. They have chosen to publish the contents of the letter to try and ensure that the information makes its way to the correct place. Presumably, someone knows what this is about.

<ic>
Marisol i Erigo,

Your appointment marker should now be active. Activating it will provide you with your appointment details. Please ensure that you bring suitable proof of identity according to the contract, as the City of Bar and Bond will, of course, take any and all necessary measures to prevent fraud. You should be accompanied by the caster of the ritual by which you made your claim (if a person other than yourself). You should also bring two witnesses.

If any of those you bring will require assistance entering a chamber, and you are unable to arrange for such assistance, we will be able to provide this - at a price.

On behalf of the Sovereign Lords of the City
</ic>
<box>This might be Eternals?</box>

==Nothing Beats Rock==
<div {{float}}><quote by="Samuel, son of Shem">Of course it's "one, two, three, ''throw''!" If you pause after three, that just makes it confusing and weird</quote></div>
* '''A grand tournament is taking place in the Hall of Worlds between 13:00 and 14:00 on Saturday'''
* '''The tournament involves playing ''rock, paper, scissors'' to win ribbons from other participants'''
* '''Each participant starts with five pieces of ribbon and the loser must hand over one of their ribbons'''
* '''Anyone can take part by simply paying five rings'''
* '''The winner will receive half the pot of collected money'''
Landskeeper Shem, magician and one-time visitor to Anvil, has spent the last month travelling across Upwold with spools of ribbon and a dream. A dream to host the greatest tournament the Empire has ever seen. This isn't some tournament for nobles, nor is it arranged by an eternal. No, this is a tournament of pure skill, grit, and determination. This is a tournament of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_paper_scissors rock, paper, scissors] to establish who is the greatest tactician alive... at least when it comes to playing games of rock, paper, scissors.

The landskeeper has spoken with the civil service and arranged for the Hall of Worlds to be used for the tournament from 13:00 until 14:00 on Saturday of the summit. ''Shem'' is clear that anyone can take part, especially anyone from the Academy, and that it will only cost five rings for each person to take part, though anyone can choose to pay more if they wish (no change will be given). At the end of the hour, the person with the most ribbons will receive half of the collected money; a quarter will go to the Academy in time for the Autumn Equinox to help support the heroes of tomorrow; and the rest will go back with Shem to Upwold to help with the myriad of problems that come with being a landskeeper in these trying times.

==Untangling the Knott==
*'''Wayblade Skana, a Preacher from Mareave, will be arriving at the Imperial Orc camp at 2pm on Saturday'''
*'''It is understood that Skana is interested in learning more about the life and death of Bloodcrow Knott'''

Bloodcrow Knott recently pled guilty to the crime of [[Religious_crime#Heresy|heresy]] and was [[Court_Reports|sentenced to execution by Chief Magistrate i Zuhri i Guerra]]. Knott was condemned by Maarit Suvidottir for teaching orcs that they did not need Virtue, and in so doing denying the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Enlightenment|Doctrine of Enlightenment]] and the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_the_Ancestors|Doctrine of the Ancestors]]. He gave a moving and compelling speech about the necessity of his actions, his lack of remorse, and was clear of his intent to continue regardless of consequence. After his death, however, Bloodcrow Knott was added to the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#Annals_of_the_Ancestors|Annals of the Ancestors]], suggesting that he is an important ancestor and his words are worth remembering. Wayblade Skana is fascinated by this clear contradiction and is coming to Anvil to learn more about the life and death of this important figure.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T19:58:33Z

Apoth: /* The Visitation (Vistors) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

===Beneath a Moonless Sky===
* '''Wintermark, especially fleet captains; Mediator of Hyljehal; fans of Sermersuaq

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] has seen they work bear fruit this season as one of the leaders of the Hylje, Koskinen, has made contact with matters of interest.

You can read about the goings on of the curious sea people in the '''[[Beneath a Moonless Sky]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Visitation (Vistors)===
* '''Golden Fleet Salvagemaster; Marisol i Erigo (whoever that may be); competitive citizens; fans of Bloodcrow Knott

People visit Anvil for all kinds of reasons. Trade, wonderment, and a chance to meet with the movers and shakers of the Empire. It is no surprise that Anvil is seen as the place to be if you want to get anything of importance done.

You can find out more about some of the folk coming to Anvil this season in '''[[The Visitation]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
[[Push_for_victory#See_That_We_Fight|The raid on Leen]] was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T19:58:19Z

Apoth: /* Beneath a Moonless Sky */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

===Beneath a Moonless Sky===
* '''Wintermark, especially fleet captains; Mediator of Hyljehal; fans of Sermersuaq

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] has seen they work bear fruit this season as one of the leaders of the Hylje, Koskinen, has made contact with matters of interest.

You can read about the goings on of the curious sea people in the '''[[Beneath a Moonless Sky]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Visitation (Vistors)===
* '''Golden Fleet Salvagemaster; Marisol i Erigo (whoever that may be); competitive citizens; fans of Bloodcrow Knott

People visit Anvil for all kinds of reasons. Trade, wonderment, and a chance to meet with the movers and shakers of the Empire. It is no surprise that Anvil is seen as the place to be if you want to get anything of importance done.

You can find out more about some of the folk coming to Anvil this season in [[The Visitation]] wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
[[Push_for_victory#See_That_We_Fight|The raid on Leen]] was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T19:50:51Z

Apoth: /* Beneath a Moonless Sky */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

In each case, we've tried to tag the Winds of Fortune entry with the nations or political bodies to which it is most relevant. We've done this to help people who are interested only in events that are especially relevant to them. In no way are these tags intended to be exhaustive; the Empire is a complex place, and very little happens in isolation. We are also adding the dates that they were last updated (other than typos and correcting [[red links]]) in an attempt to make it easier to keep track of the newest releases.
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==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

===Beneath a Moonless Sky===
* '''Wintermark, especially fleet captains; Mediator of Hyljehal; fans of Sermersuaq

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] has seen they work bear fruit this season as one of the leaders of the Hylje, Koskinen, has made contact with matters of interest.

You can read about the goings on of the curious sea people in the '''[[Beneath a Moonless Sky]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
[[Push_for_victory#See_That_We_Fight|The raid on Leen]] was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

Beneath a moonless sky

2026-07-22T19:46:16Z

Apoth: Created page with "<quote by="The Skein of Fainomaiken, traditional"> Rainfall hid the sky behind it's tears, but Fainomaiken was resolved not to be deterred. The Breath of Winter had revealed the face of his skein and still he was not afraid. Immanoviel waited for him beyond the waters of Nutjuitoq, where the ice is a stranger to the sun. </quote> ==Overview== The hylje, the strange shapeshifting seal-folk of the northern lakes have historically kept to themselves. Only in the decade of..."

<quote by="The Skein of Fainomaiken, traditional">
Rainfall hid the sky behind it's tears, but Fainomaiken was resolved not to be deterred.

The Breath of Winter had revealed the face of his skein and still he was not afraid.

Immanoviel waited for him beyond the waters of Nutjuitoq, where the ice is a stranger to the sun.
</quote>
==Overview==
The hylje, the strange shapeshifting seal-folk of the northern lakes have historically kept to themselves. Only in the decade of the Empire's resurgence, have the [[Suaq]] people re-affirmed their bonds to their ancient cousins. The hylje have given aid and received aid in return, especially during the invasion of Sermersuaq and in its aftermath. Despite a somewhat ill-fated expedition to bring the Way to them which [[Among the hylje|ended in tragedy]], much has been learnt about these people and their way of life. They are of the world, but their nature is as different to human and orc as human and orc are to each other: nevertheless, they are clear that they consider the Suaq close kin, and the [[Steinr]] and [[Kallavesa]] good friends at the very least.

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] for many years has been Raal Dunn, and he has ably served to keep relationships between the Winterfolk and the hylje-folk on an even keel. It seems that those efforts have, now, born a new fruit. Koskinen, the son of one of the Palliko, the leaders of the hylje, has made contact at the Hyljehal. He delivers a message for all of Wintermark. It seems that the hylje were deeply affected and troubled by the Cult of the Falconer's recent activities. To celebrate the victory over this foe, and the many years of good relations besides, the Palliko have decided to hold a festival next season, marking the Autumn Equinox.

The hylje's lives are governed by such seasonal festivals, which they call ''waystones of time'', and apparently they are times of great celebration and transition. Koskinen himself it seems is to be married, and crowned as one of the Palliko himself, and many others besides are to reach new stages in the journey of their lives. None outside the hylje have ever attended such a festival, but in the name of friendship, Koskinen has insisted that the friends of the hylje be permitted to attend. At the Autumn Equinox, there is a conjunction that will allow up to fifty members of Wintermark attend the Festival of Autumn's Easing at the Equinox. He says that he is clear that this means the Steinr and the Kallavesa as well - they may not be family, but they are friends, and besides they are wedded to their cousins the Suaq and that is quite ''like'' being family, anyway.

There are three matters that Koskinen would like his friends to be aware of; matters to discuss and prepare for ''before'' the meeting next season.

==With Sermersuaq's cunning==
* '''If a smuggler's cove is constructed in Tromsa, a voyage, ''Sail into the Cold'', will be available to fleet-captains of Wintermark'''
* '''The voyage would allow them to discover more about the mysterious orcs of Fjorknae'''

Firstly, Koskinen brings unwelcome tidings. The orcs of Fjorknae have been [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|paid handsomely by the Lasambrians]] using the plundered gold of Meade, and sent a large warband to aid the Lasambrians in the season just gone. Koskinen believes that there is a serious possibility that the warband will remain. Worse yet, it is possible that the island dwellers could send a [[navy]]. Certainly, Koskinen believes, there is a heightened risk of piracy going forward for those sailing the Sea of Snow.

Little is known of the orcs of Fjorknae. There are no records remaining of them warring with the Empire. They are Jotun, or at least they give fealty to the Jarl of Jarls - though to ''which'' Jarl of Jarls nobody is clear. Koskinen is clear that they also consider the orcs of Fjorknae a great threat. Apparently, in times gone by, they have enjoyed a close relationship with the hylje's mysterious and violent cousins, the akhlut...

If the smuggler's cove once built in Tromsa could be re-established then as well as allowing the usual gathering of military intelligence in Tromsa, there would a new [[opportunity]]. Guided by the hylje, it would also allow the fleets of Wintermark to undertake a new scouting voyage '''Sail into the Cold'''. If enough fleets were committed to this voyage, then the Empire would be gain a better understanding of who the orcs of Fjorknae are, whom they serve, and some idea of the scale of threat they pose. Thereafter, the voyage would becoming a raiding voyage, '''Raid into the Cold''', representing a campaign of active raiding on the settlements of these orcs.

==In Semersuaq's memory==
* '''Koskinen has asked for performances which tell stories of the heroes of Wintermark'''
* '''These can be stories of heroes still living, or those long gone'''
* '''In return, the hylje will share their own stories, including what they know of the legendary Sermersuaq herself, and what they know of the Rusalka of the east'''
Secondly, the most welcome matter. The hylje know only a little of the heroes of Wintermark. They know most about the Suaq, but even there they are more familiar with the peoples than with the heroes. They themselves do not recognise heroism in quite the same way as the people of Wintermark, but they appreciate tales of it greatly.

Koskinen asks the [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] find a group of Wintermarkers who wish to perform a Wintermark story, something that is important to the people of the Mark. If the Mediator arranges to fill out the group with those who will most enjoy watching the two performances, regardless of their tradition, that would be most welcome.

Apparently, when the hylje tell stories, it is more common for it to be played out as a drama with many players. Koskinen claims that this is an [[dramaturgy|essentially magical act]] and one filled with great potency. He recognises that it is perhaps different from the usual scop's tradition to perform a collective act of storytelling in this manner - but he is sure there must be some among in Wintermark who could rise to the challenge. He says that it would be especially welcome for a magical element to be included in the performance - just so long as the magic does ''not'' create any auras that might affect the hylje.

In return, the hylje will in turn demonstrate their art of storytelling and the power of the instruments of narrative. The place at which the Festival will take place is a strong regio of the realm of Autumn. With their cousin's permission, the hylje intend to perform a ritual of Autumnal magic, enchanting Semersuaq in the spirit of the Festival of Autumn's Easing. As part of that performance, they will tell the story of the legendary Semersuaq as they understand it. Afterwards, Koskinen's bride, Aino, would be delighted to talk of other topics that might be of interest to the assembled, such as the Rusalka of the east, which apparently the Mediator has inquired about.

==As Semersuaq strode==
* '''The hylje may be prepared to assist the people of Wintermark in their great quest to master Tsirku'''
* '''With three measures of stardust, the hylje could assist with the exploration of the region containing Nutjuitoq'''
* '''The hylje could offer more help if Skyfall Waste and the Icewood in Tromsa were held by the Empire'''

Finally, Koskinen notes wryly that his people have noticed that Nutjuitoq, the lake north of Semersuaq, has been awfully busy of late. It seems the expedition this past season has not gone unnoticed! He is excited for the Ambition and Courage the Winterfolk have shown! The prospect of a concerted effort to explore the northern wastes is one he ''greatly'' encourages. After all, Semersuaq herself rode out from Sydanjaa, did she not? So it is only natural, in his view, that her children now return.

He says that the hylje know only a little of Tsirku themselves. They know it mainly through its southernmost lakes, Nutjuitoq and Karnakadatha. Still, their seal-forms do not mind the cold too much, which helps a great deal. However, the Northern Lights are perilous to the hylje - so they generally do not tarry long there. But if that could be dealt with, Koskinen believes that the Palliko can be persuaded to offer their aid in the exploration of Tsirku.

He says that the coming Festival of Autumn's Easing is the appropriate place for the Mediator of the Hyljehal to make such a request of the gathered leaders. If the Mediator could provide three measures of ''stardust'', a refined form of ilium, which some master artisans know how to make, then the hylje it can be used by the hylje to fortify their own natures against sky-madness. The hylje are not themselves skilled artisans, but Koskinen believes there exist smiths of Hanhmark who know the subtle art.

If the Mediator can provide the Palliko with enough stardust, then the hylje can aid the expedition into Tsirku. They are most able to assist with the exploration with the region which contains the great lake of Nutjuitoq, once scouting efforts reach it. This will reduce the thresholds needed to gather information about that region by a fifth. This hylje will provide aid to scouts who wish to cross Nutjuitoq itself from the Suaq Wastes rather than venturing north-west from Suaq Fount.

In theory they could ''also'' provide aid exploring the region which contains the great lake of Karnakadatha, but that would require the Empire to seize control of Skyfall Waste in Tromsa from the Jotun. If the Empire did that, then it would reduce the thresholds needed to gather information about both regions by two fifths. Moreover, if the Empire held Skyfall Waste and the Icewood, and maintained control of the Suaq Wastes and the Fount, then they would definitively control access to the southern lakes of Tsirku. This would allow the hylje great freedom to move between the two. It's hard to say what benefit this would provide, but it would mean the hylje were well-placed to address challenges that might arise during the exploration.

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T19:45:43Z

Apoth: /* Asavean Factor */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

In each case, we've tried to tag the Winds of Fortune entry with the nations or political bodies to which it is most relevant. We've done this to help people who are interested only in events that are especially relevant to them. In no way are these tags intended to be exhaustive; the Empire is a complex place, and very little happens in isolation. We are also adding the dates that they were last updated (other than typos and correcting [[red links]]) in an attempt to make it easier to keep track of the newest releases.
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==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

===Beneath a Moonless Sky===
* '''Wintermark, especially fleet captains; Mediator of Hyljehal; fans of Sermersuaq

The [[Mediator of Hyljehal]] has seen they work bear fruit this season as one of their leaders, Koskinen, has made contact with matters of interest.

You can read about the goings on of the curious sea people in the '''[[Beneath a Moonless Sky]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
[[Push_for_victory#See_That_We_Fight|The raid on Leen]] was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

Urizeni Experiment

2026-07-22T17:15:58Z

Apoth: Created page with "{{SOPInner|statement=Stargazers, we call for your expertise in the Sarangrave. The vallorn there is unique because of the warding and containment. It is possible it may be susceptible to unique methods and have unique weaknesses. We have learnt all we can through the existing knowledge from the library of Hercynion so we look to you for new paths. A commitment has been made to end the vallorn in our lifetime. Go forth, but take caution in Nesustak and Bloodwater Marsh|by..."

{{SOPInner|statement=Stargazers, we call for your expertise in the Sarangrave. The vallorn there is unique because of the warding and containment. It is possible it may be susceptible to unique methods and have unique weaknesses. We have learnt all we can through the existing knowledge from the library of Hercynion so we look to you for new paths. A commitment has been made to end the vallorn in our lifetime. Go forth, but take caution in Nesustak and Bloodwater Marsh|by=Theodora, Urizen National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 240-14|when=Spring 388YE}}

==Overview==
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the vallorn of Béantal Dol should it ever be roused, relishing the call to engage in their [[Stargazer#Interests|favourite pastime]] studying magic.

Their plan was to study the Terunael wards to see what could be done to improve them. Unfortunately, the last act of the Tainted Basilik was to shatter the wards and allow the vallorn to pour out into Nesustak Forest and Bloodwater Marsh. The actions of Imperial heroes at the Spring Equinox defanged the threat to Bloodwater Marsh, and the [[Boyar's Hasta]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Black Thorns]] were able to [[Thorn_and_bone|save the rebels of Nesustak Forest]].

Having spent months studying the remains of the wards, the stargazers have identified some opportunities to make use of them to help secure the area. They have divined a series of conjunctions of the [[Sentinel Gate]] that they believe will allow Imperial magicians to move to the right location at the right time - the best kind of magic is that which is actually cast. Having salvaged a scant number of the remaining wards from Bendol, they Stargazers have taken it upon themselves to "''Consider the Lock''", as General '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' might say.

===Stronger than Blood===
* '''Stargazers have found dilapidated warding stones in northern Bloodwater Marsh'''
* '''There are ettercaps and vallornspawn around the stones'''
* '''These skirmishes are both [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounters'''
* '''''Theodora'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for performing Wardens of the Black Waste in the east'''
* '''The ''Spear of the Seven'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for performing Wardens of the Black Waste in the west'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
There are two key locations at opposite ends of Bloodwater Marsh that could form a metaphysical barrier against the Vallorn, and by placing the remaining wards in the design of the lock in each location, combined with a permanent casting of [[Wardens of the Black Waste]] would allow for a large area to be warded against vallorn miasma. That could be crucial when the time comes.

Ordinarily, this would require an extremely expensive mass of ilium; however, the salvaged warding stones will need only a single ring of ilium to be worked into them to form an anchor to make the enchantment permanent. The bad news is that, while the full strength of the vallorn was successfully contained, there are still vallornspawn and ettercaps in the area who will interfere with the casting if not driven back.
<quote by="Suplicia of Calator">
There is no riddle that cannot be answered by magic, provided you know how to reframe the question
</quote>
[[Urizen]] is a nation of [[Ambition]], and the Stargazers went further to find additional ways to secure their new home. [[Sorin]] was consulted via the visiting ''Sepulchral Pontifex'', who has a known interest in fortifying one's domain against any who would challenge their rulership of it. The ''Lord of the Monolith'' approves of the Stargazers' plan, and if both wards are set up, then he will be able to use them as anchor points to allow the Empire to summon a [[Basalt Citadel]] in Bloodwater Marsh, should they wish. Should they only achieve one of the Wards, the ''Tomb King'' will wait for the [[Archmage of Winter]] to raise the topic of the Sarangrave the next time they are inclined to treat with him via plenipotentiary.

===An Open Gate===
* '''A throng of vallornspawn and ettercaps have amassed around the Turbulent Wellspring'''
* '''The first part of the skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Warmage'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for clearing the way to the Spring regio'''
* '''The second part of the skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Possible|combat possible]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Archmage of Spring'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for casting Dance of Navarr and Thorn'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
A third conjunction has also been detected. This one is to the Turbulent Wellspring, a Spring regio in Bendol itself, infested as it is with all manner of horrors near to its heart. This represents an opportunity to connect the vallorn heart in Bendol to the rest of the trods.

The consequences of such an act should not be understated; the connection of a new heart to the network always results in a pulse of chaotic energy to be transmitted to the hearts already connected, which can spur a resurgence of activity. As a lesser but still relevant consequence, it would also allow the recently proposed [[Cup_of_choices#In_Sickness_and_in_Hell|Eastern Citadel]] to be constructed.

It is the responsibility of the [[Warmage]], '''Ibiss Briarheart''', to drive off - or more likely kill - the vallornspawn and ettercaps in the area and clear the way to the Turbulent Wellspring. It is then the responsibility of the [[Archmage of Spring]], '''Arwydd Clearbramble''', to make use of the opportunity and perform [[Dance of Navarr and Thorn]], connecting Sarangrave to the trods.

{{KaelaGift}}

{{Vallornmiasma}}

==Nesustak Forest==
<div {{float}}>
<quote by="Proposed: Conscience of the Senate, Seconded: Sarangrave">We name Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh as responsible for the conjunction to discuss with the Nesustak Forest rebels in Sarangrave. The Senate also appoints: Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose and Bartimaeus of Sarangrave Reforged. The remaining two spaces on the conjunction are the responsibility of Sławomir to assign. The rebels of Sarangrave have shaken off their shackles of the buruk tepel with their own strength, we should take every opportunity to work with them in good faith. We do this in memory of Catalina Barossa, the citizen who first made contact with a now-rebel sept - the Waterwalkers.</quote>

<quote by="Proposed: Hercynia, Seconded: Ossium, Precedence of Virtue invoked by Conscience of the Senate">Nesustak Forest was never Imperial. The Nesustak Forest rebels rose against the Druj of their own strength. We recognise the region as their home and our ambition in moving into the region is solely for the purpose of defeating the vallorn and protecting the living souls who reside there. It is our intention to return the region once it is safe from the threat.</quote>

{{SOPInner|statement=The vallorn comes for Nesustak, home of the Bloodwater Spears and the Waterwalkers. The Military Council is charged with defending the Empire; these septs are not Imperial. We cannot guarantee their safety in Nesustak, but can offer them succour elsewhere if they wish to take it. Nesustak may fall, but the children of the spires can take in its people - offer them food and shelter; show them the lies of the buruk tepel, our new homes in the Sarangrave may be sparse and tenuous, but actions such as these reinforce more than they risk. Offer an open hand, but offer no mercy to those who show treachery.|by=Solas of the Waxing Sun, Urizen Assembly|vote={{GM}} 234-0|when=Spring 388YE}}
</div>
* '''Halyx Fire-Eyes claims to have been injured fighting the vallorn'''
* '''Halyx and Agoska have indicated that they will attend Anvil for the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''They have asked for confirmation that a servant of their ally - Irra Harrah - may attend with them'''
* '''Agoska has asked the Conclave to disseminate the Dreadful End ritual so that the rebels can destroy the miasma pillar in the Nesustak Forest'''

Following the recent delegation sent by the Senate to [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|meet with figureheads]] of the rebels of Nesustak Forest, Agoska of the Waterwalkers and Halyx Fire-Eyes of the Bloodwater Spears agreed that, should they survive the season, they would send a formal delegation to Anvil to discuss the possibility of a treaty articulating between them and the Empire.

Unfortunately, Halyx was injured fighting alongside the Cataphracts of the [[Granite Pillar]] and Agoska is an old orc exhausted by the events of the season and repeatedly casting [[Wardens of the Black Waste]] which was [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Dissemination:_Wardens_of_the_Black_Wastes_to_Agoska|donated by the Conclave]]. They pass on their gratitude for the efforts of the Empire to hold back the vallorn, but reality demands that their visit to Anvil is postponed until the Autumn Equinox.

A seasons delay will give them time to take stock of their situation and discuss their position with their allies. There is one point that will need to be settled first. The eternal [[Irra Harah]] has been an unstinting ally of the rebels since before their fight against the Druj began. The Prince with a Thousand Foes has given without limits to help them, otherwise they would never have had the strength to throw off the yoke of the Druj. They are aware that the eternal is the sworn enemy of the Empire, but still they ask leave to bring their ally with them to Anvil.

It is clear that they do not wish to attend Anvil without their ally there with them. Whether that is the reason for the delay is unclear, but either way the Empire will need to respond with a suitable winged messenger to one or the other before then, otherwise they will bring the the herald of Papa Otec with them and that will brew a hot pot of trouble. Of course it is hardly diplomatic to tell them that they can't bring their ally with them, but the last time a herald of the Prince with a Thousand Foes attended Anvil with a group of orc rebels it ended in the most bitter recriminations and thousands slain.

In the meantime however, they have their own plans to free the [[Sarangrave]] from the taint of the Druj. If the Conclave is willing to share another ritual with Ahoska, [[Dreadful End]], he and his aides will deal with the miasma pillar in Nesustak Forest themselves. Agoska is said to have gotten rather emotional when discussing that he might have the opportunity to fell this brutal symbol of Druj rule that has oppressed his people for generations. Should this occur, there will only be [[The_poisoned_air#Geography|one key pillar]] left to destroy to counteract the [[The_poisoned_air#Magic_(Participation)|insipid effect]] on the Urizeni who have already moved there (and presumably any Axou who have already moved to Thornfen).

The Grynbor are one with the Vallorn now, perhaps the only people of the Sarangrave who have managed to find some measure of contentment. But there remains the elusive third sept that are yet to reveal themselves, a mishmash of other rebels not affiliated with ''any'' known sept. While progress has been made, there is still a long way to go to untangle the complicated political situation in the Empire's newest territory.

==The Caves of the Hungry Earth==
* '''A representative of the Severed Hornet sept of the Whisperwood has approached the Empire'''
* '''They have a troubling tale about a cave network in the cliffs at the south of the region'''
* '''There is an opportunity for the Sun Chamber to take action to investigate in the coming season'''
* '''There a conjunction for five members of the Sun Chamber to journey into a small portion of the caves during the summit'''

It is often hard to remember that the Sarangrave is a territory that holds the weight of many dark years inside it and about which the Empire knows little. One such unknown reveals itself just before the Summer Solstice.

The town of Uklead in the Whisperwood is a curious place. The palace of the Thornwasp sept, its erstwhile rulers, squats like a leering hive in the centre of the settlement, towers jutting out of the thick trees in the middle part of the region. This is the place where the Tainted Basilisk was founded, for the Thornwasp sept were the backbone of its supply - and ultimately, the anchor around the neck of the army which kept it in the Sarangrave to meet its demise.

Since then the settlement has been mostly underpopulated. Those that remain appear to be of a single sept - they are notable for the bleached sashes they each wear across their chest, and the livid scarring around their eyes. So far they have not made formal introductions to the Empire - but this is the sept of the Severed Hornets.

Shortly before the Summer Solstice, one of these orcs approaches the Empire with a message for their new rulers. They want to know if the Empire knows of "the hungry earth"? This is not a phrase that is familiar to anyone there to speak to, and after gathering a little crowd, the orc - whose name is apparently Servadi - begins to explain further, drawing a map on the ground for the curious soldiers.

The Whisperwood, Servadi explains, rises in its southern part, the paths through the woods getting steeper and steeper until it becomes a scramble, and then a climb. The rise gets steeper and steeper, trees clinging to what is eventually a mountain rise. Far, far above, there is a plateau - where the Sarangrave meets the Mountains of the Moon. Here, they say, is the entrance to a cave - a network of caves known as the Hungry Earth. An entrance - but not, they say, an exit. There is an exit, but Servadi does not know it - because to venture into the Hungry Earth and find the exit is something reserved only for the Thornwasp's elite.

The Hungry Earth has long been used as a training ground for the Thornwasp clan, to evaluate the potential of aspiring youths to be initiated into the highest circles of the sept. Every year, the most promising youths, those that show the most potential - venture into the caves - in most cases fewer than half return. Those who undergo the Rite of the Hungry Earth and live to tell the tale were considered suitable for the highest leadership of the sept.

The Buruk Tepel of the clan were said to know the caves extremely well - perhaps even of other entrances. The Severed Hornets were used on occasion by the leaders of the Thornwasp as labour, to mine this mithril. The operation they describe sounds not unlike the practices that took place in the [[Vale_of_the_Sunless_Depths|Crawling Depths]] in Ossium, but on a smaller scale. Fifty young and able members of the Severed Hornets would be taken into the dark tunnels each year by trusted members of the Buruk Tepel's inner circle. There they would be worked to death - even if they survived the gruelling labour, none were permitted to leave. The mithril was removed through one of the secret exits known only to those of the Thornwasp who had survived the Rite of the Hungry Earth.

Servadi says that their motivation for telling the Empire this is simple. The sept hope that by getting the Empire interested in a potential source of mithril, they might themselves be allowed access to the caves - and thus begin to hunt for the bones of their lost children. They are prepared to assist the Empire in mining the mithril in return. Servadi seems somewhat aware that the Empire is not accustomed to using the same brutal methods of resource extraction that the Druj are, even if it is clear they and the other Severed Hornets do see the Empire as just another set of rulers.

The problem is that the caves of the Hungry Earth are clearly ''extremely'' narrow. This entrance was only ever used by children or young adults - if there are more accessible entrances to the caves, they are well-hidden and a secret of the Thornwasp. It simply isn't possible for most Imperial citizens to even begin to enter.

However the Empire possesses a sodality dedicated to the idea that youth is an asset the Empire cannot afford to squander. It has been a year since the [[Sun Chamber]] called upon their Door of Hidden Possibilities to scout in Sermersuaq - which means it is available for use. If the Door were directed towards the Hungry Earth of the Sarangrave, the Eternal [[Barien]] would offer his aid to young citizens who were willing to brave the trial that the Hungry Earth represents. This wouldn't remove the risk - it is still very possible that some young citizens would die valiantly in the attempt - but it would at least make it a realistic possibility.

The Sentinel Gate works in mysterious ways - and it seems to have acted to give the Sun Chamber a chance to learn a little more about the Hungry Earth before deciding whether this risk is really worth the potential cost. Imperial diviners have identified a conjunction to the Depths of the Hungry Earth in the Whisperwood, opening at 23:00 on the Saturday of the summit. The conjunction is for only 5 people. This would be enough to go and investigate a small portion of the tunnels - perhaps to cast Clear Lens of the Eternal River or Shadowed Glass of Sung, or otherwise investigate what lies beneath the cliffs of the Whisperwood. Given the story of Servadi, perhaps it may be best to also bring at least one person capable of exorcism - and a physick, just in case.

('''OOC Note:''' This is a conjunction for members of the Sun Chamber sodality. It involves an encounter set which depicts a narrow cave network. The set could be triggering for anyone who is claustrophobic or nyctaphobic as we are striving to create an experience that is challenging and which evokes strong emotions. Obviously, this means that this encounter will not be suitable for everyone who might otherwise wish to participate.)

Asavean Factor

2026-07-22T16:55:13Z

Apoth: Created page with "{{SOPInner|statement=Loyalty is the link from one heart to another, guiding us on the path of Virtue. Alberto Acciai - Exemplar of Loyalty - followed his heart. Inspired by his cousin, Alberto broke the chains of the downtrodden and struck against the Plenum, freeing slaves from their tyrant masters and breaking two Asavean armies. Through Loyalty, Alberto shared the gift of the Way with the people of Marilen, and inspired others to rise up in Virtue. Two years ago we co..."

{{SOPInner|statement=Loyalty is the link from one heart to another, guiding us on the path of Virtue. Alberto Acciai - Exemplar of Loyalty - followed his heart. Inspired by his cousin, Alberto broke the chains of the downtrodden and struck against the Plenum, freeing slaves from their tyrant masters and breaking two Asavean armies. Through Loyalty, Alberto shared the gift of the Way with the people of Marilen, and inspired others to rise up in Virtue. Two years ago we committed to continuing the work of Alberto and Amika. Asavea will be transformed through Virtue, the truly Virtuous are Loyal even in times of hardship! We must stand by our commitment, and finish the war the Empire started. We will bring Virtue to Asavea, no matter the cost. We devote our hearts to this task. This is our Highest Calling.|by=Dagon of the Shattered Tower, Loyalty Assembly|vote={{GM}} 390-26|when=Spring 388YE}}

{{SOP|by=Dagon, Loyalty Assembly|statement=Even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. We send Dagon with 50 doses of liao to urge those loyal to our young siblings in Virtue to spread the Way and support the Virtuous rebels in Asavea.|when=Summer Solstice 386YE|vote=Upheld (400-128)}}
==Overview==
Not content with [[A_lasting_commitment|one epoch-defining construction]], the Empire is ''also'' attempting to [[Drumbeat_of_war#A_Fulcrum|Anchor the Way in Asavea]]. Thus far, only 34 of the 750 wains of [[white granite]] required has been submitted, yet once the Grand Inspiration is complete that may allow streams to be diverted to this second grand edifice to the Way. Yet the Loyalty Assembly values this construction more highly than the one in [[Bastion]] and have spent the season encouraging those who know the highest calling of their hearts to consider ways they might aid in usurping the worship of the false gods of the Plenum.
==Seeking Allies==
* '''The Loyalty assembly needs allies who feel the same way they do
Anchoring the Way in Asavea is a major undertaking, and one that is frankly struggling. Yet if there is one thing the Loyalty assembly knows, it is the importance of finding other people who share your goals and are prepared to work with you. One approach to pushing the ambitious project forward would be to secure such allies. There seem to be two broad approaches that might achieve something here.
===Build Then Up===
* '''For the next year, the Loyalty Assembly can use a mandate to urge members to find a way to arrange a meeting of some kind with a single named faction'''
What might benefit the Assembly is some way to build links with the various different [[Asavean factions]]. Each of them could be very useful to attempts to spread [[the Way]] to [[Asavea]] if the Empire could bring them on side. Thus far that has proved difficult, but that may be because communicating by [[call winged messenger]] is just so tortuous. Perhaps the best way for the Assembly to start making real progress is to find a way to meet with these people?

There are six distinct Asavean factions that the Empire has identified - all of which could help to anchor the Way in Asavea, if they could be convinced to risk the endeavour. Unfortunately they have high demands and thus far have been shown relatively little interest in negotiating. In truth, a winged messenger agreeing to meet someone's price will be effective, but winged messengers asking for meetings or haggling are almost never effective. After, all the Empire is going to them; they have little reason to lower their demands.

Still if it were possible to meet with them, in some way, then that ''might'' change. Perhaps using the [[Lashonar#Caucus_Forum|illegal Caucus form]] or by some other clandestine method, perhaps a chamber arranged by [[Prospero]] or [[Basiliea]], or if possible, a way to simply bring them to [[Anvil]]. None of these people are going to change their minds just because they've been dragged into a meeting, but the power of persuasion should never be under-estimated. If the Empire can talk to them, then they might be able to find common ground.

{{Mandate|mandate=The Virtuous build up their fellows. We send (named individual) with 25 doses of liao to urge the Virtuous to find a way to arrange a meeting with (faction). Let us meet and find common ground against the Plenum.|assembly=Loyalty Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, then the faithful will find an [[opportunity]] to engineer a face-to-face meeting of ''some kind'' between the named individual and the faction. If there is a chance to bring others into the meeting, so much the better, but whoever is named in the mandate will have to be there. Obviously there's nothing to stop the assembly seeking to reach out to these factions by mundane means, via letter and negotiation, but so far that approach has borne limited fruit.
===Search Beyond===
* '''For the next year, the Loyalty Assembly can use a mandate to urge members to enlist supernatural allies'''
Alternatively the assembly could explore a different approach. Rather than spending more time trying to win over the Asavean factions, they could look for allies elsewhere. Instead of seeking a meeting with anyone, they could ask members of the assembly all over the Empire to see if there is any [[inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|herald]] of an [[eternal]] who might be persuaded to help. The eternals are not especially virtuous, but their interests stretch across the Known World and there is no doubt that some of them could be persuaded to support the Empire's efforts in the west.

{{Mandate|mandate=Even the wicked can be loyal. We send (named individual) with 25 doses of liao to urge the Virtuous to find approach the servants of (named eternal). Let us see what aid they might offer.|assembly=Loyalty Assembly}}

If this mandate is enacted, then the faithful will seek out the heralds of the eternal in question and pester them with requests for help until they obtain a response from their sovereign. It's not the best way to approach an eternal - a proud eternal like [[Eleonaris]] is likely to be furious by being bothered in this way. But some eternals are much more informal. Either way it will bring a response of ''some'' kind - though any formal response is most likely to be directed to the Conclave. At the very least it will provide details for the format of a possible plenipotentiary.

It's a long shot, but the idea for it follows an approach from [[Callidus|the Prince of Argent Tontine]]. It nothing else it gives a good example of what might be on offer. There's also nothing to stop members of the assembly negotiating with an [[Archmage]] to deploy their power of [[Archmage#Plenipotantiery|plenipotentiary]] on behalf of the assembly, of course, but in that case as in so many it would be unlikely to achieve much unless it was the ''sole'' thing the archmage was asking for.
===Two Paths===
* '''These mandates are competing'''
These mandates are in competition with each other. If more than one is raised, all such mandates will compete. Whichever mandate receives the greatest margin, once it is enacted, will set the path the Loyalty Assembly takes for the coming year. If the winning mandate deals with a faction, the ability to ask the assembly to seek eternal allies in this way in the future will be lost, and vice verse.
==Appraisal==
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Appraise supporting Anchoring the Way'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' Appraisal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' Needs to call for the appraisal to identify ways Loyal Imperial citizens can support anchoring the Way in Asavea</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' The choice of prognosticator will be crucial here </td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Senate could endorse an appraisal to find ways to secure more materials for the project to anchor the Way
One of the key challenges facing the Loyalty assembly is that in the time since the project to anchor the Way in Asavea was begun, it has not achieved even a tenth of its objective. The wains needed exist, but they are not being donated to the effect to bring the virtues to the Asavean Archipelago. One obvious possibility that presents itself to the Loyalty assembly would be to have the [[Senate]] commission an [[appraisal]] looking for ways the Loyal citizens of the Empire who want to help the spreading of the Way can do so. One major obstacle here is that it is not entirely clear how much of the Senate supports the anchoring of the Way in the first place - they did attempt to criminalize the preaching of the virtues in Asasvea after all. Especially with the Asaveans sending support to the Grendel in their war on the EMpire. However, if such an appraisal were commissioned, it may turn up ways the Loyalty assembly can drum up support at home for this ambitious endeavour.

One thing that will be crucial with this appraisal, if the assembly is able to convince the Senate to endorse it, is the choice of prognosticator. Each of them has their specialities, and areas where they are weak, and an appraisal into supporting an endeavour in a foreign country is likely to magnify those strengths and weaknesses.

==Sovereign of Self==
{{CaptionedImage|file=CallidusArt.jpg|align=right|width=250}}
* '''Callidus offers to provide funding for the "war with Asavea" in exchange for items of profound importance'''
* '''He is offering to buy these goods in exchange for wains of white granite'''
[[Callidus]] has been observing the Imperial attempt to use religion to disrupt the status quo of political power in the archipelago and replace it with their own influence. The eternal strongly approves of this [[A_beacon_of_smoke|war of words]] with the Plenum, they are fascinated to see how hot the war can get and eager to help pour more fuel on the fire. Still the ''Prince of the Argent Tontine'' is not prepared to offer his aid without some form of recompense.

The ''Golden Bargainer'' has [[Callidus#Concerns|long held interest]] in notable religious artefacts, fascinated with the power they grant of over people. He has significant [[white granite]] he could donate to the project, yet nothing in the Autumn Realm is ever free. [[Callidus#Zand|Zand]] has been dispatched to communicate to the Empire that the ''Keeper of the Gilded Chains'' could be convinced to make such a donation, as long as the price is right. Any significant quantity of white granite would require something of enormous significance in return.

Helpfully Zand has several suggestions the Empire might want to consider. One or more of the pilgrim shields, a dose of true liao, or the pen that signed the liberty pact. Or if the Assembly really want to make a difference something of importance to the whole Empire like the Imperial Crown? Whatever the Empire wants to put on the table needs to be of that level of significance, to make it worth the eternal's time engaging with them.

Should the Synod be interested in negotiating this deal, Zand suggests they should petition the [[Archmage of Autumn]] to list which such items might be ''on the table'' the next time they are minded to send them a plenipotentiary, and a suitable negotiation can be arranged. The Prince is rich, so Zand encourages the Empire to bring their most valuable possessions to the table.

==Further Reading==
* [[Asavean factions]] - List of the known factions in Asavea potentially receptive to supporting the Empire
* [[One of us]] - 386YE Winter wind of fortune detailing early attempts by the Loyalty assembly to support the project
* [[Irreconcilable differences]] - 386YE Autumn wind of fortune discussing the conflict around preaching in Asavea
* [[Signal fire]] - 386YE Autumn Imperial Address by Rane Shardbearer
* [[Authority_and_acceptance#Asavea|Authority and acceptance]] - 386YE Autumn Wind of Fortune discussing Asavean diplomacy
* [[Drumbeat of war]] - 386YE Summer Wind of Fortune detailing Asavean diplomacy and opportunities for the Senate and Synod

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:53:50Z

Apoth: /* Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:53:12Z

Apoth: /* Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiement]]''' wind of fortune.

===Asavean Factor===
* '''Loyalty Assembly; Archmage of Autumn; Senate

Not content with one epoch-defining construction, the Empire is also attempting to Anchor the Way in Asavea. Yet even the most impenetrable forest may fall one tree at a time. The Loyalty Assembly have declared this to be their Highest Calling, and have spent the season seeking allies to help them with this momentus task.

You can read about the proposals of the Loyalty Assembly in the '''[[Asavean Factor]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

Tomb of the Courageous

2026-07-22T16:46:05Z

Apoth: /* Worth */

{{SOPInner|statement=True courage is selfless. Emperor Ahraz died to demand <u>liberation for the orcs</u> of the Empire, in the face of great opposition, risking his position and reputation to do what he knew was right. Our world was changed forever by that courageous act. <u>His tomb should be a beacon</u> to all those who fight for their convictions, Ashborn Osso among them. Her bones will join the guardians of this holy ground. <u>We have the true liao</u>: Ashborn Trosk will provide it. "Do not fear to act; only be shamed by inaction."|by=Basil Goodbeard, Courage Assembly|vote={{GM}} 312-0|when=Spring 388YE}}

==Overview==
At the Spring Equinox, the [[Courage]] Assembly decided that now was the time to consecrate the tomb of [[Emperor Ahraz]] to become a true inspirational place of pilgrimage. To say he was a controversial figure of Imperial history would be an understatement, but none could deny that he ''cleaved to what he knew to be true''.

Since his death the Emperor's reputation has steadily improved, buttressed most recently by a piece of historical research published by the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean Library]]. That work provided a detailed investigation of the life of [[Emperor Ahraz]] with a thorough account of the unfortunate events that led to him being deposed. With all the important details of Ahraz' life now firmly in the public domain, the Assembly can move forwards with creating an inspirational memorial to this important figure of Courage.

==Truth==
* '''Consecrating Ahraz's Tomb to his true Virtue will raise the spirits of citizens all across the Empire'''
* '''If everything goes well with the consecration it will increase the total number of armies and navies a nation can support by one'''
In many ways, this consecration is much easier than some of the others proposed by the Synod recently. Simply put, Ahraz already has a well-maintained tomb in the [[Necropolis]] that has all the necessary infrastructure around it to welcome throngs of pilgrims wishing to visit. Hundreds of pilgrims, especially Freeborn and Imperial Orc, make the journey every year. If the consecration goes ahead then those numbers will only swell further, but nothing that the experienced caretakers of Necropolis cannot deal with.

The main question before the general assembly is about how to frame the consecration. As such there are two mandates available for consideration, which are considered to be in competition with one another.

{{Mandate|mandate=Cleave to what you know to be true! We send (named individual) with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Ahraz's tomb to remind all faithful to pursue what they know to be right in the face of any and all opposition.|assembly=General Assembly}}

If this mandate is passed, it will focus the thoughts of pilgrims visiting the site on Ahraz' pivotal role in helping the forebears of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] achieve their freedom and ultimately become the tenth nation of the Empire. It will further bolster spirits of those orcs fighting to maintain their grip on Mareave against the Grendel, and seeking to free other orcs from enslavement. This will increase the number of armies or navies the Imperial Orcs can [[Army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces|support]] by one, to a total of four.

{{Mandate|mandate=Cleave to what you know to be true! We send (named individual) with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Ahraz's tomb to remind all faithful to cleave to what they know to be true, even when others wish you to doubt.|assembly=General Assembly}}

If this mandate is upheld, it will focus the thoughts of pilgrims on the importance of understanding their own hearts, and exploring what they believe to be right, as Ahraz did throughout his life. It will raise spirits all across the Brass Coast, reminding the Freeborn that one of their own sat the Throne - and recently - and that he was one of the most inspirational and important figures to do so in Imperial history. The nation has suffered greatly in recent years with the predations of Governor Rahab in Feroz, the depredations of the Dry Patricians in Madruga, and the oen-two punch of the Children of Wrecks and the Suranni. This version of the mandate will increase the number of armies or navies the Brass Coast can support by one, also to a total of four.

==Worth==
{{SOP|statement=Although Arhaz was Freeborn, he was an inspiration to us all. In conjunction with the writ of consecration and judgement raised by Ehud, we call for the unsealing of his tomb and invite the Imperial Orcs to add items of worth to his tomb, alongside the Honour Guard.|by=Diemos, Highborn Assembly|vote=258-0|when=Spring 388YE}}
* '''If the consecration goes ahead then a steward for the dead will attend Anvil at the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''They will meet with any Freeborn or Imperial Orcs who wish to provide items of worth to be placed in the tomb'''

There has long been a [[Emperor_Ahraz#Death_and_Legacy|great deal of interest]] regarding [[the honour guard of Ahraz]] who are buried alongside him in the [[Necropolis]]. Should the General Assembly assent, one of the [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Stewards_of_the_Dead|stewards of the dead]] responsible for maintaining his tomb will take the opportunity to attend Anvil at the Autumn Equinox to collect any items of worth to be placed reverently alongside the relics already there. Some may have concern over handing off such items, but it is important to remember that these priests are specially trained in the funeral traditions of each of the ten nations of the empire (and often other cultures as a matter of personal interest) and will appreciate the importance of such items and with how much care they need to be treated.

==Fire and Glass==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Statue of Emperor Ahraz'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any region, Kahraman</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' Up to a dozen white granite and three times as many crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a monument in the Brass Coast that celebrates Ahraz' legacy
* Promotes the prominence of whichever aspect of Ahraz' life is celebrated</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The Senate could commission a monument to Ahraz as a Firebrand or as a Scrivener'''
* '''The monument will help to promote the prominence of whichever aspect of Ahraz' life is celebrated'''
There has never been a grand monument to Ahraz in the Brass Coast. After his death he was interred with all due ceremony in the Necropolis, but there were few on the Coast who were eager to celebrate their fallen Emperor at the time. There is nothing to consecrate in the Brass Coast, one of the Freeborn criticisms of the Emperor at the time, was that he spent more time and attention outside the Coast than at home.

So nobody is surprised at the suggestion that it is his tomb that will be consecrated - where else could it be? Still it would be something to have at least one statue somewhere on the Coast, to commemorate the life of the only Freeborn ever to site the Throne.

In serendipitous timing, the firebrand movement that was so intertwined with the rule of Ahraz is also on the rise. While they may only partway to achieving the political prominence they once had, their affection for the Emperor remains and they are keen to make sure they are involved in tending the flame of his inspiration. They have asked that the Senate have an [[edifice]] built in the mountains of [[Kahraman]] where Ahraz spent the last few years of his life. Ideally something that celebrates his burning desire to confront the inequalities of Imperial life, his passion to confront the Empire he ruled and tear everything down to try to improve the lot of the lowest.

However, there is an alternative - Ahraz was also a keen [[scrivener]], and many of that profession are determined that this history should not be lost. Ahraz was not just a firebrand, he was a man of deep and abiding principles, someone who kept his faith and his bond. When he made an agreement with someone he stuck to it. He embodied a deep commitment to honesty, to dealing with people fairly. The Freeborn scriveners would like everyone to remember that Ahraz was one of their own and ask that any edifice that is erected celebrate that heritage.

It can't really be both, so someone will have to make a decision, assuming a status is to be erected. It wouldn't have to take a [[senate motion]], surely this is exactly what the [[Mistress of Monuments]] was created for? If the statue were 9 wains of white granite or less, then they the Mistress could announce it.

If a statue is built, it could reflect Ahraz' humble beginnings as a scrivener or his embrace of conflict as a firebrand. Whichever it is, is likely to raise the profile of that archetype still further, promoting its role and importance in Freeborn life.

==Doubts==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Not everyone is convinced this consecration is a good idea'''
* '''If evidence emerged that Ahraz ''was'' a heretic after the consecration of an inspirational location it would trigger a spiritual crisis
The Synod has spoken and named Emperor Ahraz as an exemplar of Courage. This is an important step in the rehabilitation of the Freeborn Emperor. He only narrowly survived a vote by the Synod to [[veto]] his appointment to [[the Throne]] due to persistent rumours that he was a [[heresy|heretic]]. His habit of employing a [[Shackle_of_the_Unvirtuous|Shackle of Freedom]] to hide his [[aura]] from [[insight]] caused many to question his [[dedication]] during his life. His refusal to condemn those involved with the [[Freedom Heresy]] caused his rivals to question where his true devotion lay. In modern times, such a thing could not happen. The Empire has outlawed almost anything that will conceal a person's aura (it's not hard to imagine how passionately the Emperor would have disagreed with ''that'' decision!). Even sixty years ago, it was enough to cause the Emperor to face [[inquisition]].

Provided the General Assembly are ''absolutely certain'' that they have this matter right, then there is nothing to worry about. But there are people who still argue that the Emperor was associated with a false Virtue. If that is the case, then it is just possible that the Empire is marching blindly into a disaster to rival that [[True faith|surrounding]] the revelations about the former paragon [[Vardas]].

It's undeniably true that in his time, Ahraz split the Empire in two, so determined was he to emancipate everyone. In doing that he created a stronger Empire, but he also created a lot of enemies and people who do that draw these kind of vile accusations like flies to honey. Fortunately there's absolutely no evidence to support those questioning the wisdom of Ahraz' [[recognition]] - provided it stays that way then everything will be fine.

==Further Reading==
* [[Emperor Ahraz]]
* [[The Orc Rebellion]]
* [[The Courage of Ahraz]] - Historical research by the [[lepidean Librarian]] into the history of Ahraz
* [[The Honour Guard of Ahraz]] - Historical research by the [[Minister of Historical Research]] into the orc honour guard of the dead Emperor

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:42:04Z

Apoth: /* Tomb of the Courageous */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

===Urizeni Experiment (Sarangrave)===
* '''Urizen, especially stargazers; Conclave; Theodora; Warmage; Archmage of Spring; Spear of the Seven; Sun CHamber
The Stargazers of Urizen have been hard at work trudging through the fetid swamps of Urizen's newest territory to see what might be done to put something in place to defend against the Vallorn of Bendol. At the same time, the rebels of Nesustak forest have been recovering from two very hectic seasons; first being assaulted by the druj from the north, and then the Vallorn from the south. There's also something called the "Hungry Earth" which sounds deeply unpleasant.

You can read about the current state of goings on in the Sarangrave in the '''[[Urizeni Experiement]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

Tomb of the Courageous

2026-07-22T16:36:22Z

Apoth: Created page with "{{SOPInner|statement=True courage is selfless. Emperor Ahraz died to demand <u>liberation for the orcs</u> of the Empire, in the face of great opposition, risking his position and reputation to do what he knew was right. Our world was changed forever by that courageous act. <u>His tomb should be a beacon</u> to all those who fight for their convictions, Ashborn Osso among them. Her bones will join the guardians of this holy ground. <u>We have the true liao</u>: Ashborn..."

{{SOPInner|statement=True courage is selfless. Emperor Ahraz died to demand <u>liberation for the orcs</u> of the Empire, in the face of great opposition, risking his position and reputation to do what he knew was right. Our world was changed forever by that courageous act. <u>His tomb should be a beacon</u> to all those who fight for their convictions, Ashborn Osso among them. Her bones will join the guardians of this holy ground. <u>We have the true liao</u>: Ashborn Trosk will provide it. "Do not fear to act; only be shamed by inaction."|by=Basil Goodbeard, Courage Assembly|vote={{GM}} 312-0|when=Spring 388YE}}

==Overview==
At the Spring Equinox, the [[Courage]] Assembly decided that now was the time to consecrate the tomb of [[Emperor Ahraz]] to become a true inspirational place of pilgrimage. To say he was a controversial figure of Imperial history would be an understatement, but none could deny that he ''cleaved to what he knew to be true''.

Since his death the Emperor's reputation has steadily improved, buttressed most recently by a piece of historical research published by the [[Lepidean_Librarian#Lepidean_University|Lepidean Library]]. That work provided a detailed investigation of the life of [[Emperor Ahraz]] with a thorough account of the unfortunate events that led to him being deposed. With all the important details of Ahraz' life now firmly in the public domain, the Assembly can move forwards with creating an inspirational memorial to this important figure of Courage.

==Truth==
* '''Consecrating Ahraz's Tomb to his true Virtue will raise the spirits of citizens all across the Empire'''
* '''If everything goes well with the consecration it will increase the total number of armies and navies a nation can support by one'''
In many ways, this consecration is much easier than some of the others proposed by the Synod recently. Simply put, Ahraz already has a well-maintained tomb in the [[Necropolis]] that has all the necessary infrastructure around it to welcome throngs of pilgrims wishing to visit. Hundreds of pilgrims, especially Freeborn and Imperial Orc, make the journey every year. If the consecration goes ahead then those numbers will only swell further, but nothing that the experienced caretakers of Necropolis cannot deal with.

The main question before the general assembly is about how to frame the consecration. As such there are two mandates available for consideration, which are considered to be in competition with one another.

{{Mandate|mandate=Cleave to what you know to be true! We send (named individual) with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Ahraz's tomb to remind all faithful to pursue what they know to be right in the face of any and all opposition.|assembly=General Assembly}}

If this mandate is passed, it will focus the thoughts of pilgrims visiting the site on Ahraz' pivotal role in helping the forebears of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] achieve their freedom and ultimately become the tenth nation of the Empire. It will further bolster spirits of those orcs fighting to maintain their grip on Mareave against the Grendel, and seeking to free other orcs from enslavement. This will increase the number of armies or navies the Imperial Orcs can [[Army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces|support]] by one, to a total of four.

{{Mandate|mandate=Cleave to what you know to be true! We send (named individual) with a dose of true liao to consecrate the Ahraz's tomb to remind all faithful to cleave to what they know to be true, even when others wish you to doubt.|assembly=General Assembly}}

If this mandate is upheld, it will focus the thoughts of pilgrims on the importance of understanding their own hearts, and exploring what they believe to be right, as Ahraz did throughout his life. It will raise spirits all across the Brass Coast, reminding the Freeborn that one of their own sat the Throne - and recently - and that he was one of the most inspirational and important figures to do so in Imperial history. The nation has suffered greatly in recent years with the predations of Governor Rahab in Feroz, the depredations of the Dry Patricians in Madruga, and the oen-two punch of the Children of Wrecks and the Suranni. This version of the mandate will increase the number of armies or navies the Brass Coast can support by one, also to a total of four.

==Worth==
{{SOP|statement=Although Arhaz was Freeborn, he was an inspiration to us all. In conjunction with the writ of consecration and judgement raised by Ehud, we call for the unsealing of his tomb and invite the Imperial Orcs to add items of worth to his tomb, alongside the Honour Guard.|by=Diemos, Highborn Assembly|vote=258-0|when=Spring 388YE}}
* '''If the consecration goes ahead then a steward for the dead will attend Anvil at the Autumn Equinox'''
* '''They will meet with any Freeborn or Imperial Orcs who wish to provide items of worth to be placed in the tomb'''

There has long been a [[Emperor_Ahraz#Death_and_Legacy|great deal of interest]] regarding [[the honour guard of Ahraz]] who are buried alongside him in the [[Necropolis]]. Should the General Assembly assent, one of the [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Stewards_of_the_Dead|stewards of the dead]] responsible for maintaining his tomb will take the opportunity to attend Anvil at the Autumn Equinox to collect any items of worth to be placed reverently alongside the relics already there. Some may have concern over handing off such items, but it is important to remember that these priests are specially trained in the funeral traditions of each of the ten nations of the empire (and often other cultures as a matter of personal interest) and will appreciate the importance of such items and with how much care they need to be treated.

Not a tourist attraction, a place of pilgrimage. Will not open it again.

==Fire and Glass==
<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Statue of Emperor Ahraz'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any region, Kahraman</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' Up to a dozen white granite and three times as many crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Creates a monument in the Brass Coast that celebrates Ahraz' legacy
* Promotes the prominence of whichever aspect of Ahraz' life is celebrated</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The Senate could commission a monument to Ahraz as a Firebrand or as a Scrivener'''
* '''The monument will help to promote the prominence of whichever aspect of Ahraz' life is celebrated'''
There has never been a grand monument to Ahraz in the Brass Coast. After his death he was interred with all due ceremony in the Necropolis, but there were few on the Coast who were eager to celebrate their fallen Emperor at the time. There is nothing to consecrate in the Brass Coast, one of the Freeborn criticisms of the Emperor at the time, was that he spent more time and attention outside the Coast than at home.

So nobody is surprised at the suggestion that it is his tomb that will be consecrated - where else could it be? Still it would be something to have at least one statue somewhere on the Coast, to commemorate the life of the only Freeborn ever to site the Throne.

In serendipitous timing, the firebrand movement that was so intertwined with the rule of Ahraz is also on the rise. While they may only partway to achieving the political prominence they once had, their affection for the Emperor remains and they are keen to make sure they are involved in tending the flame of his inspiration. They have asked that the Senate have an [[edifice]] built in the mountains of [[Kahraman]] where Ahraz spent the last few years of his life. Ideally something that celebrates his burning desire to confront the inequalities of Imperial life, his passion to confront the Empire he ruled and tear everything down to try to improve the lot of the lowest.

However, there is an alternative - Ahraz was also a keen [[scrivener]], and many of that profession are determined that this history should not be lost. Ahraz was not just a firebrand, he was a man of deep and abiding principles, someone who kept his faith and his bond. When he made an agreement with someone he stuck to it. He embodied a deep commitment to honesty, to dealing with people fairly. The Freeborn scriveners would like everyone to remember that Ahraz was one of their own and ask that any edifice that is erected celebrate that heritage.

It can't really be both, so someone will have to make a decision, assuming a status is to be erected. It wouldn't have to take a [[senate motion]], surely this is exactly what the [[Mistress of Monuments]] was created for? If the statue were 9 wains of white granite or less, then they the Mistress could announce it.

If a statue is built, it could reflect Ahraz' humble beginnings as a scrivener or his embrace of conflict as a firebrand. Whichever it is, is likely to raise the profile of that archetype still further, promoting its role and importance in Freeborn life.

==Doubts==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Courage.png|align=right|width=200}}
* '''Not everyone is convinced this consecration is a good idea'''
* '''If evidence emerged that Ahraz ''was'' a heretic after the consecration of an inspirational location it would trigger a spiritual crisis
The Synod has spoken and named Emperor Ahraz as an exemplar of Courage. This is an important step in the rehabilitation of the Freeborn Emperor. He only narrowly survived a vote by the Synod to [[veto]] his appointment to [[the Throne]] due to persistent rumours that he was a [[heresy|heretic]]. His habit of employing a [[Shackle_of_the_Unvirtuous|Shackle of Freedom]] to hide his [[aura]] from [[insight]] caused many to question his [[dedication]] during his life. His refusal to condemn those involved with the [[Freedom Heresy]] caused his rivals to question where his true devotion lay. In modern times, such a thing could not happen. The Empire has outlawed almost anything that will conceal a person's aura (it's not hard to imagine how passionately the Emperor would have disagreed with ''that'' decision!). Even sixty years ago, it was enough to cause the Emperor to face [[inquisition]].

Provided the General Assembly are ''absolutely certain'' that they have this matter right, then there is nothing to worry about. But there are people who still argue that the Emperor was associated with a false Virtue. If that is the case, then it is just possible that the Empire is marching blindly into a disaster to rival that [[True faith|surrounding]] the revelations about the former paragon [[Vardas]].

It's undeniably true that in his time, Ahraz split the Empire in two, so determined was he to emancipate everyone. In doing that he created a stronger Empire, but he also created a lot of enemies and people who do that draw these kind of vile accusations like flies to honey. Fortunately there's absolutely no evidence to support those questioning the wisdom of Ahraz' [[recognition]] - provided it stays that way then everything will be fine.

==Further Reading==
* [[Emperor Ahraz]]
* [[The Orc Rebellion]]
* [[The Courage of Ahraz]] - Historical research by the [[lepidean Librarian]] into the history of Ahraz
* [[The Honour Guard of Ahraz]] - Historical research by the [[Minister of Historical Research]] into the orc honour guard of the dead Emperor

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:35:29Z

Apoth: /* A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

In each case, we've tried to tag the Winds of Fortune entry with the nations or political bodies to which it is most relevant. We've done this to help people who are interested only in events that are especially relevant to them. In no way are these tags intended to be exhaustive; the Empire is a complex place, and very little happens in isolation. We are also adding the dates that they were last updated (other than typos and correcting [[red links]]) in an attempt to make it easier to keep track of the newest releases.
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==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tomb of the Courageous===
* '''The Courage Assembly; Freeborn, especially Scriveners and prospective Firebrands; The Lepidean Librarian
The Courage Assembly has made their case to the wider SYnod that it is tiome for there to be an inspirational location devoted to Emperor Ahraz. A figure not without some controversy, it is time for the Synod to either face some unwelcome truth and/or cleave to what they know to be true.

You can read about the opportunity to consecrate Ahraz's Tomb in the '''[[Tomb of the Courageous]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:28:08Z

Apoth: /* A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:27:31Z

Apoth: /* Chains from the Deep */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

In each case, we've tried to tag the Winds of Fortune entry with the nations or political bodies to which it is most relevant. We've done this to help people who are interested only in events that are especially relevant to them. In no way are these tags intended to be exhaustive; the Empire is a complex place, and very little happens in isolation. We are also adding the dates that they were last updated (other than typos and correcting [[red links]]) in an attempt to make it easier to keep track of the newest releases.
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==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Wizard did it (Mortal Magic)===
* '''People who used to like visiting the Painted Caves; The Ambassador to Otkodov; Senator for Astolat; Navarri
Not all magic is performed by the denizens of the realms, mortals are just as if not more capable of causing all kinds of trouble when left alone with too much free time and mana crystals.

You can read about goings on in the frozen north, the slightly less frozen north, and in the minds of Navarri in the '''[[A Wizard did it]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:18:10Z

Apoth: /* It's like a raid on your wedding day (Leen) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===The Raid on Leen===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:15:38Z

Apoth: /* Other Events */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===It's like a raid on your wedding day (Leen)===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:15:18Z

Apoth: /* Other Events */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Other Events===
===It's like a raid on your wedding day (Leen)===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:14:50Z

Apoth: /* Other Events */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Other Events===
====Mustering====
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'>
<tr><th colspan='2'>Raided Leen</th></tr>
<tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th></tr>
<tr><td> Esteban I Del Rio Blanco I Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kay i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bayan Zayden Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azzam i Zaydan i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sadiq i Isa i Erigo </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Branwyn i Leons del Mar i Coeurdefer i Riqueza </td><td> Phoenix's Promise Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gael i Guerra </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tancred Enrico i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arturo i Tontería i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ana i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rahmah i Darwisj i Erigo </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Terak i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Flames of the Coast </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mycella i Ruiloba i Erigo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ibrahim i Taziel i Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Constanza Ramos i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Argento i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Marco i Taziel </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lavanda i Rincón i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Khalama i Radah i Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Theodora i Livera i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dimitri I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aziz i Guerra i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Felia i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aero </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rodrigo i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Familia Ramirez </td></tr>
<tr><td> Rashid i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> Red Sails of the Wanderer </td></tr>
<tr><td> Azuza i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Banu i Yashum i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Bassim i Retazos Dorados i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Arcelia i Garza i Guerra </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ferran i Rincón i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Zaffer i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sayid i Zuhri i Erigo </td><td> The Dragonfly Cartel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Matiaz i Riqueza </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Maximilano i Taziel i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alina i garcia i erigo </td><td> The Seaglass Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Martha i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estevanico i Hayim i Riqueza </td><td> The Hayim Family (Banner) </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miguel I Avalon I Guerra </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Sol i Radah i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Solana I Zabala I Erigo </td><td> Family Zabala </td></tr>
<tr><td> Umbar i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Silvia Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Phosphor i Efna i Riqueza </td><td> The Brass Wings </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashar i Astusiram </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alvaro i Zaman </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cole Blackwood Erigo </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cisco i Phovas i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kareem i Carno i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mont i Sawa i Erigo </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eduardo i Otoño i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Gisli i Phovas i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Florina i Sol-Devorador i Riqueza </td><td> Krakenfire Armada </td></tr>
<tr><td> Cuinn-Gael i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alazhar i Taziel i Erigo </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Teo i Rincon i Erigo </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Urraca i Inez i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Luz i Orzezz i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Eulàlia i Phovas i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lambdon I Kurian I Riqueza </td><td> Fijadoz Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Salvador </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viktor Corterra Meridian Von Temeschwar i Guerra </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Quintenzo i Elharar i Guerra </td><td> Elharar Family </td></tr>
<tr><td> Hugo i Bāmesh </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> migel i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estaban i Fontanilla i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Mirasol i Paredes i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alodia i Bellamar i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miris i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jullian i Avalon </td><td> The Avalon Clan </td></tr>
<tr><td> Malzan i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Dannaustra y Meridian y Riqueza </td><td> Blazing Tide </td></tr>
<tr><td> Karrack i Darwisj </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jasmine i Elba Stardo i Guerra </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lorenzo </td><td> House Taziel </td></tr>
<tr><td> Emilia i Zabala i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Damiàn i Martàn i Erigo </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Madura Radah Guerra </td><td> House i Souza i Guerra </td></tr>
<tr><td> Allegra i Riqueza </td><td> </td></tr>
<tr><td> Velasco i Fundaro </td><td> Star Guard </td></tr></table></div>
It starts with a single, unremarkable ship leaving [[Feroz#Oran|Oran]]. Those moored at port to take on supplies quickly move to cast off and follow the ship; the single ship slowly gathering others in its wake. As it passes east, it gathers more; the ones at anchor watching to the north for a glimpse of how the Suranni have fared. Out through the Cazar Straits, careful to avoid catching the watchful eye of the Iron Confederacy. As the ships move south, the sails gather until it is an armada almost fifteen thousand strong. Then, almost as one, the sails crack in the wind and the ships pass into the waters of Arbonne.

Through [[Bay_of_Catazar#Kalino_(or_“Arbonne”)|Arbonne]], some ships sail past the wrecks of the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster|Golden Fleet]], then into [[Bay_of_Catazar#Shavronne|Shavronne]] and [[Bay_of_Catazar#Veroigne|Veroigne]] after it. As the armada sails, and occasionally grows as the last straggling ships arrive, the wary Grendel track the voyage closely. Eventually, though, the ships pass out of the Bay of Catazar and into the [[The_seven_seas#Sea_of_Sighs|Sea of Sighs]] proper.

====Sailing====
The voyage takes weeks. Some crews resort to racing each other to mark the passage of time. Others are altogether focused on what awaits them, poring over the maps of the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]] and trying to gauge how long they might have to enact this daring plan. Half the ships rest for a time at the [[Foreign_ports#Towers_of_Kantor|Towers of Kantor]], others press on ahead further north and prepare at the docks of [[Foreign_ports#Chambers_of_Issyk|Issyk]]. There, they take on the last of the supplies and pay for the emergencies that spring up on voyages before once again sailing north into the Salt Flats.

====Fight====
Some of these ships have been here before; the [[smugglers cove]] in the Salt Flats was one of the first [[Construct Smuggler's Cove in Salt Flats of Sanath|commissioned]] by the Senate just over two years ago. Now though, it is not discovery and understanding that drives them. It is a drive to free those who have been chained by the hateful Druj. A chance to give freedom to those who have known no other life but toil under the thrall of the orcs of the Mallum. There is no hope for stealth with an armada this large. Instead, a burning brazier is lit on the prow of a ship to signal the advance, and the first boats touch the shores of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Leen_Rarckan|Leen Rarckan]].

It is a wretched place. Its wealth is evident, and if the goal of this voyage was to gain wealth, the myriad streets would present easy pickings. Instead, the corsairs and the kohan seek out the worst places, where those who have never been able to conceive of their own freedom languish in the filth passed down by their masters. Here they find lost Imperials, lost Axou, and those who have never had a true home. Whose families were born into this life - if it can be called that - for generations. These are the ones who take the most convincing; those who were once Imperials explain it quickly. The ills they have suffered, the horrors heaped upon them, have been blamed on the Empire.

It is perhaps lucky that the garrisons of [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#The_Witness|the Witness]], the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Beacon_of_Iskrid|Beacon]], and the [[Salt_Flats_of_Sanath#Spires_of_Rarckan|Spires]] are occupied with [[Thorn_and_bone#An_Old_Story|ensuring]] that the Poison Crane and the Hidden Snake do not reenter the Salt Flats. The presence of the Freeborn can hardly be hidden, but the extra time does give them the chance to rescue thousands from their fate.

There is fighting, disparate and deadly, in the city. Crooked snickets and alleyways allow for the Druj who remained behind to launch ambush after ambush on the Freeborn. It is the sheer weight of numbers that allows the Imperials to escape with so many. Some unlucky few fall in the retreat, but far fewer than the Druj who would try to stop them.

====Aftermath====
The armada stops once again at Kantor and Issyk, this time to discharge those who were once Axou. Ships take on necessary supplies before casting off and returning again to the Empire. At this point, there is no need for an element of surprise - nor is there much chance of being caught unaware. The Grendel are busy, and enough Imperial ships are travelling together that even the fleeing children of wrecks keep a wide berth.

Eventually, the ships arrive back in western Bay of Catazar and begin to dock at Oran and [[Madruga#Calvos|Calvos]]. Some go further afield, where their rescued former Imperials warrant it, to [[Sarvos]], [[Necropolis#Longbeach|Crown's Quay]], [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]], and [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]. Now, the work truly begins. Those who were once Imperial will find their way back to their nations or find another. Those who have never known anything else, though, will take time and patience to help.

Each one of them accepted the offer to flee the Druj, to be given the chance to claim their freedom. But if you have lived your whole life underground, the wide sky can be daunting.

====Game Information====
* '''The raid on Leen has been an overwhelming success'''
* '''Thousands of slaves have been freed from the yoke of the Druj'''
* '''At least a thousand of them have never been Imperial or Axou and are being cared for by charitable families across the Brass Coast'''
* '''The civil service cannot offer any guidance on these people before the Summer Solstice'''
The raid on Leen was supported by eighty fleet captains.

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T16:11:36Z

Apoth: /* The Keys of Blood */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood (Eternals)===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Magician, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[Civil Service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an Eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire, was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated her agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that she acted with any impropriety nor broke the law on idolatry. He recognises her years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to her reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

388YE Summer Solstice winds of fortune

2026-07-22T15:59:03Z

Apoth: /* The Keys of Blood */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div {{floatleft}}>{{CaptionedImage|file=Remnants of tales.jpg|align=left|caption=News spreads through word of mouth as fast as it does through broadsheets and posters, and is sometimes more reliable. Or at least, unreliable in more amusing ways...|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
<div {{float}}>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[In the Court of Far Horizons]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2026/07/03"| 03/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Satraps of the Abyss]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2026/07/04"| 04/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[The Oran operation]] || 3 || data-sort-value="2026/07/05"| 05/07 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Viridian nemesis]] || 4 || data-sort-value="2026/07/06"| 06/07 || Navarr Highest Calling
|-
| [[Love and monsters]] || 5 || data-sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Dawn Highest Calling
|-
| [[The right answer]] || 6 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of the Way Highest Calling
|-
| [[A lasting commitment]] || 7 || data=sort-value="2026/07/13"| 13/07 || Assembly of Ambition Highest Calling
|-
| [[Six sheets to the wind]] || 8 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Challenge the Iron Duke
|-
| [[A horn blast of victory]] || 9 || data=sort-value="2026/07/15"| 15/07 || Imperial Address
|-
| [[Ambassadors of death]] || 10 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Plenipotentiary
|-
| [[War games]] || 11 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Jarm and Commonwealth Diplomacy
|-
| [[All laudable qualities]] || 12 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Proscription Symposium
|-
| [[Full circles]] || 13 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Sevenfold Path and Jarm
|-
| [[This is the end]] || 14 || data=sort-value="2026/07/17"| 17/07 || Apulian
|-
| [[The brightest flame]] || 15 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Peerless Kinship
|-
| [[The shadows fall behind you]] || 16 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Inspirational Location
|-
| [[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]] || 17 || data=sort-value="2026/07/18"| 18/07 || Ephisis
|-
| [[Any dream will do]] || 18 || data=sort-value="2026/07/19"| 19/07 || The League Highest Calling
|-
| [[Everything is on show]] || 19 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sparrows Reckoning
|-
| [[Keys of Enlightenment]] || 20 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Sumaah
|-
| [[Seeds of discord]] || 21 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Foreign Diplomacy
|-
| [[All I ask of you]] || 22 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Imperial Orc Highest Calling
|-
| [[Mark of the Ravadi]] || 23 || data=sort-value="2026/07/20"| 20/07 || Ravadi Founders' Dance
|-
| [[Pride in the Marches]] || 24 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || The Marches
|-
| [[Myth makers]] || 25 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Orc Diplomacy
|-
| [[The war makers]] || 26 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Third Navarr Army
|-
| [[Survival]] || 27 || data=sort-value="2026/07/21"| 21/07 || Sun Chamber Appraisal
|-
| [[Tourney of two cities]] || 28 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Tourney for 14-18 year olds
|-
| [[To seek enlightenment]] || 29 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Wisdom Highest Calling
|-
| [[The keys of blood]] || 30 || data=sort-value="2026/07/22"| 22/07 || Eternal Magic
|}</div>
Over the past three months, events have taken place which are of significance to the Empire and may require a response from her champions. These are the winds of fortune, counterparts to the winds of war that detail the Empire's military campaigns. They lay out situations and usually include things that characters can do to take advantage of [[opportunity|opportunities]] or to resolve problems. In almost every case, they start with a piece of flavour text. This fiction helps introduce the wind of fortune or draws out a particular theme or element. Often, it represents a viewpoint that one or more NPCs might have in-character. In all cases, these pieces are intended to help create an atmosphere and provide a little entertainment. Where they contain opinions, those are the opinions of the fictional people depicted - and where they contain information or rumours, the assumption is that the reader will create their own context for that information or gossip if they want to use it in character.

The body of the wind of fortune describes situations and lays out ways players can engage with them. Except where we explicitly talk about something being "rumoured" or use a phrase like "some might say..." the details of a wind of fortune are factual. They represent briefing material presented by the civil service or similar authoritative sources and represent something the average educated citizen would acknowledge as a reliable truth. Unless we specify otherwise, we're also being as thorough as possible. This information doesn't need further checking in-character. It's not an opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:350px; float: left; margin: 10px;"
|-
! Nation !! Diplomacy Wind
|-
| [[Axos]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Axos|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[Myth_makers#Beoraidh|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Commonwealth]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Faraden]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Faraden|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Grendel]] || [[Myth_makers#Grendel|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Iron Confederacy]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Iron Confederacy|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Jotun]] || [[Myth_makers#Jotun|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Marracossa]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Marracossa|Seeds of discord]]
|-
| [[Feroz#Morajasse|Morajasse]] || [[Myth_makers#Protectorate_of_Morajasse|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Otkodov]] || [[Myth_makers#Otkodov|Myth makers]]
|-
| [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] || [[War games]]
|-
| [[Sumaah Republic|Sumaah]] || [[Keys of Enlightenment]]
|-
| [[Tsark]] || [[Seeds_of_discord#Tsark|Seeds of discord]]
|-
|}

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

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

==Winds of Fortune==
===In the Court of Far Horizons===
* '''Throne; Senate; Fleet owners; Ambassadors; titles involved in international trade'''
At the recent summit, [[the Throne]] requested that the [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#The_Abraham_Gambit|appraise the implications]] of a new [[Imperial sodality]], the ''Court of Far Horizons''. Magistrate Abraham has conducted an analysis of the constitutional implications of the new sodality's provisional manifesto. Abraham notes that the manifesto is "bold and vigorous" in establishing its remit, but that means that some of the implications are far-reaching... which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on where you stand.

You can read about Abraham's findings, as well as some proposals from interested parties, in the '''[[In the Court of Far Horizons]]''' wind of fortune.
===Satraps of the Abyss===
* '''Conclave; Ambassador to Sumaah; scholars of magic and the eternal realms'''
The [[Senate]] has taken advantage of an opportunity brokered by the [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Ambassador]] Accalon to engage in a spot of magical cooperation with the [[Sumaah Republic]]. Freshly-appointed prognosticator ''[[Appraisal#Lisane de Terresford|Lisane de Terresford]]'' has been sent to ''[[appraisal|appraise]] how the High Houses of Virtue and the Imperial Conclave can find ways to co-operate in interactions with [[eternal|eternals]]''. While Lisane is expected to be engaged for the next several seasons, she has dispatched a preliminary report on her findings; a review of the relation between the magicians and the Präster of the republic - and the dealings they have with the creatures of the [[realms]].

You can read about Lisane's findings, and about the opportunity for the Conclave to assist, in the '''[[Satraps of the Abyss]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Oran Operation===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially citizens of Feroz and Madruga; Imperial Senate; Military Council'''
The river Scorrero broke its banks several years ago, and washed away the dreadful threat of the ''dry patricians''. As a consequence of the wild river rising, the bridges connecting Madruga and Feroz were washed away. Last season, the Senate accepted [[An_arrow_nocked_and_in_flight#A_Garden_Proposal|an offer]] from the ''Protectorate of Morajasse'' to apply their expertise to the challenge of reconnecting the eastern Brass Coast. Their [[appraisal]] of the situation has been submitted, with notes added by the [[Appraisal#The_Prognosticators_Office|Prognosticators Office]], and involves a major feat of engineering in the southern Empire.

You can learn about their proposal, and some changes that might make it a little more feasible, in the '''[[The Oran operation]]''' wind of fortune.
===Viridian Nemesis===
* '''The League; Navarr; the Vallornguard; Loyalty assembly; Senate; Military Council'''
The [[The highest calling|highest calling]] of the [[Navarr]] is to share their long experience fighting the [[vallorn]] with other nations. Last season, they [[Cup_of_choices|chose to work]] with the people of [[Urizen]]; now the Navarr National Assembly has urged their people to embrace the citizens of [[the League]] to arm and armour them for the upcoming battle with the Doom of Terunael. Once again, the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Loyalty Assembly]] has supported the cause, calling upon those whose heart drives them towards the destruction of ''Terun's Folly''.

You can read about the proposals put forward to help the League fight the vallorn, some of which are somewhat esoteric, in the '''[[Viridian nemesis]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Dawn.png|width=200px}}</div>
===Love and Monsters===
* '''Dawn, especially the national assembly; Senate; vallornguard; Knight of the Greenwood'''
The Earl of Fools has convinced the National Assembly that the fight against the [[vallorn]] is the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] people. With [[the Barrens]] won and the [[Druj]] crumbling beneath the Empire's anvil and the [[Thule|Thule's]] hammer, surely it makes sense to focus on the next threat to their prize. The vallorn has not one but ''three'' hearts adjacent to the sprawling expanse of the Barrens - and so defeating it will be a truly glorious endeavour! Plus, the idea of a great, glorious war against the vallorn is more than enough to stir the blood of the people of the most splendid nation in the Empire!

You can learn about the opportunities presented by this highest calling, both for the assembly and the rest of the nation, in the '''[[Love and monsters]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Labyrinth.jpg|width=200px}}</div>

===The Right Answer===
* '''Assembly of the Way; Imperial Synod'''
The Assembly of the way have found the [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]] of those priests who commit themselves to the faith as a whole rather than any single virtue. Formally the Assembly of the Way is expected to be responsible for the [[Inquisition#Virtue|integrity of the Way itself]]. Many in the Assembly dedicate themselves to creating a more perfect understanding of the Way, even as they strive to maintain the fidelity of the [[Doctrines of the Faith]]. Such exploration is never without risk, however, and as recent events have shown revelation can shake the foundations of the Way. However, by making the need to test the faith their highest calling, the Assembly of the Way has an opportunity to examine the faith in a way that tries to ensure that nothing disastrous can happen.

You can learn about what this might involve, and the opportunities and costs involved, in the '''[[The right answer]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Ambition.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===A Lasting Commitment===
* '''Ambition assembly; Highguard; Senate'''
The [[Ambition]] assembly has declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], one that is as challenging as it is aspirational. The [[Construct_Grand_Inspiration_of_the_Way|Grand Inspiration of the Way]] is well underway, but if it can be completed within the next few seasons it will be a capstone not only to the Imperial faith but for the virtue of Ambition. Just the idea of declaring something to be a highest calling embraces the Virtue of Ambition, but even so this is an extraordinary thing to attempt. There is still a vast amount of work to be done, but there is nothing more Ambitious than achieving the impossible....

You can learn about the Ambition assembly highest calling, and how it applies to the Grand Inspiration of the Way, in the '''[[A lasting commitment]]''' wind of fortune.

===Six Sheets to the Wind (Challenge the Iron Duke)===
* '''Challengers of the Iron Duke'''
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BarienArt.jpg|align=right|width=200}}</div>
Each season, the eternal ''[[Barien]]'' presents opportunities to those prepared to [[Challenge the Iron Duke]]. For the Summer Solstice, he has offered two challenges: a grand melee in the arena and a game of carefully manoeuvring a boat on a map. As ever, the rules of the ritual apply. Each person who receives the ritual will be ''guaranteed'' entry to a challenge. Depending on the challenge, they ''may'' be able to bring a certain number of attendants with them to assist. The exact number will depend on the nature of the challenge and the number of challengers. The [[civil service]] will publish exact numbers in [[Anvil#The_Hub|the Hub]] on Saturday morning for all to see.

You can find details of the challenges issued by Barien this season in the '''[[Six sheets to the wind]]''' wind of fortune.

===A Horn Blast of Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Dawn; Generals of Dawn; Earls of Dawn; People interested in oaths'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, but especially those of [[Dawn]] following their victory against the manticore. Now, the people of Dawn look towards the end of the [[Druj]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[A horn blast of victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===Ambassadors of Death (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Imperial Conclave; magicians; General of the Black Thorns, Senator for Miaren; practitioners of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust; Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth, Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch; Knight-protector of Autumn, Dawnish enchanters; practitioners of From the Mouths of Babes; Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, Cardinal of Wisdom; practitioners of Forge the Wooden Fastness, Marcher landskeepers, magistrates'''
Each of the six [[archmage|archmages]] are empowered to send a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message to an [[eternal]] of their [[Realms|realm]] each season. Those eternals are bound to respond, although ''how'' exactly they respond is broadly up to them. Following the Spring Equinox, six - sorry ''five'' - eternals have responded to what are presumed to be missives from the respective archmages. One of the realms is not represented and, perhaps fittingly given its nature, conspicuous in absence.

You can find out about the eternals, and the nature of their responses, in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune.

===All Laudable Qualities===
* '''People interested in Symposia; the ''Raboviches'' of False Hopes; People interested in proscriptions'''
At the Winter Solstice 387YE, the [[General Assembly]] [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#A_Convocation_of_Condemnation|supported a call]] for a symposium to discuss [[proscription|proscriptions]]. The [[Assembly of the Nine]] subsequently confirmed that '''Wulfric of the Marches''', the Member of the [[Synod]] who originally called for the symposium, would be charged with leading it. He has apparently sworn an oath, and though the wording of that oath is not common knowledge, it was deemed good enough for the Nine.

You can find out more about the upcoming symposium in the '''[[All laudable qualities]]''' wind of fortune.
===Full Circles===
{{CaptionedImage|file=OrderSevenfoldPath.jpg|align=right|width=175}}
* '''Sevenfold Path; Synod'''
In addition to fighting the [[Cold Sun]] in the east, magicians of the [[Sevenfold Path]] have been making contacts with a community of [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] pilgrims called the ''Convocation of Virtue''. The magicians of the Convocation seem friendly and enthused by the idea of discussing their faith with the visiting magicians. Adherents of the Way, their approach to the faith has been shaped by relative isolation from the Empire and Sumaah, although that may be more by choice than anything else. With a gift of [[liao]], with the backing of the [[Conclave]], and against a backdrop of [[War games|political chaos]], magicians of the Sevenfold Path have been able to get closer to these foreign pilgrims and a learn a little more about who they are.

You too can discover more about the Jarmish Convocation of Virtue, and opportunities to cultivate closer ties with them, in the '''[[Full circles]]''' wind of fortune.
===This is the End===
* '''Citizens of Apulian; Citizens of Spiral; Map to the City Below; Custodian of the Vicente School and Orphanage; Folk invoved in the fight between cats and birds; Conclave; Senate; Urizeni cat-lovers'''
The odd dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]] more than a year ago, seems to have a reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers, a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below". Under a potent [[Night magic]] enchantment, beneath skies filled with [[Things go awry|chaotic stars]], and within shouting distance of the {{Black Plateau}}...

You can learn about how this went, and some implications for the future, in the '''[[This is the end]]''' wind of fortune.
===The Brightest Flame (Peerless Kinship)===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Highborn.png|align=right|width=150}}{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_Freeborn.png|align=right|width=170}}
* '''Highborn and Freeborn, especially members of the respective assembly; Senate'''
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] have once again expressed their [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], this time offering support to their cousins in [[the Brass Coast]]. They have identified the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Passions|ascendant Firebrand movement]], whose embers have been stoked both by [[mandate]] and by the commissioning of the [[On_the_road_ahead#City_of_Wonders|City of Wonders]], as a matter of concern. As the Freeborn assembly calls for unity in the shared pursuit of virtue, morality and the ever-changing Way. the [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Hospitality|famously hospitable]] folk of [[the Brass Coast]] throw open their doors and welcome their guests to [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]]. Together they explore the implications of the ''firebrand'' movement, what it might mean for the Brass Coast, and how it might theoretically be channelled in service of the Empire.

You can learn about the philosophies of the firebrand movement, and the outcome of the peerless kinship, in the '''[[The brightest flame]]''' wind of fortune.
===Shadows Fall Behind You===
* '''Ambition Assembly; General Assembly; Urizen and Wintermark; Ambassador to the Grendel'''
The ripples of the wave that broke on the shores of [[Redoubt]] continue to wash across the Empire. The [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dream_Master|opportunity to create]] an [[inspirational location]] at the [[Redoubt#Elos|Elos]] docks using the last banner of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] has resulted in a [[writ of consecration]]. The [[Synod]] have indicated that they do intend to [[consecration|consecrate]] the restored docks, and the benefits could be significant, leaving a lasting impact on the region. The unique and powerful aura would draw virtuous citizens to Elos to experience the effects, contemplate the sacrifice of the [[Fist of the Mountains]] and gaze upon the banner that is ''Umarth's legacy''.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">[[file:Ephisis001.webp |align=right|width=175]]</div>
You can learn about the writ of consecration, and opportunities it would create, in the '''[[The shadows fall behind you]]''' wind of fortune.

===Propensity to Truck, Barter, and Exchange===
* '''Entrepreneurs and traders; practitioners of Ephisis' Scale; members of the Golden Pyramid conclave order'''
[[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|Heralds]] from the [[Ephisis|Sovereign Lady of the City of Gold and Lead]] have become regular attendants of the Hall of Worlds towards the end of each summit. They seek to make deals with Imperial citizens who have submitted their goods for potential sale via the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual. For the most part, trades have been largely successful and have brought Prosperity to both parties. Recently, though, the volatile nature of the markets has raised some concern among Imperial magicians. In response, the heralds related to the market have put together a comprehensive list of the kinds of things they are interested in buying - and selling. They're also trialling a new idea, in which merchants who are able to reach the Hall of Worlds can secure contracts to provide specific goods in bulk for known rewards, as well as discussing the matter of patronage for the [[Golden Pyramid]] order in general.

You can learn about the guidance from the City of Gold and Lead, and about new systems being trialled, in the '''[[Propensity to truck, barter, and exchange]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly League.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Any Dream Will Do===
* '''League Assembly'''
The [[League]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to bring in sapient beings of all kinds into the Empire and [[the Way]] of Virtue and into the League in particular. The five cities are cosmopolitan, and their people diverse, but there will be challenges ahead. The question of who to approach is one thing, and of ''who'' to send specifically is another thing altogether. However, even the largest forest can be felled one tree at a time. The question that stymies some is which tree to start with.

You can learn about the League Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the nation, in the '''[[Any dream will do]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sparrows Reckoning Badge.png|align=right|width=500}}</div>
===Everything is on Show===
* '''The League; especially citizens of Tassato; and especially Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato'''
The third League army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Tassato]]. '''Cesare Sanguineo Rezia Di Tassato''' has already informed the civil service of its name, but the essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be seen. At the same time, there is information on what the army has done for the Pride of Tassato, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[Everything is on show]]''' wind of fortune.
===All I Ask Of You===
* '''Navarr and the Imperial Orcs; Generals of the Northern Eagle, Winter Sun, and Gryphon's Pride; Warmage'''
Following [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]], the [[Imperial orcs|Unshackled]] Assembly have asked their mystagogues and shamans to contact other septs in the hope that they might learn more about them. This season, the Assembly asked '''Skywise Rykana''' to lead a delegation to discover more of the ancestors of the [[Great Forest Orcs]]. They made strong connections, and discovered much about the sept's spirituality, but perhaps more pressingly they discovered the existence of an existential threat to the many orcs of the Great Forest enslaved at the [[weirwood]] groves of the Druj in [[the Mallum]].

You can learn a little of spirituality, and about the chance to rob the Druj of their victims, in the '''[[All I ask of you]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 175px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Vigilance.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
===Mark of the Ravadi===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Champion of Vigilance'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for Ravadi Founders' Dance during the Winter Solstice. There was some uncertainty on where the memorial should be placed, but the assembly responded with certainty during the Spring Equinox.

You can read about the memorial, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the Champion of Vigilance, and the wider Empire in the '''[[Mark of the Ravadi]]''' wind of fortune.
===Pride in the Marches===
* '''Marchers; Winterfolk, especially fleet owners; Generals of the Drakes, Strong Reeds, Autumn Hammers, Bloodcloaks, Green Shield, Valiant Pegasus, and Golden Sun; Mistress of Monuments; Foot-the-ball fans; Champion of Prosperity, Keeper of the Golden Fields; people who have opinions on a second Cousin's War'''
[[Pride]] in small things, [[Loyalty]] to great ones. That's what they always say when people talk about [[the Marches]]. But Pride in what? And Loyalty to what? That's the sort of thing [[The_Marches_history#The_Cousin's_War|people go to war over]] if you're not careful. There's a lot going on in the Marches on the way to the Summer Solstice, both to inspire Pride and to source concern. It's time to take stock. Of the situation in [[Mitwold]]; worrisome developments in the Gullet; questions of folk heroes - new ones and troublesome old ones; hauntings in [[Bregasland]]; the overwhelming question of the large number of [[heresy|heretics]] in the Marches (also know as the Marcher [[orc]] population); and the scions of Red Walder up to tricks that need dealing with before they get out of hand. They say if you want a job done, give it to someone busy, but maybe this is taking it a bit too far...

You can find out about the assorted events and opportunities in the Marches this season, both good and bad, in the '''[[Pride in the Marches]]''' wind of fortune.

===The War Makers===
* '''Navarr; especially citizens of Hercynia; and especially Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''
The third Navarr army has been raising for fifteen long months, but now, with the help of [[Varushka_groups#Cabal_Lyktan|Cabal Lyktan]] and [[Mystic_scrolls_of_Estavus#Hammers_of_Fury|Hammers of Fury]], it has mustered in [[Hercynia]]. The matter of the name and essential [[Army qualities|quality]] of the [[army]] remains to be decided by '''Rowyn of the Waystone Path'''. At the same time, there is information on what the army means Navarr, especially the artisans of Hercynia, and what the [[Things_go_awry#The_Stars_are_Wrong|lingering remnants]] of the Hammers of Fury mean for the artisans of the city.

You can learn more about the new army, the potential qualities it might have, and the lingering effects of the enchantment in the '''[[The war makers]]''' wind of fortune.

===Survival===
* '''Sun Chamber; Vallornguard; People interested in the vallorn; Members of the Senate; Master of the Koboldi; Members of Conclave; Ambassadors to Otkodov and Axos; Imperial Consul'''
Last season the [[Sun Chamber]] used one of its [[Sun_Chamber#Current_Problems|doors]] to appraise an eventual problem that the war against the vallorn will present: that the vallorn is very, ''very'' good at destroying things. Members of the sodality were joined by [[Appraisal#Available_Prognosticators|Vainakoma Dawnstongue]] in their efforts to uncover how to resolve this destructive problem.

You can read their findings, and what they mean for the rest of the Empire, in the '''[[Survival]]''' wind of fortune.

===Tourney of Two Cities===
* '''The Academy; Participants aged 14-18; People who enjoy gambling'''
The twin cities of Tassato have a history steeped in rivalry. Even when they can overcome their differences and work together, their ambition leads them to outdo each other (as is right and proper). It is no surprise then, with the [[Everything is on show|mustering of Sparrows Reckoning]], that the two military academies are hoping to encourage competition amongst potential cadets and future officers. Representatives of Barossa School of Imperial Strategy and the Five Cities Military Academy have approached Chancellor Hildebrand Von Holberg of the Temple of Nine Fingers of [[the Academy]] for her aid and expertise.

You can find the details of the upcoming tourney and the rules around it in the '''[[Tourney of two cities]]''' wind of fortune.

===To Seek Enlightenment===
* '''Wisdom Assembly; Members of the Senate; Military Council'''
The [[Wisdom]] Assembly has declared its own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]]; to support the fine work of the civil service who perform historical research and produce appraisals. It can be a dangerous question that goes unasked, and uncovering those can be the first step to discovering the truth of things. And elsewhere, a familiar face has once again popped up to offer his experience. And finally, an unconventional member of the Wisdom Assembly has surfaced to offer ''her'' aid in things.

You can learn about the Wisdom Assembly's highest calling and what it means for the Empire, in the '''[[To seek enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.

===The Keys of Blood===
* '''Grimnir of Wittal Grove; Architect of Hammers; People invested in the production of the Arratan Gamble; people who care about the boons and/or opinions of various Eternals'''
Some magic comes from outside the Empire, from the creatures of the [[Realm|realms]], the [[eternal|eternals]] and their [[Inhabitants of the realms#Heralds|heralds]]. Sometimes they have boons to offer, sometimes they have demands to make. Here we learn of the doings of the realms, with something that could be relevant to any number of folk, including some meetings, some odd opportunities, and eerie happenings.

You can learn about the doings of various eternals, and the repercussions of their former doings, in the '''[[The keys of blood]]''' wind of fortune.

===In the Charnel Pit===
* '''Prosperity Assembly; Courage Assembly; General Assembly; ''Earl Adel de Òrdraig''; ''Gaelen Embercast''; Proffered Hand'''
The [[Prosperity]] and Courage Assemblies have declared their own [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest callings]]; both to mend the scars caused by war. Prosperity seeks to mend the troubles caused on the land, whilst Courage looks to mend the damage done to the people. Both are noble goals, and each presents opportunities to improve the lot of those suffering under the after-effects of war. There is another important point to address on what the Druj represent, what their way of life means... and what the Empire might learn from them.

You can learn about the Courage and Prosperity Assemblies' highest callings in the '''[[In the charnel pit]]''' wind of fortune.

===Chains from the Deep===
* '''General Assembly; Vigilance Assembly; Residents of Sarvos; People with an interest in Skathe(?)'''
The Vigilance Assembly upheld a writ of consecration for the Chains of Sarvos during the Spring Equinox. This sacred site has seen many defences against enemies of the Empire over its short existence, and there is a chance to capitalise and make the Chains even ''better''.

You can read about the potential for a sacred site, and what it means for the Vigilance Assembly, the League Assembly, and Sarvos, in the '''[[Chains from the deep]]''' wind of fortune.

==Diplomatic Winds==
Each season, the Civil Service prepares a summary of the Empire's relationship with the foreign nations, based on communications received from their ambassador, along with any useful intelligence gathered from other sources. While the [[Senate]] and the other houses of Imperial power may respond to these offers, it is important to note that it is the appropriate [[ambassador]] that the foreign power will expect to hear from. Their communication with the foreign power is the primary element that will determine the tenor of any response.

These winds of fortune deal with the Empire's diplomatic relationship with one or more foreign or barbarian nations. Usually, the wind is shaped by communications from the appropriate [[ambassador]] or the [[Imperial Consul]]. While these winds revolve around international matters, their focus is still on the Empire and what its citizens can do to influence diplomatic matters, so they're as likely as any other wind to contain something of interest to characters from all walks of life.

===War Games===
* '''Ambassadors to Jarm and the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; Imperial Conclave; all sorts of fleet captains; most of the other Ambassadors'''
The [[Commonwealth]] and the [[Principalities of Jarm]] are at war not only with each other, but with the forces of [[Cold Sun]]. The tiny country of Lantir is no more and attempts to contain the incursion [[Weaving_tangled_nets#Against_the_Cold_Sun|have failed]]. Imperial soldiers and magicians remain engaged in the east fighting the ''scions'' of destruction. Yet even in this time of heightened conflict, the wheels of diplomacy continue to turn... and sometimes those same wheels snag your sleeve and before you know it your entire arm has been crushed to pulp.

You can find out about the three-way war in the east, and Imperial involvement therein, in the '''[[War games]]''' wind of fortune.
===Keys of Enlightenment===
* '''Ambassador to Sumaah; Lepidean Librarian, Minister of Historical Research, Senate; Voice of Liberty; Regario Dossier, Imperial Spymaster, Shuttered Lantern, Archmages of Night, Autumn, and Day'''
Allies and rivals to the Empire, the [[Sumaah Republic]] are founding members of the [[Liberty Pact]]. In recent years their ties to the Empire have been strengthened, and they have been closely involved in bringing ruin to those involved in the abhorrent practice of slavery. At the moment they are focused on their [[Guide_the_spirit#Virtuous_War|war]] with the [[Asavean Archipelago]], but they remain committed to spreading the Way through the entire world.

You can find out about the diplomatic situation with the Sumaah Republic, and a worrying development regarding ''cough'' spies ''cough'', in the '''[[Keys of Enlightenment]]''' wind of fortune.
===Seeds of Discord===
* '''Ambassadors to Axos, Faraden, and the Iron Confederacy; Imperial Consul; Senate; Synod, Military Council and Conclave; Minister of Historical Research; Seeker of the Perfect World; Marracossa Sendito; Senators of Feroz and Madruga; Broken Shore Bounty'''
There are great nations that are the Empire's peers, and then there are the smaller nations whose influence is no less pronounced thanks to their proximity. Indeed, the fact that these nations lie near the Empire's borders means that they often have ''more'' impact on Imperial politics than the more powerful nations that lie far away across the seas. The [[ambassador|ambassadors]] and the [[Imperial Consul]] have their work cut out keeping abreast of what is happening, as each of these countries has agendas no less complex than those of the nations that make up the Empire.

You can read about diplomatic events in [[Axos]], [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], and [[Tsark]], and the concerns of the Marracossan exiles of [[Madruga#Trajadoz|Trajadoz]], in the '''[[Seeds of discord]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Atte.png|caption=Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason of the Sussivari Oathsworn Fyrd; elder statesman and [[Imperial Consul]].|align=right|width=300}}</div>
===Myth Makers===
* '''Imperial Consul, Advisor on Orc Affairs; Senator for Feroz, Broken Shore Bounty; Ambassador to Otkodov; Imperial military unit commanders; Senator for Mareave, Ambassador to the Grendel; Ereland of Wintermark; Military Council, Senate, Conclave, Synod'''
Many of the nations that border the Empire are [[orc]] nations, and not all are barbarians. While some of these nations have [[ambassador|ambassadors]] to deal with them on behalf of the Empire, in many cases diplomacy is handled by the [[Imperial Consul]], '''Atte Arrow-Tongue Metsastajason''' of [[Wintermark]] perhaps with the aid of the [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], '''Frith''' of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]]. This season representatives of five orc nations have engaged in diplomacy with the Empire (although the definition of ''nation'' is doing some heavy lifting in a few places).

You can learn about messages from the Protectorate of Morajasse, the Thule, the city-state of Beoraidh, the Jotun and even the Grendel, in the '''[[Myth makers]]''' wind of fortune.

==Other Events==

===Road to Nowhere (The Barrens)===
* '''The roads of the Barrens opportunity could be refreshed at any time'''
* '''The civil service require guidance from the Dawnish Assembly on how to proceed'''
Last season, the [[Master of the Mint]], '''Tristan Ramson von Holberg''', announced the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Reappraise_Roads_of_the_Barrens|reappraisal]] of roads in [[the Barrens]]. Originally [[Road_out_of_nowhere#The_Barrens|suggested]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 385YE, the roads were part of a larger appraisal into the impact and opportunities to link the unconnected citizens of the southern, northern, and eastern territories of the Empire with new road networks.

When the Master of the Mint examines the proposal, it is clear that there are issues. To be effective, the roads need to fan out across the territory, but thus far the Dawnish have been somewhat reluctant to claim their prize. Mindful of the recent tensions, they have largely avoided settling the Barrens. Do the Dawnish now want to create roads ''into'' the Forest of Peytaht? They have the right, but would the Great Forest Orcs welcome them?

Do they want to create roads into the Untrod Groves and the Bleaks - regions that the notoriously secretive Karass claim as their own? The Karass loathe the presence of the Navarr wayhouse in "their" lands. Again, the Empire has the legal right to create these roads, but are the benefits worth the aggravation it may bring?

The Empire ''don't'' have the legal right to build the roads through Bitter Strand - they ceded the entire region to the Rahvin. It is part of the Barrens, so they could physically build there, but they would either need the permission of the Rahvin or find a way to force the issue. Is it worth the risk given the Rahvin are widely rumoured to be raising their own army?

The plans for the roads can be updated quickly and efficiently, but until the civil service know where the Dawnish want the roads to run it is impossible to complete them. What is clear is that the benefits provided will be significantly curtailed, if the only occupants of the Barrens they serve are the Dawnish. Even if the roads avoid just one of the three groups of inhabitants it will have an impact, reducing the benefits of the roads.

As it was the Dawnish Assembly that originally encouraged the Dawnish to refrain from settling the Barrens, they are looking to them for guidance now. They civil service will take notice of any statement of principle in the Assembly that references the Barrens and offers advice on how the appraisal should proceed. If multiple judgements are submitted which appear to conflict, they will pay most heed to the judgements that achieve the greatest majority.

Next season they will strive to present a finalised appraisal of the roads that takes account of the judgements of the Assembly. The work is in progress now, so it can wait if needed. If the Assembly pass a statement of principle calling for a delay until they have had chance to negotiate with the affected groups, then the plan will go on hold. It will then resume automatically once the Assembly provide all the guidance they want and indicate that the roads can now progress.

If the Assembly says nothing - or if the Master of the Mint uses their power to press the issue by raising this matter again this season, then the civil service will present plans for a set of roads that go straight through the Bleaks, the Bitter Strand and the Heart of Paytaht next season, but they advise that that is could generate considerable hostility and the Empire won't know about it until the roads are complete.

===Unchosen===
* '''Magistrate Abraham has issued a public apology to the pre-eminent Winter Mage, Claudia Varkulova Remislav, for any suggestion of impropriety'''

Last season the [[civil service]] took the step of [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|issuing guidance]] regarding the various different proscriptions that were passed by the General Assembly. While advising all citizens that it was now illegal to accept a title or position from an eternal patron, Magistrate Abraham and his colleagues appear to have given the inappropriate and clearly incorrect impression that Claudia Varkulova Remislav, one of the Empire's leading experts of Winter magic and loyal servant of the Empire was continuing an idolatrous relationship with the eternal [[Tharim]].

Magistrate Abraham wishes to apologise unreservedly for this error of judgement. He acknowledges that the master magician has terminated their agreement with the ''Bound King'' and that there is not now, nor has there ever been, any evidence that they acted with any impropriety or broken the law on idolatry. He recognises their years of deep service to the Empire and the Conclave and apologises for any damage to their reputation caused by his injudicious language.

===A Sudden Threat (Reikos)===
* '''A band of Grendel are moving to assassinate Professor Gelberg and his team'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the assassination'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Days before the Summer Solstice, alarming news reaches Anvil. A small party of [[Grendel]] [[Elite_Grendel_troops#The_Wave_Riders|Wave Riders]] have been spotted in southern Reikos, having apparently travelled undercover along almost the entire length of the Couros. Posing as Unshackled from [[Mareave]], they kept weapons and armour out of sight and stayed away from major population centres. Only at the last minute have they abandoned the pretence and taken up arms. If it were not for a Vigilant cataphract catching sight of them while out for a morning run, it is possible that they could have worked their will without the chance of intervention from Imperial heroes. Had the construction of the [[Construct_Haros_Riverpatrol|Haros Riverpatrol]] been completed then they would doubtless have stopped this from happening, but it is too late for that now.

Fortunately, warning was given and the target quickly identified: Professor Gelberg and his party of researchers. While it is uncertain why the Grendel would wish to target a Commonwealth academic, he is the only target nearby. The professor and his team have fled into a derelict chapterhouse where they are laying low, but the Grendel are combing the countryside with speed and efficiency, and will find him soon if they are not stopped. Oddly, the raiding party seems to be accompanied by either a high-lineage [[cambion]] or a herald of the Autumn realm, who is not visibly armed but seems to be playing some sort of advisory role.

If they are not stopped the Grendel will kill Professor Gelberg, damaging relations between the Empire and the Commonwealth. As the last [[Patron of the Beurteilung]], '''Nekoda of the Shattered Tower''' is responsible for organising Professor Gelberg's defence. A conjunction has been identified that would allow the heroes of the Empire to intercept the Grendel assassins and save Professor Gelberg's life.

<box>'''OOC Note:''' We have held the appraisal of the River Couros back a season because we want to continue to work on the ideas to develop them further. Given the scale of investment in the appraisal, we wanted to make sure we were happy with what the final work involving the professor offered. We apologise for the delay, but no matter what happens, his results will be published for the next event. We had always planned an encounter involving Professor Gelberg, so we've used that as the IC justification for the delay.</box>

===Tourney for Summer===
* '''The grand tourney for the Knight-protector of Summer will take place at the Anvil Arena'''
* '''The election of Senator for Weirwater will take place in the Glory Square after the tourney'''
The [[Dawn egregore|Knight of Roses]] has made a request of the civil service following the tourney for [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] last summit. Rather than taking space in the Glory Square, this season the tourney to elect the Knight-protector of Summer will take place in the Anvil Arena to allow for more space and more people to be able to watch. The tourney will take place at the same time - 14:00 on Saturday - and the subsequent election will happen once the egregores have arrived back in the camp.

===Alongside the Earthquake Drummers===
* '''People interested in the Thule conquest of the Forest of Ulnak'''
Shortly after the Winter Solstice 387YE, several military units from across the Empire travelled to north-eastern [[Ossium]], to [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_interlude#Support_Earthquake_Drummers|support the Earthquake Drummers]]. The leaders of those military units received a report at the Spring Equinox 388YE, detailing how the campaign progressed over the season. Over the past few months, rumours and details from that season in the [[Forest of Ulnak]] have spread. Any Imperial citizen can be aware of the details of this report.

You can read the report first received at the last summit in '''[[Alongside the Earthquake Drummers]]'''.

===Dusk===
* '''For this event we are defining dusk as beginning at 20:30 and ending at 21:30'''
* '''No bow or crossbow use in Anvil after 21:25 or on quests that start on or after this time'''
Our [[Bow_safety#Bow_Safety|bow safety rules]] prohibit the use of bows and crossbows after "dusk". At this event we are defining that point as 21:25 each day. This means you cannot use a bow in Anvil after this time, or on a skirmish or quest that starts on or after this time.

The necromantic ritual [[Whispers through the Black Gate]] can only be performed for one hour around dusk - at this event that means the ritual can be performed at any time between 20:30 and 21:30.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[388YE_Spring Equinox_Synod_judgements#Mandate|here]].'''
A number of [[mandate|mandates]] were successfully upheld in the Imperial Synod last season. As long as the named priest provided sufficient liao, those mandates have been [[Mandate#Implementing_a_Mandate|automatically enacted]].

==Spring Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Spring Equinox, there were a number of [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunctions]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] identified by the Imperial prognosticators. In each case, a band of Imperial heroes used that conjunction to travel to a location far from Anvil and intervene in an ongoing situation. These are the known outcomes of those conjunctions. In the case of battles, it is important to remember that the [[Military Council]] can only make use of ''two'' of the major conjunctions each summit, choosing which to take advantage of during the [[Muster]].

===Major Conjunctions===
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Location'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opportunity'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Opposition'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Link'''</td><td style="background-color: LightGray;">'''Outcome'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, ''Mantifent's Bier'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Bloodwater Marsh|Bloodwater Marsh]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Andronikos of the Lighthouse-That-Was''' of [[Urizen]]; The five Mantifent Stones were warded; Leadership of the Bilious Breath were killed; Two of the Urizen seers were rescued</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Clisearn, ''Ohwinn Scour'']]</td><td>Freeze the Grendel advance</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Wide_azure_skies#Battle_Opportunity:_Wealth_of_Water|Wealth of Water]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Skywise Rykana''' of the [[Imperial Orcs]]; Iskanders Donjon was summoned; ''Scutt-Tadgh'' taken back to Anvil using [[Cuckoo's Egg]] and negotiated with; Two of the Tholdie Rotary were rescued, but others were killed; ''Fergus Konnaugh'' succesfully cursed with [[Like Water Through Your Fingers]]; Blades of Evdokia were killed.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Nesustak Forest, ''Feverbank Trees'']]</td><td>Hold back the vallorn</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Other_monstrous_geographies#Nesustak Forest|Nesustak Forest]]</td><td>Not taken; Vallornspawn of [[Sarangrave#Béantal_Dol|Béantal Dol]] attacked into Nesustak Forest; Envenomed Claws remain a threat in the area; Fate of the hares of [[Irra Harah]] unknown</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, Meade March, ''Meade Meadow'']]</td><td>Recover Meade's treasures</td><td>Lasambrian Jotun</td><td>[[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Battle_Opportunity:_Plundered_Gold|Plundered Gold]]</td><td>Not taken; Warband of [[Fjorknae]] orcs have been hired; Foot-the-ball trophy lost</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Bregasland|Bregasland, Grey Fens, ''Drayham Mere'']]</td><td>Erect the Mere Stone</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Broken_Rock|A Broken Rock]]</td><td>Not taken; Ullsmere Rock stolen; Howling Night have improved their quality; Grey Fens has gained the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted]] quality; Fate of ''Friar Bloughton'' unknown; Grey Walkers remain in the area.</td></tr>

</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Reikos, High Chalcis, Emergency Hospital || [[Medical Officer of the Pegasus Respite]] || [[A_bright_cerulean_flame#Opportunity:_Reikos_Influx|Assist the refugees]] || Refugees treated and assisted
|-
| 2 || Hahnmark, Valasmark, The Fallen Tree || '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Legends_(Hahnmark)|Recover the letter]] || Uncertain, but '''Morgan Drifting Bough''' should know more
|-
| 3 || Hahnmark, Kronemark, Grieversonn Farmstead || '''Eevi of the Gadrai''' || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_fortune#Meeting_with_Destiny_(Hahnmark)|Meet with Valdr Grieversonn]] || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_152|Valdr Grieversson was dedicated to Loyalty]]
|-
| 4 || Karov, Wieliczka, Maria's Descent || [[Temeschwar|Senator for Temeschwar]] || Retrieve the Rat Idol from the cultists of the Night Below || Idol successfully recovered
|-
| 5 || Reinos, Bastasor, Beatriz's Field || [[Champion of Ambition]] || [[Gossamer_threads#On_a_Broken_Road_(Segura)|Claim the Lasambrian banner]] || Lasambrian banner recovered
|-
| 6 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Sarakov Point || [[Merchant-Boyar of the Stinking Market]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Lost_Wagon_Raiders_(Ossium)|Investigate wagon raiders acting strangely]] || Several strange items were recovered and the wagon raiders were rid of their spiritual ailments
|-
| 7 || Madruga, Crucible, Egnar Range || [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Warp_in_the_Air_(Madruga)|Slay the dire astacids]] || Imperial casualties suffered. Camp of the Sand Crab left in ruins
|-
| 8 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Dahis Outskirts || [[Strategos|Strategos of Dawn]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#When_The_Light_Fades_Away_(Turan_Flats)|Rescue the sept members from the blinded ghosts]] || Sept members rescued
|-
| 9 || Spiral, Apulus, Broken Lea || [[Oblivion Sentinel]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#Nightfall_(Spiral)|Claim the wage of the Vorlach Adventurers]] || Imperials repulsed. Vorlach Adventurers escaped Spiral.
|-
| 10 || Forest of Ulnak, Grimfen Mire, The Bound Glade || [[High Exorcist]] || [[Voice_irresistable#The_Outer_Dark_(Conjunction)|Recover the Thule's material and clear the ghosts]] || All ghosts exorcised
|-
| 11 || Feroz, Oranseri, Sisters' Meadow || [[Corsair of Oran]] || [[Deep_blue_sea#A_Box_Opens_(Feroz)|Reclaim the Brazen Links]] || Brazen Links reclaimed and returned to the Freeborn egregore
|-
| 12 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Stonesedge || [[Boyar's_Hasta|General of the Boyar's Hasta]] || [[Other_monstrous_geographies#Part_The_Ways_(Thornfen)|Eliminate the blinded ghosts]] || The blinded ghosts were not eliminated and remain a threat in the area
|-
| 13 || Karsk, Branoc, Hall of the Bloodwise || Named persons || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#She_Knows_My_Name|Meet with Taysa of the Black Feathers]] || Uncertain, but named persons should know more
|-
| 14 || Casinea, Syrene, Kaela's Regio || [[Virtue inquisitor|Inquisitor of Prosperity]] || [[Journeys_end_in_lovers_meeting#Whatever_happened_to_Mendicant_Garev_(this_time)?|Rescue ''Mendicant Garev'']] || Mendicant Garev rescued. '''Iniska Ashwood''' later raised a [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_172|judgement]] on the matter
|-
| 15 || Mitwold, Meade March, Maggie's Bulwark || [[Bailiff of Meade]] || [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#When_Iron_Melts_%28Conjunction%29|Claim the cache]] || Yegarra defeated. Cache later recovered and sent to the Bailiff of Meade
|-
| 16 || Hercynia, Deer's Folly, Greenmount || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#A_Place_to_Begin_(Hercynia)|Destroy the ettercaps' structure]] || All ettercaps killed and structure destroyed
|-
| 17 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Desolate Stretch || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Ways of Honour (Sermersuaq)|Kill ''Hallr Winterborn'']] || ''Hallr Winterborn'' killed and banner recovered
|-
| 18 || Reikos, Chalcis Mount, South Downs || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions_of_Control_(Reikos)|Rescue the wounded Highborn]] || All ettercaps killed. Highborn rescued and treated in Anvil
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, The Rushes, Harry's Hole || [[Narwhal's Spear|General of the Narwhal's Spear]] || [[Old_blue_banners_dancing#Crack_in_the_Stone_(Conjunction)|Kill the yegarra]] || Yegarra killed; Narwhal's Spear resupplied
|-
| 20 || Astolat, Withy, Igraine's Regio || [[Astolat|Senator for Astolat]] || [[Ripple_of_echoes#Queen_Igraine's_Regio|Fix the regio]] || Regio fixed. '''Éamon Ashenmourn de Cordraco''' should know more
|-
| 21 || Brocéliande, Elerael, Longberth Trod || [[Knight of the Greenwood]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#On_a_Broken_Road_(Brocéliande)|Eliminate the hunting ettercaps]] || All ettercaps killed
|-
| 22 || Sarangrave, Turan Flats, Kullflirn || [[Keeper of the Tower of the Fall]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Desecrators_of_the_Wasteland|Destroy the miasma pillar and stymie Kull]] || Druj all killed and miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 23 || Ossium, Drownbark Forest, Nadezhda's Enclosure || [[Custodian of the Shchaslyvyy Spile]] || [[388YE Spring Equinox winds of war#Questions of Control (Ossium)|Kill the Kallad]] || Kallad all killed
|-
| 24 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Overgrown Pillar || [[Gardener of Pallas]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Strangle|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 25 || Volodmartz, Murupa, Forest of Blades || [[The Academy]] || Find and destroy the "bandit" vale || "Bandit" vale destroyed
|-
| 26 || Sarangrave, Kroll, Kreeflirn || [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Spring]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Assassins_of_the_Forest|Destroy the two miasma pillars]] || Both miasma pillars destroyed. Some Imperial casualties
|-
| 27 || Volodmartz, Livardz, Sunless Vale || [[Grieftender of the Forgotten]] || [[Sunrise_over_Livardz#The_Shadow_Ghosts|End the suffering of the Shadow Fellowship]] || Suffering of Shadow Fellowship ended
|-
| 28 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Toxic Pillar || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Suffocate|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 29 || Karsk, Crowslook, Skylost Clearing || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Lean_and_athirst#Embers_and_Ash_(Karsk)|Treat the Gregadze]] || Situation unclear, but the Speaker of Apothecaries Guild should know more
|-
| 30 || Sarangrave, Thornfen, Haunted Pillar || [[High Exorcist]] || [[The_poisoned_air#Scream|Destroy the miasma pillar]] || Miasma pillar destroyed
|-
| 31 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Gull's Isle Hall || '''Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark''' || [[Who_counts_the_path_untaken%3F#To_the_Meeting_Place_(Conjunction)|Engage in the hetjuveisla]] || Hetjuveisla engaged in. Those who went should know more
|-
| 32 || Feroz, Afarjasse, Abril's Pasture || [[Dhomiro of Afar]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Nature_of_Pain_(Feroz)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed, herd of Afar is safe
|-
| 33 || Arbonne, Laufette, Solden Farm || [[Minister of Historical Research]] || [[Gossamer_threads#The_Perils_of_Marko_Siwarsbairn_(Arbonne)|Sort the situation out]] || Hand of Dumon killed. Marko Siwarsbairn rescued.
|-
| 34 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Bertolli's Glebe || [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]] || [[Gossamer_threads#Tears_From_Steel_(Sarvos)|Stop the Hand of Dumon]] || Hand of Dumon killed
|-
| 35 || Sarangrave, Bloodwater Marsh, Dandelion Glade || [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Responsibility_for_Nesustak_Conjunction|'''Sławomir Rabovich Bolotstrazh''']] || [[Your_hand_in_mine#The_Solution_to_the_Problem|Meet with the rebels]] || Uncertain, but the named citizens should know more
|-
|}

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T15:58:06Z

Apoth: /* Enlightenment (Azoth) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png|align=right|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
__TOC__
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world, whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet, to a degree, share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

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

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune, while {{TBC}} deals with magic of an astronomantic, mortal, or mysterious provenance.

==Autumn==
===An Unexpected Ally (Basileia)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=City of Locks.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A Grendel mercenary company are threatening the Grove of Wittal'''
* '''The Grendel leader wishes to defect but can't do it openly'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grimnir of Wittal Grove'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for defeating the Grendel and potentially rescue the Iontach'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Organising and funding Grendel mercenary groups is a challenging market. With the chaotic presence of the wreckers, naval superiority in the Bay of Catazar isn’t a given for fledgling mercenary companies. Enterprising mercenary paymasters have, in recent years and with encouragement from their [[Asavea|allies]], started to probe other waters for opportunity. The Gullet passes from the Sea of Snow past Jotun shores to the very heart of Kallavesa. One ship has managed to avoid the monsters of the Sea of Snow, the ships of the Fjorknae, and the Winterfolk and Marcher fleets to land close in [[Kallavesa#Wittal_Grove|Wittal Grove]]. Now, they march on Wittal itself, intent to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. However, Iontach ''Meddool Miniog'' has something even more audacious planned.

A representative of the Matchmaker's Forum, of the [[Basileia|City of Locks]] travelled to Anvil with a message just a week before the Summer Solstice. It appears that Iontach ''Miniog'' wishes to defect, referencing a cousin living in luxury in Apulian. They have arranged for their mercenary band to accompany them into Kallavesa under the understanding that they are going to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. From discussion with the herald, [[League_Egregore|Guise]] believes they would certainly be able to accept the oath of Meddool; if Meddool is able to be rescued they will be able to join the League.

The herald of the City of Locks, therefore, offers the following contract to '''Theowold Vakarsson''', the Grimnir of Wittal Grove:

Escort the Iontach to Anvil a free orc. In exchange, the Iontach will provide a sum of six thrones after the summit.<br>
The mercenary company should be defeated to ease the rescue of Meddool, but the company's continued survival is not a factor.<br>
Failure to secure the Iontach will see the mercenaries go ahead with raiding the Healing House, preventing the [[great work]] from providing herbs until after the Autumn Equinox 388YE.
<div style="float: left; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|width=300px}}</div>
===Arratan Surety (Estavus)===
<div {{float}}><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Arratan Surety'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Enterio, Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 250 thrones in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases white granite production of Arratan Gamble by five wains a season
* Increases upkeep of Arratan Gamble by three thrones a season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architect of Hammers has used their power to assess the Arratan Gamble'''
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have investigated and uncovered an opportunity to quarry the largest vein from the other side'''
The Architects of Iron and Stone were incredibly excited to receive their first assignment from the [[Architect of Hammers]]. The newly elected '''Edmundo of Damakan's forge''' wasted no time in setting them to work in assessing the [[Arratan Gamble]] in Enterio, [[Tassato]]. The Arratan Gamble works incredibly well, but there is always room for improvement! ''Architect Noether'' calculates that with the amount of wains that have already been quarried, there is enough in the ground for at least another two hundred years! ''Noether'' presents a plan for a small quarrying outpost, nothing too fancy, on the other side of the largest vein that will allow workers to come at it from the two best angles.

The "''Arratan Surety''", a mirthful jest at the name of the quarry, would increase the amount of white granite produced by the Bourse seat by five wains a season. It would have substantial initial costs, and the extra workers and gangers would see the upkeep increased by three thrones a season.

==Day==

===It is a Diamond (Sinokenon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SinokenonArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A disparate group are travelling to Anvil to speak to the Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch and possibly others'''
* '''They do not want to speak to the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'''
* '''The group aims to arrive just after six on Friday'''
Last summit, the Eternal [[Sinokenon]] declared that it was [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#The_Turning_of_the_Wheel_(Sinokenon)|engaging in an initiative]] to reach out to the foundation-stones of the Empire, to gauge receptiveness to Sinokenon's ideals and to send its ministers to attempt to combat what it believed to be misunderstandings as to the intentions and nature of the Turning Mirror. They duly arrived, bring with them pamphlets and small gifts for those they met.

Since the Spring Equinox, its heralds have been engaged in a similar campaign in many places across the Empire. While Diamondmind only enjoys [[alignment|neutrality]] - and hence does not have the unfettered access to the Empire enjoyed by those eternals who have the [[Conclave|Conclave's]] amity - there are many Day regios in the Empire to which its heralds have access, and no small number of individuals happy to assist them in their work. After all - Sinokenon has been on at worst distant and at times even somewhat gregarious terms with the Empire since its foundation! They are particularly prevalent in [[Urizen]], Varushka, and in the [[Skarsind|northernmost territory of the Unshackled]].

The greatest number of Apex Hyperion's heralds are seen across the spires of Urizen. The mountain nation is a particular favourite of That Which Lives In Its Name. It sees their pursuit of a perfect world as most pleasing, and approves of their structured, ordered way of life. The illuminates of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] have often enjoyed its favour - reportedly, the people of [[Tsark]], just a short distance across the mountain range, enjoy similar attentions.

In [[Varushka]], it has long been known as Silver Sovereign - a name that befits its status, perhaps, as a powerful and potentially dangerous supernatural entity, but one that can be bargained with. There are a number of vales, especially in the hills of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Wieliczka]], where Singular Point is sometimes consulted on matters of rulership. It has often expressed an approval of the vale as a unit of societal structure, because of the way the rule of boyars is born from strength but cannot rest on tyranny. A vale is a communal decision by a community to live in a place of order, separating themselves from the wilds.

It has looked with favour on the Imperial Orcs since their nation was formally founded. While the Way of Hierarchy is famously not one to deal with societies in the process of revolutionary change or great reform (and thus somewhat turned its face from the Empire during the years of the orc rebellion), it was in favour of the nascent nation once it was formally founded. Again, the ordered nature of legion life is something Tomorrow And Tomorrow greatly approves of and which it wishes to see prosper. The Unshackled also represent the Empire forgoing what it sees as the "irrationality" of forced slavery, though this is a somewhat abstruse and philosophical perspective which not every Imperial Orc is willing to hear. In recent years, apparently, it has also attempted to build a relationship with some of the Tamazi who dwell in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] - a relationship founded on a mutual dislike of the Axou.

Anyone who has spent time in the Empire in the past season, especially in these three nations or in any other part of the Empire where structure and order are prized, may choose to have met one of the heralds of Sinokenon. They will invariably have been polite and friendly, distributing copies of a curious pamphlet entitled [[:File:Sinokenon_and_You.pdf|Sinokenon and You]]. Any difficult questions on any topic will have been waved away - the heralds will have been clear that they are there primarily as messengers, and to learn.

It seems that they have indeed learned something - and it is not to their liking. As the Summer Solstice draws near, rumours begin to spread - in part carried by the heralds of Friend Of All - that the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] nurses a strong animosity to Sinokenon. The eternal grows concerned they are planning to bring the enmity of the Conclave down upon Sinokenon.

Whether this is true or not is hard to say. It is clear, however, that it causes the heralds some distress. They are not alone, however - for the Argent Mantra is not without mortal supporters - allies the eternal has patiently cultivated over the years. Representatives from the [[illuminate|illuminates]] of [[Zenith]], the vales of Wieliczka, and the [[Tamazi]] of Gildenheim are seen making their way to Anvil. Apparently they intend to arrive as soon as they can - perhaps a little after the sixth hour of the evening on the Friday - and intend to lobby to ensure that their relationship with That Which Lies Above All is not disrupted.

They particularly want to speak to the Grandmaster of the [[Celestial Arch]], who apparently they are assuming will naturally take their side in this matter, but are happy to speak to any grandmaster ''except'' that of the Sevenfold Path, who, if rumour is indeed to believed, has made up her mind already. They will have just a few hours until the Conclave begins, and the truth (or otherwise) of these rumours are known.

===Eclectic Eye (Kimus)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Kimus has announced that with the help of Imperial citizens, it has completed a means to safely scry upon the actions of Cold Sun.'''
* '''It informs the Conclave that it shall use this tool, the ''Corlucis'', to provide information on what it perceives.'''
Robed in purest white, its garb edged in [[weltsilver|weltsilver thread]], a [[Kimus#Viziers|Vizier]] of [[Kimus|''the Thousand Eyes of Sun and Moon'']] unfolds at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds like the opening of an eye. Those who are subjected to its stare feel the force of its ruby-coloured gaze as it communicates with language both scant yet heavily freighted with meaning. It explains that through the prescient sacrifice of ''The Circle of Enduring Wisdom'' and incisive action of those Imperial heroes that braved the dangers of [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Staring_at_the_Sun_(Kimus)|''Terminus Sol'']] the '''''Corlucis''''' has been assembled. This arcane tool now permits ''She Who Watches'' to scrutinise and observe the poisoned light of the regio, to understand it and through understanding gain foresight over the machinations of [[Cold Sun|Cold Sun]], the entity that poisoned it.

At this last pronouncement, the herald almost appears to express something other than scholarly focus. Whether it is a satisfied twitch of its lips or a slight pursing before it continues, it soon resumes its lecture. As was agreed, the Corlucis shall also be used to provide the [[Conclave|Conclave]] forewarning on the actions of Cold Sun. While at present, ''the Celestial Eye'' might only discern the largest of motions within the light it sees that in time that it will achieve a greater degree of acuity in its peering. The herald falls silent with the final assertion that the Empire has opened a new eye towards the future. With a final, appraising glance about the chamber, the herald is gone in a blink of light.

===Silence in the Library (Phaleron)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''An attendant of Phaleron will be arriving at 18:00 on Saturday to hand an arcane projection to ''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian'''''
* '''They request the presence of the Archmage of Day, the Emissary to the Celestial Library, and/or a Grandmaster'''
The Conclave has [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Acceptance:_Phaleron_and_Phoebus_Al-Pulpi|made their decision]] regarding [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dying_Night|what to do]] about the [[Redoubt#Tower_of_Light_and_Shadow|Tilphussian Reach]] following its ruin at the hands of the Grendel. A deal offered and accepted, the [[Phaleron|Archives of Silence]] are bound to fulfil their part of the bargain; provision of the Arcane Projection to Entreat with Al-Pulpi to the raising magician.

This does not mean at all that the ''Coral Library'' does not have some concerns. Given recent revelations to the Conclave, it is rather worried about handing over this very special bit of magic to someone with the surname "Vicente". The [[Whisper_Gallery|Whisper Gallery]] are the natural enemy of the ''Celestial Library'', as they are of all thinking beings. In any case, while Phaleron is definitely going to hand it over, a herald has shown up to the [[civil service]] to ask if the [[Archmage of Day]], [[Emissary to the Celestial Library]] and/or a [[Grandmaster]] might consider being present to the trade off to make sure that everything is done "in the light".

The attendant in charge of the projection is scheduled to arrive in the Hall of Worlds to hand it off to '''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian''' at 18:00 on Saturday of the Summer Solstice.

==Night==
===Fire, Fury, and Flame (Janon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Janon has been placed under enmity by the conclave'''
* '''Janon seems to be enthused by this change in the Empire's passions'''
* '''Armed bands of heralds have entered Ossium and Sarangrave and are promising to curse both territories unless they are stopped'''

''The Shadowed Flame'' is a mercurial being at the best of times. Embodying fire and passion in all things, zie cares little for the difference between love and hate. As such, conclave's declaration of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] has not had the chastening effect on him that might have been hoped for. As spring shades into summer, small bands of armed heralds march across the borders of [[Ossium]] and [[Sarangrave]]. Both of them begin spreading the message to any people that they can find. ''Tinder-of-Anarchy'', who is well pleased with her new titles, is overjoyed that it gets to experience the Empire's rage and hatred. Less than a year ago ''Blasphemy's Matchmaker'' asked to be brought tales of [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Affection_and_Animosity_(Janon)|beloved rivals]], those who are implacably set against one another yet who are bonded closer than any friends might be. Hopefully the Empire will embrace this new relationship just as much as Janon has.

Thus, the heralds issue their challenges. The ones they have called out will bring forces to fight against them, or else to celebrate with them, or perhaps both. They shall match blades and hearts in the eternal contest of passion. Then, if the heralds are alive at the end of it, they will go to the nearest Night regio and immolate themselves. Once that is done, Janon's power will be invoked and the territory will be place under a "blessing", bringing the "blessing" of [[Unfettered Anarchy]] to those who dwell there.

Scouts indicate that these heralds, despite being lightly armoured, seem to be possessed of immense reserves of [[Heroic_skills|heroic spirit]], and that some among them seem to be capable of inflicting Unfettered Anarchy on people with as much ease as any [[Magical_skills#Battle_Mage|battle mage]] delivering a spell of their own.

====Fire The Forests (Ossium)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Ossium'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Shadowed Torchbearer'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}

Upon marching over the border from the [[Forest of Ulnak]], the heralds made their reasons for choosing this place perfectly clear. Ossium is the home territory of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]], the one who conclave selected to promote passion within the Empire and to stand between them and ''the Muse of Fire''. Let Vellenka Vanyanova come to face them, and show where her passions truly lie! Soldiers from the resupplying Gryphon's Pride attempt to catch the heralds and finish the matter quickly, but the heralds run fast and do not allow themselves to be caught. They will be faced by the one of their choosing, or they will not be caught at all.

Grudgingly accepting that the best thing they can do is inform the proper authorities, the scouts of the Gryphon's Pride pass on that the heralds keep returning to the Burned Glade in Echofell. It is the responsibility of '''Vellenka Vanyanova''', the Shadowed Torchbearer, to resolve the situation before any harm can be caused. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Ossium with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

====Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The path to Sarangrave is considerably shorter for the heralds of ''Whirling Chaos'', as they emerge from a regio over the border in [[Axos]], where the enmity of the [[Conclave]] has no effect. Once in Imperial territory, they begin to call out the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Elegabla brought this declaration against ''the Voice of Zorech'', and they are overjoyed to witness the passion of the Urizeni. "Come fight us, sword scholar," they cry, "as your loathed founder once fought the Highborn!" Nobody bothers trying to explain to them that the sword scholars have splintered. It does not seem likely that they would listen.

The heralds have taken the field around Slow Worm's Hill in Kroll. It is the responsibility of '''Elagabala''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, to prevent any explosions of undirected passion. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Sarangrave with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Varushka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

===Enlightenment (Azoth)===
* '''During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Night vacated their post.'''
* '''Azoth believes that their absence has had an unwanted effect on the plenipotentiary they offered.'''
* '''Azoth invites the next Archmage of Night to investigate uncompensated musicians their predecessor was charged with arranging and to suggest a boon for those who could not attend.'''

[[Azoth#Heralds|''Distillations'']] of [[Azoth|''the Azoth'']] emerge from the Imperial Regio clad in fur and feathers of swirling ochre, shimmering jade and shifting red. Resembling [[Kallavesi|Kallavesi]] [[Mystic|mystics]] though bearing an orcish mein, the heralds are at first mistaken for unannounced [[Jotun]] emissaries. If the visitors have an opinion on this reaction, it is well hidden beneath a cool, almost inert demeanour.

Once the matter is resolved, the agents of ''the Rebis'' explain the purpose of their visit: that the Azoth understands that during the spring equinox the [[Archmage_of_Night#Recent Elections|Archmage of Night]] was extracted from their role and so, by extension from the [[Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|crucible of change offered as plenipotentiary]]. With the formula so adjusted, the heralds continue, it seems that impurities did arise from the mix which diminished the whole.

The most polluting of these is that the Archmage was charged by [[Sung]] to instil mystery into the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|Shadow Souk]] through the commissioning of musicians. Azoth knows that musicians did play within the chamber and that their playing did indeed serve as a suitable catalyst. However, it is not clear whether these elements were properly compensated for their aural alchemy with gifts provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' to the Archmage for this purpose. ''The Great Work'' has offered to provide the [[Maestro]] of the [[Cat's Graces]] a lump sum of twenty [[crystal fire]] if they're willing to promise to ensure it goes to those musicians who attended. If they are willing to agree to this, they should cast [[operate portal]] on the regio at the Summer Solstice, using three names of the ''Rebis'' and agreeing to the arrangement.

==Spring==

===Do Some Harm (Arhallogen)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Centipede General.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''There is an opportunity to kill a significant number of Grendel'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for poisoning the Grendel'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Last season, the eternal [[Arhallogen]] made a [[Key_of_dreams#Sharp_Fangs_Behind_The_Leaves_(Spring)|series of offers]] to the Imperial Conclave in order to help them avoid, in its eyes, a steep decline into disaster. To the great surprise of the ''Centipede General'', it was none other than the [[Silver Chalice]] who accepted its offer of a boon to kill a significant number of [[Grendel]], if they were willing to put the nefarious [[Ossegrahn]] under Enmity. Perhaps, says the ''Envenomed Blade'', they misunderstood the [[Silver Chalice]]. To value ones own lives and the lives of ones allies by ruthlessly killing those who would threaten them is indeed a philosophy she can align herself with. When one commits to ''"Ensure that Conclave is reminded of the value of life, and that it makes decisions with that value in mind"'', perhaps this means understanding the value in taking life from their foes? Yes, yes, this will do indeed.

The ''Maw-of-Spikes'' has located an encampment of the marines from the Grendel navy, the Golden Winds, based downstream from a potent Spring regio that provides it with unnaturally clear water. Such places were rare in [[Mareave]] until recently, and it is no surprise that the orcs of the Broken Shore would set up a camp there to take advantage of it. The ''Shadow Blade'' has a simple offer for the Silver Chalice; all they have to do is curse someone with [[Curse of Gangrenous Flesh]] where the ritualists have [[Regio#Using_Regio|drawn]] on the regio and invoke three of Arhallogen's names. This will corrupt the regio and poison the supply of the Grendel Encampment. While they will eventually realise and move on, they will take five hundred casualties before the source of their woes is identified. The regio is not untended, but to sweeten the deal, ''Many Move as One'' will send her heralds to neutralise them before the Grandmaster or her representatives arrive.

The conjunction to the Golden Wind's encampment will be at 15:45 on Saturday, and the [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]], '''Fausta Ankarien''', will be responsible for ultimately poisoning the Grendel.

==Winter==
===A Varushkan goes to War (Surut)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Surut001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Surut is impressed by the orders of the general of the Northern Eagle and offers a boon'''
* '''He is happy to offer similar aid to other generals as well, if they wish the help of the Burnt Prince'''
The [[Surut|''Charred Prince'']] rarely gives much attention to the pontification of wizards and their ever-increasing esoteric arcane musings, he is far more interested in the people who actually get things done and get their hands dirty. Specifically, the generals and heroes of the Empire. Recently, he has been eagerly following the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Northern_Eagle|adventures of General '''Aksel Reznov Razoradze''']] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]].

While he nominally favours the Druj in the conflict, he has been savouring their desperation and exacting greater and greater tribute for his continued support. He has no particular preference to whether they survive being crushed between the Empire and the [[Thule]]. Should the General invoke the name of the ''Burnt Steward'' in their orders the next time that the [[Northern Eagle]] infiltrate Sanath, he will intercede to help find opportunities for them to engage in further acts of arson if they so choose.

The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information to Jorgen at the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] reminds him that the ''Raging Inferno'' is perfectly happy to offer his aid to other members of the [[Military Council]] as well. Should they seek his aid, they have to impress him in the orders they submit. Provided they draw his attention by including his name in their orders, he will pay attention and offer help to those who have shown they deserve it.

===Call to Arms (Tharim)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tharim 001.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A legion of Thairm's Ashen Knights has travelled to Karov'''
* '''The legion intends to remain there for the foreseeable future'''
The mood of [[Tharim]] is wroth this season. His chosen has stepped down, and both Skathe and Surut continue to be welcomed by the Conclave, even if they do not enjoy its friendship as he does. The only light in the twilight of his dark halls is the fate of Jem Bribban. It is apt, then, that the mood of the Ashen Knights is similar. They arrive in Karov a month before the Summer Solstice and by the time of the summit have established a camp just outside of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Vorota]].

Why they are here, however, is beyond anyone's guess. A few volhovs on their way from Delev tried to discuss it with them, but were unable to get much beyond stoic, monosyllabic answers. Why the Ashen Knights are here, and why ''now'', is anyone's best guess. If the notoriously vindictive eternal's mood is souring, it does not bode well. Tharim can be a powerful ally to his friends, but a bitter enemy to those he believes have wronged him or failed to give him his due.

===The Beast Below (Agramant)===
{{SOP|statement=Agramant has sent his servants to 'aid' Imperial citizens abandoned in Therunin. This must shame us. Highguard cannot tolerate a monster such as the Abominable One being seen as a rescuer while the Empire's own people suffer. Highguard has chapters, military units, congregations, physicks, priests, pilgrims, the Unconquered and more. We can send virtuous aid where aid is desperately needed. So let Highguard act! Let our citizens escort the refugees and support the healers of High Chalcis, while our chapters and military units aid the Navarri in escaping Therunin. The hungry, frightened, and desperate must find Imperial support. We will deny Agramant the worship of desperation. Only actions are virtuous. If we would calls ourselves guardians of the Empire's soul, then we must prove it where that soul is endangered.|by=Synchar of Ebon's Hall, Highguard National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The eternal Agramant is preying on those fleeing Therunin - offering them aid, and interdicted means for any to contact him for thanks or further 'help'. Those he preys on feel they are alone. That he is the only place they can turn. Along with Navarri guides, we call on Loyalty dedicants to travel to the places these Navarri refugees gather. We must prove to them they are not alone, and show them what loyalty is, and what it is not.|by=Neri of Ebon's Hall, Loyalty Assembly|vote=306-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The refugees of Therunin are being manipulated by Agramant into believing he is their only option for help. He targets those who are weak and alone, and seeks to gain access to their spirits and our nation. We call upon Navarr to remind these refugees we are here and we support them. Open your doors if you can and stop Agramant from targetting those in need.|by=Xandor Trodbroker, Navarr National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 256-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
The Imperial Synod, including a [[general]] of an Imperial [[army]] has had a great deal to say about [[Agramant|Agramant's]] offers of help in [[Therunin]] in recent months. To this, it pointedly says that it is materially helping the Navarri reclaim what is rightfully theirs and fulfil their ancient oaths, ''while the Empire is not''. The Military Council is welcome to take over and fulfil their promises to the people of Navarr any time they so choose by sending in the full might of Imperial steel, Agramant will not stop them.

In the meantime, it sees no reason not to continue as it has been doing and showing it it is truly the ''Friend of the Forgotten''. Wherever the Empire has abandoned people. Wherever it has allowed innocents to suffer. Wherever it has broken trust. Agramant will be there to pick up the pieces - to bear the burden that the Empire finds too heavy to shoulder.

While many have fled to Reikos, some Navarri who have stayed, chosen to side with the ''Wastewalker'' to reclaim their homes from the Druj and continue to fulfil their oath in combatting the power of the vallorn of Tharunind. One such individual is Dochas of the Weeping Glade, who claims to take inspiration from Gobaith of Summer's Grove reborn. They have managed to form a settlement of survivors in the nominally Druj-controlled territory and, with Agramant's aid, wishes to take back Therunin for the Navarr whether the Military Council chooses to help them or not.

This downtime (and perhaps for the foreseeable future) any Navarri military unit can take the '''Reconquer Therunin''' campaigning venture, which will cause their unit to join Dochas and with his followers and heralds of Agramant, begin to retake a region from the Druj. A standard military unit will receive two pawns of Heart's Blood for their aid, with upgraded or enchanted Military Units receiving proportionally more. As long as at least ten military units take this action, it will also be available next season and Agramant will do whatever it takes to ensure the settlement survives.

This venture appears to be completely illegal, and anyone who takes part is almost certainly going to face execution by the magistrates for working hand in glove with a forbidden eternal. Agramant does not wish to sow suspicion or concern among the Empire, so the names of every citizen from Anvil who takes part will be known. The Howler understands that they risk death at the hands of the Empire for trying to fulfil their oaths and save their fellow Navarri, but is determined that the names of those prepared to sacrifice themselves in this way should not go unrecorded. Sacrifice is the Pride of the Navarr after all.

While the Synod itself may have spoken out against Agramant's actions, the Voice of the Pines believe that in her heart, the [[Emperor Vesna|Empress of the Hearth]] surely appreciates its struggle to aid her subjects. Should she mention him or [[Therunin]] ''in any capacity'' in her next imperial address, he has let it be known that he will take that as a sign that she approves of his aid to her citizens, and will send even more heralds to aid in the campaign there.

===Light at the End (Khobel Tavah)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
In the months following the Spring Equinox, the Imperial Regio is once more subject to the ghastly presence of the Speaker for the Drowned, the herald of Khobel Tavah who takes the form of a drowned Highborn sailor. This dolorous figure, whose every movement is accompanied by the ringing of bells, makes its way to the Civil Service hub once invited into Anvil. It seems it has more messages from Old Tom Flotsam and Mary Bitters to deliver.

Firstly, regarding the ''lost flotsam'' that is Eilian Sweetwater. It does not intend to repeat its warnings of ''jetsam'' uttered in darkness to the Empire's keepers of wreck. However, it wants to make quite clear the state of Eilian. The medicaments offered for him granted a temporary release from the ''suspension in terror'' that Eilian is undergoing - but it was only temporary. He has proven unusually resilient - the Speaker makes clear that ''Harbinger'' in particular is impressed at a mortal whose mind can withstand her abyssal salt to such a degree. If the Conclave chooses to claim its ''lost flotsam'' and with it the ''jetsam'' at the Summer Solstice, the Speaker believes Eilian will be able to return to work within the season.

However, if the Conclave tarries longer, then the mind of the Empire's resolute servant will, says the Speaker, surely begin to fray. The ''Prophet of the Last Light'' has seen this in omens and visions - no mortal can withstand immersion in abyssal salt forever. If they wait until the Autumn Equinox, then Eilian will require at least a season of recovery before he returns to work. If they wait until Winter, he will need a year or more of recovery. Beyond that he will be broken: in mind if not in body. He will, of course, survive if they tarry longer - but he will never be in a position to serve the Empire again. Salt preserves the body - but the spirit's light eludes even the touch of Tideless Scream.

Secondly, the Speaker wants to reiterate another offer. Two summits ago Khobel Tavah sent their Lighthouse-Keeper to speak with the people of the Empire to offer aid to the Empire in the building of lighthouses. Specifically, Fear Death By Water offered, via their Keeper, an Everlasting Flame. This light, made from ghostfire of the Winter Realm, would never go out so long as the lighthouse in which it is placed stands. This could be either a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Warning_Light|lighthouse]], a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Welcoming_Beacon|great lighthouse]], or another commission to build a lighthouse arising as the result of an opportunity.

If Khobel Tavah ever became aware of any doom that would otherwise befall the territory where it was placed then it would send grim omens that portended the coming disaster. The flame would also gather to it the spirits of the restless dead. This would give the region the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted quality]]. The ghosts would not be hostile - in the [[opportunity|right situation]] they might even be bargained with to aid the Empire.

The Speaker for the Drowned believes that the Empire may have selected Rebekah's Leap in [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]] as the location for the Everlasting Flame. This is well, though they may wish to wait for the return of their ''lost flotsam'' as plans for the Lighthouse at Nikephoros would probably combine well with any planned lighthouse in the same region. However, Foretold-by-Bells does require that the Conclave announce a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] to name the commission where the ghostfire will be housed. The commission would not need to be finished, but it would need to be begun, and consent to place the Everlasting Flame within the lighthouse would have to be provided as part of the necessary details.

==Summer==
===The Long Game (Jaheris)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=JaherisArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Jaheris wishes to encourage ambition amongst newcomers to Anvil'''
* '''One of his heralds will meet with some newcomers, chosen by egregores'''
The [[Jaheris|Moonsilver Prince]] has made an offer to the egregores of each of the ten nations; he has provided them with a badge and charged them to give it to a member of their nation who is new(er) to Anvil and who they see as a citizen of great promise. They will be invited to a meeting with the ''Argent Preceptor'', one of the heralds of the ''Unicorn King'' charged with encouraging new talent to pursue and achieve their ambitions. Under his previous guise, this might be rather concerning, yet the [[Jaheris#A_New_Demesne|new face of Jaheris]] seems far more trustworthy. As far as eternals go, of course.

The Preceptor will meet with the candidates at the standing stones at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds at 12:45 on the Saturday of the Summer Solstice. From there, they will be taken through the Hall of Worlds to a specially prepared chamber to discuss what ambitious schemes they might be interested in pursuing at Anvil.

===The Greatest Prize (Rhianos)===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Cede Tournament Grounds of Laroc'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|Concedence]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Cedes the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to [[Rhianos]]
* Removes the investment in businesses in Astolat
* Increases investment in military units in Astolat
* Military units in Astolat engaging in a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs can be covered by treasure at the Stone of Thonkilch</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Rhianos has asked for the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to be ceded to them'''
* '''If the Tournament Grounds are ceded to Rhianos then the eternal will grant his favour to the Eastern Sky'''
Originally [[Down_the_cavalier_road|proposed]] almost four years ago, the quest of the [[Eastern Sky]] has seen wondrous works of magic, grand challenges completed, and great statues raised. ''[[Rhianos|Shimmergold]]'' is open about their willingness to accept a similar statue to that built for [[Cathan Canae]], but the Grand Tour has enticed ''Coruscating Oarfish''. What then, could ''Seadragon'' wish for?

The answer, it turns out, is quite simple. The ''Auspicious Mariner'' wants the [[Astolat#Laroc|tournament grounds of Laroc]]. The ''King of the Nine Tides'' will send his heralds through to ready those daring knights and knights-errant who are readying to go on a [[Venture#Questing_Ventures|quest]] or even a [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures|raid]]. They will be offered help, advice, or even simply a refreshing drink that encourages the pursuit of adventure. Any Dawnish [[military unit]] in Astolat that undertakes either a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings.

Of course, nothing is simple when it comes to the denizens of the realms. The [[business]] owners of the territory will no longer receive a share of the profits brought in by the tourneys. Instead, those proceeds would go towards mending and repairing the arms, legs, arms, and armour of those adventuring over the horizon. In order for this to work, ''Lightning Fish'' will need to have the Tourney Grounds ceded to it. If it were as simple as sending heralds to go and encourage good Dawnish folks, then they wouldn't need to ask. Indeed, several heralds of ''Lady Gullscry'' already visit the tourney grounds, albeit in (very bad) disguises.

Such an act will require the Senate to vote to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|cede]] the great work to the eternal. Separately, ''Swoopingfeather'' has a further request for the people of Dawn, and specifically the incumbent General of the [[Eastern Sky]]...

====Oddities (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Druj are trying to sacrifice treasure to Agramant in exchange for aid in the Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''General of the Eastern Sky'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for recovering the treasure'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
''Swoopingfeather'' warns that the Druj are well on their way to sacrificing the treasure to [[Agramant|Ropebiter]] in Sarangrave. The herald of Leaf-on-the-Breeze provides enthralling detail, the Druj ''Het Tavix Boneshaver'' must ensure that the Stone of Thonkilch, and the treasure placed there, remain undisturbed for a full week. They will have almost finished their vigil by the start of the summit, and it will end by the stroke of midnight on the first night. There is a chance then, for the General of the Eastern Sky and their allies to prove their mettle and disrupt the Druj.

'''Dame Aurum De Castellan''', the incumbent [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]], is charged by ''Swoopingfeather'' to take their allies and travel to the Turan Flats, disrupt the Druj efforts and recover the treasure. If the Druj retain the treasure, then [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|creatures]] of ''Brokenhull'' will enter the region. They won't prove a threat to armies, but it would require some opportunity to remove them and would be yet [[Everything is trying to kill us|another problem]] for those trying to settle Sarangrave. If the treasure can be recovered, then it will take central pride of place in the tourney grounds. And if it can't, then ''Flyingfish'' will keep looking for another piece of treasure that can be recovered from dangerous enemies...

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T15:57:25Z

Apoth: /* Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png|align=right|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
__TOC__
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world, whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet, to a degree, share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

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

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune, while {{TBC}} deals with magic of an astronomantic, mortal, or mysterious provenance.

==Autumn==
===An Unexpected Ally (Basileia)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=City of Locks.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A Grendel mercenary company are threatening the Grove of Wittal'''
* '''The Grendel leader wishes to defect but can't do it openly'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grimnir of Wittal Grove'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for defeating the Grendel and potentially rescue the Iontach'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Organising and funding Grendel mercenary groups is a challenging market. With the chaotic presence of the wreckers, naval superiority in the Bay of Catazar isn’t a given for fledgling mercenary companies. Enterprising mercenary paymasters have, in recent years and with encouragement from their [[Asavea|allies]], started to probe other waters for opportunity. The Gullet passes from the Sea of Snow past Jotun shores to the very heart of Kallavesa. One ship has managed to avoid the monsters of the Sea of Snow, the ships of the Fjorknae, and the Winterfolk and Marcher fleets to land close in [[Kallavesa#Wittal_Grove|Wittal Grove]]. Now, they march on Wittal itself, intent to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. However, Iontach ''Meddool Miniog'' has something even more audacious planned.

A representative of the Matchmaker's Forum, of the [[Basileia|City of Locks]] travelled to Anvil with a message just a week before the Summer Solstice. It appears that Iontach ''Miniog'' wishes to defect, referencing a cousin living in luxury in Apulian. They have arranged for their mercenary band to accompany them into Kallavesa under the understanding that they are going to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. From discussion with the herald, [[League_Egregore|Guise]] believes they would certainly be able to accept the oath of Meddool; if Meddool is able to be rescued they will be able to join the League.

The herald of the City of Locks, therefore, offers the following contract to '''Theowold Vakarsson''', the Grimnir of Wittal Grove:

Escort the Iontach to Anvil a free orc. In exchange, the Iontach will provide a sum of six thrones after the summit.<br>
The mercenary company should be defeated to ease the rescue of Meddool, but the company's continued survival is not a factor.<br>
Failure to secure the Iontach will see the mercenaries go ahead with raiding the Healing House, preventing the [[great work]] from providing herbs until after the Autumn Equinox 388YE.
<div style="float: left; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|width=300px}}</div>
===Arratan Surety (Estavus)===
<div {{float}}><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Arratan Surety'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Enterio, Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 250 thrones in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases white granite production of Arratan Gamble by five wains a season
* Increases upkeep of Arratan Gamble by three thrones a season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architect of Hammers has used their power to assess the Arratan Gamble'''
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have investigated and uncovered an opportunity to quarry the largest vein from the other side'''
The Architects of Iron and Stone were incredibly excited to receive their first assignment from the [[Architect of Hammers]]. The newly elected '''Edmundo of Damakan's forge''' wasted no time in setting them to work in assessing the [[Arratan Gamble]] in Enterio, [[Tassato]]. The Arratan Gamble works incredibly well, but there is always room for improvement! ''Architect Noether'' calculates that with the amount of wains that have already been quarried, there is enough in the ground for at least another two hundred years! ''Noether'' presents a plan for a small quarrying outpost, nothing too fancy, on the other side of the largest vein that will allow workers to come at it from the two best angles.

The "''Arratan Surety''", a mirthful jest at the name of the quarry, would increase the amount of white granite produced by the Bourse seat by five wains a season. It would have substantial initial costs, and the extra workers and gangers would see the upkeep increased by three thrones a season.

==Day==

===It is a Diamond (Sinokenon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SinokenonArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A disparate group are travelling to Anvil to speak to the Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch and possibly others'''
* '''They do not want to speak to the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'''
* '''The group aims to arrive just after six on Friday'''
Last summit, the Eternal [[Sinokenon]] declared that it was [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#The_Turning_of_the_Wheel_(Sinokenon)|engaging in an initiative]] to reach out to the foundation-stones of the Empire, to gauge receptiveness to Sinokenon's ideals and to send its ministers to attempt to combat what it believed to be misunderstandings as to the intentions and nature of the Turning Mirror. They duly arrived, bring with them pamphlets and small gifts for those they met.

Since the Spring Equinox, its heralds have been engaged in a similar campaign in many places across the Empire. While Diamondmind only enjoys [[alignment|neutrality]] - and hence does not have the unfettered access to the Empire enjoyed by those eternals who have the [[Conclave|Conclave's]] amity - there are many Day regios in the Empire to which its heralds have access, and no small number of individuals happy to assist them in their work. After all - Sinokenon has been on at worst distant and at times even somewhat gregarious terms with the Empire since its foundation! They are particularly prevalent in [[Urizen]], Varushka, and in the [[Skarsind|northernmost territory of the Unshackled]].

The greatest number of Apex Hyperion's heralds are seen across the spires of Urizen. The mountain nation is a particular favourite of That Which Lives In Its Name. It sees their pursuit of a perfect world as most pleasing, and approves of their structured, ordered way of life. The illuminates of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] have often enjoyed its favour - reportedly, the people of [[Tsark]], just a short distance across the mountain range, enjoy similar attentions.

In [[Varushka]], it has long been known as Silver Sovereign - a name that befits its status, perhaps, as a powerful and potentially dangerous supernatural entity, but one that can be bargained with. There are a number of vales, especially in the hills of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Wieliczka]], where Singular Point is sometimes consulted on matters of rulership. It has often expressed an approval of the vale as a unit of societal structure, because of the way the rule of boyars is born from strength but cannot rest on tyranny. A vale is a communal decision by a community to live in a place of order, separating themselves from the wilds.

It has looked with favour on the Imperial Orcs since their nation was formally founded. While the Way of Hierarchy is famously not one to deal with societies in the process of revolutionary change or great reform (and thus somewhat turned its face from the Empire during the years of the orc rebellion), it was in favour of the nascent nation once it was formally founded. Again, the ordered nature of legion life is something Tomorrow And Tomorrow greatly approves of and which it wishes to see prosper. The Unshackled also represent the Empire forgoing what it sees as the "irrationality" of forced slavery, though this is a somewhat abstruse and philosophical perspective which not every Imperial Orc is willing to hear. In recent years, apparently, it has also attempted to build a relationship with some of the Tamazi who dwell in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] - a relationship founded on a mutual dislike of the Axou.

Anyone who has spent time in the Empire in the past season, especially in these three nations or in any other part of the Empire where structure and order are prized, may choose to have met one of the heralds of Sinokenon. They will invariably have been polite and friendly, distributing copies of a curious pamphlet entitled [[:File:Sinokenon_and_You.pdf|Sinokenon and You]]. Any difficult questions on any topic will have been waved away - the heralds will have been clear that they are there primarily as messengers, and to learn.

It seems that they have indeed learned something - and it is not to their liking. As the Summer Solstice draws near, rumours begin to spread - in part carried by the heralds of Friend Of All - that the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] nurses a strong animosity to Sinokenon. The eternal grows concerned they are planning to bring the enmity of the Conclave down upon Sinokenon.

Whether this is true or not is hard to say. It is clear, however, that it causes the heralds some distress. They are not alone, however - for the Argent Mantra is not without mortal supporters - allies the eternal has patiently cultivated over the years. Representatives from the [[illuminate|illuminates]] of [[Zenith]], the vales of Wieliczka, and the [[Tamazi]] of Gildenheim are seen making their way to Anvil. Apparently they intend to arrive as soon as they can - perhaps a little after the sixth hour of the evening on the Friday - and intend to lobby to ensure that their relationship with That Which Lies Above All is not disrupted.

They particularly want to speak to the Grandmaster of the [[Celestial Arch]], who apparently they are assuming will naturally take their side in this matter, but are happy to speak to any grandmaster ''except'' that of the Sevenfold Path, who, if rumour is indeed to believed, has made up her mind already. They will have just a few hours until the Conclave begins, and the truth (or otherwise) of these rumours are known.

===Eclectic Eye (Kimus)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Kimus has announced that with the help of Imperial citizens, it has completed a means to safely scry upon the actions of Cold Sun.'''
* '''It informs the Conclave that it shall use this tool, the ''Corlucis'', to provide information on what it perceives.'''
Robed in purest white, its garb edged in [[weltsilver|weltsilver thread]], a [[Kimus#Viziers|Vizier]] of [[Kimus|''the Thousand Eyes of Sun and Moon'']] unfolds at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds like the opening of an eye. Those who are subjected to its stare feel the force of its ruby-coloured gaze as it communicates with language both scant yet heavily freighted with meaning. It explains that through the prescient sacrifice of ''The Circle of Enduring Wisdom'' and incisive action of those Imperial heroes that braved the dangers of [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Staring_at_the_Sun_(Kimus)|''Terminus Sol'']] the '''''Corlucis''''' has been assembled. This arcane tool now permits ''She Who Watches'' to scrutinise and observe the poisoned light of the regio, to understand it and through understanding gain foresight over the machinations of [[Cold Sun|Cold Sun]], the entity that poisoned it.

At this last pronouncement, the herald almost appears to express something other than scholarly focus. Whether it is a satisfied twitch of its lips or a slight pursing before it continues, it soon resumes its lecture. As was agreed, the Corlucis shall also be used to provide the [[Conclave|Conclave]] forewarning on the actions of Cold Sun. While at present, ''the Celestial Eye'' might only discern the largest of motions within the light it sees that in time that it will achieve a greater degree of acuity in its peering. The herald falls silent with the final assertion that the Empire has opened a new eye towards the future. With a final, appraising glance about the chamber, the herald is gone in a blink of light.

===Silence in the Library (Phaleron)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''An attendant of Phaleron will be arriving at 18:00 on Saturday to hand an arcane projection to ''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian'''''
* '''They request the presence of the Archmage of Day, the Emissary to the Celestial Library, and/or a Grandmaster'''
The Conclave has [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Acceptance:_Phaleron_and_Phoebus_Al-Pulpi|made their decision]] regarding [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dying_Night|what to do]] about the [[Redoubt#Tower_of_Light_and_Shadow|Tilphussian Reach]] following its ruin at the hands of the Grendel. A deal offered and accepted, the [[Phaleron|Archives of Silence]] are bound to fulfil their part of the bargain; provision of the Arcane Projection to Entreat with Al-Pulpi to the raising magician.

This does not mean at all that the ''Coral Library'' does not have some concerns. Given recent revelations to the Conclave, it is rather worried about handing over this very special bit of magic to someone with the surname "Vicente". The [[Whisper_Gallery|Whisper Gallery]] are the natural enemy of the ''Celestial Library'', as they are of all thinking beings. In any case, while Phaleron is definitely going to hand it over, a herald has shown up to the [[civil service]] to ask if the [[Archmage of Day]], [[Emissary to the Celestial Library]] and/or a [[Grandmaster]] might consider being present to the trade off to make sure that everything is done "in the light".

The attendant in charge of the projection is scheduled to arrive in the Hall of Worlds to hand it off to '''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian''' at 18:00 on Saturday of the Summer Solstice.

==Night==
===Fire, Fury, and Flame (Janon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Janon has been placed under enmity by the conclave'''
* '''Janon seems to be enthused by this change in the Empire's passions'''
* '''Armed bands of heralds have entered Ossium and Sarangrave and are promising to curse both territories unless they are stopped'''

''The Shadowed Flame'' is a mercurial being at the best of times. Embodying fire and passion in all things, zie cares little for the difference between love and hate. As such, conclave's declaration of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] has not had the chastening effect on him that might have been hoped for. As spring shades into summer, small bands of armed heralds march across the borders of [[Ossium]] and [[Sarangrave]]. Both of them begin spreading the message to any people that they can find. ''Tinder-of-Anarchy'', who is well pleased with her new titles, is overjoyed that it gets to experience the Empire's rage and hatred. Less than a year ago ''Blasphemy's Matchmaker'' asked to be brought tales of [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Affection_and_Animosity_(Janon)|beloved rivals]], those who are implacably set against one another yet who are bonded closer than any friends might be. Hopefully the Empire will embrace this new relationship just as much as Janon has.

Thus, the heralds issue their challenges. The ones they have called out will bring forces to fight against them, or else to celebrate with them, or perhaps both. They shall match blades and hearts in the eternal contest of passion. Then, if the heralds are alive at the end of it, they will go to the nearest Night regio and immolate themselves. Once that is done, Janon's power will be invoked and the territory will be place under a "blessing", bringing the "blessing" of [[Unfettered Anarchy]] to those who dwell there.

Scouts indicate that these heralds, despite being lightly armoured, seem to be possessed of immense reserves of [[Heroic_skills|heroic spirit]], and that some among them seem to be capable of inflicting Unfettered Anarchy on people with as much ease as any [[Magical_skills#Battle_Mage|battle mage]] delivering a spell of their own.

====Fire The Forests (Ossium)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Ossium'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Shadowed Torchbearer'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}

Upon marching over the border from the [[Forest of Ulnak]], the heralds made their reasons for choosing this place perfectly clear. Ossium is the home territory of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]], the one who conclave selected to promote passion within the Empire and to stand between them and ''the Muse of Fire''. Let Vellenka Vanyanova come to face them, and show where her passions truly lie! Soldiers from the resupplying Gryphon's Pride attempt to catch the heralds and finish the matter quickly, but the heralds run fast and do not allow themselves to be caught. They will be faced by the one of their choosing, or they will not be caught at all.

Grudgingly accepting that the best thing they can do is inform the proper authorities, the scouts of the Gryphon's Pride pass on that the heralds keep returning to the Burned Glade in Echofell. It is the responsibility of '''Vellenka Vanyanova''', the Shadowed Torchbearer, to resolve the situation before any harm can be caused. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Ossium with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

====Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The path to Sarangrave is considerably shorter for the heralds of ''Whirling Chaos'', as they emerge from a regio over the border in [[Axos]], where the enmity of the [[Conclave]] has no effect. Once in Imperial territory, they begin to call out the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Elegabla brought this declaration against ''the Voice of Zorech'', and they are overjoyed to witness the passion of the Urizeni. "Come fight us, sword scholar," they cry, "as your loathed founder once fought the Highborn!" Nobody bothers trying to explain to them that the sword scholars have splintered. It does not seem likely that they would listen.

The heralds have taken the field around Slow Worm's Hill in Kroll. It is the responsibility of '''Elagabala''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, to prevent any explosions of undirected passion. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Sarangrave with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Varushka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

===Enlightenment (Azoth)===
* '''During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Night vacated their post.'''
* '''Azoth believes that their absence has had an unwanted effect on the plenipotentiary they offered.'''
* '''Azoth invites the next Archmage of Night to investigate uncompensated musicians their predecessor was charged with arranging and to suggest a boon for those who could not attend.'''

[[EmpireWiki:Azoth#Heralds|''Distillations'']] of [[EmpireWiki:Azoth|''the Azoth'']] emerge from the Imperial Regio clad in fur and feathers of swirling ochre, shimmering jade and shifting red. Resembling [[EmpireWiki:Kallavesi|Kallavesi]] [[EmpireWiki:Mystic|mystics]] though bearing an orcish mein, the heralds are at first mistaken for unannounced [[EmpireWiki:Jotun|Jotun]] emissaries. If the visitors have an opinion on this reaction, it is well hidden beneath a cool, almost inert demeanour.

Once the matter is resolved, the agents of ''the Rebis'' explain the purpose of their visit: that the Azoth understands that during the spring equinox the [[EmpireWiki:Archmage_of_Night#Recent Elections|Archmage of Night]] was extracted from their role and so, by extension from the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|crucible of change offered as plenipotentiary]]. With the formula so adjusted, the heralds continue, it seems that impurities did arise from the mix which diminished the whole.

The most polluting of these is that the Archmage was charged by [[EmpireWiki:Sung|Sung]] to instil mystery into the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|Shadow Souk]] through the commissioning of musicians. Azoth knows that musicians did play within the chamber and that their playing did indeed serve as a suitable catalyst. However, it is not clear whether these elements were properly compensated for their aural alchemy with gifts provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' to the Archmage for this purpose. ''The Great Work'' has offered to provide the [[Maestro]] of the [[Cat's Graces]] a lump sum of twenty [[crystal fire]] if they're willing to promise to ensure it goes to those musicians who attended. If they are willing to agree to this, they should cast [[operate portal]] on the regio at the Summer Solstice, using three names of the ''Rebis'' and agreeing to the arrangement.

==Spring==

===Do Some Harm (Arhallogen)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Centipede General.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''There is an opportunity to kill a significant number of Grendel'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for poisoning the Grendel'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Last season, the eternal [[Arhallogen]] made a [[Key_of_dreams#Sharp_Fangs_Behind_The_Leaves_(Spring)|series of offers]] to the Imperial Conclave in order to help them avoid, in its eyes, a steep decline into disaster. To the great surprise of the ''Centipede General'', it was none other than the [[Silver Chalice]] who accepted its offer of a boon to kill a significant number of [[Grendel]], if they were willing to put the nefarious [[Ossegrahn]] under Enmity. Perhaps, says the ''Envenomed Blade'', they misunderstood the [[Silver Chalice]]. To value ones own lives and the lives of ones allies by ruthlessly killing those who would threaten them is indeed a philosophy she can align herself with. When one commits to ''"Ensure that Conclave is reminded of the value of life, and that it makes decisions with that value in mind"'', perhaps this means understanding the value in taking life from their foes? Yes, yes, this will do indeed.

The ''Maw-of-Spikes'' has located an encampment of the marines from the Grendel navy, the Golden Winds, based downstream from a potent Spring regio that provides it with unnaturally clear water. Such places were rare in [[Mareave]] until recently, and it is no surprise that the orcs of the Broken Shore would set up a camp there to take advantage of it. The ''Shadow Blade'' has a simple offer for the Silver Chalice; all they have to do is curse someone with [[Curse of Gangrenous Flesh]] where the ritualists have [[Regio#Using_Regio|drawn]] on the regio and invoke three of Arhallogen's names. This will corrupt the regio and poison the supply of the Grendel Encampment. While they will eventually realise and move on, they will take five hundred casualties before the source of their woes is identified. The regio is not untended, but to sweeten the deal, ''Many Move as One'' will send her heralds to neutralise them before the Grandmaster or her representatives arrive.

The conjunction to the Golden Wind's encampment will be at 15:45 on Saturday, and the [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]], '''Fausta Ankarien''', will be responsible for ultimately poisoning the Grendel.

==Winter==
===A Varushkan goes to War (Surut)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Surut001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Surut is impressed by the orders of the general of the Northern Eagle and offers a boon'''
* '''He is happy to offer similar aid to other generals as well, if they wish the help of the Burnt Prince'''
The [[Surut|''Charred Prince'']] rarely gives much attention to the pontification of wizards and their ever-increasing esoteric arcane musings, he is far more interested in the people who actually get things done and get their hands dirty. Specifically, the generals and heroes of the Empire. Recently, he has been eagerly following the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Northern_Eagle|adventures of General '''Aksel Reznov Razoradze''']] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]].

While he nominally favours the Druj in the conflict, he has been savouring their desperation and exacting greater and greater tribute for his continued support. He has no particular preference to whether they survive being crushed between the Empire and the [[Thule]]. Should the General invoke the name of the ''Burnt Steward'' in their orders the next time that the [[Northern Eagle]] infiltrate Sanath, he will intercede to help find opportunities for them to engage in further acts of arson if they so choose.

The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information to Jorgen at the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] reminds him that the ''Raging Inferno'' is perfectly happy to offer his aid to other members of the [[Military Council]] as well. Should they seek his aid, they have to impress him in the orders they submit. Provided they draw his attention by including his name in their orders, he will pay attention and offer help to those who have shown they deserve it.

===Call to Arms (Tharim)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tharim 001.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A legion of Thairm's Ashen Knights has travelled to Karov'''
* '''The legion intends to remain there for the foreseeable future'''
The mood of [[Tharim]] is wroth this season. His chosen has stepped down, and both Skathe and Surut continue to be welcomed by the Conclave, even if they do not enjoy its friendship as he does. The only light in the twilight of his dark halls is the fate of Jem Bribban. It is apt, then, that the mood of the Ashen Knights is similar. They arrive in Karov a month before the Summer Solstice and by the time of the summit have established a camp just outside of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Vorota]].

Why they are here, however, is beyond anyone's guess. A few volhovs on their way from Delev tried to discuss it with them, but were unable to get much beyond stoic, monosyllabic answers. Why the Ashen Knights are here, and why ''now'', is anyone's best guess. If the notoriously vindictive eternal's mood is souring, it does not bode well. Tharim can be a powerful ally to his friends, but a bitter enemy to those he believes have wronged him or failed to give him his due.

===The Beast Below (Agramant)===
{{SOP|statement=Agramant has sent his servants to 'aid' Imperial citizens abandoned in Therunin. This must shame us. Highguard cannot tolerate a monster such as the Abominable One being seen as a rescuer while the Empire's own people suffer. Highguard has chapters, military units, congregations, physicks, priests, pilgrims, the Unconquered and more. We can send virtuous aid where aid is desperately needed. So let Highguard act! Let our citizens escort the refugees and support the healers of High Chalcis, while our chapters and military units aid the Navarri in escaping Therunin. The hungry, frightened, and desperate must find Imperial support. We will deny Agramant the worship of desperation. Only actions are virtuous. If we would calls ourselves guardians of the Empire's soul, then we must prove it where that soul is endangered.|by=Synchar of Ebon's Hall, Highguard National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The eternal Agramant is preying on those fleeing Therunin - offering them aid, and interdicted means for any to contact him for thanks or further 'help'. Those he preys on feel they are alone. That he is the only place they can turn. Along with Navarri guides, we call on Loyalty dedicants to travel to the places these Navarri refugees gather. We must prove to them they are not alone, and show them what loyalty is, and what it is not.|by=Neri of Ebon's Hall, Loyalty Assembly|vote=306-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The refugees of Therunin are being manipulated by Agramant into believing he is their only option for help. He targets those who are weak and alone, and seeks to gain access to their spirits and our nation. We call upon Navarr to remind these refugees we are here and we support them. Open your doors if you can and stop Agramant from targetting those in need.|by=Xandor Trodbroker, Navarr National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 256-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
The Imperial Synod, including a [[general]] of an Imperial [[army]] has had a great deal to say about [[Agramant|Agramant's]] offers of help in [[Therunin]] in recent months. To this, it pointedly says that it is materially helping the Navarri reclaim what is rightfully theirs and fulfil their ancient oaths, ''while the Empire is not''. The Military Council is welcome to take over and fulfil their promises to the people of Navarr any time they so choose by sending in the full might of Imperial steel, Agramant will not stop them.

In the meantime, it sees no reason not to continue as it has been doing and showing it it is truly the ''Friend of the Forgotten''. Wherever the Empire has abandoned people. Wherever it has allowed innocents to suffer. Wherever it has broken trust. Agramant will be there to pick up the pieces - to bear the burden that the Empire finds too heavy to shoulder.

While many have fled to Reikos, some Navarri who have stayed, chosen to side with the ''Wastewalker'' to reclaim their homes from the Druj and continue to fulfil their oath in combatting the power of the vallorn of Tharunind. One such individual is Dochas of the Weeping Glade, who claims to take inspiration from Gobaith of Summer's Grove reborn. They have managed to form a settlement of survivors in the nominally Druj-controlled territory and, with Agramant's aid, wishes to take back Therunin for the Navarr whether the Military Council chooses to help them or not.

This downtime (and perhaps for the foreseeable future) any Navarri military unit can take the '''Reconquer Therunin''' campaigning venture, which will cause their unit to join Dochas and with his followers and heralds of Agramant, begin to retake a region from the Druj. A standard military unit will receive two pawns of Heart's Blood for their aid, with upgraded or enchanted Military Units receiving proportionally more. As long as at least ten military units take this action, it will also be available next season and Agramant will do whatever it takes to ensure the settlement survives.

This venture appears to be completely illegal, and anyone who takes part is almost certainly going to face execution by the magistrates for working hand in glove with a forbidden eternal. Agramant does not wish to sow suspicion or concern among the Empire, so the names of every citizen from Anvil who takes part will be known. The Howler understands that they risk death at the hands of the Empire for trying to fulfil their oaths and save their fellow Navarri, but is determined that the names of those prepared to sacrifice themselves in this way should not go unrecorded. Sacrifice is the Pride of the Navarr after all.

While the Synod itself may have spoken out against Agramant's actions, the Voice of the Pines believe that in her heart, the [[Emperor Vesna|Empress of the Hearth]] surely appreciates its struggle to aid her subjects. Should she mention him or [[Therunin]] ''in any capacity'' in her next imperial address, he has let it be known that he will take that as a sign that she approves of his aid to her citizens, and will send even more heralds to aid in the campaign there.

===Light at the End (Khobel Tavah)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
In the months following the Spring Equinox, the Imperial Regio is once more subject to the ghastly presence of the Speaker for the Drowned, the herald of Khobel Tavah who takes the form of a drowned Highborn sailor. This dolorous figure, whose every movement is accompanied by the ringing of bells, makes its way to the Civil Service hub once invited into Anvil. It seems it has more messages from Old Tom Flotsam and Mary Bitters to deliver.

Firstly, regarding the ''lost flotsam'' that is Eilian Sweetwater. It does not intend to repeat its warnings of ''jetsam'' uttered in darkness to the Empire's keepers of wreck. However, it wants to make quite clear the state of Eilian. The medicaments offered for him granted a temporary release from the ''suspension in terror'' that Eilian is undergoing - but it was only temporary. He has proven unusually resilient - the Speaker makes clear that ''Harbinger'' in particular is impressed at a mortal whose mind can withstand her abyssal salt to such a degree. If the Conclave chooses to claim its ''lost flotsam'' and with it the ''jetsam'' at the Summer Solstice, the Speaker believes Eilian will be able to return to work within the season.

However, if the Conclave tarries longer, then the mind of the Empire's resolute servant will, says the Speaker, surely begin to fray. The ''Prophet of the Last Light'' has seen this in omens and visions - no mortal can withstand immersion in abyssal salt forever. If they wait until the Autumn Equinox, then Eilian will require at least a season of recovery before he returns to work. If they wait until Winter, he will need a year or more of recovery. Beyond that he will be broken: in mind if not in body. He will, of course, survive if they tarry longer - but he will never be in a position to serve the Empire again. Salt preserves the body - but the spirit's light eludes even the touch of Tideless Scream.

Secondly, the Speaker wants to reiterate another offer. Two summits ago Khobel Tavah sent their Lighthouse-Keeper to speak with the people of the Empire to offer aid to the Empire in the building of lighthouses. Specifically, Fear Death By Water offered, via their Keeper, an Everlasting Flame. This light, made from ghostfire of the Winter Realm, would never go out so long as the lighthouse in which it is placed stands. This could be either a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Warning_Light|lighthouse]], a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Welcoming_Beacon|great lighthouse]], or another commission to build a lighthouse arising as the result of an opportunity.

If Khobel Tavah ever became aware of any doom that would otherwise befall the territory where it was placed then it would send grim omens that portended the coming disaster. The flame would also gather to it the spirits of the restless dead. This would give the region the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted quality]]. The ghosts would not be hostile - in the [[opportunity|right situation]] they might even be bargained with to aid the Empire.

The Speaker for the Drowned believes that the Empire may have selected Rebekah's Leap in [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]] as the location for the Everlasting Flame. This is well, though they may wish to wait for the return of their ''lost flotsam'' as plans for the Lighthouse at Nikephoros would probably combine well with any planned lighthouse in the same region. However, Foretold-by-Bells does require that the Conclave announce a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] to name the commission where the ghostfire will be housed. The commission would not need to be finished, but it would need to be begun, and consent to place the Everlasting Flame within the lighthouse would have to be provided as part of the necessary details.

==Summer==
===The Long Game (Jaheris)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=JaherisArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Jaheris wishes to encourage ambition amongst newcomers to Anvil'''
* '''One of his heralds will meet with some newcomers, chosen by egregores'''
The [[Jaheris|Moonsilver Prince]] has made an offer to the egregores of each of the ten nations; he has provided them with a badge and charged them to give it to a member of their nation who is new(er) to Anvil and who they see as a citizen of great promise. They will be invited to a meeting with the ''Argent Preceptor'', one of the heralds of the ''Unicorn King'' charged with encouraging new talent to pursue and achieve their ambitions. Under his previous guise, this might be rather concerning, yet the [[Jaheris#A_New_Demesne|new face of Jaheris]] seems far more trustworthy. As far as eternals go, of course.

The Preceptor will meet with the candidates at the standing stones at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds at 12:45 on the Saturday of the Summer Solstice. From there, they will be taken through the Hall of Worlds to a specially prepared chamber to discuss what ambitious schemes they might be interested in pursuing at Anvil.

===The Greatest Prize (Rhianos)===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Cede Tournament Grounds of Laroc'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|Concedence]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Cedes the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to [[Rhianos]]
* Removes the investment in businesses in Astolat
* Increases investment in military units in Astolat
* Military units in Astolat engaging in a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs can be covered by treasure at the Stone of Thonkilch</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Rhianos has asked for the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to be ceded to them'''
* '''If the Tournament Grounds are ceded to Rhianos then the eternal will grant his favour to the Eastern Sky'''
Originally [[Down_the_cavalier_road|proposed]] almost four years ago, the quest of the [[Eastern Sky]] has seen wondrous works of magic, grand challenges completed, and great statues raised. ''[[Rhianos|Shimmergold]]'' is open about their willingness to accept a similar statue to that built for [[Cathan Canae]], but the Grand Tour has enticed ''Coruscating Oarfish''. What then, could ''Seadragon'' wish for?

The answer, it turns out, is quite simple. The ''Auspicious Mariner'' wants the [[Astolat#Laroc|tournament grounds of Laroc]]. The ''King of the Nine Tides'' will send his heralds through to ready those daring knights and knights-errant who are readying to go on a [[Venture#Questing_Ventures|quest]] or even a [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures|raid]]. They will be offered help, advice, or even simply a refreshing drink that encourages the pursuit of adventure. Any Dawnish [[military unit]] in Astolat that undertakes either a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings.

Of course, nothing is simple when it comes to the denizens of the realms. The [[business]] owners of the territory will no longer receive a share of the profits brought in by the tourneys. Instead, those proceeds would go towards mending and repairing the arms, legs, arms, and armour of those adventuring over the horizon. In order for this to work, ''Lightning Fish'' will need to have the Tourney Grounds ceded to it. If it were as simple as sending heralds to go and encourage good Dawnish folks, then they wouldn't need to ask. Indeed, several heralds of ''Lady Gullscry'' already visit the tourney grounds, albeit in (very bad) disguises.

Such an act will require the Senate to vote to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|cede]] the great work to the eternal. Separately, ''Swoopingfeather'' has a further request for the people of Dawn, and specifically the incumbent General of the [[Eastern Sky]]...

====Oddities (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Druj are trying to sacrifice treasure to Agramant in exchange for aid in the Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''General of the Eastern Sky'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for recovering the treasure'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
''Swoopingfeather'' warns that the Druj are well on their way to sacrificing the treasure to [[Agramant|Ropebiter]] in Sarangrave. The herald of Leaf-on-the-Breeze provides enthralling detail, the Druj ''Het Tavix Boneshaver'' must ensure that the Stone of Thonkilch, and the treasure placed there, remain undisturbed for a full week. They will have almost finished their vigil by the start of the summit, and it will end by the stroke of midnight on the first night. There is a chance then, for the General of the Eastern Sky and their allies to prove their mettle and disrupt the Druj.

'''Dame Aurum De Castellan''', the incumbent [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]], is charged by ''Swoopingfeather'' to take their allies and travel to the Turan Flats, disrupt the Druj efforts and recover the treasure. If the Druj retain the treasure, then [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|creatures]] of ''Brokenhull'' will enter the region. They won't prove a threat to armies, but it would require some opportunity to remove them and would be yet [[Everything is trying to kill us|another problem]] for those trying to settle Sarangrave. If the treasure can be recovered, then it will take central pride of place in the tourney grounds. And if it can't, then ''Flyingfish'' will keep looking for another piece of treasure that can be recovered from dangerous enemies...

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T15:56:22Z

Apoth: /* Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png|align=right|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
__TOC__
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world, whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet, to a degree, share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

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

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune, while {{TBC}} deals with magic of an astronomantic, mortal, or mysterious provenance.

==Autumn==
===An Unexpected Ally (Basileia)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=City of Locks.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A Grendel mercenary company are threatening the Grove of Wittal'''
* '''The Grendel leader wishes to defect but can't do it openly'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grimnir of Wittal Grove'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for defeating the Grendel and potentially rescue the Iontach'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Organising and funding Grendel mercenary groups is a challenging market. With the chaotic presence of the wreckers, naval superiority in the Bay of Catazar isn’t a given for fledgling mercenary companies. Enterprising mercenary paymasters have, in recent years and with encouragement from their [[Asavea|allies]], started to probe other waters for opportunity. The Gullet passes from the Sea of Snow past Jotun shores to the very heart of Kallavesa. One ship has managed to avoid the monsters of the Sea of Snow, the ships of the Fjorknae, and the Winterfolk and Marcher fleets to land close in [[Kallavesa#Wittal_Grove|Wittal Grove]]. Now, they march on Wittal itself, intent to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. However, Iontach ''Meddool Miniog'' has something even more audacious planned.

A representative of the Matchmaker's Forum, of the [[Basileia|City of Locks]] travelled to Anvil with a message just a week before the Summer Solstice. It appears that Iontach ''Miniog'' wishes to defect, referencing a cousin living in luxury in Apulian. They have arranged for their mercenary band to accompany them into Kallavesa under the understanding that they are going to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. From discussion with the herald, [[League_Egregore|Guise]] believes they would certainly be able to accept the oath of Meddool; if Meddool is able to be rescued they will be able to join the League.

The herald of the City of Locks, therefore, offers the following contract to '''Theowold Vakarsson''', the Grimnir of Wittal Grove:

Escort the Iontach to Anvil a free orc. In exchange, the Iontach will provide a sum of six thrones after the summit.<br>
The mercenary company should be defeated to ease the rescue of Meddool, but the company's continued survival is not a factor.<br>
Failure to secure the Iontach will see the mercenaries go ahead with raiding the Healing House, preventing the [[great work]] from providing herbs until after the Autumn Equinox 388YE.
<div style="float: left; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|width=300px}}</div>
===Arratan Surety (Estavus)===
<div {{float}}><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Arratan Surety'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Enterio, Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 250 thrones in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases white granite production of Arratan Gamble by five wains a season
* Increases upkeep of Arratan Gamble by three thrones a season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architect of Hammers has used their power to assess the Arratan Gamble'''
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have investigated and uncovered an opportunity to quarry the largest vein from the other side'''
The Architects of Iron and Stone were incredibly excited to receive their first assignment from the [[Architect of Hammers]]. The newly elected '''Edmundo of Damakan's forge''' wasted no time in setting them to work in assessing the [[Arratan Gamble]] in Enterio, [[Tassato]]. The Arratan Gamble works incredibly well, but there is always room for improvement! ''Architect Noether'' calculates that with the amount of wains that have already been quarried, there is enough in the ground for at least another two hundred years! ''Noether'' presents a plan for a small quarrying outpost, nothing too fancy, on the other side of the largest vein that will allow workers to come at it from the two best angles.

The "''Arratan Surety''", a mirthful jest at the name of the quarry, would increase the amount of white granite produced by the Bourse seat by five wains a season. It would have substantial initial costs, and the extra workers and gangers would see the upkeep increased by three thrones a season.

==Day==

===It is a Diamond (Sinokenon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SinokenonArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A disparate group are travelling to Anvil to speak to the Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch and possibly others'''
* '''They do not want to speak to the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'''
* '''The group aims to arrive just after six on Friday'''
Last summit, the Eternal [[Sinokenon]] declared that it was [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#The_Turning_of_the_Wheel_(Sinokenon)|engaging in an initiative]] to reach out to the foundation-stones of the Empire, to gauge receptiveness to Sinokenon's ideals and to send its ministers to attempt to combat what it believed to be misunderstandings as to the intentions and nature of the Turning Mirror. They duly arrived, bring with them pamphlets and small gifts for those they met.

Since the Spring Equinox, its heralds have been engaged in a similar campaign in many places across the Empire. While Diamondmind only enjoys [[alignment|neutrality]] - and hence does not have the unfettered access to the Empire enjoyed by those eternals who have the [[Conclave|Conclave's]] amity - there are many Day regios in the Empire to which its heralds have access, and no small number of individuals happy to assist them in their work. After all - Sinokenon has been on at worst distant and at times even somewhat gregarious terms with the Empire since its foundation! They are particularly prevalent in [[Urizen]], Varushka, and in the [[Skarsind|northernmost territory of the Unshackled]].

The greatest number of Apex Hyperion's heralds are seen across the spires of Urizen. The mountain nation is a particular favourite of That Which Lives In Its Name. It sees their pursuit of a perfect world as most pleasing, and approves of their structured, ordered way of life. The illuminates of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] have often enjoyed its favour - reportedly, the people of [[Tsark]], just a short distance across the mountain range, enjoy similar attentions.

In [[Varushka]], it has long been known as Silver Sovereign - a name that befits its status, perhaps, as a powerful and potentially dangerous supernatural entity, but one that can be bargained with. There are a number of vales, especially in the hills of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Wieliczka]], where Singular Point is sometimes consulted on matters of rulership. It has often expressed an approval of the vale as a unit of societal structure, because of the way the rule of boyars is born from strength but cannot rest on tyranny. A vale is a communal decision by a community to live in a place of order, separating themselves from the wilds.

It has looked with favour on the Imperial Orcs since their nation was formally founded. While the Way of Hierarchy is famously not one to deal with societies in the process of revolutionary change or great reform (and thus somewhat turned its face from the Empire during the years of the orc rebellion), it was in favour of the nascent nation once it was formally founded. Again, the ordered nature of legion life is something Tomorrow And Tomorrow greatly approves of and which it wishes to see prosper. The Unshackled also represent the Empire forgoing what it sees as the "irrationality" of forced slavery, though this is a somewhat abstruse and philosophical perspective which not every Imperial Orc is willing to hear. In recent years, apparently, it has also attempted to build a relationship with some of the Tamazi who dwell in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] - a relationship founded on a mutual dislike of the Axou.

Anyone who has spent time in the Empire in the past season, especially in these three nations or in any other part of the Empire where structure and order are prized, may choose to have met one of the heralds of Sinokenon. They will invariably have been polite and friendly, distributing copies of a curious pamphlet entitled [[:File:Sinokenon_and_You.pdf|Sinokenon and You]]. Any difficult questions on any topic will have been waved away - the heralds will have been clear that they are there primarily as messengers, and to learn.

It seems that they have indeed learned something - and it is not to their liking. As the Summer Solstice draws near, rumours begin to spread - in part carried by the heralds of Friend Of All - that the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] nurses a strong animosity to Sinokenon. The eternal grows concerned they are planning to bring the enmity of the Conclave down upon Sinokenon.

Whether this is true or not is hard to say. It is clear, however, that it causes the heralds some distress. They are not alone, however - for the Argent Mantra is not without mortal supporters - allies the eternal has patiently cultivated over the years. Representatives from the [[illuminate|illuminates]] of [[Zenith]], the vales of Wieliczka, and the [[Tamazi]] of Gildenheim are seen making their way to Anvil. Apparently they intend to arrive as soon as they can - perhaps a little after the sixth hour of the evening on the Friday - and intend to lobby to ensure that their relationship with That Which Lies Above All is not disrupted.

They particularly want to speak to the Grandmaster of the [[Celestial Arch]], who apparently they are assuming will naturally take their side in this matter, but are happy to speak to any grandmaster ''except'' that of the Sevenfold Path, who, if rumour is indeed to believed, has made up her mind already. They will have just a few hours until the Conclave begins, and the truth (or otherwise) of these rumours are known.

===Eclectic Eye (Kimus)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Kimus has announced that with the help of Imperial citizens, it has completed a means to safely scry upon the actions of Cold Sun.'''
* '''It informs the Conclave that it shall use this tool, the ''Corlucis'', to provide information on what it perceives.'''
Robed in purest white, its garb edged in [[weltsilver|weltsilver thread]], a [[Kimus#Viziers|Vizier]] of [[Kimus|''the Thousand Eyes of Sun and Moon'']] unfolds at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds like the opening of an eye. Those who are subjected to its stare feel the force of its ruby-coloured gaze as it communicates with language both scant yet heavily freighted with meaning. It explains that through the prescient sacrifice of ''The Circle of Enduring Wisdom'' and incisive action of those Imperial heroes that braved the dangers of [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Staring_at_the_Sun_(Kimus)|''Terminus Sol'']] the '''''Corlucis''''' has been assembled. This arcane tool now permits ''She Who Watches'' to scrutinise and observe the poisoned light of the regio, to understand it and through understanding gain foresight over the machinations of [[Cold Sun|Cold Sun]], the entity that poisoned it.

At this last pronouncement, the herald almost appears to express something other than scholarly focus. Whether it is a satisfied twitch of its lips or a slight pursing before it continues, it soon resumes its lecture. As was agreed, the Corlucis shall also be used to provide the [[Conclave|Conclave]] forewarning on the actions of Cold Sun. While at present, ''the Celestial Eye'' might only discern the largest of motions within the light it sees that in time that it will achieve a greater degree of acuity in its peering. The herald falls silent with the final assertion that the Empire has opened a new eye towards the future. With a final, appraising glance about the chamber, the herald is gone in a blink of light.

===Silence in the Library (Phaleron)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''An attendant of Phaleron will be arriving at 18:00 on Saturday to hand an arcane projection to ''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian'''''
* '''They request the presence of the Archmage of Day, the Emissary to the Celestial Library, and/or a Grandmaster'''
The Conclave has [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Acceptance:_Phaleron_and_Phoebus_Al-Pulpi|made their decision]] regarding [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dying_Night|what to do]] about the [[Redoubt#Tower_of_Light_and_Shadow|Tilphussian Reach]] following its ruin at the hands of the Grendel. A deal offered and accepted, the [[Phaleron|Archives of Silence]] are bound to fulfil their part of the bargain; provision of the Arcane Projection to Entreat with Al-Pulpi to the raising magician.

This does not mean at all that the ''Coral Library'' does not have some concerns. Given recent revelations to the Conclave, it is rather worried about handing over this very special bit of magic to someone with the surname "Vicente". The [[Whisper_Gallery|Whisper Gallery]] are the natural enemy of the ''Celestial Library'', as they are of all thinking beings. In any case, while Phaleron is definitely going to hand it over, a herald has shown up to the [[civil service]] to ask if the [[Archmage of Day]], [[Emissary to the Celestial Library]] and/or a [[Grandmaster]] might consider being present to the trade off to make sure that everything is done "in the light".

The attendant in charge of the projection is scheduled to arrive in the Hall of Worlds to hand it off to '''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian''' at 18:00 on Saturday of the Summer Solstice.

==Night==
===Fire, Fury, and Flame (Janon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Janon has been placed under enmity by the conclave'''
* '''Janon seems to be enthused by this change in the Empire's passions'''
* '''Armed bands of heralds have entered Ossium and Sarangrave and are promising to curse both territories unless they are stopped'''

''The Shadowed Flame'' is a mercurial being at the best of times. Embodying fire and passion in all things, zie cares little for the difference between love and hate. As such, conclave's declaration of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] has not had the chastening effect on him that might have been hoped for. As spring shades into summer, small bands of armed heralds march across the borders of [[Ossium]] and [[Sarangrave]]. Both of them begin spreading the message to any people that they can find. ''Tinder-of-Anarchy'', who is well pleased with her new titles, is overjoyed that it gets to experience the Empire's rage and hatred. Less than a year ago ''Blasphemy's Matchmaker'' asked to be brought tales of [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Affection_and_Animosity_(Janon)|beloved rivals]], those who are implacably set against one another yet who are bonded closer than any friends might be. Hopefully the Empire will embrace this new relationship just as much as Janon has.

Thus, the heralds issue their challenges. The ones they have called out will bring forces to fight against them, or else to celebrate with them, or perhaps both. They shall match blades and hearts in the eternal contest of passion. Then, if the heralds are alive at the end of it, they will go to the nearest Night regio and immolate themselves. Once that is done, Janon's power will be invoked and the territory will be place under a "blessing", bringing the "blessing" of [[Unfettered Anarchy]] to those who dwell there.

Scouts indicate that these heralds, despite being lightly armoured, seem to be possessed of immense reserves of [[Heroic_skills|heroic spirit]], and that some among them seem to be capable of inflicting Unfettered Anarchy on people with as much ease as any [[Magical_skills#Battle_Mage|battle mage]] delivering a spell of their own.

====Fire The Forests (Ossium)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Ossium'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Shadowed Torchbearer'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}

Upon marching over the border from the [[Forest of Ulnak]], the heralds made their reasons for choosing this place perfectly clear. Ossium is the home territory of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]], the one who conclave selected to promote passion within the Empire and to stand between them and ''the Muse of Fire''. Let Vellenka Vanyanova come to face them, and show where her passions truly lie! Soldiers from the resupplying Gryphon's Pride attempt to catch the heralds and finish the matter quickly, but the heralds run fast and do not allow themselves to be caught. They will be faced by the one of their choosing, or they will not be caught at all.

Grudgingly accepting that the best thing they can do is inform the proper authorities, the scouts of the Gryphon's Pride pass on that the heralds keep returning to the Burned Glade in Echofell. It is the responsibility of '''Vellenka Vanyanova''', the Shadowed Torchbearer, to resolve the situation before any harm can be caused. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Ossium with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

====Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The path to Sarangrave is considerably shorter for the heralds of ''Whirling Chaos'', as they emerge from a regio over the border in [[Axos]], where the enmity of the [[Conclave]] has no effect. Once in Imperial territory, they begin to call out the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Elegabla brought this declaration against ''the Voice of Zorech'', and they are overjoyed to witness the passion of the Urizeni. "Come fight us, sword scholar," they cry, "as your loathed founder once fought the Highborn!" Nobody bothers trying to explain to them that the sword scholars have splintered. It does not seem likely that they would listen.

The heralds have taken the field around Slow Worm's Hill in Kroll. It is the responsibility of '''Elagabala''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, to prevent any explosions of undirected passion. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Sarangrave with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Vaurshka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

===Enlightenment (Azoth)===
* '''During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Night vacated their post.'''
* '''Azoth believes that their absence has had an unwanted effect on the plenipotentiary they offered.'''
* '''Azoth invites the next Archmage of Night to investigate uncompensated musicians their predecessor was charged with arranging and to suggest a boon for those who could not attend.'''

[[EmpireWiki:Azoth#Heralds|''Distillations'']] of [[EmpireWiki:Azoth|''the Azoth'']] emerge from the Imperial Regio clad in fur and feathers of swirling ochre, shimmering jade and shifting red. Resembling [[EmpireWiki:Kallavesi|Kallavesi]] [[EmpireWiki:Mystic|mystics]] though bearing an orcish mein, the heralds are at first mistaken for unannounced [[EmpireWiki:Jotun|Jotun]] emissaries. If the visitors have an opinion on this reaction, it is well hidden beneath a cool, almost inert demeanour.

Once the matter is resolved, the agents of ''the Rebis'' explain the purpose of their visit: that the Azoth understands that during the spring equinox the [[EmpireWiki:Archmage_of_Night#Recent Elections|Archmage of Night]] was extracted from their role and so, by extension from the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|crucible of change offered as plenipotentiary]]. With the formula so adjusted, the heralds continue, it seems that impurities did arise from the mix which diminished the whole.

The most polluting of these is that the Archmage was charged by [[EmpireWiki:Sung|Sung]] to instil mystery into the [[EmpireWiki:Key_of_dreams#Finder%20of%20Paths%20Unseen%20(Night)|Shadow Souk]] through the commissioning of musicians. Azoth knows that musicians did play within the chamber and that their playing did indeed serve as a suitable catalyst. However, it is not clear whether these elements were properly compensated for their aural alchemy with gifts provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' to the Archmage for this purpose. ''The Great Work'' has offered to provide the [[Maestro]] of the [[Cat's Graces]] a lump sum of twenty [[crystal fire]] if they're willing to promise to ensure it goes to those musicians who attended. If they are willing to agree to this, they should cast [[operate portal]] on the regio at the Summer Solstice, using three names of the ''Rebis'' and agreeing to the arrangement.

==Spring==

===Do Some Harm (Arhallogen)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Centipede General.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''There is an opportunity to kill a significant number of Grendel'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for poisoning the Grendel'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Last season, the eternal [[Arhallogen]] made a [[Key_of_dreams#Sharp_Fangs_Behind_The_Leaves_(Spring)|series of offers]] to the Imperial Conclave in order to help them avoid, in its eyes, a steep decline into disaster. To the great surprise of the ''Centipede General'', it was none other than the [[Silver Chalice]] who accepted its offer of a boon to kill a significant number of [[Grendel]], if they were willing to put the nefarious [[Ossegrahn]] under Enmity. Perhaps, says the ''Envenomed Blade'', they misunderstood the [[Silver Chalice]]. To value ones own lives and the lives of ones allies by ruthlessly killing those who would threaten them is indeed a philosophy she can align herself with. When one commits to ''"Ensure that Conclave is reminded of the value of life, and that it makes decisions with that value in mind"'', perhaps this means understanding the value in taking life from their foes? Yes, yes, this will do indeed.

The ''Maw-of-Spikes'' has located an encampment of the marines from the Grendel navy, the Golden Winds, based downstream from a potent Spring regio that provides it with unnaturally clear water. Such places were rare in [[Mareave]] until recently, and it is no surprise that the orcs of the Broken Shore would set up a camp there to take advantage of it. The ''Shadow Blade'' has a simple offer for the Silver Chalice; all they have to do is curse someone with [[Curse of Gangrenous Flesh]] where the ritualists have [[Regio#Using_Regio|drawn]] on the regio and invoke three of Arhallogen's names. This will corrupt the regio and poison the supply of the Grendel Encampment. While they will eventually realise and move on, they will take five hundred casualties before the source of their woes is identified. The regio is not untended, but to sweeten the deal, ''Many Move as One'' will send her heralds to neutralise them before the Grandmaster or her representatives arrive.

The conjunction to the Golden Wind's encampment will be at 15:45 on Saturday, and the [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]], '''Fausta Ankarien''', will be responsible for ultimately poisoning the Grendel.

==Winter==
===A Varushkan goes to War (Surut)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Surut001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Surut is impressed by the orders of the general of the Northern Eagle and offers a boon'''
* '''He is happy to offer similar aid to other generals as well, if they wish the help of the Burnt Prince'''
The [[Surut|''Charred Prince'']] rarely gives much attention to the pontification of wizards and their ever-increasing esoteric arcane musings, he is far more interested in the people who actually get things done and get their hands dirty. Specifically, the generals and heroes of the Empire. Recently, he has been eagerly following the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Northern_Eagle|adventures of General '''Aksel Reznov Razoradze''']] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]].

While he nominally favours the Druj in the conflict, he has been savouring their desperation and exacting greater and greater tribute for his continued support. He has no particular preference to whether they survive being crushed between the Empire and the [[Thule]]. Should the General invoke the name of the ''Burnt Steward'' in their orders the next time that the [[Northern Eagle]] infiltrate Sanath, he will intercede to help find opportunities for them to engage in further acts of arson if they so choose.

The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information to Jorgen at the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] reminds him that the ''Raging Inferno'' is perfectly happy to offer his aid to other members of the [[Military Council]] as well. Should they seek his aid, they have to impress him in the orders they submit. Provided they draw his attention by including his name in their orders, he will pay attention and offer help to those who have shown they deserve it.

===Call to Arms (Tharim)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tharim 001.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A legion of Thairm's Ashen Knights has travelled to Karov'''
* '''The legion intends to remain there for the foreseeable future'''
The mood of [[Tharim]] is wroth this season. His chosen has stepped down, and both Skathe and Surut continue to be welcomed by the Conclave, even if they do not enjoy its friendship as he does. The only light in the twilight of his dark halls is the fate of Jem Bribban. It is apt, then, that the mood of the Ashen Knights is similar. They arrive in Karov a month before the Summer Solstice and by the time of the summit have established a camp just outside of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Vorota]].

Why they are here, however, is beyond anyone's guess. A few volhovs on their way from Delev tried to discuss it with them, but were unable to get much beyond stoic, monosyllabic answers. Why the Ashen Knights are here, and why ''now'', is anyone's best guess. If the notoriously vindictive eternal's mood is souring, it does not bode well. Tharim can be a powerful ally to his friends, but a bitter enemy to those he believes have wronged him or failed to give him his due.

===The Beast Below (Agramant)===
{{SOP|statement=Agramant has sent his servants to 'aid' Imperial citizens abandoned in Therunin. This must shame us. Highguard cannot tolerate a monster such as the Abominable One being seen as a rescuer while the Empire's own people suffer. Highguard has chapters, military units, congregations, physicks, priests, pilgrims, the Unconquered and more. We can send virtuous aid where aid is desperately needed. So let Highguard act! Let our citizens escort the refugees and support the healers of High Chalcis, while our chapters and military units aid the Navarri in escaping Therunin. The hungry, frightened, and desperate must find Imperial support. We will deny Agramant the worship of desperation. Only actions are virtuous. If we would calls ourselves guardians of the Empire's soul, then we must prove it where that soul is endangered.|by=Synchar of Ebon's Hall, Highguard National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The eternal Agramant is preying on those fleeing Therunin - offering them aid, and interdicted means for any to contact him for thanks or further 'help'. Those he preys on feel they are alone. That he is the only place they can turn. Along with Navarri guides, we call on Loyalty dedicants to travel to the places these Navarri refugees gather. We must prove to them they are not alone, and show them what loyalty is, and what it is not.|by=Neri of Ebon's Hall, Loyalty Assembly|vote=306-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The refugees of Therunin are being manipulated by Agramant into believing he is their only option for help. He targets those who are weak and alone, and seeks to gain access to their spirits and our nation. We call upon Navarr to remind these refugees we are here and we support them. Open your doors if you can and stop Agramant from targetting those in need.|by=Xandor Trodbroker, Navarr National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 256-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
The Imperial Synod, including a [[general]] of an Imperial [[army]] has had a great deal to say about [[Agramant|Agramant's]] offers of help in [[Therunin]] in recent months. To this, it pointedly says that it is materially helping the Navarri reclaim what is rightfully theirs and fulfil their ancient oaths, ''while the Empire is not''. The Military Council is welcome to take over and fulfil their promises to the people of Navarr any time they so choose by sending in the full might of Imperial steel, Agramant will not stop them.

In the meantime, it sees no reason not to continue as it has been doing and showing it it is truly the ''Friend of the Forgotten''. Wherever the Empire has abandoned people. Wherever it has allowed innocents to suffer. Wherever it has broken trust. Agramant will be there to pick up the pieces - to bear the burden that the Empire finds too heavy to shoulder.

While many have fled to Reikos, some Navarri who have stayed, chosen to side with the ''Wastewalker'' to reclaim their homes from the Druj and continue to fulfil their oath in combatting the power of the vallorn of Tharunind. One such individual is Dochas of the Weeping Glade, who claims to take inspiration from Gobaith of Summer's Grove reborn. They have managed to form a settlement of survivors in the nominally Druj-controlled territory and, with Agramant's aid, wishes to take back Therunin for the Navarr whether the Military Council chooses to help them or not.

This downtime (and perhaps for the foreseeable future) any Navarri military unit can take the '''Reconquer Therunin''' campaigning venture, which will cause their unit to join Dochas and with his followers and heralds of Agramant, begin to retake a region from the Druj. A standard military unit will receive two pawns of Heart's Blood for their aid, with upgraded or enchanted Military Units receiving proportionally more. As long as at least ten military units take this action, it will also be available next season and Agramant will do whatever it takes to ensure the settlement survives.

This venture appears to be completely illegal, and anyone who takes part is almost certainly going to face execution by the magistrates for working hand in glove with a forbidden eternal. Agramant does not wish to sow suspicion or concern among the Empire, so the names of every citizen from Anvil who takes part will be known. The Howler understands that they risk death at the hands of the Empire for trying to fulfil their oaths and save their fellow Navarri, but is determined that the names of those prepared to sacrifice themselves in this way should not go unrecorded. Sacrifice is the Pride of the Navarr after all.

While the Synod itself may have spoken out against Agramant's actions, the Voice of the Pines believe that in her heart, the [[Emperor Vesna|Empress of the Hearth]] surely appreciates its struggle to aid her subjects. Should she mention him or [[Therunin]] ''in any capacity'' in her next imperial address, he has let it be known that he will take that as a sign that she approves of his aid to her citizens, and will send even more heralds to aid in the campaign there.

===Light at the End (Khobel Tavah)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
In the months following the Spring Equinox, the Imperial Regio is once more subject to the ghastly presence of the Speaker for the Drowned, the herald of Khobel Tavah who takes the form of a drowned Highborn sailor. This dolorous figure, whose every movement is accompanied by the ringing of bells, makes its way to the Civil Service hub once invited into Anvil. It seems it has more messages from Old Tom Flotsam and Mary Bitters to deliver.

Firstly, regarding the ''lost flotsam'' that is Eilian Sweetwater. It does not intend to repeat its warnings of ''jetsam'' uttered in darkness to the Empire's keepers of wreck. However, it wants to make quite clear the state of Eilian. The medicaments offered for him granted a temporary release from the ''suspension in terror'' that Eilian is undergoing - but it was only temporary. He has proven unusually resilient - the Speaker makes clear that ''Harbinger'' in particular is impressed at a mortal whose mind can withstand her abyssal salt to such a degree. If the Conclave chooses to claim its ''lost flotsam'' and with it the ''jetsam'' at the Summer Solstice, the Speaker believes Eilian will be able to return to work within the season.

However, if the Conclave tarries longer, then the mind of the Empire's resolute servant will, says the Speaker, surely begin to fray. The ''Prophet of the Last Light'' has seen this in omens and visions - no mortal can withstand immersion in abyssal salt forever. If they wait until the Autumn Equinox, then Eilian will require at least a season of recovery before he returns to work. If they wait until Winter, he will need a year or more of recovery. Beyond that he will be broken: in mind if not in body. He will, of course, survive if they tarry longer - but he will never be in a position to serve the Empire again. Salt preserves the body - but the spirit's light eludes even the touch of Tideless Scream.

Secondly, the Speaker wants to reiterate another offer. Two summits ago Khobel Tavah sent their Lighthouse-Keeper to speak with the people of the Empire to offer aid to the Empire in the building of lighthouses. Specifically, Fear Death By Water offered, via their Keeper, an Everlasting Flame. This light, made from ghostfire of the Winter Realm, would never go out so long as the lighthouse in which it is placed stands. This could be either a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Warning_Light|lighthouse]], a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Welcoming_Beacon|great lighthouse]], or another commission to build a lighthouse arising as the result of an opportunity.

If Khobel Tavah ever became aware of any doom that would otherwise befall the territory where it was placed then it would send grim omens that portended the coming disaster. The flame would also gather to it the spirits of the restless dead. This would give the region the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted quality]]. The ghosts would not be hostile - in the [[opportunity|right situation]] they might even be bargained with to aid the Empire.

The Speaker for the Drowned believes that the Empire may have selected Rebekah's Leap in [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]] as the location for the Everlasting Flame. This is well, though they may wish to wait for the return of their ''lost flotsam'' as plans for the Lighthouse at Nikephoros would probably combine well with any planned lighthouse in the same region. However, Foretold-by-Bells does require that the Conclave announce a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] to name the commission where the ghostfire will be housed. The commission would not need to be finished, but it would need to be begun, and consent to place the Everlasting Flame within the lighthouse would have to be provided as part of the necessary details.

==Summer==
===The Long Game (Jaheris)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=JaherisArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Jaheris wishes to encourage ambition amongst newcomers to Anvil'''
* '''One of his heralds will meet with some newcomers, chosen by egregores'''
The [[Jaheris|Moonsilver Prince]] has made an offer to the egregores of each of the ten nations; he has provided them with a badge and charged them to give it to a member of their nation who is new(er) to Anvil and who they see as a citizen of great promise. They will be invited to a meeting with the ''Argent Preceptor'', one of the heralds of the ''Unicorn King'' charged with encouraging new talent to pursue and achieve their ambitions. Under his previous guise, this might be rather concerning, yet the [[Jaheris#A_New_Demesne|new face of Jaheris]] seems far more trustworthy. As far as eternals go, of course.

The Preceptor will meet with the candidates at the standing stones at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds at 12:45 on the Saturday of the Summer Solstice. From there, they will be taken through the Hall of Worlds to a specially prepared chamber to discuss what ambitious schemes they might be interested in pursuing at Anvil.

===The Greatest Prize (Rhianos)===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Cede Tournament Grounds of Laroc'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|Concedence]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Cedes the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to [[Rhianos]]
* Removes the investment in businesses in Astolat
* Increases investment in military units in Astolat
* Military units in Astolat engaging in a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs can be covered by treasure at the Stone of Thonkilch</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Rhianos has asked for the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to be ceded to them'''
* '''If the Tournament Grounds are ceded to Rhianos then the eternal will grant his favour to the Eastern Sky'''
Originally [[Down_the_cavalier_road|proposed]] almost four years ago, the quest of the [[Eastern Sky]] has seen wondrous works of magic, grand challenges completed, and great statues raised. ''[[Rhianos|Shimmergold]]'' is open about their willingness to accept a similar statue to that built for [[Cathan Canae]], but the Grand Tour has enticed ''Coruscating Oarfish''. What then, could ''Seadragon'' wish for?

The answer, it turns out, is quite simple. The ''Auspicious Mariner'' wants the [[Astolat#Laroc|tournament grounds of Laroc]]. The ''King of the Nine Tides'' will send his heralds through to ready those daring knights and knights-errant who are readying to go on a [[Venture#Questing_Ventures|quest]] or even a [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures|raid]]. They will be offered help, advice, or even simply a refreshing drink that encourages the pursuit of adventure. Any Dawnish [[military unit]] in Astolat that undertakes either a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings.

Of course, nothing is simple when it comes to the denizens of the realms. The [[business]] owners of the territory will no longer receive a share of the profits brought in by the tourneys. Instead, those proceeds would go towards mending and repairing the arms, legs, arms, and armour of those adventuring over the horizon. In order for this to work, ''Lightning Fish'' will need to have the Tourney Grounds ceded to it. If it were as simple as sending heralds to go and encourage good Dawnish folks, then they wouldn't need to ask. Indeed, several heralds of ''Lady Gullscry'' already visit the tourney grounds, albeit in (very bad) disguises.

Such an act will require the Senate to vote to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|cede]] the great work to the eternal. Separately, ''Swoopingfeather'' has a further request for the people of Dawn, and specifically the incumbent General of the [[Eastern Sky]]...

====Oddities (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Druj are trying to sacrifice treasure to Agramant in exchange for aid in the Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''General of the Eastern Sky'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for recovering the treasure'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
''Swoopingfeather'' warns that the Druj are well on their way to sacrificing the treasure to [[Agramant|Ropebiter]] in Sarangrave. The herald of Leaf-on-the-Breeze provides enthralling detail, the Druj ''Het Tavix Boneshaver'' must ensure that the Stone of Thonkilch, and the treasure placed there, remain undisturbed for a full week. They will have almost finished their vigil by the start of the summit, and it will end by the stroke of midnight on the first night. There is a chance then, for the General of the Eastern Sky and their allies to prove their mettle and disrupt the Druj.

'''Dame Aurum De Castellan''', the incumbent [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]], is charged by ''Swoopingfeather'' to take their allies and travel to the Turan Flats, disrupt the Druj efforts and recover the treasure. If the Druj retain the treasure, then [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|creatures]] of ''Brokenhull'' will enter the region. They won't prove a threat to armies, but it would require some opportunity to remove them and would be yet [[Everything is trying to kill us|another problem]] for those trying to settle Sarangrave. If the treasure can be recovered, then it will take central pride of place in the tourney grounds. And if it can't, then ''Flyingfish'' will keep looking for another piece of treasure that can be recovered from dangerous enemies...

The keys of blood

2026-07-22T15:46:08Z

Apoth: /* Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Marginalia in London, British Library, Harley MS 2433, fol. 82r.png|align=right|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
__TOC__
Six [[Realms|realms of magic]] align with the mortal world, whose [[Inhabitants of the realms|inhabitants]] are fundamentally different to the people of the mortal world and yet, to a degree, share some of their concerns. They are both complex and simple at the same time, seeking to change the world to match their perception of how it should work. They bargain and negotiate, threaten and cajole, and while it can be difficult to predict exactly where their gifts or curses might lead, still they have much to offer.

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

It is a rare season that passes without an eternal, or a handful, seeking to influence the Empire. There are other winds of fortune that speak of different situations. The responses to the [[archmage#plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missives of the Archmages from this season is covered in the '''[[Ambassadors of death]]''' wind of fortune, while {{TBC}} deals with magic of an astronomantic, mortal, or mysterious provenance.

==Autumn==
===An Unexpected Ally (Basileia)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=City of Locks.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A Grendel mercenary company are threatening the Grove of Wittal'''
* '''The Grendel leader wishes to defect but can't do it openly'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grimnir of Wittal Grove'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for defeating the Grendel and potentially rescue the Iontach'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
Organising and funding Grendel mercenary groups is a challenging market. With the chaotic presence of the wreckers, naval superiority in the Bay of Catazar isn’t a given for fledgling mercenary companies. Enterprising mercenary paymasters have, in recent years and with encouragement from their [[Asavea|allies]], started to probe other waters for opportunity. The Gullet passes from the Sea of Snow past Jotun shores to the very heart of Kallavesa. One ship has managed to avoid the monsters of the Sea of Snow, the ships of the Fjorknae, and the Winterfolk and Marcher fleets to land close in [[Kallavesa#Wittal_Grove|Wittal Grove]]. Now, they march on Wittal itself, intent to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. However, Iontach ''Meddool Miniog'' has something even more audacious planned.

A representative of the Matchmaker's Forum, of the [[Basileia|City of Locks]] travelled to Anvil with a message just a week before the Summer Solstice. It appears that Iontach ''Miniog'' wishes to defect, referencing a cousin living in luxury in Apulian. They have arranged for their mercenary band to accompany them into Kallavesa under the understanding that they are going to raid the Healing House of Wittal Grove. From discussion with the herald, [[League_Egregore|Guise]] believes they would certainly be able to accept the oath of Meddool; if Meddool is able to be rescued they will be able to join the League.

The herald of the City of Locks, therefore, offers the following contract to '''Theowold Vakarsson''', the Grimnir of Wittal Grove:

Escort the Iontach to Anvil a free orc. In exchange, the Iontach will provide a sum of six thrones after the summit.<br>
The mercenary company should be defeated to ease the rescue of Meddool, but the company's continued survival is not a factor.<br>
Failure to secure the Iontach will see the mercenaries go ahead with raiding the Healing House, preventing the [[great work]] from providing herbs until after the Autumn Equinox 388YE.
<div style="float: left; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|width=300px}}</div>
===Arratan Surety (Estavus)===
<div {{float}}><table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Arratan Surety'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Enterio, Tassato</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 250 thrones in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Increases white granite production of Arratan Gamble by five wains a season
* Increases upkeep of Arratan Gamble by three thrones a season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Architect of Hammers has used their power to assess the Arratan Gamble'''
* '''The Architects of Iron and Stone have investigated and uncovered an opportunity to quarry the largest vein from the other side'''
The Architects of Iron and Stone were incredibly excited to receive their first assignment from the [[Architect of Hammers]]. The newly elected '''Edmundo of Damakan's forge''' wasted no time in setting them to work in assessing the [[Arratan Gamble]] in Enterio, [[Tassato]]. The Arratan Gamble works incredibly well, but there is always room for improvement! ''Architect Noether'' calculates that with the amount of wains that have already been quarried, there is enough in the ground for at least another two hundred years! ''Noether'' presents a plan for a small quarrying outpost, nothing too fancy, on the other side of the largest vein that will allow workers to come at it from the two best angles.

The "''Arratan Surety''", a mirthful jest at the name of the quarry, would increase the amount of white granite produced by the Bourse seat by five wains a season. It would have substantial initial costs, and the extra workers and gangers would see the upkeep increased by three thrones a season.

==Day==

===It is a Diamond (Sinokenon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SinokenonArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A disparate group are travelling to Anvil to speak to the Grandmaster of the Celestial Arch and possibly others'''
* '''They do not want to speak to the Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'''
* '''The group aims to arrive just after six on Friday'''
Last summit, the Eternal [[Sinokenon]] declared that it was [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#The_Turning_of_the_Wheel_(Sinokenon)|engaging in an initiative]] to reach out to the foundation-stones of the Empire, to gauge receptiveness to Sinokenon's ideals and to send its ministers to attempt to combat what it believed to be misunderstandings as to the intentions and nature of the Turning Mirror. They duly arrived, bring with them pamphlets and small gifts for those they met.

Since the Spring Equinox, its heralds have been engaged in a similar campaign in many places across the Empire. While Diamondmind only enjoys [[alignment|neutrality]] - and hence does not have the unfettered access to the Empire enjoyed by those eternals who have the [[Conclave|Conclave's]] amity - there are many Day regios in the Empire to which its heralds have access, and no small number of individuals happy to assist them in their work. After all - Sinokenon has been on at worst distant and at times even somewhat gregarious terms with the Empire since its foundation! They are particularly prevalent in [[Urizen]], Varushka, and in the [[Skarsind|northernmost territory of the Unshackled]].

The greatest number of Apex Hyperion's heralds are seen across the spires of Urizen. The mountain nation is a particular favourite of That Which Lives In Its Name. It sees their pursuit of a perfect world as most pleasing, and approves of their structured, ordered way of life. The illuminates of [[Zenith#Occursion|Occursion]] have often enjoyed its favour - reportedly, the people of [[Tsark]], just a short distance across the mountain range, enjoy similar attentions.

In [[Varushka]], it has long been known as Silver Sovereign - a name that befits its status, perhaps, as a powerful and potentially dangerous supernatural entity, but one that can be bargained with. There are a number of vales, especially in the hills of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Wieliczka]], where Singular Point is sometimes consulted on matters of rulership. It has often expressed an approval of the vale as a unit of societal structure, because of the way the rule of boyars is born from strength but cannot rest on tyranny. A vale is a communal decision by a community to live in a place of order, separating themselves from the wilds.

It has looked with favour on the Imperial Orcs since their nation was formally founded. While the Way of Hierarchy is famously not one to deal with societies in the process of revolutionary change or great reform (and thus somewhat turned its face from the Empire during the years of the orc rebellion), it was in favour of the nascent nation once it was formally founded. Again, the ordered nature of legion life is something Tomorrow And Tomorrow greatly approves of and which it wishes to see prosper. The Unshackled also represent the Empire forgoing what it sees as the "irrationality" of forced slavery, though this is a somewhat abstruse and philosophical perspective which not every Imperial Orc is willing to hear. In recent years, apparently, it has also attempted to build a relationship with some of the Tamazi who dwell in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] - a relationship founded on a mutual dislike of the Axou.

Anyone who has spent time in the Empire in the past season, especially in these three nations or in any other part of the Empire where structure and order are prized, may choose to have met one of the heralds of Sinokenon. They will invariably have been polite and friendly, distributing copies of a curious pamphlet entitled [[:File:Sinokenon_and_You.pdf|Sinokenon and You]]. Any difficult questions on any topic will have been waved away - the heralds will have been clear that they are there primarily as messengers, and to learn.

It seems that they have indeed learned something - and it is not to their liking. As the Summer Solstice draws near, rumours begin to spread - in part carried by the heralds of Friend Of All - that the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] nurses a strong animosity to Sinokenon. The eternal grows concerned they are planning to bring the enmity of the Conclave down upon Sinokenon.

Whether this is true or not is hard to say. It is clear, however, that it causes the heralds some distress. They are not alone, however - for the Argent Mantra is not without mortal supporters - allies the eternal has patiently cultivated over the years. Representatives from the [[illuminate|illuminates]] of [[Zenith]], the vales of Wieliczka, and the [[Tamazi]] of Gildenheim are seen making their way to Anvil. Apparently they intend to arrive as soon as they can - perhaps a little after the sixth hour of the evening on the Friday - and intend to lobby to ensure that their relationship with That Which Lies Above All is not disrupted.

They particularly want to speak to the Grandmaster of the [[Celestial Arch]], who apparently they are assuming will naturally take their side in this matter, but are happy to speak to any grandmaster ''except'' that of the Sevenfold Path, who, if rumour is indeed to believed, has made up her mind already. They will have just a few hours until the Conclave begins, and the truth (or otherwise) of these rumours are known.

===Eclectic Eye (Kimus)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Kimus001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Kimus has announced that with the help of Imperial citizens, it has completed a means to safely scry upon the actions of Cold Sun.'''
* '''It informs the Conclave that it shall use this tool, the ''Corlucis'', to provide information on what it perceives.'''
Robed in purest white, its garb edged in [[weltsilver|weltsilver thread]], a [[Kimus#Viziers|Vizier]] of [[Kimus|''the Thousand Eyes of Sun and Moon'']] unfolds at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds like the opening of an eye. Those who are subjected to its stare feel the force of its ruby-coloured gaze as it communicates with language both scant yet heavily freighted with meaning. It explains that through the prescient sacrifice of ''The Circle of Enduring Wisdom'' and incisive action of those Imperial heroes that braved the dangers of [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Staring_at_the_Sun_(Kimus)|''Terminus Sol'']] the '''''Corlucis''''' has been assembled. This arcane tool now permits ''She Who Watches'' to scrutinise and observe the poisoned light of the regio, to understand it and through understanding gain foresight over the machinations of [[Cold Sun|Cold Sun]], the entity that poisoned it.

At this last pronouncement, the herald almost appears to express something other than scholarly focus. Whether it is a satisfied twitch of its lips or a slight pursing before it continues, it soon resumes its lecture. As was agreed, the Corlucis shall also be used to provide the [[Conclave|Conclave]] forewarning on the actions of Cold Sun. While at present, ''the Celestial Eye'' might only discern the largest of motions within the light it sees that in time that it will achieve a greater degree of acuity in its peering. The herald falls silent with the final assertion that the Empire has opened a new eye towards the future. With a final, appraising glance about the chamber, the herald is gone in a blink of light.

===Silence in the Library (Phaleron)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Phaleron002.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''An attendant of Phaleron will be arriving at 18:00 on Saturday to hand an arcane projection to ''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian'''''
* '''They request the presence of the Archmage of Day, the Emissary to the Celestial Library, and/or a Grandmaster'''
The Conclave has [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Acceptance:_Phaleron_and_Phoebus_Al-Pulpi|made their decision]] regarding [[Flames_and_the_dark#The_Dying_Night|what to do]] about the [[Redoubt#Tower_of_Light_and_Shadow|Tilphussian Reach]] following its ruin at the hands of the Grendel. A deal offered and accepted, the [[Phaleron|Archives of Silence]] are bound to fulfil their part of the bargain; provision of the Arcane Projection to Entreat with Al-Pulpi to the raising magician.

This does not mean at all that the ''Coral Library'' does not have some concerns. Given recent revelations to the Conclave, it is rather worried about handing over this very special bit of magic to someone with the surname "Vicente". The [[Whisper_Gallery|Whisper Gallery]] are the natural enemy of the ''Celestial Library'', as they are of all thinking beings. In any case, while Phaleron is definitely going to hand it over, a herald has shown up to the [[civil service]] to ask if the [[Archmage of Day]], [[Emissary to the Celestial Library]] and/or a [[Grandmaster]] might consider being present to the trade off to make sure that everything is done "in the light".

The attendant in charge of the projection is scheduled to arrive in the Hall of Worlds to hand it off to '''Fiorente Vicente d'Apulian''' at 18:00 on Saturday of the Summer Solstice.

==Night==
===Fire, Fury, and Flame (Janon)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Janon002b.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Janon has been placed under enmity by the conclave'''
* '''Janon seems to be enthused by this change in the Empire's passions'''
* '''Armed bands of heralds have entered Ossium and Sarangrave and are promising to curse both territories unless they are stopped'''

''The Shadowed Flame'' is a mercurial being at the best of times. Embodying fire and passion in all things, zie cares little for the difference between love and hate. As such, conclave's declaration of [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] has not had the chastening effect on him that might have been hoped for. As spring shades into summer, small bands of armed heralds march across the borders of [[Ossium]] and [[Sarangrave]]. Both of them begin spreading the message to any people that they can find. ''Tinder-of-Anarchy'', who is well pleased with her new titles, is overjoyed that it gets to experience the Empire's rage and hatred. Less than a year ago ''Blasphemy's Matchmaker'' asked to be brought tales of [[Upon_a_midnight_dreary#Affection_and_Animosity_(Janon)|beloved rivals]], those who are implacably set against one another yet who are bonded closer than any friends might be. Hopefully the Empire will embrace this new relationship just as much as Janon has.

Thus, the heralds issue their challenges. The ones they have called out will bring forces to fight against them, or else to celebrate with them, or perhaps both. They shall match blades and hearts in the eternal contest of passion. Then, if the heralds are alive at the end of it, they will go to the nearest Night regio and immolate themselves. Once that is done, Janon's power will be invoked and the territory will be place under a "blessing", bringing the "blessing" of [[Unfettered Anarchy]] to those who dwell there.

Scouts indicate that these heralds, despite being lightly armoured, seem to be possessed of immense reserves of [[Heroic_skills|heroic spirit]], and that some among them seem to be capable of inflicting Unfettered Anarchy on people with as much ease as any [[Magical_skills#Battle_Mage|battle mage]] delivering a spell of their own.

====Fire The Forests (Ossium)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Ossium'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Shadowed Torchbearer'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}

Upon marching over the border from the [[Forest of Ulnak]], the heralds made their reasons for choosing this place perfectly clear. Ossium is the home territory of the [[Shadowed Torchbearer]], the one who conclave selected to promote passion within the Empire and to stand between them and ''the Muse of Fire''. Let Vellenka Vanyanova come to face them, and show where her passions truly lie! Soldiers from the resupplying Gryphon's Pride attempt to catch the heralds and finish the matter quickly, but the heralds run fast and do not allow themselves to be caught. They will be faced by the one of their choosing, or they will not be caught at all.

Grudgingly accepting that the best thing they can do is inform the proper authorities, the scouts of the Gryphon's Pride pass on that the heralds keep returning to the Burned Glade in Echofell. It is the responsibility of '''Vellenka Vanyanova''', the Shadowed Torchbearer, to resolve the situation before any harm can be caused. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Ossium with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

====Boil The Swamps (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Janon heralds are threatening to curse on Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for preventing the curse'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
The path to Sarangrave is considerably shorter for the heralds of ''Whirling Chaos'', as they emerge from a regio over the border in [[Axos]], where the enmity of the [[Conclave]] has no effect. Once in Imperial territory, they begin to call out the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Elegabla brought this declaration against ''the Voice of Zorech'', and they are overjoyed to witness the passion of the Urizeni. "Come fight us, sword scholar," they cry, "as your loathed founder once fought the Highborn!" Nobody bothers trying to explain to them that the sword scholars have splintered. It does not seem likely that they would listen.

The heralds have taken the field around Slow Worm's Hill in Kroll. It is the responsibility of '''Elagabala''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path, to prevent any explosions of undirected passion. If the heralds cannot be stopped, they will curse Sarangrave with one of Janon's "blessings" that promotes violent emotions run amok.

===Partners in Crime (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Whisper Gallery seeks communications from citizens of the Empire'''
* '''It is illegal to cast the ritual to communicate with the eternal as they under enmity'''
Similarly to [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Tyrannical_Discipline_(Whisper_Gallery)|last season]], individual members of the [[Whisper Gallery]] are petitioning imperial citizens to once again get in touch with them over matters that, while they may sound trivial, seem to be of great importance to them:

* The Vizier Arrayed in the Raiment of Dawn is interested in the advice that boyars and wise ones of [[Vaurshka]] might have for leaders both formal and cultural.
* The Lover Glad in Crimson is feeling a little down, and wishes to be cheered up by love stories with happy endings from any [[troubadour]] of [[Dawn]].

During the Summer Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both message and messenger into the performance will receive three crystal fire in thanks. Again, each person is limited to a single submission, but ritualists can help as many people as please them.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the boyar, wise one or troubador is a participant in the roleplay of the ritual (they do not need to be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]]). Both the performers and the poet should speak to either a referee at the regio tent or a member of the GOD staff after performing the ritual.

==Spring==

===Do Some Harm (Arhallogen)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Centipede General.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''There is an opportunity to kill a significant number of Grendel'''
* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for poisoning the Grendel'''
{{NoInnocentsPresent}}
Last season, the eternal [[Arhallogen]] made a [[Key_of_dreams#Sharp_Fangs_Behind_The_Leaves_(Spring)|series of offers]] to the Imperial Conclave in order to help them avoid, in its eyes, a steep decline into disaster. To the great surprise of the ''Centipede General'', it was none other than the [[Silver Chalice]] who accepted its offer of a boon to kill a significant number of [[Grendel]], if they were willing to put the nefarious [[Ossegrahn]] under Enmity. Perhaps, says the ''Envenomed Blade'', they misunderstood the [[Silver Chalice]]. To value ones own lives and the lives of ones allies by ruthlessly killing those who would threaten them is indeed a philosophy she can align herself with. When one commits to ''"Ensure that Conclave is reminded of the value of life, and that it makes decisions with that value in mind"'', perhaps this means understanding the value in taking life from their foes? Yes, yes, this will do indeed.

The ''Maw-of-Spikes'' has located an encampment of the marines from the Grendel navy, the Golden Winds, based downstream from a potent Spring regio that provides it with unnaturally clear water. Such places were rare in [[Mareave]] until recently, and it is no surprise that the orcs of the Broken Shore would set up a camp there to take advantage of it. The ''Shadow Blade'' has a simple offer for the Silver Chalice; all they have to do is curse someone with [[Curse of Gangrenous Flesh]] where the ritualists have [[Regio#Using_Regio|drawn]] on the regio and invoke three of Arhallogen's names. This will corrupt the regio and poison the supply of the Grendel Encampment. While they will eventually realise and move on, they will take five hundred casualties before the source of their woes is identified. The regio is not untended, but to sweeten the deal, ''Many Move as One'' will send her heralds to neutralise them before the Grandmaster or her representatives arrive.

The conjunction to the Golden Wind's encampment will be at 15:45 on Saturday, and the [[Silver Chalice|Grandmaster of the Silver Chalice]], '''Fausta Ankarien''', will be responsible for ultimately poisoning the Grendel.

==Winter==
===A Varushkan goes to War (Surut)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Surut001.png|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Surut is impressed by the orders of the general of the Northern Eagle and offers a boon'''
* '''He is happy to offer similar aid to other generals as well, if they wish the help of the Burnt Prince'''
The [[Surut|''Charred Prince'']] rarely gives much attention to the pontification of wizards and their ever-increasing esoteric arcane musings, he is far more interested in the people who actually get things done and get their hands dirty. Specifically, the generals and heroes of the Empire. Recently, he has been eagerly following the [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Military_Council_orders#Northern_Eagle|adventures of General '''Aksel Reznov Razoradze''']] in the [[Salt Flats of Sanath]].

While he nominally favours the Druj in the conflict, he has been savouring their desperation and exacting greater and greater tribute for his continued support. He has no particular preference to whether they survive being crushed between the Empire and the [[Thule]]. Should the General invoke the name of the ''Burnt Steward'' in their orders the next time that the [[Northern Eagle]] infiltrate Sanath, he will intercede to help find opportunities for them to engage in further acts of arson if they so choose.

The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information to Jorgen at the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] reminds him that the ''Raging Inferno'' is perfectly happy to offer his aid to other members of the [[Military Council]] as well. Should they seek his aid, they have to impress him in the orders they submit. Provided they draw his attention by including his name in their orders, he will pay attention and offer help to those who have shown they deserve it.

===Call to Arms (Tharim)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tharim 001.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''A legion of Thairm's Ashen Knights has travelled to Karov'''
* '''The legion intends to remain there for the foreseeable future'''
The mood of [[Tharim]] is wroth this season. His chosen has stepped down, and both Skathe and Surut continue to be welcomed by the Conclave, even if they do not enjoy its friendship as he does. The only light in the twilight of his dark halls is the fate of Jem Bribban. It is apt, then, that the mood of the Ashen Knights is similar. They arrive in Karov a month before the Summer Solstice and by the time of the summit have established a camp just outside of [[Karov#Wieliczka|Vorota]].

Why they are here, however, is beyond anyone's guess. A few volhovs on their way from Delev tried to discuss it with them, but were unable to get much beyond stoic, monosyllabic answers. Why the Ashen Knights are here, and why ''now'', is anyone's best guess. If the notoriously vindictive eternal's mood is souring, it does not bode well. Tharim can be a powerful ally to his friends, but a bitter enemy to those he believes have wronged him or failed to give him his due.

===The Beast Below (Agramant)===
{{SOP|statement=Agramant has sent his servants to 'aid' Imperial citizens abandoned in Therunin. This must shame us. Highguard cannot tolerate a monster such as the Abominable One being seen as a rescuer while the Empire's own people suffer. Highguard has chapters, military units, congregations, physicks, priests, pilgrims, the Unconquered and more. We can send virtuous aid where aid is desperately needed. So let Highguard act! Let our citizens escort the refugees and support the healers of High Chalcis, while our chapters and military units aid the Navarri in escaping Therunin. The hungry, frightened, and desperate must find Imperial support. We will deny Agramant the worship of desperation. Only actions are virtuous. If we would calls ourselves guardians of the Empire's soul, then we must prove it where that soul is endangered.|by=Synchar of Ebon's Hall, Highguard National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The eternal Agramant is preying on those fleeing Therunin - offering them aid, and interdicted means for any to contact him for thanks or further 'help'. Those he preys on feel they are alone. That he is the only place they can turn. Along with Navarri guides, we call on Loyalty dedicants to travel to the places these Navarri refugees gather. We must prove to them they are not alone, and show them what loyalty is, and what it is not.|by=Neri of Ebon's Hall, Loyalty Assembly|vote=306-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
{{SOP|statement=The refugees of Therunin are being manipulated by Agramant into believing he is their only option for help. He targets those who are weak and alone, and seeks to gain access to their spirits and our nation. We call upon Navarr to remind these refugees we are here and we support them. Open your doors if you can and stop Agramant from targetting those in need.|by=Xandor Trodbroker, Navarr National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 256-0|when=Spring 388YE|size=small}}
The Imperial Synod, including a [[general]] of an Imperial [[army]] has had a great deal to say about [[Agramant|Agramant's]] offers of help in [[Therunin]] in recent months. To this, it pointedly says that it is materially helping the Navarri reclaim what is rightfully theirs and fulfil their ancient oaths, ''while the Empire is not''. The Military Council is welcome to take over and fulfil their promises to the people of Navarr any time they so choose by sending in the full might of Imperial steel, Agramant will not stop them.

In the meantime, it sees no reason not to continue as it has been doing and showing it it is truly the ''Friend of the Forgotten''. Wherever the Empire has abandoned people. Wherever it has allowed innocents to suffer. Wherever it has broken trust. Agramant will be there to pick up the pieces - to bear the burden that the Empire finds too heavy to shoulder.

While many have fled to Reikos, some Navarri who have stayed, chosen to side with the ''Wastewalker'' to reclaim their homes from the Druj and continue to fulfil their oath in combatting the power of the vallorn of Tharunind. One such individual is Dochas of the Weeping Glade, who claims to take inspiration from Gobaith of Summer's Grove reborn. They have managed to form a settlement of survivors in the nominally Druj-controlled territory and, with Agramant's aid, wishes to take back Therunin for the Navarr whether the Military Council chooses to help them or not.

This downtime (and perhaps for the foreseeable future) any Navarri military unit can take the '''Reconquer Therunin''' campaigning venture, which will cause their unit to join Dochas and with his followers and heralds of Agramant, begin to retake a region from the Druj. A standard military unit will receive two pawns of Heart's Blood for their aid, with upgraded or enchanted Military Units receiving proportionally more. As long as at least ten military units take this action, it will also be available next season and Agramant will do whatever it takes to ensure the settlement survives.

This venture appears to be completely illegal, and anyone who takes part is almost certainly going to face execution by the magistrates for working hand in glove with a forbidden eternal. Agramant does not wish to sow suspicion or concern among the Empire, so the names of every citizen from Anvil who takes part will be known. The Howler understands that they risk death at the hands of the Empire for trying to fulfil their oaths and save their fellow Navarri, but is determined that the names of those prepared to sacrifice themselves in this way should not go unrecorded. Sacrifice is the Pride of the Navarr after all.

While the Synod itself may have spoken out against Agramant's actions, the Voice of the Pines believe that in her heart, the [[Emperor Vesna|Empress of the Hearth]] surely appreciates its struggle to aid her subjects. Should she mention him or [[Therunin]] ''in any capacity'' in her next imperial address, he has let it be known that he will take that as a sign that she approves of his aid to her citizens, and will send even more heralds to aid in the campaign there.

===Light at the End (Khobel Tavah)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
In the months following the Spring Equinox, the Imperial Regio is once more subject to the ghastly presence of the Speaker for the Drowned, the herald of Khobel Tavah who takes the form of a drowned Highborn sailor. This dolorous figure, whose every movement is accompanied by the ringing of bells, makes its way to the Civil Service hub once invited into Anvil. It seems it has more messages from Old Tom Flotsam and Mary Bitters to deliver.

Firstly, regarding the ''lost flotsam'' that is Eilian Sweetwater. It does not intend to repeat its warnings of ''jetsam'' uttered in darkness to the Empire's keepers of wreck. However, it wants to make quite clear the state of Eilian. The medicaments offered for him granted a temporary release from the ''suspension in terror'' that Eilian is undergoing - but it was only temporary. He has proven unusually resilient - the Speaker makes clear that ''Harbinger'' in particular is impressed at a mortal whose mind can withstand her abyssal salt to such a degree. If the Conclave chooses to claim its ''lost flotsam'' and with it the ''jetsam'' at the Summer Solstice, the Speaker believes Eilian will be able to return to work within the season.

However, if the Conclave tarries longer, then the mind of the Empire's resolute servant will, says the Speaker, surely begin to fray. The ''Prophet of the Last Light'' has seen this in omens and visions - no mortal can withstand immersion in abyssal salt forever. If they wait until the Autumn Equinox, then Eilian will require at least a season of recovery before he returns to work. If they wait until Winter, he will need a year or more of recovery. Beyond that he will be broken: in mind if not in body. He will, of course, survive if they tarry longer - but he will never be in a position to serve the Empire again. Salt preserves the body - but the spirit's light eludes even the touch of Tideless Scream.

Secondly, the Speaker wants to reiterate another offer. Two summits ago Khobel Tavah sent their Lighthouse-Keeper to speak with the people of the Empire to offer aid to the Empire in the building of lighthouses. Specifically, Fear Death By Water offered, via their Keeper, an Everlasting Flame. This light, made from ghostfire of the Winter Realm, would never go out so long as the lighthouse in which it is placed stands. This could be either a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Warning_Light|lighthouse]], a [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea#A_Welcoming_Beacon|great lighthouse]], or another commission to build a lighthouse arising as the result of an opportunity.

If Khobel Tavah ever became aware of any doom that would otherwise befall the territory where it was placed then it would send grim omens that portended the coming disaster. The flame would also gather to it the spirits of the restless dead. This would give the region the [[Region_qualities#Haunted|haunted quality]]. The ghosts would not be hostile - in the [[opportunity|right situation]] they might even be bargained with to aid the Empire.

The Speaker for the Drowned believes that the Empire may have selected Rebekah's Leap in [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]] as the location for the Everlasting Flame. This is well, though they may wish to wait for the return of their ''lost flotsam'' as plans for the Lighthouse at Nikephoros would probably combine well with any planned lighthouse in the same region. However, Foretold-by-Bells does require that the Conclave announce a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] to name the commission where the ghostfire will be housed. The commission would not need to be finished, but it would need to be begun, and consent to place the Everlasting Flame within the lighthouse would have to be provided as part of the necessary details.

==Summer==
===The Long Game (Jaheris)===
<div style="float: right; width: 175px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=JaherisArt.jpg|width=300px}}</div>
* '''Jaheris wishes to encourage ambition amongst newcomers to Anvil'''
* '''One of his heralds will meet with some newcomers, chosen by egregores'''
The [[Jaheris|Moonsilver Prince]] has made an offer to the egregores of each of the ten nations; he has provided them with a badge and charged them to give it to a member of their nation who is new(er) to Anvil and who they see as a citizen of great promise. They will be invited to a meeting with the ''Argent Preceptor'', one of the heralds of the ''Unicorn King'' charged with encouraging new talent to pursue and achieve their ambitions. Under his previous guise, this might be rather concerning, yet the [[Jaheris#A_New_Demesne|new face of Jaheris]] seems far more trustworthy. As far as eternals go, of course.

The Preceptor will meet with the candidates at the standing stones at the entrance to the Hall of Worlds at 12:45 on the Saturday of the Summer Solstice. From there, they will be taken through the Hall of Worlds to a specially prepared chamber to discuss what ambitious schemes they might be interested in pursuing at Anvil.

===The Greatest Prize (Rhianos)===
<div {{Float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Cede Tournament Grounds of Laroc'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type:''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|Concedence]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Cedes the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to [[Rhianos]]
* Removes the investment in businesses in Astolat
* Increases investment in military units in Astolat
* Military units in Astolat engaging in a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the start of the Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs can be covered by treasure at the Stone of Thonkilch</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Rhianos has asked for the Tourney Grounds of Laroc to be ceded to them'''
* '''If the Tournament Grounds are ceded to Rhianos then the eternal will grant his favour to the Eastern Sky'''
Originally [[Down_the_cavalier_road|proposed]] almost four years ago, the quest of the [[Eastern Sky]] has seen wondrous works of magic, grand challenges completed, and great statues raised. ''[[Rhianos|Shimmergold]]'' is open about their willingness to accept a similar statue to that built for [[Cathan Canae]], but the Grand Tour has enticed ''Coruscating Oarfish''. What then, could ''Seadragon'' wish for?

The answer, it turns out, is quite simple. The ''Auspicious Mariner'' wants the [[Astolat#Laroc|tournament grounds of Laroc]]. The ''King of the Nine Tides'' will send his heralds through to ready those daring knights and knights-errant who are readying to go on a [[Venture#Questing_Ventures|quest]] or even a [[Venture#Raiding_Ventures|raid]]. They will be offered help, advice, or even simply a refreshing drink that encourages the pursuit of adventure. Any Dawnish [[military unit]] in Astolat that undertakes either a questing or raiding venture will receive an additional 36 rings.

Of course, nothing is simple when it comes to the denizens of the realms. The [[business]] owners of the territory will no longer receive a share of the profits brought in by the tourneys. Instead, those proceeds would go towards mending and repairing the arms, legs, arms, and armour of those adventuring over the horizon. In order for this to work, ''Lightning Fish'' will need to have the Tourney Grounds ceded to it. If it were as simple as sending heralds to go and encourage good Dawnish folks, then they wouldn't need to ask. Indeed, several heralds of ''Lady Gullscry'' already visit the tourney grounds, albeit in (very bad) disguises.

Such an act will require the Senate to vote to [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|cede]] the great work to the eternal. Separately, ''Swoopingfeather'' has a further request for the people of Dawn, and specifically the incumbent General of the [[Eastern Sky]]...

====Oddities (Sarangrave)====
* '''A group of Druj are trying to sacrifice treasure to Agramant in exchange for aid in the Sarangrave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''General of the Eastern Sky'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for recovering the treasure'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
''Swoopingfeather'' warns that the Druj are well on their way to sacrificing the treasure to [[Agramant|Ropebiter]] in Sarangrave. The herald of Leaf-on-the-Breeze provides enthralling detail, the Druj ''Het Tavix Boneshaver'' must ensure that the Stone of Thonkilch, and the treasure placed there, remain undisturbed for a full week. They will have almost finished their vigil by the start of the summit, and it will end by the stroke of midnight on the first night. There is a chance then, for the General of the Eastern Sky and their allies to prove their mettle and disrupt the Druj.

'''Dame Aurum De Castellan''', the incumbent [[Eastern Sky|General of the Eastern Sky]], is charged by ''Swoopingfeather'' to take their allies and travel to the Turan Flats, disrupt the Druj efforts and recover the treasure. If the Druj retain the treasure, then [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Drudges|creatures]] of ''Brokenhull'' will enter the region. They won't prove a threat to armies, but it would require some opportunity to remove them and would be yet [[Everything is trying to kill us|another problem]] for those trying to settle Sarangrave. If the treasure can be recovered, then it will take central pride of place in the tourney grounds. And if it can't, then ''Flyingfish'' will keep looking for another piece of treasure that can be recovered from dangerous enemies...

This is the end

2026-07-21T23:47:10Z

Apoth:

[[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Winds of Fortune]]
<ic>
SCENE: A COURTYARD IN SHADOW. MUSIC PLAYS FAR AWAY. THEY SPEAK, FILLING THE COURTYARD WITH WHISPERS, THEIR VOICES GLITTERING LIKE GEMSTONES.

'''EMERALD VOICE:''' "Quite a shame, quite a shame. We did so like that city. Oh, waily waily, our house in ruins...! What a beautiful game it was, though - and such good sports all."

'''SAPPHIRE VOICE:''' "We shall return, perhaps, in a less fervent season? Though now it is under the cursed serpent's aegis... by the void and abyss, how I hate that cursèd songbird!"

'''RUBY VOICE:''' "All the more reason to skulk in secret, my dearest darling confidante. We'll find places, and people will whisper to us once more. The circle turns, and tickets are always on sale."

'''TOPAZ VOICE:''' "And what of the rest? The sloth? The hybrid? The chatterer? The firestorm? All in their tedium. They'll all be clamouring to be there now. Not to even speak of --"

'''SAPPHIRE VOICE:''' "-- don't you go on so, beloved. We were the first! First to notice the potential of the place, before the feathered bore stuck in her beak. Art is about getting everyone talking."

'''RUBY VOICE:''' "First to roost, and first to flee. Such is our lot. O, what an ill-fated star for the beloved of cats. Friendless, now, abandoned by our confidantes. Even dearest Teodore... even--"

'''EMERALD VOICE:''' "-- you know I heard the Barossa priest is to defend Bella Vicente. Rumour speaks, companions mine, that he does so out of an obligation we created - how exceptionally droll."

'''SAPPHIRE VOICE:''' "Ah, Asav. Pleasant, this time of year. Now there's a place that appreciates the value of intrigue. Not like these Catazarri secret-murderers, addicted to truth's dishonesty."

'''TOPAZ VOICE:''' "Or Jarm. Our friends in the Violet Forest have been saying we have been neglecting them. Though they keep busy anyway, I hear. There's always a way where there's a will."

'''EMERALD VOICE:''' "So we're agreed. A sojourn onwards to new retreats for this merry band of players and artists. We must prepare for the next debut. Where one curtain falls, after all, another rises."

THE FIGURES RETREAT FROM THE SHADOWS. A SMALL ALBINO KITTEN WANDERS OUT ONTO THE STAGE. IT LOOKS TOWARDS THE AUDIENCE. IT LOOKS AT YOU.

Letitia lowered the pages, trying to keep her face neutral, but Mario saw through her immediately. He jutted his jaw pugnaciously, and she could see him getting angry with her before she had even opened her mouth.

"Well?" He demanded. She tried to plaster a smile on her face but it wouldn't stick and slipped off, possibly because she had started to sweat.

"It's a bit... I mean it's very good obviously." The last bit was spoken very fast indeed because she'd noticed Mario had one hand on the pommel of the rod at his side. The playwright's days of fighting for the Conclave were past, but he kept the rod to remind people that as well as wrangling words he could still crack heads when the situation called for it.

"A bit what," he said, refusing to let it go.

"It's a bit... it's a bit.. <small>over the top?</small>"

Mario ripped the pages from her hands and threw them on the ground. The rest of the company turned to gawk, as actors are wont to do. Two of the stage hands took the opportunity to nip off for a quick break.

"FINE!" Mario shouted in a voice Letitia swore was making the rafter vibrate. He could project when he wanted to. "You ''wanted'' a play about the Whisper Gallery but I ''give'' you a play about the Whisper Gallery and what do you do? You ''criticise''! You throw it back in my face! ''You'' write a play that captures the enigmatic nature of the Lords of the Chiaroscuran Throne then! You clearly know what you want better than I do!" The playwright stormed out.

Letitia squeezed the bridge of her nose. She hated bringing the company to Spiral, because of exactly this kind of thing. What, she wondered - not for the first time - did the Black Plateau have against art?</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below.jpg|caption='''Sofonisba Amilcara''' is somehow the map to the City Below. Exactly what that means is... well, a mystery.|align=left|width=350}}</div>
==Overview==
The peculiar dramaturgic confluence that began in the city of Apulian more than a year ago, seems to have reached a crescendo. Against a backdrop of running battles in the Apulian streets between [[This is the end|strangely-coloured cats with mispaired eyes and songbirds with rainbow feathers]], a cadre of military units arrives in the city to help Sofonisba Amilcara "map the city below".

Apparently convinced that there is not enough Night magic running amok in the territory, someone has laid a powerful enchantment over the territory. It brings strange dreams that seem to be linked to ongoing events. Many people suddenly awaken from dreams in which they were part of the ongoing war, fighting as either a cat or a bird against the enemy trying to seize control of the city.

Despite the strangeness, most inhabitants of Spiral find sleep brings renewed optimism and vigour. The city is filled with a feverish energy, and on the lonely mountain slopes those that live there are filled with a new joy after many sorrows. Things live. This is an old place, with a history beyond imagining, and it seems impossible it could ever be abandoned, so tightly and beautifully does it command the heart of those who call it home.

==Talon and claw==
<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: right; margin: 15px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Great Eared-Nightjar.jpg|align=right|caption=The war between birds and cats is over, and the city echoes with birdsong.|width=450}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Rainbow cat.jpg|caption=The war between birds and cats is over, and the cats have decided they'd actually rather not live in the city any more thank you.|align=left|width=450}}</div>
</div>
* '''The war between the cats and the birds is over'''
* '''The birds have driven the cats out of the city'''
* '''Birdsong is now everywhere in Apulian, drowning out the emanations of the Black Plateau'''
* '''The penalty to League businesses from the Black Plateau will be drowned out for a season after the Summer Solstice'''
As the season wears on, the war for dominion in Apulian intensifies with open fighting on the streets between the two rivals gangs. The first major battle takes place on Mulberry Avenue; a large flock of common blackbirds are deployed to the area, but as soon as they alight on the walls and rooftops, they are set upon by a force of cats that are lying in wait for them. Like soldiers under [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], the cats are able to strike with perfect coordination, taking the enemy by surprise, killing two and driving the rest away. Days later a group of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nightjar nightjars] are attacked in the same way on Bleeker Street with similar results.

Despite this, it soon becomes clear that the cats are ''not'' winning. Eventually, the birds are able to arrange an ambush of their own. A group of cats surround a tiny thrush that appears to have recklessly alighted on a branch on the old yew tree outside the Lone Reveller, a well-regarded eatery on the city's central plaza. Cats converge on the bird from every side-street, but as they do a huge flock of birds of prey plummet from the sky. Amber hawks lancing down to the streets below, plummeting kites with beautiful argent feathers, diving merlins whose feathers bear the rune of wealth.

A battle royale takes place all across the plaza, but the cats are badly outnumbered and outmatched and they are routed in short order. From that point on, no cat is seen in the plaza, thereafter it is the secure demesne of beautiful songbirds. The pattern repeats all across the city and soon the cats are in full retreat. In dribs and drabs they flee the city, seeking refuge in the citadels and spires that still dot the hills and mountains of the territory. By the end of the season, there is not a single cat of any kind left in Apulian.

In their place, the city is filled with birds of every kind and colour imaginable. Most are flighty and wary of people, but the smaller ones come close if fed with seed. Their birdsong fills the city, countless beautiful songs, each one different to the last, are now audible on every street and avenue in the city. Those whose cats have fled mourn the loss of their pets, but the presence of the birds is so beneficial it is hard to be entirely disgruntled. Somehow, the birdsong it entirely drowns out the constant malevolence coming from the Black Plateau, leaving the city well-protected and serene.

The strangely coloured cats with the mispaired eyes have not quit the territory entirely. Every Urizeni spire, every Urizeni magician, has been approached by at least one of the odd cats, seeking adoption and shared cohabitation. Negotiations are opened with offers of dead mice, and the promise of a study completely free of flies and other insects. Despite the obvious concerns, all magical investigation reveals that while the cats are unusually clever and conspiratorial, and clearly touched by night magic, they are not otherwise marked by any connection to the realm or any one of its inhabitants. Any Urizeni magician who wishes, now has at least one cat whose fur is a single primary color, like a bright red or a deep green, with mispaired eyes. The cats are hard working, keeping spires clear of insects and vermin and they are all highly companionable. They clearly welcome human company and like to snuggle close when people are talking or otherwise engaged.

==Never follow me==
<div {{float}}>
<table class='wikitable mw-collapsed mw-collapsible sortable'><tr><th>Citizen</th><th>Banner</th><th>Nation</th></tr>
<tr><td>Alistair de Vere</td><td>House de Vere</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Alys de Vere</td><td>House de Vere</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>D'Eon</td><td>Anvil Lance</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Desmond Redbear Steward</td><td></td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Earl Enchanter Severin De Manticore</td><td></td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Evrard Taillier</td><td></td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lady Soleil-Jolie duLac</td><td>House duLac</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lerac Birdkeep</td><td></td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lord Bors "The Middle" du Merciel</td><td></td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Mirella of the Twisted Rose</td><td>Amber Lance</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Olwyn Pickle</td><td>Amber Lance</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Perrin Syrenus</td><td>House Syrenus</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ser Percival of de Licorne</td><td>House de Licorne</td><td>Dawn</td></tr>
<tr><td>Adrianna</td><td>Fellowship of the Cinion Dawn</td><td>Silver Flame</td></tr>
<tr><td>Caius</td><td>Fellowship of the Cinion Dawn</td><td>Silver Flame</td></tr>
<tr><td>Quintus</td><td>Fellowship of the Cinion Dawn</td><td>Silver Flame</td></tr>
<tr><td>Renata</td><td>Fellowship of the Cinion Dawn</td><td>Silver Flame</td></tr>
<tr><td>Carmine de Sarvos "Father"</td><td>The Printers' Guild</td><td>The League</td></tr>
<tr><td>Natalia 'The Falcon' Barossa</td><td>Company of The Red Fox</td><td>The League</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sofonisba Amilcara of the City Below</td><td></td><td>The League</td></tr>
<tr><td>Aella</td><td>Tropaion</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Althaea Sunshaper</td><td>Urizen, Whole</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Arephanes of Tropaion Citadel</td><td>Tropaion</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Argentus</td><td>The Wise Citadel</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Atreus</td><td>The Citadel of the Still Waters</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Cassian Highwind</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Corinthius</td><td>The Wise Citadel</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Cyrus</td><td>Urizen, Whole</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Cyrus Stillwater</td><td>The Citadel of the Still Waters</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Donato of the Crucible</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Fausta Ankarien</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Floria Sunshaper</td><td>Sunshaper Citadel</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Grakulus</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Halkyon of the Myriad Stream</td><td>The Banner of the Spiral Council</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Ignatious</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Linos</td><td>Urizen, Whole</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Magnus</td><td>Urizen, Whole</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Marcus</td><td>The Citadel of the Still Waters</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sabina</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Shibboleth Tziporah</td><td></td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Valerius</td><td>Urizen, Whole</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Varrus</td><td>Urizen, Whole</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Vespasian</td><td>Tropaion</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
<tr><td>Xanthippe Of the Lighthouse-That-Was</td><td>Arete's Promise</td><td>Urizen</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''Sofonisba Amilcara has successfully become the Map to the City Below'''
* '''The military units who assisted her have uncovered a lair under the dominion of the Whisper Gallery below the Vicente School and Orphanage'''
* '''The lair has been destroyed but the Whisper Gallery has stolen the Orphanage that was hiding it'''
* '''There was nobody in the Orphanage when it was stolen'''
* '''Sung has rewarded the Map to the City Below for their efforts'''
* '''There is a pack insert for everyone who took part in the venture that contains words that might describe their experience'''
<div style="float: right; max-width: 350px; margin-right: 10px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sung001b.JPG|width=350|align=right}}
{{HoverImage|WhisperGal004.png|width=350|WhisperGal005.png}}</div>
At the request of the [[Sung|Rainbow Serpent]], Sofonisba Amilcara - the magician the League Assembly has appointed to become the "Map to the City Below" - successfully arranged just under forty five military units to support their efforts to explore the the sewers and passageways that lie beneath the old city. Fears that the [[Whisper Gallery]] would find a way to hinder their efforts have proved unfounded and the force was more than enough to achieve the eternal's goals, whatever they might be. They haven't actually managed to produce a physical map that anyone can check - in fact many of the military units didn't actually seem to do anything other than spend long nights in deep slumber - but that's fine because there was already a perfectly practical map of the sewers anyway. And yet, and yet..

There were revelations at the recent summit of a terrible conspiracy at the heart of the Empire. A cult of the Whisper Gallery has been exposed: involving not only the duSesna Guild of Reckoners in Apulian, but, it is said, the ''very'' highest levels of the Conclave itself. A web of lies and deceit has been spun that has left many wondering who they can truly trust. Thus, it is not a complete shock, when Sofonisba and her allies report that they have discovered a lair of the Whisper Gallery here in Apulian.

The Shadow Den of the Adumbral Volution is something akin to a ''fane''. It has been established in the basement of the [[Custodian_of_the_Vicente_School_and_Orphanage|Vicente School and Orphanage]], not by the action of the Senate, but by the action of wicked cultists. Somehow these agents of wickedness have suborned the title-holder's natural authority over the orphanage and used it to grant dominion to the Whisper Gallery, despite the Senate's lack of formal [[Urizen_hearth_magic#Cession|cession]]. In practical terms, the result is not that different to a [[fane]] - its presence here has allowed the eternal to operate freely in the city - only in this case nobody knew it was happening. Sadly it is difficult to discern more, for the Orphanage has been lost in the battle. The allies of Sung claim they didn't destroy the building; if that is true, the most likely alternative is that the Whisper Gallery has chosen to spirit it away somehow. If the eternal can't have the school, neither can the Empire, it would seem.

<div {{float}}><box>
'''Night Marks'''
<p>Apulian has been left permanently marked by the dominion of the Whisper Gallery. Every magician who examines the marks agrees that there is nothing that can be done about them, but they aren't a threat to the city ''right now''. They may become an issue in the future, but if that happens there will be a way to deal with them then.</p>

<p>They might draw the attention of other night eternals seeking to become involved in the City Below, or they might create an [[opportunity]] for the Whisper Gallery to cause trouble for citizens of Spiral. They exist in case we choose to use them for a new plot involving the eternal in the future.</p></box></div>

The Shadow Den has been uprooted, and the baleful influence of the Whisper Gallery on Apulian has been ended. The duSesna Guild have gone to ground, fleeing Apulian. In time most will likely be found and brought to justice by [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|enterprising captains]] - for they no longer have anywhere to hide, here. Sofonisba reports that she and the captains supporting her have overturned the lair and run the Whisper Gallery out of the city. The eternal is defeated... but their presence here has seeped in to the stones of the city. The wound has healed, but the ''scar'' remains. Magicians who cast [[Bright Lantern of Ophis]] while in Apulian can sense ''something'' which most agree are the marks left on the city by the eternal. A parting gift from the Shadow Courtiers: the magical equivalent of graffiti scrawled on the toilet walls.

There is nothing that can be done about this now: not without razing the city to the ground and beginning again. There is little to fear from these marks in and of themselves - they don't have any power over the city or anyone who dwells in it. The only influence they could have would be to make the city a little more secretive and conspiratorial - and really... this is Apulian. Would anyone even notice at this point?

It would be unwise to forget about the marks completely however. The Whisper Gallery has had to expend considerable effort to create the marks. The ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne'' has demonstrated that the Empire can drive it out, but they cannot remove every trace of its influence. The marks show that the eternal had dominion here once and that perhaps, it intends to return one day to reclaim its prize. Perhaps for that reason, Sung has rewarded the Map to the City Below, empowering them to protect the city from the malevolent wickedness of the Whisper Gallery.

==Take a chance with us==
* '''Other Night eternals have inquired if they might themselves receive a berth in the City Below'''
* '''In particular, the Azoth and Sadogua have drawn up some curious proposals'''
* '''The actual effect of building these commissions is a mystery - but Sung guarantees a measure of protection and safety under the shadow of her wings'''

<div {{float}}>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The Delectable Refectory'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of mithril, 10 wains of white granite, 10 rings of ilium, and 60 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 1 season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' The Delectable Refectory would need to be ceded to Sadogua</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' All the effects of this edifice are a mystery</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table>

<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The Grand Laboratory'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Apulus, Spiral</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of mithril, 10 wains of white granite, 10 weirwood, 10 rings of ilium, and 90 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 1 season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' The edifice would need to be ceded to Azoth</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' All the effects of this edifice are a mystery</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year, until the start of Summer Solstice 389YE</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
As predicted, the completion of Sung's fane has drawn attention from other Night eternals - and the routing of the Cavalcade of Purrs has only heightened that, for there is little love lost between the Shadow Courtiers and the other denizens of the realm. Heralds working for both the [[Azoth]] and [[Sadogua]] have begun seen now regularly in the city this season and have also come to call at spires and citadels across the territory. The two eternals have made no secret of the fact that they would ''dearly'' love a place within the City Below to call their own.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">[[file:Sadogua001d.webp|align=right|width=250]]</div>
Sadogua, perhaps predictably, has taken a close interest in the [[The_play_that_came_to_Apulian#Curiouser_and_Curiouser|dramaturgical college]]. His heralds have presented his "suggestions" for an annex to the University; specifically, ''Batfather'' feels that the current plans fail to take into account the need to ensure that students and teachers are replete with find food and drink, so that they can indulge themselves when needed or deserved. As such, the ''Brother of Wizards'' suggests the construction of what he calls the Delectable Refectory. This would be an edifice ceded to Sadogua - a fane for all practical terms - at which banquets would be served for those who cared to attend them, "with plenty of extra trimmings and custard for all as wants them, and hammocks provided too to aid in after-dinner digestion". Everyone would be welcome to attend, but the Refectory would be housed inside a Night regio, so they would need to cast [[operate portal]] to enter, or have some other means of ingress and egress.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Crucible.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
The Azoth has let it be known that it, too, would like a home in the city of night. They envisage a Grand Laboratory that is attached to the growing University of Apulian, though to what end is unclear. As such, they propose that in lieu of actual plans, a suitable quantity of building materials could be acquired first. Then, once they had been arranged, ''Makeready'' would provide the builders and craftspersons with several dozen of its finest alchemical concoctions. After that, they could be encouraged to "just sort of make what comes to mind - no wrong answers!", as one herald put it. Such an... unconventional... approach would be ''guaranteed'' to produce something original and creative. Whether that is an entirely good idea is open to criticism, as one Holberg professor of civil engineering dryly comments "You can overrate the value of originality when suspending three tons of roofing tiles over someone's head".

Either, or both, of these edifices could be constructed and ceded so long as the [[Conclave]] does not declare its enmity on either Eternal. Experienced magicians caution that doing so is bound to provide some benefits to the city, but will inevitably attract even more attention from the other night eternals. [[Lashonar]] and [[Janon]] are both under enmity at the moment, preventing their heralds from ''appearing'' in Spiral, even despite the enchantment over the territory, but there are murmurings that they share the desire of their fellow wyrms and serpents to engage.

There are clear risks in ceding anything to an eternal of course, not least what happens if the Empire decides to change its mind. However the heralds attending the [[Map_to_the_City_Below|Chamber of Euphony]] claim that ''Spiral Dancer'' has enfolded her wings around Apulian, protecting its mysteries and its occupants from harm. Now that the battle for Apulian is won, other night eternals seeking a foothold in the city would be bound to acknowledge Sung's ascendency. The protection provided by the ''Rainbow Serpent'' is something of a double-edged sword - it preserves mysteries, making it literally impossible for Sadogua or Azoth to know what the edifices they propose might ultimately do, but it severely restricts the ability of any eternal to act with genuine malice or deceit. It is not impossible that an eternal could circumvent such protection, Sung is not all knowing and is as prone to error as any mortal, but it would make it vastly more difficult.

This is why Spiral Dancer has created the Map to the City Below. Having successfully driven the ''Concilium of the Perjured Throne'' from Spiral, the Map is now "bound" to the City. Sung's heralds don't actually mean bound in the way a magical item is [[create bond|bound]] to its owner, but they clearly mean something similar. It is clear that Sung believes that a map of the city represents the city in a way that goes beyond what a mortal cartographer might assume. Mortals see the map as an image that represents the city - Sung views it the other way round, regarding the city as a reflection of the map. To the eternal, the map is real and concrete while the city is abstract and symbolic.

Which is all a lot of fancy magical bollocks in the minds of many practical League business folk. What it actually ''means'' is that the "Map" will usually be the first to know if the city is threatened by an eternal. Or that the Map will know about any threat as soon as Sung does. Or that Sung will know about any threat as soon as the Map does. At least one of those things is definitely true, possibly all of them. Straight answers are rare with some night eternals, and none more so than the ''Lord of Illusions''.

==The moment prepared for==
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Seductive and Mysterious.jpg|caption=Dramaturgy is at once bold and obvious, but also subtle and enigmatic. A play is an easy thing to understand, but its effect on the mind and the spirit not quite so straightforward.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
* '''The dramaturgical confluence has largely ceased, though its cause and nature remain an elusive mystery'''
The dramaturgical confluence that began with the streets of Apulian beginning to stretch and tangle seems to have finally ended. Dramaturgists report that the personae and the thrones seem to be behaving more normally, at least for now. To the disappointment of some, the streets of Apulian seem to have largely settled down. Things are finally where they should be. Good news for accountants who are late for important meetings to go through the books with a client, bad news for cicisbeo who discover they can no longer cram a week's entertainment into a single night.

Not everything is back ''exactly'' the way it was. There is a back-alley off Metals Street just behind Lorazo's Smithy that is barely fifty yards long but it still emerges on Bleeker Street despite the fact that Bleeker Street is almost a mile away. There is a bookdealers in Three Corpse Culvert called Newcomers's Books which has five complete floors to it, as well as a basement, despite being housed in a single story building. There is a statue of Salt Lord Kaliact on the dockfront which slowly changes position, but only when someone is looking at it: otherwise, it is perfectly still. For the large part, these magics are muted and minor, at least compared with the torrent that swept the city when the confluence was in effect.

It is not clear what caused the confluence, or what it ended it for that matter. It is easy to imagine that it was the Whisper Gallery, too easy in the minds of many dramaturgists, who are convinced that the tale cannot be that simple. Dramaturgy has certain resonances that lend itself to the Whisper Gallery's games, but it is not solely the province of Night, after all.

Once the Barossa University of the Dramaturgical Arts is complete, they will be in a position to investigate dramaturgical magic more thoroughly. If they can examine the personae, thrones and instruments, and any lingering effects of the confluence, this might give insight into what happened in Apulian. Even if it doesn't, it will certainly leave the Empire much better prepared were ''another'' confluence to form which would be useful given how eager eternals appear to have been to take advantage of this one.

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-21T23:22:30Z

Apoth: /* Among the Thousands (Spring) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for {{TBC}} at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at {{TBC}}.30 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at {{TBC}} in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at half past {{TBC}}. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the [[Irra_Harah|''Prince with a Thousand Foes'']] without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Perhaps Linley Weaver's investigations should start with '''Raoul''' of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]].

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-21T23:22:07Z

Apoth: /* Among the Thousands (Spring) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for {{TBC}} at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at {{TBC}}.30 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at {{TBC}} in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at half past {{TBC}}. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the [[Irra_Harrah|''Prince with a Thousand Foes'']] without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Perhaps Linley Weaver's investigations should start with '''Raoul''' of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]].

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-21T23:21:45Z

Apoth: /* Among the Thousands (Spring) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for {{TBC}} at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at {{TBC}}.30 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at {{TBC}} in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at half past {{TBC}}. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the [[Irra Harrah|''Prince with a Thousand Foes'']] without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Perhaps Linley Weaver's investigations should start with '''Raoul''' of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]].

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-21T23:16:00Z

Apoth: /* Light and Air (Day) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for {{TBC}} at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at {{TBC}}.30 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at {{TBC}} in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at half past {{TBC}}. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Perhaps Linley Weaver's investigations should start with '''Raoul''' of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]].

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}

Ambassadors of death

2026-07-21T23:10:32Z

Apoth: /* Light and Air (Day) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Summer]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"Obviously I'm not saying that Archmage Bella Vicente should be above punishment, or immune to criticism, or anything like that. I'd be the last one to say that wizards can't screw up, oh my yes, I could tell you stories... which I won't because who has time for that? Maybe later. Anyway they made mistakes, or they decide they want to curse enemies in a way that causes an unfortunate number of other people to suffer nightmares about sharks, or... I've lost track of where I'm going with this. Right. Yes. Bella. I'm just saying that the nature of the punishment levied against any Archmage or Grandmaster - or any prominent magician if I'm honest but I know, I know, you have to be realistic - any such censure should be down to the ''Conclave'' not a bunch of, no offence, a bunch of magistrates. The crime is apparently that Bella dealt with an eternal that the Conclave said shouldn't be dealt with - that's fair enough, that's a legitimate fuckup, the Conclave is being reasonably clear on all this. And it's not like anyone is sad that the bloody Mask Gang are under Conclave enmity - they're a shower of arseholes believe me I know - but because the enmity was placed by the Conclave it stands to reason that it's the ''Conclave'' that ought to decide what to do about it. Not what amounts to a shower of jumped up... sorry, no offence, a group of well-meaning people some of who aren't even ''magicians''. Can any mundane person ''really'' understand the motivations of someone like Bella Vicente? What she thought was important enough she felt the need to deal with the Clowns in Multicoloured Hats. Basically, what I'm trying to get at, is that only ''magicians'' should be in a position to investigate an archmage, and only the Conclave should be trusted to decide if there's any case to answer and if there is, what that case should be. Plus of course Bella Vicente was always very polite to me whenever we spoke, you know? Very friendly, a class act. Edited ''Move to Vote'' as well, in between all the Archmage duties, hard to imagine how she found the time to do all that ''and'' allegedly betray the Empire to the Court of Wankers. You see what I am saying?"

The two guisers looked at each other as their host shovelled another pawful of apple pie into his mouth.

"Right..." said Jack. "Yes, I see exactly what you are saying. But the thing is..."

She floundered a little, and looked at Gillan for help.

"The thing is, oh Brother of Wizards, what we ''actually'' asked was 'Is the apple pie alright and what are the odds of getting hold of a Mask of the Seamstress?'"</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Bella Vicente d'Apulian.jpg|caption='''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''', former Archmage of Night|align=left|width=500}}
==Overview==
* '''Five eternals have sent emissaries to Anvil in response to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages'''
* '''Four have agreed to meetings of one kind or another, either in person or via emissaries'''
For the first time in a long time, only five [[eternal|eternals]] have sent emissaries in response to the [[archmage]] [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] messages (the last time was probably [[What_did_the_deep_say%3F|Winter 381YE]]). Each archmage is empowered to send a single message to an eternal of their [[realms|realm]] each season, with certain expectation of ''some'' kind of response, but '''Bella Vicente d'Apulian''' has resigned as [[Archmage of Night]] without sending one. Rumour surrounds the resignation, with scandalous stories suggesting one of the most prominent magical representatives of the Empire has been involved in possible treason. Other stories say that she have been the victim of a smear campaign by magicians jealous of the power of [[Night magic]]; a political assassination orchestrated in the [[Basileia|City of Locks]]; or a cunning stratagem by the former archmage themselves to entrap enemies of the Empire. Regardless of the truth, without a plenipotentiary message there will be no parley with an eternal of the Night realm during the Summer solstice.

At least with regard to the other realms, it is otherwise business as usual. Since the end of the Spring Equinox, messengers representing five eternals have come to the Empire from their eternal patrons, detailing the response to each plenipotentiary missive.

==In the Midnight Hour (Winter)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Queen of Silence'' has received the plenipotentiary message of the Archmage of Winter
* '''A parley is arranged for midnight on Friday to discuss the vallorn with representatives of the Navarr
* '''Kaela considers the assurance on Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been broken, the ritual will no longer function
* '''The current archmage of Winter is Bloodcrow Arora
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><quote by="Tara, Knight of the Grim Legion, Spring 388YE">Those unliving who the Lady of the Grim Host spares the ignominy of death are glad to receive her blessing. If the Synod no longer thinks so, my Lady-Captain will take that into careful consideration for the future.</quote></div>
Almost immediately after the Spring Equinox, two members of the Grim Legion visit [[Anvil]] on behalf of their mistress, the ''[[Kaela|Queen of Silence]]''. They are here in response to the plenipotentiary message of the [[Archmage of Winter|Archmage]]. The ''Queen of the End'' is prepared to discuss serving as patron to an army of Navarr.
Archmage Arora is invited to bring the [[General]] of the [[Black Thorns]] who has most recently faced the vallorn directly; the [[Senator]] of [[Miaren]] where Kaela understands the new army [[The first shot#Miaren|will be raised]]; and up to three other Navarr citizens. The topic for discussion will be patronage of the new army, bringing about the end of the vallorn, and if time permits, how the Archmage plans to end this foolish proscription against joining the Grim Legion. There must be no misunderstanding however. Any aid she offers will certainly involve members of the Grim Legion fighting alongside them against the vallorn.
===A Silenced Call===
* '''Kaela considers the ritual assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust to have been breached
* '''The ritual can no longer be cast and has no effect
There is however a second, arguably more serious matter. ''End of Strength'' noted the Imperial decision to [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|forbid mortals from joining her Grim Legion]]. It does not matter that the [[proscription]] did not specifically name her or her Legion; the [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|legal interpretation]] as laid out by the Constitutional Court is very clear. Joining the Grim Legion is an act of [[idolatry]], and any who seek it, or help them achieve that end, will be punished. What matters is that a long time ago, the ''Queen of Silence'' agreed to bind her power to a ritual created by Imperial magicians - the [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]]. The ritual calls on members of her Grim Legion to fight alongside the Empire's [[military unit|warbands]], especially those who support Imperial armies.

Like almost all rituals that draw on the power of an eternal, it was created with an [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Assurance|assurance]] - it would lose all power if the act of joining the Grim Legion were ever [[interdiction|interdicted]] by the Conclave. Attempts to explain that it is the [[Synod]] that has taken this step, and not the [[Conclave]] fall on deaf ears. When the ritual was codified, the Synod had no power to forbid membership of the Grim Legion; such a decision could only be made by the Conclave. The situation has changed, and as far as ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'' is concerned, the spirit of the agreement has been broken. The Empire has declared joining the Grim Legion to be a crime.
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''Broken Assurances and You'''</big><br>
The [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] has ''not'' been removed from the rituals known by characters who had mastered it. They will need to find other means to [[Downtime#Retraining|retrain]] the ritual during or after the Summer Solstice. This change is not a rules change, being something entirely arising in play. Consequently, there's no opportunity to email and ask to unlearn the ritual out-of-character. Given the late arrival of this wind, however, any character who has not done any retraining in the downtime after the Spring Equinox can email {{plot}} before '''midnight on Tuesday the 21st July''' and ask for the ritual to be removed, given they would have been able to do this if the wind of fortune had arrived earlier.</box></div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' is not given to undue haste however, and chose to give the Conclave time to address the issue. They broadly [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|remained silent]] on the matter. They even [[388YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Idolatry_and_the_Assembly_of_Nine|seem to have endorsed]] their proscription. Consequently, the ''Sorrowful One'' wants the Archmage of Winter to be aware that the assurance of Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust has been broken - the ritual will no longer have any power. Things come to an end all the time, after all. The legionnaires do not rule out the idea of negotiating the aid of the Grim Legion in future, but if it happens it will be through the auspices of a different ritual. There will of course be no discussion on this matter while the Empire refuses to allow its people to accept her most potent boon. Having delivered their messages, they depart the way they came.

As news spreads there is something of a difference of opinion about whether this ultimatum is really a bad thing. While the Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust was a useful tool, there have [[Clarion_Call_of_Ivory_and_Dust#Description|always been questions]] about the virtue - or lack thereof - of dealing with the Grim Legion. Nobody has ever been able to clarify whether the legionaries have souls or not. Are they a form of unliving that simply has the memories of the dead person? A herald made in their image? A spirit trapped forever between life and death and unable to move on? An actual human or orc forever imprisoned in the world unable to reach the Labyrinth or cross the Howling Abyss? Is the Empire really worse off, argue some priests and some members of the [[Sevenfold Path]], now the ritual is lost?

==Over Troubled Waters (Autumn)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Prospero001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Prospero wishes to discuss the matter of favours owed
* '''A parley relating to diplomacy is offered for {{TBC}} at the Summer Solstice
* '''A ''second'' parley is offered to the Dawnish Knight-Protector of Autumn at {{TBC}}.30 which the Archmage may attend if they wish
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged
The formal emissary of the [[Prospero|City of Bridges]] to the Empire is a minotaur, resplendent in ruby and emerald robes. Rather than visit [[Anvil]] as so many other emissaries of the [[realms]] do, they appear instead at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] to speak to the [[Civil Service]]. As usual, their message is precise and gets straight to the point. The Archmage of Autumn has requested a boon from the ''Sovereign Lord of the City of Bridges'' and after due consideration that boon has been granted. Archmage '''Vossk of Sarangrave Reforged''' indicated that the favour would be repaid by the Imperial [[Ambassador|Ambassadors]] and the ''Prince of Ties'' deems that more than acceptable.

With that in mind, the ''Reckoner of Ebony and Bone'' asks that the Archmage bring the [[Ambassador to Jarm]], the [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth]], and the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Celestial Arch]] to parley at the Summer Solstice to discuss returning the favour. The meeting will take place in a chamber set aside for the purpose, at {{TBC}} in the evening on Saturday, during the Summer Solstice. The minotaur messenger is quick to offer reassurance that Prospero is aware that Imperial politics can move at a glacial pace and does not expect either favour to be completed by the end of the summit. The end of the year will be more than sufficient.

Finally, the messenger notes that ''Threadweaver'' acknowledges the favour that Archmage Vossk has called in. As a consequence, there will also be a time set aside for magicians from Dawn to present their case as to why ''Subtle Spider'' might wish to help them create a [[college of magic]] in their nation. Prospero proposes that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-protector of Autumn]], '''Earl Galahad Du Besté''' gather up to four Dawnish [[Earl#Enchanters|enchanters]] and bring them to the [[Hall of Worlds]] at half past {{TBC}}. Dawn is a powerful and influential nation, and Prospero looks forward to speaking with them even if no agreement on matters of colleges can be reached.

==Apples and Oranges (Summer)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Meraud001a.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''Meraud has replied to a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''A meeting with several Dawnish and League citizens is planned to begin during the Summer segment of the Arcane Colloquium (15:15pm on Saturday)'''
* '''Meraud offers a way for Imperial magicians to send word of their plans and receive some of his golden apples'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Mirella of the Twisted Rose'''
The ''[[Meraud|Lord of the Lake]]'' has had [[Secret_meeting#Fire_Mage|ups-and-downs]] in recent years but there's no sign of this in the [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald|herald]] that turns up to the Hub in Anvil midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. A proud elfin battlemage in mage armour of spun silk and moonlight, with a great flowing mane of red hair, she delivers the words of the ''Mage of Summer'' to the civil servants as if she is the favoured messenger of a mighty monarch. Archmage Mirella has asked three things of Meraud, the herald says, and for each request there is an answer.

Meraud wishes '''Ser Drayvana''' to be aware that if they truly seek the profound change that comes with the [[changeling]] [[lineage]], the test that the ''Tender of the Endless Orchards'' sets is well known. A profound act of magical power, something full of majesty. Something [[glory|glorious]]. Has Ser Drayvana achieved such a thing? With that in mind, Meraud will send one of his orchard-tenders to the Hall of Worlds during the Arcane Colloquium on Saturday to meet with Ser Drayvana, and requests that the [[Knight-protector|Knight-Protector of Summer]] be there to vouch for Drayvana's ambition. There are no promises; the boon of transformation is not one lightly sought.

As to the matter of the Golden Chalice... the ''Regent of the Southern Skies'' was under the impression the Synod had proscribed the very idea of an eternal serving as a patron for Imperial citizens without the oversight of the Conclave. Something Meraud does not actually consider necessary of course. If the ''Chatelaine of Sunrise and Sunset'' has misunderstood then the Golden Chalice should come to the Arcane Colloquium as well to meet with his herald and discuss how things may progress.
===Speak Up A Storm===
* '''Meraud can no longer sustain the ''From the Mouths of Babes'' ritual
* '''The ritual can be cast for one final time during the Summer Solstice but only at the Imperial regio
* '''During the Solstice, the ritual will work slightly differently
* '''After the Summer Solstice the ritual will no longer function
The trickier request made by the Archmage, however, is to restore power to the ritual [[From the Mouths of Babes]], or to create a new communication ritual. This is by no means as easy as it might at first appear. The ''Lord of Summer Stars'' has been thinking long and hard and can find no easy way to maintain the ritual as it was, not least because the heralds who once oversaw its use are needed elsewhere. Meraud is no longer the same as he was when the ritual was made. His priorities, and his essence, have shifted since the recent changes. On the other hand, however, he does not wish to see Imperial magicians receive aid and advice only from ''"[[Sadogua|that crawling toad]]"''. A compromise then.

During the Summer Solstice, ''From the Mouths of Babes'' will be castable once more by Imperial magicians, but for one last time. The method of doing so has changed however. Instead of just reciting the message - which must be no more than fifty words in length as normal - the communication must be written on a scroll and sealed within an opaque container along with at least five ingots of [[tempest jade]]. The ritual must also be cast at the [[regio#Imperial regio|Imperial regio]].

Furthermore the scroll must bear a device representing the magician who penned the message, a personal image that reflects who they are and the magic they master. The message should tell Meraud of the powerful magic the magician intends to perform, and of the aid they believe they need to achieve their ambitions.

The message will be sent to Meraud, but there is an additional twist. The ingots required will serve as a gift for the attendants in the golden orchards that belong to the ''Lord of the Lake''. To show the message has been received, they will place one of the [[vis#Golden Apples|Golden Apples]] of the orchard in the container as a promise that the words will be read by the ''Fire Mage''. If the ambitions of the one who penned the missive intrigue the ''Prince of the High Tower'', then at the Autumn Equinox he will find a way to respond. Perhaps a missive in turn, perhaps send out a herald, perhaps something else.

This opportunity is available only at the Summer Solstice but there is one other matter that may interest magicians of the Empire. The attendants at the orchard will provide one golden apple for ''every'' five ingots of tempest placed in the container with the missive up to a maximum of ten apples (meaning a maximum number of ingots equal to the maximum number of words in the message which appeals to the ''Wand Mage'').

After the solstice, Meraud will give more consideration to the matter of communication, but cannot promise anything. As a monarch of the Summer realm, he does not really have the luxury of free time that he can spend "''lounging around reading [[Missive for Sadogua|endless missives]] from the mortal realm in a pathetic attempt to get people to like him''."
==Light and Air (Day)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Roshanwe.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Beachcomber'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Chosen</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Eternal</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:'''
* To seek the truth
* To ask Roshanwe for guidance on a single matter each season
* To represent Roshanwe in her dealings with the Empire</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The ''Elder Pharos'' has received a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Day
* '''She proposes a ''chosen'' title to help represent her to the Empire
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka
[[Roshanwe|''Elder Pharos'']] is grateful to receive the opportunity given by the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Day after she [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#Out_in_the_Open_(Roshanwe)|spoke with some of her heralds]] at the Spring Equinox. The Archmage seems to be under some misapprehension over the ''Mariner's'' commitment to the cause, and has asked for some ceremonial oath-taking involving hot pieces of metal before things may progress. The ''Torchbearer's Companion'' wishes to be clear - she is not some malevolent umbral snake, she says what she means and she means what she says: [[Cold Sun]] is the ultimate enemy of mortal-kind, and she intends to steadfastly stand on the side of mortals in the war that is raging on the other side of the sea of steel, and wherever else it may appear.

The Archmage of Day can consider to have her word on that. The eternal is not prepared to be branded - but if the Archmage wants them to swear a public oath, then they will consider it - but will need to study the wording of the oath carefully. Oaths bind any who swear them, but as a being of magic an eternal is particularly constrained by an oath. As a result, the eternal would need time to consider the implications of the oath that the Archmage wishes her to swear.

One thing ''The Weaver of Nets'' hoped that her Heralds would make clear was that she wanted the Archmage to detail some ways in which she might be able to help the Empire against this foe. Though the Archmage's concerns are respected, no requests being forthcoming has presented something of a quandary, yet one that can easily be resolved. The ''Wise Pioneer'' proposes that the Conclave permit her to regularly speak to a citizen of the Empire, and offer her advice on ongoing matters that concern them. This will allow the Empire to ask for her advice on matters relating to the Cold Sun, but also any other [[Roshanwe#Concerns|matters of interest]].

Should the conclave [[Alignment#Acceptance|agree]] to this arrangement, each year the ''Fisherman'' will send a herald to the Hall of Worlds to meet with the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], the [[Cardinal of Wisdom]] (for ''Beachcomber'' sees herself as a lay member of their assembly) and the [[Archmage of Day]]. Each of them will have the opportunity to present a candidate of their choosing, and the Herald will select who shall take on the role for the coming year. No citizen may hold the role more than once, for it is a good idea to have a constant set of fresh ideas when following the winding path towards truth.

It is worth noting that this title would currently be [[Stones_in_the_wellspring#Idolatry|illegal to hold]] under the current list of [[proscription|proscriptions]], and anyone who held it would be committing the crime of [[idolatry]]. The ''Sun-dappled Shore'' considers this to be a challenge for the Conclave to resolve.
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''House on the Shore'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Sanctuary Sands, Necropolis</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[white granite]], and 30 crowns</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' Three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Requires the Conclave to have agreed to the creation of ''Beachcomber''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates a small set of apartments for the title for Heralds of Roshanwe to meet with them
* Provides the ''Beachcomber'' with an income of three prismatic ink each season</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year; until the end of the Spring Equinox 388YE</td></tr>
</table></div>

Should it be desirable, there is a [[regio]] not far from the proposed location of the [[In harmony and unison|Grand Lodge of the Sevenfold Path]] near a fishing village that was abandoned during attacks by the Wreckers. If the [[Senate]] would be willing to build a small set of apartments for the ''Beachcomber'', heralds of ''Path of Light'' would be able to more easily visit them and be able to provide a small income of [[Vis#Prismatic Ink|prismatic ink]], as well as being able to seek the counsel of the Grandmaster on occasion.

The ''Pearlescent Advisor'' intends to send a herald to the Hall of Worlds at 13:30 on Sunday to either select the first ''Beachcomber'', or to have an informal discussion with the Grandmaster, Cardinal, and Archmage regarding the matter, as well as the potential wording for an oath, if the archmage desires.

===Shining Ink===
* '''Roshanwe offers to prepare a proposal for a commission to provide prismatic ink
* '''The commission will be built at Starstep in Operus
* '''She asks the Conclave to use a declaration of acceptance to suggest how extensive the commission should be
* '''This opportunity is only available during the Summer Solstice
Separate to the above, ''Wayfinder'' has taken a cursory look at various locations in the Empire where she might be able to help the Empire secure more [[Vis#Prismatic ink|prismatic ink]] - a vital resource in healing the wounds inflicted by the warrior-heralds under the command of the [[Cold Sun]]. One such location is ''Starstep'' in [[Morrow#Operus|Operus]]. [[Foggy_mountain_top#Richard_of_Holberg|Previously suggested]] as a potential location by Richard of Holberg for a similar construction, those plans were made defunct due to the damage caused following the invasion of the ''Scions''. ''She-Who-Walks-Beside'' believes she can put a proposal together for the location, however seeks guidance from the Conclave (in the form of an appropriately upheld [[Alignment#Acceptance|Declaration of Acceptance]]) on the scale of the design; a minor structure (around 20 wains), a moderate endeavour (around 50 wains) or a grand erection (around 100 wains).

The ''Netweaver'' offers reassurance that whatever proposal she makes, she has no intention for it to be any kind of [[fane]], nor would she require the Senate to concede the location. This site will be by mortals, for mortals, ''PathPromise'' just intends to help things along the way as she can.

==Among the Thousands (Spring)==
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IrrahHurrah002.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' has responded to the plenipotentiary of the Archmage of Spring
* '''He declines parley, but will apparently send heralds to meet with some of his friends in the Empire
* '''He offers a boon to Imperial magicians who wish to protect the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Arwydd Clearbramble
Not long before the Summer Solstice, a slight figure arrives at Anvil and speaks to one of the civil servants there. They don't approach the Hub directly, rather simply sitting down next to ''Jorgen of Wintermark'' while they were grabbing a bite to eat at one of Anvil's many fine food vendors. The only thing that gives away that they are not just a common Imperial citizen are their bright, golden eyes and the fact they launch into a message from the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' without even pausing to introduce themselves. Apparently, the ''Bright-of-Eyes'' has done as the Archmage of Spring asked. They have interceded in Nesustak Forest, helping to ensure that those who had thrown off the yoke of the Druj survives the threat of the [[vallorn]]. Not that their friends would have done otherwise; they remain committed to supporting the rebels of Nesustak regardless of what the Empire wishes. But the invitation from '''Archmage Clearbramble''' gave them greater license to act in what is ostensibly an Imperial territory. The ''Quick-of-Foot'' held the [[Forge the Wooden Fastness|wards of power]] together as long as possible against the insatiable hunger of the Doom of Terunael; offered succour to soldiers of the Empire who might otherwise have been overwhelmed; and ensured that those who could not fight, or chose to heal, were able to move quickly through the violence of the vallorn. That part of the request has been discharged.

''Shacklebreaker'' did this even though he does not trust the Empire. For now, the Imperial powers are talking about dealing "fairly" with the Nesustak rebels, but Irra Harah has seen where this leads. There was a great deal of talk of "liberating" [[the Barrens]], and that ended in bloodshed not once but many times. The expedience Imperial folk love so well means that they are now pursuing closer relations with the treacherous Karass than they ever did with the Vendarri, despite the latter having aided them repeatedly against the Druj. The herald shrugs. There's no point belabouring these things. The ''Lord of Brambles'' has seen where this talk of liberty goes, and so has the Empire. Listing all the ways the Empire become the tyrants they claim to hate is not worth the breath that would be wasted in doing so.

If the Archmage of Spring wants to help the rebels of the Mallum, then she should use whatever power she has to convince the Empire to return the Sarangrave to the people whose ancestors lived there long before there was an Empire, or a Druj, or a Terunael. Rather than forcing them to live in one forest in one corner of the marshes, return that land to the people who have called it home for centuries untold. Stop giving parts of the Mallum away to would-be oppressors like the [[Axos|Victorious Axis]]. Stop parcelling out other peoples' homes to Imperial nations as prizes. The herald sighs again, indicating that they don't expect the Empire to listen, because they have never listened before. Maybe this time they will change, but ''Eartwitcher'' finds it unlikely.

What ''Run-Like-the-Wind'' does appreciate, however, is the commitment shown by ''Ser Guy'' and others to defending those who need protection. ''Murmur-in-the-Grass'' won't attend parley with the Archmage of Spring this season, but will instead arrange to meet with its friends at Anvil. If they want to bring the Archmage with them, so be it. This is not due to any animosity, says the herald. '''Arwydd Clearbramble''' is an unknown quantity but the words of her plenipotentiary have set her off to a good start. As such ''Papa Otec'' offers a boon to the people of the Empire.
===Piper at the Gates===
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;"><box><big>'''Woodward quality'''</big><br>The ''Woodward'' quality empowers any casting of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' or similar defensive ritual that draws on the power of Irra Harah and targets that region. The enchanted wards will call up heralds and mortal friends of the eternal to support it meaning it would provide 6,000 rather than 4,000 strength to protect the region.<br><br>Furthermore, while the quality exists, heralds of Irra Harah will find it easier to enter the mortal world there, and support the people in that territory who have reason to fear oppression, tyranny, or violence. The exact effect will vary on the situation but it will always mean that those trying to flee an area of violence, or hide from those who wish them harm, will be helped to do so. It's worth noting however that the one thing Irra Harah ''can't'' do is stop the vallorn gaining power from potent Spring enchantments. As seen recently in [[Thorn and bone|Sarangrave]].<br><br>[[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] will curtail this power, but even then it will remain possible for some powerful heralds of Irra Harah to enter and support the region with the Woodward quality, even if they cannot easily move beyond its borders.</box></div>
* '''Irra Harah offers a boon relating to Forge the Wooden Fastness
* '''Performing the ritual will see Irra Harah send support to the folk of a territory
* '''If the ritual is cast with a small amount of ilium the target forest will permanently gain the woodward quality
This season, anywhere within the borders of the Empire that Imperial magicians cast [[Forge the Wooden Fastness]], ''Circle of Tall Grass'', or a similar ritual, then the ''Voice-of-the-Voiceless'' will send his heralds to help the folk of that territory. The exact nature of that help will depend on the situation there, but it will focus on protecting the weak, aiding the innocent, and giving voice to the voiceless.

If the ritual is cast with 8 rings of [[ilium]], however, the effect will be greatly pronounced. The chosen woodland will gain the ''Woodward'' quality, and any future Forge the Wooden Fastness raised there (or a similar warding ritual drawing on the power of Irra Harah) will be empowered. Furthermore, the ''Woodward'' quality will mean that heralds and friends of the eternal will offer aid to anyone facing tyranny or oppression in that territory.

In particular, if the quality is granted to [[Mournwold#Alderly|Alderly]] or [[Upwold#Tower March|Tower March]], Irra Harah will be ready to help the fight to protect the [[The Marches|Marcher]] orcs and [[yeoman of the Marches|yeofolk]] from murder at the hands of the [[Synod]] should that ever become necessary, in Mournwold or Upwold at least.

Likewise, if the ritual is cast on [[The Barrens#Farweald|Farweald]], [[The Barrens#Untrod Groves|Untrod Groves]], or [[The Barrens#The Bleaks|The Bleaks]], the eternal will be ready to protect the folk of the Barrens - human and orc alike - from the violence of war with the Mallum, the Empire, or even the vallorn.

===Hare Protector===
* '''Irra Harah has provided information on who destroyed the boon he gave to the landskeepers during the Winter Solstice
* '''The assurance on Forge the Wooden Fastness is, by design, quite fragile
* '''The ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' is watching
Finally, on the matter of the Marches, the ''Breaker of Bounds'' has apparently gotten over their [[Monarchs_and_outcasts#No_Hiding_Place_(Irra_Harah)|initial anger]] on hearing that the ''Protectors Stone'' it entrusted to the [[Landskeeper|Landskeepers]] of the Marches was destroyed. On hearing it was stolen by violence, he is saddened but not surprised. The initial hasty response has given way, apparently, to resignation. No doubt the landskeepers are already pursuing the criminals, with the aid of Imperial magistrates. The herald vouchsafes that given that ''Keep-a-Watch'' crafted the covenstone themselves they know who used [[Winter magic]] to break it. Perhaps Linley Weaver's investigations should start with '''Raoul''' of the [[Highguard_groups#The Suns of Couros|Suns of Couros]].

The herald is at pains however to make sure the Archmage, and the landskeepers, are aware that the [[Forge_the_Wooden_Fastness#Assurance|assurance]] of ''Forge the Wooden Fastness'' was chosen with great care. Indeed, it was proposed by the Marcher [[Smith|smiths]] who convinced the eternal to bind themselves to this ritual in the first place. If the landskeepers refuse to attend a meeting at the Hare Stone, the assurance is broken. If the Hare Stone ''itself'' is destroyed, making it impossible for the landskeepers to attend a meeting there, the assurance will ''also'' be broken. A way, said the smiths, for the ''Prince with a Thousand Foes'' to be able to sever the agreement himself if ever he had good enough reason to do so. Perhaps it is time to consider such a drastic action. Perhaps.

On that note... the final, ''final'' thing the herald mentions is that right now Irra Harah is watching the Empire and its people carefully. The Archmage says that the Empire are "''taking good actions towards the liberation of these people whilst respecting who they are''." Yet the Empire has still given Sarangrave to the people of Urizen, not to the folk who actually live there. How long will it be before the refusal of the people of Sarangrave to bow their heads to the Empire will see those heads cut off? There is another chance here - the latest in a long line - for the Empire to do things differently and to step away from the yoke of four hundred years of arrogance and oppression. Perhaps ''this'' time things will go differently - but the ''Wise Rabbit'' is not holding his breath. The refrain of "''fuck the bunny''" is not a sentiment that inspires much hope.

==Timetable==
The times, the locations, and the eternals involved in meetings related to specific plenipotentiary responses are summarised here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 00:00 || [[Kaela]] || Winter || Parley; Archmage and guests are invited to a chamber
|-
| Saturday || TBC || [[Prospero]] || Autumn || Parley; two consecutive meetings in a chamber
|-
| Saturday || 15.15 || [[Meraud]] || Summer || An informal meeting during the Arcane Colloquium
|-
| Sunday|| 13.30 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || An informal meeting in the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Unknown|| Unknown || [[Irra Harah]] || Spring || A private meeting with some friends; no details provided
|-
|}