Empire - User contributions [en]

Monarchs and outcasts

2026-06-03T21:45:09Z

Apoth: /* Out in the Open (Roshanwe) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
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==Overview==
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 '''{{TBC}}''' wind of fortune.
==Summer==
===Gilded Bouquet (Eleonaris)===
* '''Eleonaris reaches out to her allies in the Empire to offer aid with invocations of her ''Knights of Glory''
* '''Elodian herself, one of Eleonaris' captains, is expected to arrive at 21:00 on Friday via the Hall of Worlds
All is well in the Empire, at least as far as the ''Lady of Pennants'' can tell, yet something must be amiss? Only three of her cohorts were summoned last season to join the Empire's great campaigns, half as many or fewer as were cast each season in the rest of the 387YE. Elodian, favoured herald of the ''Commander of the Golden Armies'' informs her that the Empire has been facing some issues with its regio recently, to which she is deeply distraught. Not back long from [[Where_the_slow_river_flows#Stormbreak|fighting alongside the Green Shields]] in [[Mitwold]], Elodian is quickly sent to travel to Anvil to offer some aid to help with further castings of the [[Knights of Glory]] and is expecting to arrive via the Hall of Worlds at around nine in the evening on Friday during the summit, to distribute these favours to any who might need them.

Elodian comes with a purpose of her own, as well as the one set by the ''Lady of Pennants''. Apparently, the soldiers of the [[Valiant Pegasus]] were acting awfully strange towards Elodian and her hammersmiths when fighting alongside them and the Green Shields in Mitwold this season. She is concerned that she may have in some way offended the Highborn, and so has asked the [[Archmage of Summer]] or her representative to meet her at the hall of worlds that she might be guided to the Chapel in the Highborn camp to speak to either '''Lucifer''' or the newly elected General of the Army. If her [[Root_and_branch#From_the_West|old comrade]] '''Sychar of Ebon's Hall''', other Highborn or anyone else might be willing to show up to explain why she and her warband might be being [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_9|treated differently]], she would be very grateful.

==Autumn==
===How to Succeed in Business (Ephisis)===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: #C994FF;">'''Dispose of the Quicksilver's Flame'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Motion Type: ''' [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|Concedence]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Necessary Details:''' The beneficiary of the sale</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Benefit:''' 80 wains of white granite and 240 crowns </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:''' The Quicksilver's Flame will be dismantled and removed</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Until the beginning of the Spring Equinox 389YE</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:'''
* Cannot proceed if a [[declaration]] of [[concord]] prohibits the sale
* Cannot proceed if Ephisis is under emnity</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Empire could sell the Quicksilver's Flame to the City of Gold and Lead'''
* '''The sale requires a Senate motion to cede the fortification to the eternal'''
* '''The Conclave could use a declaration of concord to veto the sale'''
The ''Prince of Scales'' has a buyer with some very specific requirements. They wish to purchase a fortification, and by good fortune, the Quicksilver's Flame in [[Morrow]] is close enough to their specifications. As a result, the ''Grand Plutocrat'' is ready and willing to facilitate the exchange, assuming the Empire is prepared to sell. The City offers the construction cost of 80 wains of white granite and 240 crowns in return for the right to dismantle the fortification and remove it... lock, key and gatepost.

The proposed sale has some constitutional implications, to put it mildly. The fortification is the property of the Empire; nobody, not even the Conclave, can simply dispose of it without the explicit approval of the Imperial [[Senate]]. Legally, it is very clear that the sale requires the fortification to be [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded to the eternal]] - and that can only happen with a successful [[Senate motion]].

However, the [[Conclave]] have the responsibility to ''"ensure the fit and proper use of magic"'', so this arrangement clearly falls squarely within their purview. After lengthy consideration, the Constitutional Court are not inclined to ''require'' the Conclave to approve the sale using a [[declaration]] - instead they have issued guidance that concession could not proceed if the Conclave passed a declaration of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]] to reject the offer. While this is clearly a compromise, the Court hopes that it at least balances the constitutional rights of both houses without putting additional burdens on their capacity and time.

If the Senate were minded to accept the sale, then the motion should state who will receive the sale funds. The offer remains available for one year, until the beginning of the Spring Equinox 389YE.

===The Nobility of the Maggot (Callidus)===
* '''Callidus is keen to reach out to the maggots of Wintermark
* '''Several secretaries are expected to visit the Wintermark camp at 12.30 on Sunday
The [[Callidus|Prince of the Argent Tontine]] has received reports from his heralds that the wise and practical [[Wintermark_economic_interests#Maggot|maggots]] of Wintermark are an unfairly maligned group, and wishes to exalt and encourage them. To this end, he intends to send a small number of his secretaries to the Wintermark camp at around half past twelve on Sunday afternoon, to help any interested parties who wish to embolden and enhance their skills in maggotry for the coming year.

Those who wish to barter for these boons are advised to be able to provide a token; a piece of jewellery, an amulet or personal talisman, or some similar trinket. In the event of successful negotiation, the heralds plan to invest a little bit of Autumn magic into this token.

==Winter==
===A Question of Jetsam (Khobel Tavah)===
* '''Khobel Tavah have confirmed that Eilian Sweetwater is entirely physically safe and will remain so indefinitely'''
* '''Eilian Sweetwater will be swiftly returned as befits ''lost flotsam'' if the Conclave makes a Declaration of Acceptance declaring themselves responsible for the consequences'''
* '''The Golden Fleet Salvagemaster and the commissioner of Eilian's sabbatical are asked to attend a meeting on the Friday evening of the solstice at 22:10 to discuss the ''jetsam'''''
Eilian Sweetwater is one of the more beloved prognosticators the Prognosticator's Office possesses. An experienced researcher with a can-do attitude that befits his long time as an active member of Storm's Run Striding, he is well-known for combining a passion for the lessons the Empire's history has to teach us with a willingness to put on his mud boots and wade into the practical constraints of a problem. Unfortunately, he has been missing for half a year - ever since his sabbatical pursuing a survey of the Empire's historical lighthouses was cut short by the [[Grendel]] invasion of Redoubt in the Autumn of 387YE. At the time, Eilian was investigating the ruins of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros, which had been destroyed in an earlier Grendel attack in the Winter of 386YE - he disappeared after the attack and has not been seen since.

It is believed by some that he fled the Grendel into the caves below the lighthouse, where a powerful Winter regio lies in a cave known as the Cave of the Drowned. These rumours were given some support when, at a recent parley, the Winter eternal known as the Two-Who-Are-One, [[Khobel Tavah]], is said to have confirmed that Eilian was safe and in some sense under their protection. If this is true, however, it is not clear that Eilian is able to leave. Certainly, nothing of him has been heard since: until now. Some weeks before the Spring Equinox, a startling figure emerges from the door to the Hall of Worlds. Their gaunt, corpse-like appearance marks them as inhuman, a creature of the Realms. However, they are dressed in the garb of a Highborn sailor: the bell and the book at their belt suggest nothing more than a Steward of the Dead. Indeed, they identify themselves as the Speaker for the Drowned, herald of the Sunken Rope. They begin to relay a message from the Eternal they serve.

The figure recounts the missing part of the story of Eilian's flight. Separated from their companions on the island in the midst of the Grendel attack, Eilian fled wounded to the cave of the Drowned below the isle of Nikephoros. It seems the herald of [[Kimus]] known as Fotismos perished as they attempted to defend their charge. The drowned figure does not dwell on this point, mentioning only that the affairs of the ''Unblinking Eye'' are not theirs to comment upon but that the [[Archmage of Day|Archmage of the Sea Above]] probably ought to be informed.

Alone and desperately afraid, Eilian believed in that moment that he would surely die. The Speaker says that a fervent and desperate plea from a terrified soul is exactly the kind of call that Fear Death by Water are responsive to. "There, in Her bosom and under His eye", says the Speaker for the Drowned, "your missing ''lost flotsam'' is safe - [[Kaela|Queen Esk's]] touch cannot find him in the abyssal darkness of the uttermost salt. He is suspended in terror, and terror preserves." They say this dispassionately - there is no sense of cruelty as one might expect from a representative of [[The Thrice-cursed Court]]. To the ''Speaker for the Drowned'', it seems perfectly natural that one might exist in such a state - especially if one wanted to remain protected from harm.

The Speaker explains that it is not the wish of Fear and Her Bride to deprive the Empire of their precious ''lost flotsam''. Eilian is not theirs to keep - there are old laws of the sea regarding such things. However, the chamber in which he dwells, known as the Uttermost Salt, was not unoccupied. "There is ''jetsam'' there, too - something long sealed away by an old bargain. If the flotsam is to be released into your care - and he will need care - you should know that the ''jetsam'' within the Uttermost will also follow. The gate does not open for one alone."

The Speaker for the Drowned is clear that Eilian will be returned swiftly if the Conclave makes a Declaration of Acceptance - a suggested text is provided - thanking the Sunken Rope for taking care of their lost flotsam, and accepting all responsibility for what will follow and any doom that might subsequently fall. The Consorts of Dark Water are hopeful that his stay with them has given Eilian some ideas as to how the Lighthouse at Nikephoros, constructed as a grand regio in their name in times past, can be restored. If the Conclave decides they do ''not'' want to accept the consequences of his release, that is fine - Terror-Under-Wave will continue his preservation for as long as they wish. He will be physically entirely safe. There is no cause for alarm.

<quote by="The Speaker for the Drowned's suggested Declaration of Acceptance">The Conclave thankfully claims Eilian Sweetwater as ''lost flotsam'' from Sunken Rope, and asks that the depths of the Uttermost Salt be emptied, that he might be immediately returned.

In doing so, they accept full responsibility for the doom that will follow.</quote>

Jorgen, the long-suffering [[Civil Service|civil servant]] who often fields visitors from the realms and asks what exactly this ''jetsam'' that will "follow" is, and what this "doom" that might subsequently fall might be. The Steward of the Drowned looks genuinely surprised at the question - it seems to have expected its cryptic utterances to be understood. After a little thought it says that it will arrange for a chamber to be adjoined to the Hall of Worlds at the time of favourable omen, so that the Empire may send its Receiver of Wreck to discuss the affair.

When it is explained that no such position exists, it is finally agreed that the [[Golden Fleet Salvagemaster]], '''Caleb of the Cenotaph''', and the hakima and public artist '''Allegra i Riqueza''' (who is responsible for Eilian's wellbeing) are invited to meet the Steward in the Hall of Worlds at 22:10 on the Friday of the Spring Equinox. They will adjourn to a chamber, where the matter of the ''jetsam'' will be discussed. The [[Conclave]] may want to defer their decision until this meeting has concluded - but it is not obligatory.

===Moments of Contemplation (Sorin)===
* '''The Tomb King invites five pairs of Imperial heroes to attend him in a chamber, beyond the Hall of Walls, at 22:15 on the Saturday of the coming summit'''
* '''Named are Umarth Kannask, Odd Twiceborn, and Towlen Nighthaven. Each of these, and two others, must bring with them one who knows them intimately to enumerate their hypocrisies and weaknesses'''
* '''Should the Hungry Wolf be pleased that the Empire is learning well of his truth, then he consents to grant a ritual from the Book of Ahsaver to Towlen Nighthaven'''
Last season, the ''Tomb King'' [[The_thing_with_feathers#Moments_of_Silence_(Sorin)|sent his Sepulchral Pontifex]] to visit the Imperial Orcs with an offer. He is apparently quite pleased with the respect shown by the Unshackled at Anvil, and especially with the actions of '''Karrak''' and '''Stormsteel Skorr'''. The ''Whelpmaster'' also notes that one of their number, '''Bloodcrow Arora''' has shown the wisdom and strength to take the title of [[Archmage of Winter]] from their predecessor. This too pleases the ''Lord of the Monolith'' as it means it should be even easier to arrange a [[Alignment#Acceptance|declaration of acceptance]] to offer him the contents of the tomb of Alicia-who-knew-the-path in Eordal in exchange for the great boon that was offered. It would appear to be even more useful given the events in [[Mareave]] this season.

[[Sorin|''The Bleak Exarch'']] notes the commitment the Empire has demonstrated toward his cause, that of ridding the self of weakness, but remains eternally unsatisfied, for the work is far from complete. He therefore invites '''Umarth Kannask''' and '''Odd Twiceborn''' to share what wisdom they have learned now that their blessing of Sand-blasted Ties is fading, as well as '''Towlen Nighthaven''', who has invoked their Pallid Charm to ask a favour of ''the Empty One''. In addition, two others, of Umarth and Odd Twiceborn's choosing, are welcome to present themselves to ''the Silent Kingdom''.

Each of these five will enter the chamber separately, at the invitation of a [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]], there to meet ''the Lord of the Monolith'' himself. However, they will bring with them a partner. This person should know the invitee well, but be little known to ''the Father of Draughir''. Preferably, they should not be a mage at all, for the cause goes much beyond the practice of magic. They will have a short amount of time to explain to ''the Prince in Rags'' what hypocrisies and weaknesses the invitee still has to overcome. To illustrate, Towlen Nighthaven may bring a friend, and that friend will speak to Sorin of Towlen Nighthaven's hypocrisies.

The heralds explain that Towlen Nighthaven has requested help reclaiming the Book of Ahsaver. Their lord is not inclined to do so, but will offer a ritual taken from there to him, if the citizens of the Empire can prove they have begun to understand his wisdom in the chamber before him.

===Bound by Obligation (Tharim)===
* '''Tharim's herald has presented a boon on behalf of the eternal Agramant'''
* '''Varushkans that send a bloodied handprint along with any Tribute to the Thrice Cursed Court will receive a boon from Agramant'''
* '''The boon will grant the user a way to contact the eternal'''
Beneath a waning moon, a creature trussed in rusted chains emerges from the Imperial Regio ahead of the summit. It speaks through a jaw bound by iron, it's gesture's constrained by the scrape of iron upon iron. It is clearly a herald of [[Tharim]], but it explains that ''Stoneheart'' is held by black iron law of a sworn oath, and so it is here to carry a message on behalf of the vile wretch [[Agramant]].

Grinding and chipping its teeth behind the jagged tines encasing its mouth, the herald recites the message. In remembrance of the Howler's favoured collaborator Milos Durenovich - so cruelly butchered as they sought to secure the survival of their people - ''Ropechewer'' shall offer the people of [[Varushka]] a boon. Throughout the coming summit, any citizen of Varushka who sends a bloodied handprint alongside a [[Tribute to the Thrice Cursed Court]] shall receive, with their allotment of [[vis#Heart's Blood|heart's blood]], a bloodied twig - a talisman allowing its user to send a missive to ''Drowner'' in his icy abode.

With a rattling groan and a look of palpable disgust, the herald then proceeds to depart once more into the regio, shedding flakes of corroded metal that dust the dewy grass underfoot with each step.

==Day==
===The Turning of the Wheel (Sinokenon)===
* '''Sinokenon is sending two of its heralds at 10:15 on Saturday, tasked with a public relations mission'''
[[Sinokenon]] is an [[eternal]] whose relationship with the Empire has generally been consistently cordial, if never close. It has tended to pay most attention to the Empire at times when the ruling [[the Throne|Throne]] of the era has been able to successfully bend the institutions of the Empire to a single cause; nevertheless, even in less unified times it has rarely shown the Empire animosity. It has helped the Empire in recent years, most notably assisting the Archmage of Day to warn the people of [[Tsark]] of a planned raid by the [[Axos|Axou]] and the [[Grendel]].

Recently, it attempted to help the foreigners of the [[Mirror_and_the_flame#The_Silver_Flame_of_Unity|Silver Flame enclave]] with their negotiations with the Empire. However, these efforts seem to have been unsuccessful, and the Conclave chose to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Alignment:_Sinokenon,_Neutrality|rebuke]] Sinokenon's advances. While the Silver Flame have [[LINK|their own response]] to the failure of those efforts, Sinokenon's heralds have reached out to the [[Civil Service|civil service]] expressing what appears to be genuine confusion and concern. They profess to be alarmed by the very idea that Sinokenon would ever seek to subvert or countermand the [[Imperial Constitution]].

The ministers of the ''Silver Ministry'' appear to believe that this must be some kind of misunderstanding. They have assured the civil service that Sinokenon has never been more certain that the Empire is going in the right direction. Their ministers have made clear that, in particular, they regard Emperor Vesna as a particularly gifted occupant of the Throne. They point to [[Push_for_victory|the recent Imperial address]] as proof of her statecraft. Apparently, ''That Which Lives In Its Name'' had been minded to petition the Archmage of Day for the Conclave's amity - but has now put these plans on hold. Instead, two of its ministers - the Senior and Junior Minister for Casinean Public Relations - have been instructed to visit Anvil at the Spring Equinox on the Saturday morning, so as to best gauge Sinokenon's reputation at the present time and to take steps to alleviate any dismay or misapprehension.

Arriving around 10:15 and staying until a little after 13:00, they would be delighted to meet with the Archmage of Day as part of this visit; however, Sinokenon's heralds are clear that the real focus will be talking to the foundation-stones of the Imperial hierarchy - the ordinary people who make it work - and distributing gifts and pamphlets that demonstrate Sinokenon's beneficial intentions. They appear confident that by raising their reputation with the foundation of Imperial society in this manner, they will comprehensively dissolve any negative reputation for the Turning Mirror that might exist. It remains to be seen whether or not they are remotely correct in their assumptions.

===Out in the Open (Roshanwe)===
* '''Roshanwe has asked for a meeting with the Archmage of Day
In a prompt and timely manner, but not too much in advance of the Spring Equinox, a message from the ''Finder of the Path'' is delivered in very neat handwriting to the civil servants working at the [[Astolat#Castle of Thorns|Castle of Thorns]]. This is all considered normal and usual, until the contents are read.

A trusted herald of the ''Navigator'' intends to arrive in the Hall of Worlds on Saturday at 10pm and hopes to speak with the [[Archmage of Day]] or their designated representative, regarding a particular matter. This is not a secret matter, as such, but simply something better discussed in person. Ideally without any eavesdroppers. The Archmage of Day is welcome to discuss their conversation with anyone they choose after the herald has left, but a degree of discretion is requested until that time.

One last important note, this herald will ''not'' be talking about lighthouses, despite them being of great interest to the ''Beacon''. If they choose to take the alleged expertise of [[Khobel Tavah]] on building them, over hers, as they did with [[Kimus]] when building the lighthouse at Apulian, that's absolutely fine. Of course, if Eilian Sweetwater had come to the ''Mariner'' when producing the [[For_those_in_peril_on_the_sea|appraisal]] on the matter, even to ask her opinion, he might not be in such dire straits as he is now, but what's done is done. If the Empire ever ''did'' want to talk to ''The Finder of the Path'' on the topic however, a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] on the topic would be very pleasing.

===Staring at the Sun (Kimus)===
* '''Kimus brings word of a collaborative effort between itself and a coven of seers from Redoubt to better understand the threat of Cold Sun'''
* '''The Urizeni, particularly the current seat of the Brilliant Star, Volidus, should expect the eternal's heralds at 18:15 on Friday in the Hall of Worlds'''
Unfolding from [[Regio#The_Imperial_Regio|the Imperial regio]] as the sun is at its zenith but days before the Spring Equinox, a Vizier of [[Kimus|''She Who Watches'']] goes initially unnoticed amidst the sweltering heat of high spring. The herald is content to remain motionless as they observe the comings and goings of Anvil through its many staring eyes.

When it is finally approached and asked why it is here, they seem to consider the question with the same unblinking intensity before finally responding. They explain that in distant [[Redoubt]], within the dead caldera of a long-dead volcano lies ''Terminus Sol'' a potent regio corrupted by the invasion of [[Cold Sun]]. At this very moment, the Vizier continues, a [[coven]] of [[seer|seers]] from [[Redoubt#Delving|Delving]] known as ''The Circle of Enduring Wisdom'' is preparing to divine knowledge and understanding from the blinding fire of Cold Sun.

This process, formulated with assistance from ''The Celestial Eye'', depends on a final element - one that must be carried through the [[Sentinel Gate]]. The herald requests that representatives of [[Urizen]], in particular Volidus, the overseer of the Brilliant Star, should watch the [[Hall of Worlds]] for the arrival of further emissaries of ''The Glass of the Heavens'' at six hours and fifteen minutes past midday upon the first day of the coming equinox.

==Night==
===Tyrannical Discipline (Whisper Gallery)===
* '''The Emerald Scholar in Sable Ribbons desires poetry from Steinr poets
* '''Performances of Whispering Shadow Courtiers can be enhanced to claim a bounty of crystal fire if they involve both an appropriate poem and poet
[[Whisper_Gallery#Members of the Court|The Emerald Scholar in Sable Ribbons]] is a known lover of poetry and is looking for some new reading material to "pass the time". In particular, it has apparently acquired a taste for the poetry of the [[Steinr]] of [[Wintermark]]. During the Spring Equinox, any magician who casts [[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]] using an additional measure of [[iridescent gloaming]] and incorporating both poem and Steinr poet into the performance will receive three [[Vis#Crystal Fire|crystal fire]] in thanks. Each poet may only make one submission, but magicians of any people or nation may help as many Steinr wordsmiths as please them. It's not entirely clear how anyone knows this is the case; anyone speaking of it is invariably reporting something they heard from a friend of a friend or read somewhere they cannot put their finger on. There may be a nefarious plan here, or it might just be that the Scholar is simply interested in art. With the Whisper Gallery, it is sometimes hard to separate the two.

Obviously there are several problems with this. The Whisper Gallery are under [[alignment#enmity|enmity]] of the [[Conclave]]. Whispering Shadow Courtiers is interdicted by that enmity. Accepting boons from an eternal under enmity is a crime. Of course, none of this is of the last concern to Emerald Scholar in Sable Ribbons.

'''OOC Note''': Anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity will need to ensure that the Steinr poet 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.

===Torch of Shadows (Janon)===
* '''Janon welcomes Vellenka Vanyanova as the new Shadowed Torchbearer'''
* '''Heralds will attend Anvil at 19:00 on Friday to dispense Janon's blessings'''
* '''Heralds of Janon have also been seen throughout the Empire making similar offers to the people'''
Last season the conclave elected a new [[Shadowed Torchbearer]], '''Vellenka Vanyanova''', and [[Janon]] is quick to send her congratulations. The ''Muse of Fire'' loves to meet new people, and expresses hope that their new friend's tenure will burn fast and bright, leaving behind only beautiful ashes to inspire those who come after. In order to properly greet his new agent in the Empire, ''Freedom's Flame'' will send heralds to Anvil via the Hall of Worlds at 19:00 on Friday in order to dispense blessings, respond to requests and hand over a list of demands. The ''Night Sword'' is not a being noted for restraint. What sie wants remains to be seen.

In the meantime, reports of heralds of the ''Scribe of Burning Names'' are becoming more and more common across the Empire. This is not entirely surprising; the ''Voice of Zorech'' is under [[Alignment#Amity|amity]] and the doors are wide open to xir servants. What is causing some raised eyebrows is the fact that more and more often these heralds are offering to 'bless' those they meet, just as their counterparts in Anvil have been doing. The number of people willing to take them up on their offer varies from place to place; there is far more interest among curious Freeborn than there is among the cautious and restrained chapter houses of Highguard.

Where people do accept the gift, the outcome is always the same. The 'blessing' turns out to be nothing more than [[Unfettered Anarchy]], a curse well-known to the Empire. There are some minor consequences - arguments, brawls, and acts of civil disobedience from the afflicted. Magistrates reiterate once again that being cursed is no defence in the eyes of the law, and remind all citizens that responsibility for their actions is ultimately their own. Nonetheless, conservative onlookers observe this trend with a sceptical eye. Today the ''Firebrand'' offers blessings. What will it do tomorrow?

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T07:35:13Z

Apoth: /* Where is Ravadi's Tomb? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where ''is'' Ravadi's Tomb?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of [[vigilance]], [[Known_exemplars#Ravadi_Founders'_Dance|Ravadi Founders' Dance]]. In order to be a [[Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should it be the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T07:34:47Z

Apoth: /* Where is Ravadi's Tomb? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where ''is'' Ravadi's Tomb?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of [[vigilance]], [[Known_exemplars#Ravadi_Founders'_Dance|Ravadi Founders' Dance]]. In order to be a [[Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T07:34:27Z

Apoth: /* Where is Ravadi's Tomb? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where ''is'' Ravadi's Tomb?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of vigilance, [[Known_exemplars#Ravadi_Founders'_Dance|Ravadi Founders' Dance]]. In order to be a [[Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T01:17:56Z

Apoth: /* Where to Celebrate Ravadi? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where ''is'' Ravadi's Tomb?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of loyalty, [[Known_exemplars#Ravadi_Founders'_Dance|Ravadi Founders' Dance]]. In order to be a [[Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the Vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T01:13:03Z

Apoth: /* Where to Celebrate Ravadi? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where to Celebrate Ravadi?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of loyalty, [[Known_exemplars#Ravadi_Founders'_Dance|Ravadi Founders' Dance]]. In order to be a [[Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the Vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T01:09:51Z

Apoth: /* Where to Celebrate Ravadi? */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where to Celebrate Ravadi?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of loyalty, Ravadi Founders' Dance. In order to be a [[Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the Vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

388YE Spring Equinox winds of fortune

2026-06-01T01:08:32Z

Apoth: /* Other Events */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:388YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 40%; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Into the light.jpg|align=left|caption=Spring is a time of renewal; a time for affirmed loyalties and renewed oaths.|width=2000}}</div>
==Overview==
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.
<div style="float:right; width: 250; clear: left; margin: 10px;">
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|-
! Wind of Fortune !! Order Released !! Last Updated || Note
|-
| [[Arranging grace]] || 1 || data-sort-value="2025/05/18"| 18/05 || Appraisal
|-
| [[Push for victory]] || 2 || data-sort-value="2025/05/28"| 28/05 || Imperial Address
|}</div>
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
|-
| [[Sarcophan Delves]] || [[Chain and anchor]]
|-
| [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] || [[A knock at the door]]
|-
|}

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==
===Arranging Grace (Sodality)===
* '''The Throne; Imperial Senate; artists of all stripes; patrons of the arts; Azure Sutannir, Curator of Memories, Curator of the Blood Red River, Dean of the First Voice Glade, High Bard of the Empire, Voice of the Twin Roses'''
[[The Throne]] has [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_the_Cat's_Graces|instructed]] the [[Civil Service|civil service]] to [[appraisal|appraise]] the constitutional implications around the creation of the ''Cat's Graces''. This potential [[Imperial sodality]] would be concerned with the promulgation of the arts across the Empire and by all accounts has strong backing across [[Anvil]] despite a [[Senate motion|motion]] to [[387YE_Summer_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Establish_the_Cat's_Graces|formalise]] them as an Imperial sodality narrowly failing to pass the [[Senate]]. Magistrate Abraham has reviewed the proposed manifesto of this new sodality, and delivers their findings first to [[Emperor Vesna]] and then to the rest of the Empire.

You can read about the new sodality and its implications, as well as some possibilities related to its manifesto, in the '''[[Arranging grace]]''' wind of fortune.

===Push For Victory (Imperial Address)===
* '''Imperial citizens; Freeborn fleet owners; Generals; Senator for Holberg; Benefactors; Keeper of the Breadbasket; Urizen mana site owners; Emperor Vesna; People with an opinion on the Rahvin and/or the Karass'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens, readying the Empire for the final push to finally bring about the end of the [[Druj]], and drawing attention to the sterling efforts made across the ten nations.

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[Push for victory]]''' wind of fortune.
===On the Road Ahead===
* '''The Brass Coast, especially the Freeborn National Assembly and residents of Segura'''
For the first time in many seasons, the lands of the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] are not ''immediately'' threatened. With a chance to draw breath, the inhabitants of the ancient town of [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]] are looking for new [[opportunity|opportunities]] for their home. The place is steeped in history; it was a city long before the Empire was created, before even the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#Three_Sisters_of_Highguard|Three Sisters]] came to [[the Brass Coast]]. That city was destroyed long ago, but in Anduz, the ruins of the past could lay the foundations of the future!

You can learn about plans for the future of Anduz, and for Segura, in the '''[[On the road ahead]]''' 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.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bladeroot.jpg|align=left|width=200}}</div>
===Chain and Anchor (Sarcophan)===
* '''Ambassador to the Sarcophan Delves; Senate; Highguard; Bishop of the Navigators; League and Brass Coast characters especially citizens of Madruga, Sarvos, and Tassato; Imperial Apothecaries Guild'''
The [[Sarcophan Delves]] are the closest of the five other great powers of the Known World to the Empire. A mercantile nation build out of the ruins of an ancient city, their merchant vessels are a common sight in the Empire. Proponents of free trade in all forms, they have also taken it on themselves to protect international trade. Their interest in the Empire, at its core, is in making as much money as possible by buying low and selling high. This wind includes discussion of various offers from previous seasons; details of the grand celebration at the Alivetti Estates; developments in the relationship of Sarcophan herbalists with their opposite numbers in the Imperial Apothecaries Guild; the conclusion of the trade in Highborn stone and grave art; and a cheeky offer to the Senate to purchase some real estate.

You can find out about development in the relationship between the Empire and the Delves, and several diplomatic opportunities, in the '''[[Chain and anchor]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 350px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wheeling gulls.jpg|align=right|width=350}}</div>
===A Knock at the Door (Beoraidh)===
* '''Ambassador to Beoraidh; Unshackled, including the Legion Engineer; Reavers, Wagon-Raiders, Corsairs, and Maggots; Imperial Consul; Senate; espionage enthusiasts'''
The independent city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh|Beoraidh]] lies on the western shores of the [[Imperial Orcs|Unshackled]] territory of [[Mareave]]. Until [[Wide_azure_skies#War_Between_Land_and_Sea|very recently]] it controlled the only safe anchorage in the territory, and the former Salt-Lord Ehsan sought to parley its position into recognition of its neutrality between the Empire and the Broken Shore. The population is made up almost entirely of ex-Grendel [[orc|orcs]], who are well aware of how precarious their position is. Following the surprise appointment of a full ambassador to the tiny "nation", Beoraidh has responded by appointing its own emissary to the Empire, continued to invite Imperial investment, and explored potential for mutual diplomatic aid. There's also been some talk of launching a raid against the barbarian Brine Turtle sept but that... that's mostly unrelated.

You can read about the Beoradhi response to their new ambassador, and the proposals around raiding the Brine Turtles, in the '''[[A knock at the door]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=IconThule.jpg|align=left|width=250}}</div>

===Voice Irresistable (Otkodov)===
* '''Ambassador to Otkodov; Conclave; Senate; Military units fighting or scouting in the Forest of Ulnak'''
The [[Thule]] of [[Otkodov]] remain at peace with the Empire. They are always reserved but they continue to cooperate with Imperial citizens, especially the [[magical skills#magician|magicians]] who are peers to their [[Thule lore#Warlock|warlocks]]. Recent months have seen the Thule shift their focus toward their invasion of the [[Forest of Ulnak]], but that doesn't mean there has been no space for diplomacy. A new Ambassador to the Empire who speaks for the Dragons undivided has been appointed by the shadowy, ancient rulers of the northern nation and they seem keen to take up where their late predecessor Rak left off.

You can learn about diplomatic developments with Otkodov, as well as what little information there is about the Ulnak campaign, in the '''[[Voice irresistable]]''' wind of fortune.

==Trade Summary==

==Other Events==

===Where to Celebrate Ravadi?===
{{SOP|statement=We have the exemplar, now where is their tomb? This assembly authorises and applauds the creation of an inspirational site to memorialise the <u>EXEMPLAR OF VIGILANCE, RAVADI FOUNDERS’ DANCE</u> (consecrated to vigilance, of course).|by=Martin Orchard, Vigilance Assembly|vote=334-20|when=Autumn 387YE}}
At the Winter Solstice, the Vigilance Assembly passed with greater majority a call to consecrate an inspirational tomb to recently recognised exemplar of loyalty, Ravadi Founders' Dance. In order to be a [[Empirewiki:Writ_of_consecration|legally binding writ]] however, the statement must include the chosen location. In order for the consecration to go ahead, the assembly must choose precisely where this site should be, or commission one via the senate if such a place does not yet exist. It is comparatively easy for an assembly to agree that one of their exemplars or paragons should be exalted with an appropriate site, but becomes much harder when priests must agree on where that is, or what part of their life it relates to. In the case of Ravadi, should it be a specific location in [[Weirwater]] where they were born and raised, where the call to fight threats to the Empire was instilled in them? Should it be somewhere in [[Hercynia]] where Ravadi was dedicated to Vigilance and first fought the Vallorn, swearing a binding of thorns? Should the place where they died in [[Madruga]], where they fought the dry patricians as the assembly's champion? Should it be somewhere else entirely? This is the question the assembly needs to answer before an appropriate mandate or set of mandates can be proposed by the civil service. If the Assembly passes a statement with lesser majority this summit agreeing on a place, the civil service will produce one or more mandates as normal. If multiple pass, the one with greatest margin will be used.

===Black Tillers in Skarsind===
<div style="width: 350px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Garden of Hope'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Great work </td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' Gildermark, Skarsind</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Time:''' 3 months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effects:'''
* Provides two doses of Hearkener's Hope to each congregation in Skarsind
* Increases investment in congregations in Skarsind by one</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year - or until another great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in the territory</td></tr>
</table></div>
* '''The Black Tillers have drawn up plans for a grand garden and distillery that would provide Hearkener's Hope to every congregation in Skarsind'''
* '''This opportunity is available until the end of the Winter Solstice 388YE or until a great work increasing investment in congregations is commissioned in Skarsind'''
Last season, the ''Black Tillers'' made an [[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|offer]] to the Unshackled Assembly; that they would take on custodianship of the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] and use it to produce Hearkener's Hope, a narcotic which allows an orc to hear their ancestors' voices more clearly for a short time. The Senate voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Amend_Legion_Rookery|amend]] the Rookery to support hiring miners for the newly established [[Sorrowful Tunnels]], but the Unshackled Assembly upheld a [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_157|judgement]] by '''Bloodcrow Meep''' with a greater majority that made clear that the assembly still sought access to Hearkener's Hope, and called on the ''Black Tillers'' to present an alternative.

The coterie have worked with the civil service to draw up plans for a grand garden and distillery in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]], that would see each congregation in the territory receive two doses of the narcotic every season. More information on Hearkener's Hope and the Black Tillers can be found in the '''[[Every_day_of_your_life#Rookery_Without_Crows|Every day of your life]]''' wind of fortune from Winter Solstice 387YE.

===Opportunity Knocks Again===
* '''The civil service will raise an administrative motion to amend the Master of the Mint to give them the power to review a previous appraisal or opportunity'''
* '''This motion will be raised at the Friday evening session at the Spring Equinox'''
* '''The Senate could use a Senate motion to grant this power to a different Senate position'''
Last season, the [[Senate]] voted to [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Hire_Prognosticators|recruit all three prognosticators]] that had become [[Forever_is_composed_of_nows#Candidates|available to expand the Prognosticatores Office]]. As such, the [[Speaker for the Senate]] will raise an administrative motion to amend the [[Master of the Imperial Mint]] to give them the power to make an announcement to instruct the civil service to review a previous opportunity that is no longer available because too much time has passed or because circumstances have changed.

The [[Scrutiny#Constitutional_Court|Constitutional Court]] have confirmed that the power could instead be given to any [[Senate_session#Member_of_the_Senate|Member of the Senate]], including [[the Throne]], [[Conscience of the Senate]], [[Imperial Magus]], [[Advisor on Orc Affairs]], or [[Imperial Consul]]. However, this would require a [[Senate motion]] to name the title whose powers they wish to amend. Alternatively, rather than delegating the power, the Senate could retain the power itself. This would allow any [[senator]] to raise a [[Senate motion]] to direct the [[Civil Service|civil service]] accordingly.

Regardless of how the power is employed, it is not possible to review more than one expired opportunity each season at this time.

===Seeking the Karass===
* '''The preacher Jim led shamans, mystagogues and other willing members of the Imperial Orc assembly on a delegation to learn of the ancestors and beliefs held by the Karass'''
* '''A report of that expedition, which was successful, will be made available to each member of the assembly'''
* '''There was an opportunity during the expedition to form a bridge to a significant ancestor of the Karass. Additional briefing material is available for any character with a congregation who believes they would have made this bridge'''

Last season, the Imperial Orc Assembly [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_158|voted]] to support [[Every_day_of_your_life#Spanning_the_Abyss|Bloodcrow Knott's declaration of his highest calling]] by asking shamans and mystagogues to join him on an expedition to learn more of the ancestors of the Karass. While it was not easy, the expedition has proved fruitful, and those who went with Jim had a chance to learn much of the Karass. A report will be made available to all members of the Imperial Orc assembly present at the Spring Equinox.

During the expedition, Nerru, an elderly member of the Illarawm, successfully formed a bridge to an ancestor of the Karass with the help of Lenna, a young member of that sept. Anyone who receives the report may decide on reading it, that their character would have taken this opportunity to bridge to this ancestor with Lenna and Nerru's aid. If you do decide this, please let us know, a note will be made, and you will have access to additional briefing material designed to give a sense of the wisdom imparted by this pivotal Karass ancestor.

===Greenwatcher===
* '''The title of Greenwatcher was mistakenly marked as inactive'''
* '''The title still exists with its responsibilities, but has no powers'''
* '''It will be available to elect at the Spring Equinox 388YE'''
The [[Greenwatcher]] was marked as inactive following [[Ossegrahn]] finally [[Songs like trees|turning away]] from the Empire. This was a mistake, as the responsibilities are still relevant. The title has been reinstated, though with none of the previously associated powers, as they were all derived from the eternal.

The Greenwatcher is still responsible for striving to prevent the vallorn from harming people of any nation, whether Imperial or not; they are also expected to actively work to warn others of the danger presented by the vallorn and ensure they take its threat seriously; finally, if the Greenwatch were to come under threat, it is the responsibility of the Greenwatcher to deal with those threats.

===Rod and Shield in the Commonwealth===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">[[File:OrderRodAndShield.jpg]]</div>
* '''The Rod and Shield have been encouraged to support the Commonwealth against Cold Sun'''
* '''Members of the order can journey to the Commonwealth to offer advice, or take part, in the fight against ''scions'' of Cold Sun
Shortly before the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE, Lantir was [[Cold war|lost to Cold Sun]]. '''Sakari Nightscale''', as [[Rod and Shield|Grandmaster of the Rod and Shield]], called on the order to offer [[Cold_war#Magical_Aid|magical aid]] to the [[Commonwealth]], along with the Golden Pyramid and experts from the Granite Pillar. Battlemages and magicians interested in the practical application of magic in military situations have travelled across the Sea of Steel to support the Commonwealth's efforts against the ''scions'' of [[Cold Sun|Oblivion]], either by directly getting stuck in against the heralds, or through discussions on the tactical use of magic.

Any player whose character is a member of the Rod and Shield can email {{plot}} with their CID to let us know that their character went to the Commonwealth. Those who email in will receive a random pawn of [[vis]] and a lingering [[Combat#Traumatic_Wounds|traumatic wound]] from an encounter with a ''scion''. The deadline for emailing in to take part in this opportunity was midnight on Tuesday the 19<sup>th</sup> of May.

===Vigilance in Sarvos===
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td colspan="2" ;">'''Investigated Sarvos'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Citizen'''</td><td>'''Nation'''</td></tr>
<tr><td> Achseh </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Ada </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Aemon </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Alessi of the Basilisks of the Labyrinth </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Amaro d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Apollos </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Delilah </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Destin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Elena Donati di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Esria </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Estella Lucati </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Fabio Costas d’Apulian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Frater Pontius of Adoniram's Testament </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Giuliana Tessaro di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Godfrey of The Emberclad </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jared </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Joran </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jovian </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Jules von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Junia of The Rowan Chapel </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Kaspar Yakovich von Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Laurencio Lemmini di Sarvos </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Lia Adelaar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Merlof Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Miroslaw Vukovitch Von Temeschwar </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Omin </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Paulus Adelaar van Holberg </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Taddea Ginori </td><td> The League </td></tr>
<tr><td> Tyrael </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Vashti of the Cenotaph </td><td> Highguard </td></tr>
<tr><td> Viviane Barossa di Tassato Regario </td><td> The League </td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Joran of Reikos with 25 doses of liao to rally the people of Highguard to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let Virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Joran of Reikos, Highguard National Assembly|vote=552-0|when=Winter 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=Seek out falsehood and expose the truth! We send Viviane Barossa with 25 liao to rally the people of the League to use their well-earned skills to find those who betray the people of Sarvos. Let virtue reveal the deceiver!|by=Viviane Barossa, League National Assembly|vote=168-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>
Last season, an [[Finding is the final act|opportunity]] arose for the priests of the League and Highguard to investigate the potential of a Grendel espionage ring in the crown of the Catazar - the city of [[Sarvos]]. Both assemblies approved this venture to thwart the machinations of the orcs of the Broken Shore, and the last three months saw thirty-two of their number descend upon the coast in a vigilant fervour. Furthermore, the Sarvos Chamber of Commerce voted to seek out the aid of the [[College_of_the_Liberated|College of the Liberated]], further increasing the chances of success.

Unfortunately, due to the actions of Imperials taking advantage of the [[Finding_is_the_final_act#Within_and_Without|offer]] of the [[Whisper Gallery|Court of the Shadowed Oracle]] to profit from the espionage ring rather than identify and disrupt it, the inquisitors were thwarted in their attempts. The priests of Highguard and the League were unable to follow up on enough leads to identify the Grendel agents or their key bases of operation.

All is not lost, however, the Conclave [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_War_of_Whispers|committed to the war on whispers]] this season gone, and from that focus comes results. Those who took part in the [[Venture#War_of_Whispers|venture]] have been able to determine and share that there were three military units led by humans from somewhere in the east of the Empire (that is, from either [[Varushka]], [[Dawn]], [[Holberg]], [[Therunin]], or [[Urizen]]) who took part in this counter-counter-espionage.

'''<big>Participation</big>'''<br>
Those who took the '''Preach Vigilance - Investigate Sarvos''' action will have taken part in interviewing the faithful in Sarvos, investigating leads and clues in the city, and attempting to identify traitors to the Empire. Unfortunately, each time they were close to pinning down something, it would have gone awry. Either a witness was whisked away, a piece of evidence lost, or a written document had the text garbled.

==Mandates==
* '''You can find details of the mandates, along with the rest of the Synod judgements, [[387YE_Winter Solstice_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]].

==Winter Conjunctions==
* '''Last event there were a number of conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate; their known outcomes are listed here'''
During the Winter Solstice, 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>[[Mitwold|Mitwold, The Meadows, ''Two Barrel Field'']]</td><td>Defeat the Wayford Traitors</td><td>Traitorous Marchers</td><td>[[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#Battle_Opportunity:_A_Dog_Barks|A Dog Barks]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''William Guildenstern''' of [[the Marches]]; ''Bill of Beatsdown'' was killed; ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' survived; ''Jim Moor'' was murdered on the field; ''Jyll Longleys'', ''Jack Poultice'', and ''Dusty Cobb'' survived; The three items of worth were lost.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Sarangrave|Sarangrave, Thornfen, ''Camp Askoun Orama'']]</td><td>Protect the ''Shield''</td><td>Druj</td><td>[[Fire_and_the_flood#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Dead_Whisper|The Dead Whisper]]</td><td>[[Field Marshal]] was '''Earl Zoran De Orzel''' of [[Dawn]]; Druj successfully engaged; all ingots and measures captured; ''Rebuker of the Unwanted'' recovered; situation with captives unclear.</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Skallahn|Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, ''Eagle Scour'']]</td><td>Intercept Ghodi Uksahkka</td><td>Jotun</td><td>[[Rubies_in_the_snow#Battle_Opportunity:_The_Queen_Waits|The Queen Waits]]</td><td>Not taken; ''Ghodi Uksahkka'' safely arrived in Kierheim; Tromsdalen fyrd formed</td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Mareave|Mareave, Fleisardh, ''Capstone Veld'']]</td><td>Deny the Haulers of the Tide</td><td>Grendel</td><td>[[Scarlet_sands#Battle_Opportunity:_Rocks_Fall|Rocks Falls]]</td><td>Not taken; Fleisardh has gained the coastal quality; Weltsilver seals remain; ''Pinerunner Pattar'' discovered; ''Questionner Kester'' still alive</td></tr>
</table>

===Minor Conjunctions===
{|table class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! # !! Location !! Responsibility !! Overview !! Result
|-
| 1 || Morrow, Peregro, Xavier's Path || [[Arbiter of the Four Winds]] || [[Red_skies#A_Different_Skill_(Morrow)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 2 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Verdant Lea || [[Banner-bearer of Atkonaroq]] || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Ceaseless Hunter]] || Ceaseless Hunter killed
|-
| 3 || Sarvos, Uccelini, Antonio's Glebe || [[Champion of Wisdom]] || [[Red_skies#Golden_Crane_(Sarvos)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 4 || Sermersuaq, Suaq Wastes, Taiva's Pen || '''Maryc of House Orzel''' || [[Shadow_in_the_grass#Agramant_and_Big_Icebarn|Kill the Feasting Lord]] || Feasting Lord killed
|-
| 5 || Madruga, Crucible, Draws Sward || [[Imperial Fleet Master]] || [[Red_skies#As_If_the_World_Were_Fog_(Madruga)|Defeat the wreckers]] || Wreckers defeated
|-
| 6 || Sarvos, Foracci, Vintner's Way || [[Armarius of the Anvil Library]] || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Burn_The_Books_(Sarvos)|Protect the Library Scriptorium]] || All Cinders killed and Scriptorium protected
|-
| 7 || Skallahn, Greenwall, Paegga's Rest || [[Strategos of Wintermark]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Prince_of_the_Ravens|Kill Eluf Asbjørnsson]] || ''Eluf Asbjørnsson'' survived and will raise the fyrd of Greenwall this season
|-
| 8 || Madruga, Torres, Corsair's Road || '''Sufyan i Zuhri i Guerra''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Sever_The_Hand_(Madruga)|Protect the House of Guerra]] || All Cinders killed and House of Guerra protected
|-
| 9 || Bregasland, Ottermire, Abigail's Green || [[Keeper of the Breadbasket]] || [[Rose_grow_the_rushes_o%27#A_Plain_Wooden_Box_(Bregasland)|Kill the Jotun warband]] || Imperials pushed off the field; Lion of the North have recovered strength
|-
| 10 || Upwold, Tower March, Benson's Bawn || '''Martin Orchard''' || [[Poets_light_but_lamps#Silence_The_Bell_(Upwold)|Protect Benson's Orchard]] || All Cinders killed and Benson's Orchard protected
|-
| 11 || Sküld, Kógur, Leopard-Tooth Pass || [[High Bard of the Empire]] || [[Invited_with_asperity#A_Cultural_Exchange_%28Redux%29|Exchange cultural works of storytelling]] || Cultural works exchanged, High Bard may know more
|-
| 12 || Therunin, Eastring, Broken Pasture || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[The_thing_with_feathers#Midwinter,_Was_It?_(Llofir)|End the suffering of those who fought the vallorn]] || Unclear, but the Speaker of the Vallornguard may know more
|-
| 13 || Casinea, Casfall, Casca's Doom || [[Speaker of the Highborn Assembly]] || [[Apparently_with_no_surprise#Whatever_Happened_to_Mendicant_Garev?|Heal and rescue mendicant Garev]] || Mendicant Garev rescued and healed, some strange items recovered, Speaker of the Highborn Assembly might know more. Mendicant Garev was [[387YE_Winter_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_150|called]] to inquisition
|-
| 14 || Mournwold, Alderly, Hare Stone || '''Linley Weaver''' || [[The_thing_with_feathers#The_Stone_Cried_Out_(Irra_Harah_again)|Respond to the call of Warrenwise]] || Problem solved, '''Linley Weaver''' should know more
|-
| 15 || Therunin, Eastring, Day's Rest Wayhouse || '''Eleri Bronwen's Rest''' || [[The_tune_without_the_words#A_Light_in_the_Trees_%28Therunin%29|Discuss relocation of Glimmerwater steading]] || The Glimmerwater steading will relocate to [[Miaren]]
|-
| 16 || Spiral, Apulus, Aphelion Cape || '''Floria Sunshaper''' || [[Mirror_and_the_flame#Keep_the_Bargain_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated and shards retrieved
|-
| 17 || Kallavesa, West Marsh, Ingrid's Rock || [[Watcher of Britta's Pool]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#It_Moves_(Kallavesa)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 18 || Redoubt, Siluri, Lucia's Moor || [[Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#A_Short_Path_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 19 || Bregasland, North Fens, Gorum's Toe || [[Keeper of the Dour Fens]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Behold_the_Fear_(Bregasland)|Stop the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 20 || Redoubt, Tomari, Magnus' Clearing || [[Brilliant Star|Custodian of the Brilliant Star]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#Within_the_Stone_(Redoubt)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Grendel defeated
|-
| 21 || Sermersuaq, Stark, Scop's Lookout || [[The Academy|Head of the Academy]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Cut_Them_Down_(Sermersuaq)|Clear out the coral husks]] || Coral husks destroyed
|-
| 22 || Necropolis, Fishguard, Myfanwy's Rest || [[Abbess of Reconciliation]] || [[Blood-red_blooms#At_the_Gardens_(Necropolis)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperial pushed off the field and [[Abbess_of_Reconciliation#Abbey_of_Reconciliation|Abbey of Reconciliation]] raided
|-
| 23 || Ayereed, Gainmeachdubh, Dunreagh's Mead || [[Bargainer of the Iron Tower]] || [[387YE Winter Solstice winds of war#Make_an_Anchor_Weep_(Ayereed)|Defeat the Grendel]] || Imperials pushed from the field but remnant Grendel killed by wagon raiders
|-
| 24 || Skallahn, Ulfrsmoor, Nordrborg Approach || [[Smith of Ashes]] || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#Siege|Stop the construct from reaching Kierheim]] || Construct defeated
|-
| 25 || Skallahn, Mindrkyst, Drekatangi || '''Sebastian Shaw''' || [[Rubies_in_the_snow#A_Bronze_Bear|Rescue shipwrecked Marchers]] || Crew of the Old Jim's Ewe were successfully rescued
|-
| 26 || Therunin, Peakedge Song, Hywel's Track || [[Apothecaries Guild|Guild Leader of the Apothecaries Guild]] || [[Crimson_and_green#Under_an_Oak_(Therunin)|Defeat the Druj]] || Druj defeated and apothecaries saved
|-
| 27 || Sarangrave, Whisperwood, Skinflawed's Corral || [[Strategos|Strategos of Urizen]] || [[Fire_and_the_flood#A_Cold_Medallion_(Conjunction)|Defeat the Druj]] || ''Grettek Skinflawed'' and rest of the Druj killed
|-
| 28 || The Barrens, The Bleaks, The Execution Field || [[Envoy to the Karass]] || [[Quietude#Spies_And_Traitors_(Conjunction)|Discuss intricacies of Imperial law with Anka Karass]] || ''Anka Karass'' has gained a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the Karass under Imperial law
|-
| 29 || Spiral, Apulus, Hadrian's Path || [[Sevenfold Path|Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Unexpected_(Spiral)|Intercept the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples dispatched and scattered, none escaped to Mareave
|-
| 30 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Vallornguard|Speaker of the Vallornguard]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Clear out the Druj]] || Druj cleared out
|-
| 31 || Therunin, Eastring, Greensward Lea || [[Spear of the Seven]] || [[Mushroom,_mushroom,_mushroom#Waves_of_Ruin_(Conjunction)|Take advantage of the conjunction]] || Area was cleared but no ritual performed
|-
| 32 || Redoubt, Limus, Temple of the Stinging Blade || [[Champion of Loyalty]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Borderland_(Redoubt)|Deal with the Disciples of Sulemaine]] || Disciples slaughtered, the Champion of Loyalty should know what happened to the schema
|-
| 33 || Morrow, Altis, Path to Highwatch || [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] || [[To_fight_aloud#Precious_Cargo_(Morrow)|Stop the Disciples of Sulemaine]] ||Disciples slaughtered, the Polemarch of Highwatch should know what happened to the dose of [[true liao]]
|-
| 34 || Hercynia, Northpines, Starwood Roots Steading || [[Archmage of Winter]] || [[The_tune_without_the_words#Over_the_Hills_(Hercynia)|Investigate strange rumours]] || Rumours investigated; '''Bloodcrow Arora''', the [[Archmage of Winter]], might know more
|-
|}

Khobel Tavah

2026-05-11T21:25:53Z

Apoth: /* Appearance */ making it not sound like he died

[[Category:Eternals]]
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=KhobelTavah.jpg|caption=Khobel and Tavah are the worst fear of sailors and those they leave behind. They are the drowned and the sea that drowns.|align=left|width=400}}</div>
==Eternal of Winter==
===Sobriquets===
Khobel and Tavah are the ''Two-Who-Are-One'', a pair of Winter eternals bound together by solemn wedding oaths. Together they are referred to as the ''Consorts of Dark Water'', the ''Old Man and the Sea'', the ''Monarchs of the Vast'', ''Fear Death By Water'', or the ''Sunken Rope''.

Other names for Khobel include ''Sculler-in-the-Flood'', ''Sailor of Ill-Fortune'', ''Fear's Bride'', ''Lord of the Last City'', ''Old Tom Flotsam'', the ''Lanterner'', ''Prophet of the Last Light'', and ''King-of-Nothing''. Other names for Tavah include ''Dark-That-Drowns'', ''Our Lord of Salt'', ''Molly Bitters'', ''Fishwife's Burden'', ''Tideless Scream'', ''Terror-Under-Wave'', ''Harbinger'', ''Salt-in-the-Lungs'', and ''Queen-of-the-Vast''.

==Appearance==
It is said that Khobel was once the monarch of a city in the Winter Realm, a great sailor who commanded many fleets. His city is now ruined and nameless, and it stands on the shores of a tideless black sea that is inexorably drowning the buildings that remain. This sea is his wife, Tavah: her waters first rose to swallow Khobel’s city when they fell in love and swore marriage-vows to each other, long long ago. Together they are Khobel Tavah, the Consorts of Dark Water. The two are almost never encountered apart: indeed, on most occasions when one has apparently deigned to appear without the other, the other will arrive or make their presence known in short order.

Khobel generally appears as an old man, bowed and broken, sometimes with a monstrous face but more often all too human at first appearance. He often bears ruined symbols of kingship: a broken sceptre, a battered crown, a tattered robe. At other times he appears as a bedraggled sailor, his skin bloated and pale, a drowned corpse walking. Sometimes he carries a lantern in which is lit a dim flame. He often appears in a small boat with oars, or floating on the wreckage of a ship. His vessel is or was called Ariel, or, the Preserver of Life. Occasionally he is accompanied by his heralds, fellow “survivors” of the wreck, who similarly appear bedraggled and drowned. Occasionally he appears as the corpse of a beached whale, lying dead on the sands, stinking of the sea but somehow unrotting.

Tavah takes many forms, though they are rarely human and always frightening. Sometimes she is the waters on which Khobel’s vessel is afloat: sometimes she is the darkness that surrounds him. Sometimes she is a towering giant, her hand outstretched in the palm of which Khobel sits, or she is simply a great eye peering from the darkness below or above. Whatever form she takes, however, she is rarely a silent presence: her voice emanates from the surroundings, from the waters, from the dark. When she does choose to take the form of a person-like figure, she generally appears as a younger woman with long, dark, tangled hair that covers her face, garbed modestly in a pale white dress. Sometimes at these times she has the tail of a fish, and sometimes the legs of a bird, but most often she has a deceptively human appearance and walks barefoot. The exception is her eyes: when she lifts her head and reveals her face, they stare outwards from her blank expression like dark pools of water. Her heralds resemble scavenger birds of the sea: she has a particular affinity with the albatross.

Khobel is generally referred to using male pronouns (he/him), though he sometimes takes on a feminine appearance and on these occasions seems to prefer they/them. He sometimes uses the sobriquet ''Queen-of-Nothing'', a variation on one of his usual names. Tavah generally seems to use female pronouns (she/her) or is referred to using it/its: this tends to reflect the degree she is representing herself as something primal and unknowable.
<div style="float:right; width: 250px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ArchmageEmatius.jpg|caption=One of the final acts of '''Ematius Ankarien''' as Archmage of Winter was to establish contact between the Empire and Khobel Tavah.|align=right|width=250}}</div></div>

==History==
Khobel Tavah was broadly unknown to the Empire prior to the events of 387YE which saw a growing number of omens of doom spreading particularly around the [[Bay of Catazar]], often involving reports of sunken bells tolling in the deep. During the Autumn Equinox 387YE they responded to a [[archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] missive from then-[[Archmage of Winter]] Ematius "Icebreaker" Ankarien. During the [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed|parley that followed]], the two eternals spoke at length about their nature and concerns. It must be said, though, that much of what Imperial magicians know is based on that interaction and that the wise might perhaps take some of it with a grain or two of salt.

They have never been close to the Empire and are only somewhat familiar with it: individual Imperial magicians and covens have formed a closer relationship in the past, but never for very long. They have had some involvement in many so-called “fear cults” over the years both within and outside the Empire, and there is at least one regio in the city of Leen devoted to them as a patron of a local Druj sept. They had some relationships with the ancestors of the Naguerro, the Urizeni who first settled Redoubt, and other inhabitants of the Bay of Catazar in ancient times.

The Archmage of Winter who died in the Barabbine Disaster understood them well. She consulted often with the Consorts before the fateful sailing of Barabbas's navies. After Nicovar's burning of the libraries, knowledge of them nearly disappeared entirely. Since the destruction of the Shining Pillar and the Lighthouse at Nikephoros, the raising of the Barabbine wrecks, and the return of infant kraken to the Bay of Catazar, their attention has been drawn to the Empire once again.
==Concerns==
<div style="float: right; max-width: 500px; width: 40%; margin-left: 10px;"><box>'''The Two who are One'''<br>
Unlike the Thrice-cursed Court, who enjoy maintaining an ambiguity whether they are one eternal or three, Khobel and Tavah are quite clear that as far as they are concerned they are a singular eternal, Two-Who-Are-One, bound by their wedding-oaths. While this may or may not be strictly true - in theory the Conclave could attempt a [[declaration]] of [[Alignment]] on one without the other, and it is anyone's guess whether this would work - doing so is likely to anger both of them. They would not support the creation of a ritual that tried to draw on the power of one of them without the other.
</box></div>
Khobel Tavah are a frightening pair, and fear is their watchword. In fact, they apparently claim that it was on the day they swore their wedding vows to each other that fear entered the world - that before that time mortals lived in ignorance, incapable of courage because they had nothing to compare it too, but when their marriage was sanctified the world itself was moved, and knew fear in its heart forever more. They seem to take very little satisfaction in frightening mortals for the sake of it, as unlike some winter eternals they are not particularly inclined to cruelty for its own sake. However, they simply are terrifying by their very nature, and without a source of spiritual strength it is hard for a mortal to stand in their presence without fear completely overwhelming them.

They both believe strongly in fear's capacity to strengthen, ward, and preserve. While neither values the conscious knowledge of experience as [[Wise Rangara]] does, they do value the wisdom that fear brings: in their view, the wise are able to act quickly and intuitively on instinctive feelings of fear. The fearful mind knows how to act before the thinking mind catches up with it. They disagree on whether it is important or not to be able to act on your fear to prevent your fate: Khobel believes that fear wards, whereas Tavah believes it can preserve but cannot ultimately protect. Fear leads one to struggle even in the face of death, and it might give one the strength to survive when one might otherwise perish. Sometimes, however, your doom cannot be averted: but then your fate and the fear of it are a warning to others.

Khobel is interested primarily in fear as a warning and an omen: he speaks of the value in listening to the hair that raises on the back of one’s neck, and of observing the horrible fates of others and feeling fear that drives you to avert that fate for yourself. He approves of the way the Druj wield fear as a weapon of control against their slaves and vassals, in this sense: fear is a solid thing that prompts them to necessary action. He has a dour manner, occasionally tending to the nihilistic. He seems to possess a dry sense of humour, and a single well-told joke may tease out a sharp, rare laugh, but for the most part he is morose and somewhat standoffish.

He is a prophet, or enjoys pretending to be, and often issues cryptic warnings and prophecies of dooms to come. He seems to expect them to neither be understood or listened to: however, he acts quite hurt if people actually complain about his obscurantist tone. In general he is sensitive to criticism and it is normally best to avoid even implying criticism: conversely, he responds well to praise. It is not entirely clear if he truly always sees the future or if he acts to ensure his predictions come about. Those who show the wisdom to understand what he foretells, interpret his ominous pronouncements, and act to avert disaster will often win his favour. He is interested in the way that those who look out to sea can often spot bad weather on the horizon even days before it comes to shore, and he speaks often of the “wisdom of the sailor’s eye” in this sense. He is warmest when speaking of his wife, which he does with a devoted affection.

Tavah, on the other hand, is particularly interested in the fear people feel when it is too late for them to do anything about the peril they are in, such as the fear the drowning feel in the last moments of their life, or someone trapped in a cave-in from which they cannot escape. The sinking feeling of terror at a certain fate is something that fascinates her, and she will pay rapt attention to personal accounts of experiencing this: she will sometimes offer her aid to speak with the spirits of the dead in order that they can relay such tales.

She has a somewhat easier, friendlier manner than Khobel, despite her generally inhuman and fearsome appearance, but sometimes an element of threat or irritation creeps in her lilting tone. She jealously guards her time spent alone with Khobel, and those who try her patience too long by tarrying in their company may stir her into wrath. She enjoys talking to those whose fate is sealed or who stand on the precipice of disaster that they cannot avert: she will never offer to save such people from their fate, but she can be persuaded to prolong the time in which they exist fearful of their doom. She is protective of Khobel: the ''King-of-Nothing'' can be sensitive when criticised, and she will viciously oppose any who she perceives as hurting him.

There seems to be a genuine love between the two of them. It is the old, tested love of a marriage that has weathered much and endured it all. They are quite dependent on one another in a way that is distinctly unnerving at times, and to the extent they ever express fear themselves it is the fear of losing the other. Love so intense and selfish that it destroys everything the lovers care about except each other is of great interest to them: to the extent that any Winter eternal understands love, it is them, but only in this terrible aspect.

They both share an interest in oaths which seems to stem from the solemn commitments they made to each other when they wed. In particular, they are interested in oaths sworn between small groups of people or couples, and strongly approve of banners, sects and covens who keep their membership limited to a tightly-trusted circle. They will not witness such oaths or sanctify them - this is, they say, outside their domain - but they consider those who are bound by such oaths to be most worthy of serious regard. They advocate strongly for the institution of marriage as a concept.

When it comes to the other eternals of Winter, they seem to have a positive regard for [[Wise Rangara]] and for [[Kaela]], who they claim were both present on the day they made their vows to each other as witnesses: in some of their tellings there was also a silent officiant present, though the identity of this figure is not clear. They seem to strongly dislike the [[Thrice-cursed Court]] in a way that suggests a personal animosity, though they will not be drawn on the subject of the details of this. Khobel has a dislike of [[Sorin]] that Tavah does not share - it seems that it stems from some old rivalry between their two cities, which does not interest the ''Queen-of-the-Vast''. She finds ''[[Sorin|Devourer-of-Hope]]'' quite charming. Mentioning the ''Tomb King'' is one of the few ways to cause them to argue - which is rarely a wise decision.

They often send dire pronouncements of doom to major mortal nations: it is said Khobel himself warned the denizens of Umshalla of the fate that awaited them, to no avail. Atun was known to Tavah personally - or so ''Mary Bitters'' claims, and if such stories are to be believed she is one of a few mortals ever to forge a genuine if somewhat antagonistic friendship with ''The Dark That Drowns''.

They both enjoy preserved, pickled or salted food, especially plums, salted liquorice, or herring, or any food that might be offered as a funeral offering. The wise supplicant will always bring little gifts of this form for both Consorts when meeting with them. They will sometimes give minor gifts of food in return to those that attend them: these are often extremely salty or extremely sweet, and tend to cause terrifying visions in those that consume them.

==Boons==
The pair have not interacted with the Empire sufficiently for their common boons to become a matter of record. There is however some speculation, some information from the Two-who-is-one, and some from others who have a relationship with them particularly the [[Sarcophan Delves]] that provides some insight into what they may offer.

Khobel is particularly interested in warding, and the way solemn oaths and pronouncements solidify and reify their effect. He will offer boons to assist with the casting of any ritual which wards an area, extending the length of the effect or the size of the warded area. He will lend his aid to the casting of [[Wolves of the Hungry Sea]], and he is always happy to offer advice to those contemplating a journey by sea: he will certainly be able to list all the things that could go wrong during such a journey.

Tavah, in turn, has a particular interest in things that preserve, especially if they do so directly or indirectly through fear. She will often provide boons that assist with large castings of Fallow Fields and Dry Meat or assist with the casting of rituals that have a similar effect but across an entire territory. She is able to allow anyone to temporarily survive underwater, at least to the capacity that most merrow can, but anyone who draws on her boons in such a way will surely experience a constant state of overwhelming terror while they do so. Enchantments or curses associated with her often grant constant nightmares of drowning in a dark, still ocean. She is also interested in preservation more generally: she is fascinated by salvage from shipwrecks, and museums that display things lost to time that have been discovered.

Together they are interested in anything that seeks to use fear as a tutelary tool. The Consorts of Dark Water have little time for the foolhardy and the vainglorious, but have an appreciation for those who are willing to face and accept the reality of their fears. Sometimes, they will offer to “test” people’s courage, by cursing them in such a way that their fears are temporarily intensified. They both have an interest in curses that affect fleets and navies by drawing on the fearsome power of the ocean, and both of them are greatly dismissive of any sailor who does not show due respect to the dangers of seafaring life. They are both willing to assist in prophetic divinations of doom to come, but it is never possible to distinguish between doom that can be prevented and doom that is certain to occur.

==Further Reading==
* [[Has_reared_himself_a_throne#Tempt_the_Waters_From_Their_Bed|Has reared himself a throne]] - 387YE Autumn plenipotentiary where the Two-who-are-one spoke at length with Imperial magicians

<ic>
Once there was a Sailor-King, who ruled the City whose name is Nothing, on the edge of the great wastes where the forest meets the sea by the plains. The people of the City loved their King, because he had a keen eye for prophecy, and knew the secret signs of storms, and he watched over his people and shared with them the signs that he alone knew, and tolled a great bell when the sign of storms came. So it was that his people crossed the ocean only when the sea was languid and tideless, and fished the waters and ate well from it. They knew no fear, then.

One bright day, the King looked out from his belltower out onto the abyssal waters of the sea, and he saw them as if for the first time, and they stirred in his heart a nameless terror. The waters were vast, breadth beyond comprehension, and the sailors below so small against the sloe-black sea. He looked at the open ocean and in his terror he knew he was in love, and would be so forever more.

In that moment was the City called Nothing lost. He cried out: "O, sea! O, Dark-That-Drowns! I am the Prophet of the Light! I am King-of-Nothing! Hear me! Look upon me, Bitter One! I offer forth this warning and this promise and this prophecy: in three days I will come again to your shore and offer you oaths of marriage. If I am pleasing to your eye, and it pleases you, if you wish to accept me as a gift, consume me! Or, if you wish, offer me your oath in return, and I will be your bride!" He knew that either one of these was a death. To love is to die. His heart twisted like old rope. A bell tolled from the deep.

The ocean deep looked at him, and found him pleasing to her eye. She enjoyed the way the light dappled on his shoulders, the way his crooked smile was shaped. She knew at that moment she was doomed to love him and to grow old with him, though she was ageless then as she is ageless still, and by loving him, she would not be as she had always been. To love is to change.

And yet she would make him wait as he had sworn to do. She spoke in a voice that was a thousand flailing drowning sailors screaming I love you one last time in breathless desperation hoping falsely that their left-behind loved ones would hear.

"I will hear your oaths in three days' time, and if they are pleasing to me, I will swear them to you in turn. But do not let us wed alone. A vow must be witnessed. Bring family." The sea fell silent.

The King-of-Nothing rode out that day, he who was Lord of the Last City, into the forest where his grandmother lived with her apprentice. He stood before her.

"Grandmother", said he. "I will wed the sea, three nights from now. Will you come to witness?" She picked at her teeth. "Young one, do you know that you will die, for so it is to love." "I know this," he said.

She leaned closer to him, eyes unseeing, seeing him. "Do you? Do you understand what it is, to be fear’s bride?" A smile, not kind, fled across her face. "I think you will learn from it. So too it is to love. I will come and witness you be wed."

"Thank you, grandmother."

The King-of-Nothing rode back to the Last City where he ruled. His people stopped him in the street, asking for his prophecy, begging him to light once more the Last Light, up in his tower, that kept his City from the depths. Today, when he came to answer them, he found himself answering only in riddles, for his twisted heart bound up his tongue. The people were afraid, then, for the first time. A bell rang, far above.

The next day, the King-Of-Nothing rode out to the empty fields of fallow earth where his sister rules as Queen. He stood before her.

"Sister," said he. "I will wed the sea, two nights from now. Will you come to witness?" She stared at him impassively from atop her throne, her guard standing watch beside her as ever they did. "One day, brother, you will die, and so will the terror you marry. I will witness that, too. Does that scare you?" He shook his head. "No. Death is where fear ends."

She nodded at this fact. "Good. Then you understand, brother-mine. I will travel south to your City, Nothing, and my Legion and I will witness your passing from the land unto the sea."

"Thank you, sister-mine."

The King-of-Nothing rode back to the Last City where he ruled. Once more his people asked him to prophesy, and once more he answered only in riddles. He knew that some amongst them would hear the warning of what was to come, and some did. Their fear carried them away; they fled Nothing, and were never seen again. The rest remained, afraid, yet uncertain. He worried for them. Yet he took no action to save his people, for his love for the Queen of the Vast that was a kind of terror ruled over all. A bell rang, below the waves.

The next day, the King-of-Nothing rode out to the cold wastes where no monarch rules, where his cousin dwelled alone. He stood before her.

"Cousin," said he. "I will wed the sea, one night from now. Will you come to witness?" She laughed, her smile a bloody maw. Hair matted with blood covered her body. "What’s the point? If you marry, you will still be alone. She will never know you. What’s the point in being her bride?" He frowned. "I will know her as myself. How could such a thing as you understand a vow to be with another until the last star falls?"

She narrowed her eyes. "I know that one. She will not be good for you. You know that?"

He replied, a cast of nobility upon his face. "I do, and yet I will vow."

She sneered. "Then go into folly. I will not witness. I know how folly ends."

The King-of-Nothing rode back to the Last City, where he ruled. On this day he avoided his people and went straight to his chambers, where he closed himself off and thought on the words of his cousin. Could he avert his fate? He had promised he would stand before the abyssal ocean, to be consumed or to be bound to her by solemn oaths. That oath was witnessed, as all oaths are. His fate was sealed. A fear settled around his twisted heart, and in it his love sprung anew. A bell rang, all around him.

The next day, the King-of-Nothing stood on his ship, called the Preserver of Life and also Ariel, dressed in all the symbols of his office. His sister stood at the shore in witness; his grandmother stood by his side in witness; the very silence itself stood witness. He looked towards the sea and saw the one that he would marry there, watching, waiting.

He opened his mouth and spoke solemn oaths of commitment to her until the day the last star fell. So it was witnessed.

The abyss rose about him, Tideless Scream was she, Queen-of-the-Vast is she. Again her voice, a drowning chorus, sounded. "Swallow you, or speak the oaths? I shall."

She spoke from outer darkness, from the deepest abyss, from the heart of fear, swearing solemn oaths of commitment to him, oaths to stand until the day the last star falls. So it was witnessed.

Both of them were one. To love is to change and die. They died, and changed: a rope that sinks. A bell began to ring: it is ringing still.

"Now we are wed", she said. "I will rise and swallow Nothing, and all who live within, and your ship, and those who sail upon it. Will you, too, give yourself in our love to my bitter depths?"

The King-of-Nothing spoke. "Take it all." He realised that he did not care for those who had not comprehended the warnings he had offered. Perhaps he would have done, before: not now. He looked at the watching crowds. "All drown with me."

And the sea rose, a tideless black sea, inexorable, drowning the buildings that made up the Last City, that which is called Nothing, and it swallowed up all the people and all the ships of that place into its depths. Grandmother Winter left, satisfied that a lesson had been learnt. The Black Dog marched her legions away, knowing that she would one day see the death of what had begun. In the lonely wastes, the hunter howled.

The King-of-Nothing sank into the Queen-of-the-Vast, and so began their reign.
</ic>

Category:Gonfalon

2026-04-29T18:28:47Z

Apoth: /* Overview */

==Overview==
A gonfalon is a [[Magic_items#Group_Magic_Items|group magic item]] that provides an advantage to a [[Bands#Banners|banner]]. They follow the same phys-rep rules as magic [[#Magic_items#Magic_Standards|magic standards]]. However a gonfalon is bonded to the entire band - rather than rather than an single individual like a magic standard.

<table class="wikitable"><tr><th>Item</th><th>Power</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Months</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Orichalcum</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Tempest Jade</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Green Iron</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Weltsilver</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Ambergelt</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Beggars Lye</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Dragon Bone</th><th style="font-size: 50%;">Irridescent Gloaming</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[Mercenary Banner]]</td><td>A banner bonded to this gonfalon may travel to a battle that their national banner is not attending. </td><td style="text-align: center;">1</td><td style="text-align: center;">5</td><td style="text-align: center;">0</td><td style="text-align: center;">7</td><td style="text-align: center;">0</td><td style="text-align: center;">0</td><td style="text-align: center;">0</td><td style="text-align: center;">18</td><td style="text-align: center;">9</td></tr>
</table>

Every path you know

2026-04-16T23:00:43Z

Apoth: /* Beware of Dog */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"I'm not too keen to this whole 'taking orders from people who haven't sworn a binding of thorns', Myfanwy". Gavyn was in a sour mood. It was wet, and the Grendel were still pushing them back. Mostly it was wet. No-one could deny that Rivers of Life was an incredible working of magic that saved the lives of countless people, soldier and civilian alike, but it was also impossible to deny that it was a curse that means you spend the whole season wet.

"The only person you need to worry about taking orders from is general Cadwell" snapped Myfanwy, she was already sick of this conversation, having had it about eight times today, half of them with Gavyn.

"What if we end up with some dickhead from Trivento who believes everything they read in every ring-dreadful about vallorn hearts under the sea?"

"Then we will ''educate'' them." Myfanwy lost her temper. "The whole fucking point of us joining this fucking Empire was to get some fucking allies to kill the fucking vallorn, right? If everyone has to take a binding of thorns and get a tattoo, then they're not allies, they're just us. If we want people who aren't us to give a shit then we have to fucking let them and help them do it in their own way, or our great-great-great-great grandchildren Myfanwy the seventh and Gavyn the seventh will be sat on this same fucking mountain getting soaked by the same fucking spring magic having this same fucking argument."

"I'm....sorry Fan. It's just hard when you care so much to share it with other people who might not take it as seriously as we do."

"I know Gav, but they won't know, and they won't ''care'', if we don't help them. Right?"

"Even if they're from Trivento?" Gavyn smirked and rested their forehead against Myfanwy's, rain streaming down their faces.

Myfanwy sighed and smiled back. It was hard to stay mad at your dance-partner. "Yes, even if they're from Trivento."
</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=November berries after rain.jpg|align=left|caption=The garden long-tended by the Navarr begins to bear fruit.|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
Initially, the creation of the [[Vallornguard]] [[Eight_for_a_wish#Bound_by_Thorn_(Navarr)|did not receive unanimous praise]] in all corners of Navarr. People were ambivalent, unsure of how to respond to the idea that those who had sworn themselves completely to the eradication of Terunael's folly should now share that responsibility with others.
{{SOP|statement=The people of Navarr welcome and embrace the multi-nation commitment to the fight against the vallorn as represented by the Vallornguard. We must all work to ensure that our skills, knowledge, and experience, all hard-won over a millennium of conflict are shared with this new ally. This is the highest calling of our assembly.|by=Xandor Trodbroker, Navarr National Assembly|vote={{GM}} 263-10|when=Autumn 387YE}}
{{SOP|statement=We the Navarr Assembly support the formation and operation of the Vallornguard in the mission to eradicate the vallorn. Our oaths are clear and we act as one nation and an Empire in our ambition to see this threat destroyed.|by=Haco, Navarr National Assembly|vote=201-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
The guides of the nation came together last summit to answer that question. Speaking with a clear voice they have committed the nation to aiding this nascent body as the newest ally in the fight. Surely, this was the impetus for Navarr joining the Empire in the first place? To galvanise the other nations to work with them to destroy the vallorn... Even with [[a thousand years of longing|the recent revelations]], the plain truth is that the Navarr cannot defeat the vallorn acting alone. With the clock ticking now now that the trods are no longer being walked and maintained as they once were, the Vallornguard may be the best way to unite the nations in common cause.

The national assembly have not merely thrown their moral weight behind the Vallornguard. They declare supporting the [[Imperial sodality|sodality]] to be the nation's [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|highest calling]], urging everyone to share an epoch of skills, knowledge, and experience with this new ally. Excited by the prospects of taking action, the Navarr have responded with fierce urgency.

==Thanks for Sharing==
* '''During the coming year the Navarr Assembly could select a single different nation each season to support'''
* '''Whichever nations the Navarr choose will get an opportunity to create a new title that helps the Vallornguard fight the vallorn'''
The Assembly called on all Navarr to share their skills, knowledge and experience with others. People are enthusiastic to heed the call - but uncertain of where to start. It won't work to just spread out across the Empire, it's clear the impact of that would be limited. Better, most people think, to concentrate efforts on a single ally at a time - that way they can achieve palpable results.

In 388YE, the Navarr National Assembly will be able to pick a single different Imperial nation each season (in a similar manner to [[Highguard|Highguard's]] [[A_peerless_sacrifice#A_Renewed_Kinship|Peerless Kinship]]) and share their skills, knowledge, and experience with them. Navarr will stride across the chosen nation looking to to share all that they have learned over the centuries. They will seek out any [[opportunity]] where their abilities might help build support for the [[Imperial sodality|sodality]] and provide it with the tools and resources it will need.

{{Mandate|mandate=The Virtuous raise up their fellows. Any nation willing to raise arms and join the Vallornguard shall have our full support. We send {named priest} with 50 doses of liao to lead our people in sharing everything we have with {nation} to prepare to finish the fight.|assembly=Navarr}}

If this mandate is enacted, Navarr from all walks of life will travel to the named nation looking for ways to help. This will generate at least one [[opportunity]] for a [[New Imperial titles|new Imperial title]] to help the Vallornguard prepare for the fight with the enemy.

The new sodality could benefit if other nations are able to help supply and provision the nascent Vallornguard, but what can be done closer to home?

==Home on the Remains==
* '''Restoring the botanical gardens at the First Voice Glade School would allow the Navarr to share their skills with members of the Vallornguard'''
* '''The Dean would gain 27 herbs each season'''
* '''The Dean could upgrade a basic garden owned by a member of the Vallornguard each season'''
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Restoration of First Voice Glade Garden'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Miaren#Oakways|Oakways, Miaren]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 wains of [[weirwood]], 90 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Restores the bounty of 27 herbs each season to the [[Dean of the First Voice Glade]]
* Gives the Dean the ability to upgrade a single basic [[herb garden]] belonging to a member of the Vallornguard each season
</td></tr>
</table>
</div>

The [[Dean_of_the_First_Voice_Glade#First_Voice_Glade_(Ruined)|First Voice Glade School]] has [[Rebuild_First_Voice_Glade|just been rebuilt]] after it was destroyed by the [[Things_that_burn#The_Empty_Hands|Empty Hands]] two years ago. The school itself has now been rebuilt on a much grander scale, and has once again become a scholastic haven, promoting the musical and cultural traditions of the Navarr, sharing them with students from near and far. The school has encouraged emerging talent, ensuring Navarr musical traditions remain vital.

Sadly the associated botanical garden were overlooked in the proposal presented by the civil service, which focused on other benefits. But with scores of visitors coming to the shrine, there is now a chance to recreate the gardens and take advantage of that with the school itself. Whisper it quietly, but the Navarr recognise no equal in herblore in the Empire - no other nation has so many skilled apothecaries and herbalists.

The work proposed is not insignificant, but if the gardens were restored to their former glory and a new classroom built, the Dean would resume receiving a bounty of herbs, but they would also be able to select a member of the Vallornguard to train and study with Navarr masters of herb lore. Provided the student was not already highly proficient, the skills they gained would provide them with permanent benefits, allowing them to grow more herbs each season.

Any member of the Vallornguard would be free to roleplay spending time at the School to learn the history of the Empire's longest war, and to advance their skills in botany. The Dean could select a single member of the Vallornguard with a [[herb garden|basic herb garden]] each season - their herb garden would be upgraded by one rank without needing any wains or money. A starting herb garden is one that does not have any existing [[herb garden#Upgrades|upgrades]].

==Green Eyed Monster==
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Vallornguard Mustering Ground'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Sinecure]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Miaren#Holtford|Holtford, Miaren]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 10 wains of [[weirwood]], 10 wains of [[mithril]], 60 crowns, three months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Creates the title First Thorn of the Vallornguard
* Allows a single Imperial army that resupplies in Miaren, to take the Uproot the Aberration order the season after
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''First Thorn of the Vallornguard'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial position</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Vallornguard Appointment</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Gains two doses of Oil of Blackthorn each season
* Gain one [[Barbed Spear]], one [[Death's Door]] and one [[Bloodfire Periapt]] once a year
* Can decide which army can train at the Mustering Ground if more than two armies are resupplying in Miaren
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' Oversee the training of new recruits to the Vallornguard and contribute to Imperial preparedness against the military threat of the vallorn</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''A mustering ground could be built in Miaren to help Imperial armies fight the vallorn'''
* '''The First Thorn of the Vallornguard would receive blade oils effective against vallornspawn and a set of regalia'''
One of the challenges facing members of the Vallornguard is that the Empire as a whole has far less experience fighting the vallorn, than the barbarians they have been at war with for decades. There have been a number of notable engagements in the last few years, but few soldiers have been a part of an extended campaign, fighting for seasons at a time against the host of the vallorn. If that isn't corrected, the Empire's soldiers are in for a rude awakening when the the trods are connected and the vallorn is fully roused.

The idea is mooted for a mustering ground to drill new members of the Vallornguard until slaying [[vallornspawn husk|husks]], [[ettercap|ettercaps]], and all the other horrors the vallorn can produce becomes second nature. [[Miaren]] is the most logical choice - the area is firmly under Imperial control, but is central to all the vallorn hearts in the Empire. The Navarr could train warriors in the techniques needed to defeat the vallorn, showing them how to use potions like [[Legacy_of_Thorns#Oil_of_Blackthorn|Oil of Blackthorn]] that are invaluable for destroying the enemy.

Having the mustering ground there would mean that any Imperial [[army]] that receives [[Casualties#Natural_Resupply|natural resupply]] in the territory could recruit from the training grounds as well as secure useful anti-vallorn potions and blade-oils. As a result the army could take the attacking order, '''Uproot the Aberration''', the following season. (If multiple armies resupply in Miaren, the First Thorn should email {{plot}} in order to choose which army will gain the benefit).

<div style="max-width:800px;"><box>'''Uproot the Aberration'''
* '''The ability of this army to conquer vallorn-held territory is increased by one tenth'''
* '''Casualties inflicted by this army against the vallorn are increased by one tenth'''
* '''Casualties suffered by this army from vallorn are reduced by one tenth'''
Bolstered by the fresh recruits trained by the Vallornguard, the army can employ a supply of potions useful for fighting the vallorn provided by the Mustering Ground against the enemy. These potions are quickly consumed, but can prove vital when used at the decisive moment, to turn the tide against ''Terunael's Folly''.</box></div>

The Vallornguard would need to appoint the First Thorn to oversee the training. Once that was done, local artisans would contribute time and materials to fashion them with potions and magical items to fight the vallorn. They would receive two doses of Oil of Blackthorn each season and the season after they were elected they would receive a [[Barbed Spear]], a [[Death's Door]] and one [[Bloodfire Periapt]].

==Beware of Dog==
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
<tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''The Grim Pyramid'''</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' [[Edifice]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Location:''' [[Hercynia#Old_Ranging|Old Ranging, Hercynia]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 30 wains of [[Mithril]], 40 wains of white granite, 210 crowns, six months</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Availability:''' One year</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Special:''' The Grim Pyramid must be ceded to Kaela during commission or afterwards, to gain the listed effects</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Effect:'''
* Provides a 3000 strength garrison of Grim Legionaries to defend Old Ranging if the region is attacked
* Creates the title '''Quartermaster of the Grim Legion'''
</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Quartermaster of the Grim Legion'''</tr>
<tr><td>'''Type:''' Imperial position</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' Vallornguard Appointment</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Regalia:''' The Cold-One's Cestus</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Powers:'''
* Can deploy the garrison of Grim Legionaries to fight alongside a single Imperial army instead of defending Old Ranging. The army must not be under an existing ritual enchantment.
</td></tr>
<tr><td>'''Responsibilities:''' To tend the deep steps of the Grim Pyramid, protecting the edifice from damage. To ensure the boons provided by Kaela are used to end the vallorn threat forever. To deliver Kaela's will to the Empire should she call on them to do so.</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
* '''The vates of The Final Note steading have asked Kaela to offer her aid to the Vallornguard'''
* '''The ''Queen-of-Silence'' has agreed to patronise a grand edifice in Hercynia'''
* '''The Grim Pyramid empowers an Imperial title - Quartermaster of the Grim Legion'''
The [[eternal]] [[Kaela]] has long watched the Navarr's quest to end the vallorn with great interest, offering her aid from time to time as suits her whims. Most recently she permitted the extension of [[Kaela#The Gift of Kaela|her gift]] to not just ease the suffering of Imperials facing the [[orc|orcs]] of [[the Mallum]], but to those who fight the vallorn so that those who carry on do not have to fight an enemy wearing the face of a fallen loved one. The vates of ''The Final Note'' [[steading]] near [[Hercynia#Old_Ranging|Old Ranging]] have long experience dealing with ''Dark-Between-the-Stars'', and sought out one of her [[inhabitants of the realms#heralds|heralds]] to discuss ways of harnessing the power of [[Winter_magic#Endings|ending]] against the vallorn.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Wolf Cloak.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
The ''End-of-Strength'' has consented to offer her aid. She will support the building of a grand [[edifice]] in the Starless Vale, a powerful Winter [[regio]] located in a narrow cleft in Old Ranging near to Last Note steading. The steading believe it was the site where the old [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]] Queen Ilsin [[Crown_of_Three_Tears#Queen_Ilsin_and_the_Vallorn|met her end]], but historians dispute this claim. Regardless, the ''Lady of Oblivion'' is prepared to support a site dedicated to her name that will offer aid against the vallorn.

Before she will do so, however, she asks the Navarr of Hercynia for an oath. One day, the vallorn will end. It may be that the Navarr and the Vallornguard bring about that ending. She wishes an oath that when that day comes, when Hercynia is once again free of corruption, the ruins of the Terunael city of Hacynian will be left to succumb to the passage of time. They will not be rebuilt, no new city raised on their foundations, no new Hacynian. They may raise a new city, if they wish, but not in [[Hercynia#Deer's_Folly|Deer's Folly]], and not named Hacynian. It must be something new, not an attempt to cling to something that has ended. With that in mind, The Last Note has proposed a [[mandate]].

{{Mandate|mandate=The Terunael city of Hacynian has passed into history, ruined by the vallorn. We send (named priest) with 25 liao to urge the folk of Hercynia to swear an oath that neither they nor their descendants will seek to rebuild Hacynian. Let us cherish its memory, but accept its passing as a sacrifice for a future free from the folly of Terunael.|assembly=Navarr National Assembly}}

If this mandate is upheld and enacted, Kaela will happily provide her support to the edifice in the Starless Vale. If not, the structure cannot be commissioned. Obviously, though, if the National Assembly enacts this mandate, and urges the folk of Hercynia to make an oath to let Hacynian pass into history, any future efforts that break that oath will likely have severe consequences for them and their descendants.

Assuming the Navarr meet her requirement, the ''Queen of Silence'' proposes a grand structure be carved into the ground itself; an inverted stone pyramid thirty floors deep. Those who come in search of the aid of the ''Black Dog'' will have to descend into the bones of the earth to meet with her representatives. The Grim Pyramid would be watched over by the ''Quartermaster of the Grim Legion'', an [[Imperial title]] appointed annually by the Vallornguard. While she might otherwise have considered the Quartermaster being appointed by the [[Conclave]], her only interest here is simply to end the vallorn and the vates of The Final Note steading have been clear in their desire to empower the sodality. Whoever is appointed, they will be expected to spend time at the Grim Pyramid, liaising with the servants of Kaela. If the ''Black Dog'' has reason to need something of the Empire, especially if it has to do with the vallorn, she may charge the Quartermaster to convey her wishes to the Empire.

In return for their service, the ''Queen-who-sits-on-the-Black-Throne'' will gift the ''Cold-One's Cestus'' to be part of the regalia of the title. The vates of The Final Note have examined this [[Magic_items#Artefacts|artefact]], and declared that it is a single gauntlet that [[:Category:Foci|helps the wearer cast]] the rituals [[Surcease of Sorrow]], [[Ravenous Tongue of Entropy]] and [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]].

The artefact is only a sign of her regard, however. She will station one of her ''Forgotten Generals'' at the Grim Pyramid, along with a complement of warriors (equivalent to 3,000 force strength). These grim legionaries will attack any force that tries to conquer the [[territory#region|region]]. As long as the titleholder is a member of the Vallornguard, then they may order the Forgotten General to march forth alongside an Imperial [[army]] to battle the vallorn, provided the force were not under an existing [[enchantment]]. Obviously the legionaries would not be able to defend the region if it were attacked during a season when the legionaries are fighting the vallorn alongside an army. ('''OOC Note:''' To use this power the Quartermaster should email {{plot}} and let them know the army they have selected, and the general of that army should reference the presence of the grim legionnaires in their [[Army_orders|orders]].)

The Final Note caution that if the Grim Pyramids garrison were called forth to fight with an army and did ''not'' end up fighting vallornspawn, then the title-holder will suffer her ''extreme displeasure''. Which sounds bad, but hopefully everyone involved will be wise enough to elect someone who can ensure that doesn't happen? The Hercynian vates also point out that all things will eventually come to an end; when the last vallornheart is destroyed the ''Queen of Silence'' will withdraw from that place, leaving it to be reclaimed by whomever remains, or fall to the ravages of time. Either is fine with the ''Ending One'' after all.

One note of caution is raised by the [[Civil Service|civil service]]. Kaela's heralds have been clear that she ''will not'' commit to send heralds to fight the vallorn unless control of the Grim Pyramid has been [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Concedence|ceded]] to her by the [[Senate]] (like a [[fane]]). [[Alignment#Amity|Amity]] is not enough - the eternal will not guarantee something unless she is assured of her ability to carry though on her promise. Of course, if the Senate does cede the edifice to Kaela, then even [[alignment#Enmity|enmity]] would not prevent the [[eternal]] from using the Grim Pyramid, and given it already has a significant force of her grim legion associated with it, they would potentially be in a position to cause significant trouble for the people of Hercynia and [[Hahnmark]].

==Further Reading==
* [[Vallornguard]]
* [[The_highest_calling#The_Highest_Calling|The highest calling]] - 387YE Autumn wind of fortune about the highest calling
* [[Kaela]]

To fight aloud

2026-04-08T23:21:08Z

Apoth: /* Unexpected (Spiral) */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"Listen carefully Aquila: they are ''right'' to cast us out, we are unwelcome visitors in their land, as we have always been. The tragedy is that they do not understand why they are right, they have found the right conclusion from the wrong reasoning. They have come to possess a beautiful painting yet display it facing the wall."

The soft-spoken Acolyte looked up from their whetstone; "But if they're right, why must we be at such odds?"

The old teacher smiled and shook his head. "The Way of Virtue does not lead to harmony. Two warriors can choose the same path, yet still fight when their paths cross."

Aquila looked confused "Yes master, but what of the other sword scholars? Are we not to unite our own community? You were alive to remember before we rejoined the Empire and our friends ascended the ranks of the Imperial hierarchy. Why did they turn on us?"

"Tolerance is the crack in the foundation of a strong society. Remember the words of Sulemaine: If you love a thing, be prepared to destroy it. Only then are you strong enough to protect it. Our fellow scholars turned to the Empire. They've compromised their beliefs, made their lives easier, and in so doing dulled the edge of their souls."

"And the suffering of those souls?"

Phocas hardened his gaze "Attend your work, Aquila. That is not our problem. The only soul you should concern yourself with right now is your own."

Aquila did not resume. Sharpening his blade was dull work, especially when compared with discussing the teachings. "And...and if they kill us all?"

"They may try. So too did General Cetratus, so too did the Druj at the Fall of the Four Winds. How quickly some forget the old lessons." The old Sword Scholar pressed his acolyte's sword back to the stone. "And if they succeed, that is alright too. We few shall walk in a straight line through the Labyrinth, slicing through its walls and return with renewed determination. Alas, if I do not survive this, I will not leave our former homes with no record of who we were."

"You mean ... you intend to use it?"

"Perhaps, Aquila. Perhaps."

Swordsinger Phocas stroked the pouch strapped tightly to his chest, a small vial with a purple sparkling substance barely visible in the darkness of the cellar where they had taken refuge for the night.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sword.jpg|align=left|caption=Unwholesome influences must be eliminated if the innocent are to be protected.|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
The re-integration of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] to [[Urizen]] and the wider Empire has never failed to be eventful. In the most recent development, the sword scholars split into two factions; one group who decided to forgo the teachings of Sulemaine that some claimed invoked the [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Hate|malign spiritual force of Purity]], and stay aligned with the Empire. Many of these scholars now hold high office in the Imperial bodies of state.

The other group, under the ''nominal'' leadership of [[The_deepest_cut#Interred_With_Their_Bones|Severus of the Blinding Sun]], chose to withdraw from the Empire and remained committed to what they believe are the true teachings of [[Sulemaine|Sulemaine]] i Taziel. Facing the risk of execution should Imperial law catch up with them, most have gone into hiding in the Urizen mountains.

A tension had grown in the mountains, one that could only last so long before something broke it. Last summit, a decisive blow was made that has completely unravelled the Disciples.

==Judgement==
*'''The Disciples of Sulemaine have been driven out of Urizen'''
*'''Some have gone down fighting, unwilling to surrender their beliefs to the Empire's edicts'''
*'''Those who have not been killed have been forced to flee'''
*'''Several hallowed items have been recovered from the defeated Disciples'''

In the Autumn of 387YE, three bodies of state spoke with a single voice. In the [[Senate]], '''Herminius of the House of the Wanderer''' and '''Thalia of Netherwatch''' brought forward the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Criminalise_Disciples_of_Sulemaine|motion to criminalise membership of the Disciples of Sulemaine]]. At the same time, through the arguments of '''Elagabala''' as [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Hunt_Disciples_of_Sulemaine|the Conclave declared]] that all magicians should ''render aid by blade, spell, or mind to the people of Urizen as they hunt and kill the Disciples of Sulemaine and Severus of the Blinding Sun.'' Unsurprisingly, the Imperial [[Synod]] passed multiple statements with a greater majority urging the faithful to take action:

<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Captains of Urizen! There is a poison in our fields. The Disciples of Sulemaine threaten by spreading the Blasphemy of Hatred, an idea long since tested and discarded as lacking. We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 50 doses of liao to urge all to go forth and excise this pestilence from our home.|by=Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun, Urizen National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=On behalf of the Urizen National Assembly, and I, a sentinel of Sunshaper Citadel. We recognise the Vigilance and Courage of captains sending their military units to kill Severus' Followers of Sulemaine. We recognise that military action taken against fellow Urizen is not a decision taken lightly, but that it remains a necessary one. Thanks to the recent developments in the Imperial Senate, it is now a legal one, too.|by=Leyna, Urizen National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>

{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:500px; float: right; margin-left: 10px;"
|-
! Military Captains who Drove out the Disciples
|-
| Alcuin
|-
| Athenus
|-
| Atreus
|-
| Boagrius Stillwater
|-
| Caius stillwaters
|-
| Camilla Stillwater
|-
| Cincinnatus
|-
| Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer
|-
| Cyrus Stillwater
|-
| Delara i Fijadoz i Guerra
|-
| Demicius Stillwater
|-
| Elagabala
|-
| Erebus Kentigern Highwind
|-
| Floria Sunshaper
|-
| Gavynn
|-
| Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
|-
| Hugh Ravenspire
|-
| Magnus
|-
| Marcus
|-
| Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach
|-
| Scipio
|-
| Tancred de Coeurdefer
|-
| Valens Leos
|-
| Valerius
|-
| Varrus
|}

Over half an Imperial [[army|army's]] worth of Urizeni military captains sweep methodically across [[Redoubt]], [[Morrow]] and then [[Zenith]] visiting known temples and investigating leads provided by local spires. Many citadels are keen to lend aid in the form of information and supplies to the roving groups. When found, most Disciples resolutely unsheathe their eponymous weapons and make their final stand. They are quickly overwhelmed, even those scholars who are exceptional individual combatants are no match for a squad of sentinels acting in unison. A handful have attempted to flee with varying degrees of success, but there is no doubt that the Disciples of Sulemaine as any kind of identifiable group has been completely demolished.

{{SOP|statement=Vigilance teaches us to seek out the poison in your neighbour's fields, let your own crops be blighted. This assembly requests the writings of the Disciples of Sulemaine are preserved so they can be studied at a later date in order to prevent similar groups forming and to aid in detecting followers of the false virtue of hate.|by=Theodora, Vigilance Assembly|vote=256-30|when=Autumn 387YE}}
The Vigilance Assembly requested that the writings of the Disciples be preserved, a call which some felt ran counter to the spirit of the the [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_7|recent mandate]] enacted by long-time Cardinal Viviane Barossa which warned of the dangers all malign spiritual presences pose. As it was, the mandate did not get a greater majority in the General Assembly, and so many in Urizen openly question it, ironically a recent practice very much spear-headed by the sword scholars themselves and their open hostility to the Synod's authority.

As it is, this excursion was one of a military nature, rather than a delegation of [[seer|seers]] looking to gather information and little is discovered about Sulemaine that is [[Sulemaine|not already known]]. However those involved ''have'' managed to recover several hallowed items. (Anyone who took part in the Hunt the Disciples downtime action will receive a ribbon to attach to an appropriate item, ideally a weapon or piece of jewellery. If your character would have destroyed or disposed of the item, just hand the ribbon back in to GOD).

You can read more about opportunities for the Urizen National Assembly to capitalise on this Vigilant fervour in the '''[[TBC]]''' wind of fortune.

==Fallen Hero==
<div style="float:right; max-width: 500px; width: 50%; margin-left: 10px;"><box>
<p>'''Surviving Disciples'''<br>
The military action has been a resounding success, breaking the power of the Disciples of Sulemaine. Everyone who could pose a threat to the Empire at this time is dead or captured. Only three groups are known to have escaped and none of them possess the power to cause any trouble for the Empire at this time.</p>

<p>We've presented details here about those groups to foreshadow any ''new'' plot that we ''might'' create in the future. Nothing will happen with these groups until that happens - the only way to track one of them down would be to use a plenipotentiary to [[Kimus]] to find where they have gone.
</box></div>
*'''The leader of the Disciples of Sulemaine ''Severeus of the Blinding Sun'' has been captured and will be brought to Anvil for Trial on TBC'''
*'''Remaining groups who survived the purge have splintered into a multitude of sub-factions who are primarily focused on survival'''
Severus of the Temple of the Blinding Sun has been captured. Commonly regarded as the defacto leader of the Disciples of Sulemaine. It is undeniable that he was their most prominent scholar and teacher, the best known by far, and widely respect by other Disciples. He is being brought to Anvil to face trial and presumably execution at the Winter Solstice as an unrepentant member of the Disciples of Sulemaine.

Despite his membership of the recently outlawed order, the Synod are yet to pass judgement on whether he has committed any crimes against the faith. [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_87|Aspar's request]] for a [[Writ of Excommunication]] received heavy support, but did not get the legally required greater majority. In some ways the timing of his arrival at Anvil is poor, since it coincides with the release of new guidance for magistrates on how to apply Imperial law when prosecuting a [[religious crime]]. Given the circumstances, the magistrates have indicated that they will make Severus available to the Synod for inquisition, should they wish to do so, before the trial is conducted. Severus has not made any comment on whether he intends to seek a member of the Synod to plead [[clemency]] on his behalf, though it seems astonishingly unlikely.

With Severus captured, and the majority of the Disciples of Sulemaine slain, some groups have attempted to flee or go into hiding. The refugees from the ''Temple of the Inviolate Spirit'' attempted to seek refuge with the Silver Flame in Cinion, Spiral, but were turned away and summarily captured. Either Caela and her people have no sympathy for blasphemers, or perhaps they are just aware of the precarious nature of their independence. The ''Last Word'' sect attempted to flee into the Mountain of The Moon, but by the time Imperial forces arrived they were found tied up with a brief note attached to their [[arbiter]] - "In reciprocity, the people of Tsark shall not intrude into Imperial matters."

A handful of those who were once Disciples have managed to escape Imperial justice. A lone survivor from the ''Fellowship of the Door'', a [[stargazer]] named Valeria, was seen being escorted by a Herald of Hayaak to a Summer regio. A dozen members of the ''Wayfarer's Answer'' temple have definitely hidden somewhere in Spiral, possibly by taking advantage of the statues offered by [[Sung]] to support Urizeni still living there. Finally the ''Ten Echoes'', a small coven from Lustri, fled north apparently heading for the Sarangrave or even further.

Urizen is second perhaps only to Dawn in prevalence of Heralds of the Eternals being seen among citizens, some fear that there will have been Disciples who will have used a [[Treacher%27s_Quill|certain ritual]] from Urizen Lore to turn to the one eternal who is [[Agramant|always willing to help]]. So far there is no evidence of that happening, but nobody can completely rule it out.

==The Forge==
{{SOP|statement=Damakhan's Wisdom, the blade intended for Sulemaine is reforged and her riddle solved by its wielder Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer. It would not have been possible without the following: Esteban of Zenith Ascendant; Athenus, Cato, and Orania Neofoti of the House of the Wanderer; Kindra Surefoot of Wintermark; Xenia of Urizen; Edmundo of Damakhan's Forge; Members of the Wise Citadel and the Magpies. Your virtuous efforts are recognised.|by=Delara of the Wanderers, Urizen National Assembly|vote=264-0|when=Autumn 387YE|size=small}}
*'''News of the sword originally intended for Sulemaine has spread far and wide across the High Peaks'''
*'''The words of the Synod have provoked interest in the fate of such an important piece of Urizeni history'''
The Urizen National Assembly have let it be known that ''Damakhan's Wisdom'', the blade crafted for Sulemaine by the legendary Urizeni artisan has been reforged. Had the Disciples of Sulemaine endured, they might have sought to reclaim the false paragon's heirloom, but now they are scattered and broken, that threat is gone. With the sword scholars [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_40|turning their back on Sulemaine]], this relic has lost some of its religious importance to the people of the High Peaks. That said, it is still a masterwork sword created by Damakhan herself, a link to Urizeni history from a time before the Empire was even forged. As a result, people are interested to know what will become of the Damakhan's legacy, now that the Disciples of Sulemaine are dealt with.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Esteban Ezmara of Zenith Ascendant.jpg|caption='''Esteban Ezmara of Zenith Ascendant''', Architect of the Crucible|align=left|width=200}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Clytemnestra.jpg|align=left|caption='''Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer''', General of the Argent Sword|width=250}}</div>
Damakhan's Forge was recently moved by the [[Sadogua|Brother of Wizards]] and has become part of the [[Zenith#Crucible_of_Fate|Crucible of Fate]]. If Damakhan's Wisdom were made part of the [[New_Imperial_titles#Regalia|regalia]] of the [[Architect of the Crucible]], it would boost the prestige of the Architect and make it clear that they were Damakhan's heir. It would ensure the importance of the Crucible as an ideal location for a [[Inspirational_location#Memorials|memorial]], if Damakhan were ever to be [[Recognition|recognised]] by the Imperial Synod and make it easier to [[historical research|research Damakhan's life]]. One enthusiastic young Architect suggests that one day, it might be expanded into a full [[Runeforge]], however they were quickly chided for getting far too ahead of themselves.

Of course the sword could be made the regalia of any Urizeni national position - it might even be better to create a new title, one specially designed to bear the sword and preserve Damakhan's legacy. However it is not just the Urizeni who are interested in the sword. Two [[eternal|eternals]] have both shown interest upon hearing the true sword has been recovered.

''[[Leviathan|She Who Counts the Ripples]]'' is a noted collector of items of historical significance, liking to keep such artefacts safe from the erosion of time. The ''Abyssal Lord'' notes with approval that the sword's wielder is part of the ''Eye of the Wanderer'', a Coven more than capable of casting her ritual. Should they do so and submit the question "What might Leviathan offer us for Damakhan's Wisdom?" and include a few suggestions of what they might be interested in, ''The Deepest One'' will make an exception to her usual rule in order to briefly discuss what Boon he might offer in exchange for allowing him to become the sword's custodian.

On the other hand, the ''[[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Surut|Ashen Knight]]'' has also expressed an interest in acquiring this artefact that was meant for "one of the great haters of Imperial history." The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information notes that the Court were apparently rather fond of the previous [[general]] of the [[Citadel Guard]]; '''Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach''' and would be more than happy to be friends with a new Urizeni general of similar temperament. If '''General Clytemnestra''' joins the party going to the [[Ourselves_and_immortality#Civility|parley with the Thrice-Cursed-Court]] and offers the sword to the ''Burnt Steward'' as a gift, he will provide the ritual text for ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in return, as a gift for her people. Imperial records make no mention of what this ritual does, only that [[Zakalwe|Zakalwe]] clearly [[Carve the Crystal Guardian#Assurance|takes some issue with it]].

Whatever happens, the Sword currently belongs to Clytemnestra. Unless she had stolen it from someone protected by Imperial law, the [[Imperial Constitution|constitution]] grants her freedom to do with it as she wishes, be it to take advantage of any of these opportunities, continue to bear it as a personal weapon, or indeed mount it on her mantlepiece as [[Pride_of_the_Marches#The_Blade_of_Tom_Drake|Tom Drake famously did]] with his forebear's heirloom. The act of the national assembly has aroused a great deal of interest in the heirloom, but only Clytemnestra has the power to decide what happens to it now.

==Fight or Flight==
* '''Three conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate have been identified that involve the disciples of Sulemaine
The War Scout has informed the civil service of several conjunctions Imperial Heroes may wish to take advantage of to eliminate some of the fleeing groups of Disciples.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Elagabala.jpg|align=left|caption='''Elagabala''', Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path|width=250}}</div>
===Unexpected (Spiral)===
* '''A group of Disciples are attempting to flee into Mareave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for intercepting them'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
A tall, thin creature in sparkling robes with sharp eyes and feathered brow, ''Pythia of the Silver Fields'' emerges from the Imperial [[regio]], somehow managing to ''saunter'' through the portal. They bear a message following the [[declaration]] of [[concord]] of the Grandmaster of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Apparently, the ''[[Jaheris|Arbiter of the Ardent Spire]]'' is keen to help '''Elagabala''' hunt down the members of her former 'lawless sect whose philosophy promotes silence, shame, and inaction' and is willing to share the location of one such group who are attempting to flee across the border of [[Spiral]] into [[Mareave]] where they may be able to get lost in the rocky hills of this new Imperial land. The ''Silverbrow'' does not ask for any formalities such as a declaration of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]], any payment or anything so transactional and gauche as that; they merely wish to continue improving their relationship with the magicians of the Conclave by helping out where they can. That said, a token of the Grandmaster's gratitude the next time they receive a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer wouldn't go amiss, of course.

As this is a direct offer to the Grandmaster, those interested in catching these criminals before they escape should seek '''Elagabala''' to venture through the [[Sentinel Gate]].

<box><big>'''{{Black Plateau}}'''</big><br>
All characters on the ''Unexpected'' skirmish will be under the effect of [[Calls#WEAKNESS|WEAKNESS]] that cannot be removed whilst on the skirmish and experience heightened emotions unless they:
* Expend a hero point upon entering the area
* Are subject to an anointing
* Overcome the oppression using their [[Cambion#Roleplaying_Cambion|cambion]] lineage
* Are bonded to a magical item or have a ritual enchantment that mitigates effects like these
</box>

===Borderland (Redoubt)===
* '''A fleeing band of Disciples is attempting to take refuge with the Grendel'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Champion of Loyalty'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for dealing with them'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
One group of Disciples of Sulemaine who are attempting to flee south to throw themselves upon the mercy of the Grendel are the members of the ''Temple of the Stinging Blade'' of [[Redoubt#Limus|Limus]], [[Redoubt]], famous for using blade oils to make certain that only one well-placed strike is needed to fell any given foe. They have a [[Magic_items#Schema|schema]] they are hoping to barter for safe passage away from Imperial persecution.

The civil service has determined that whoever is appointed as the [[Champion of Loyalty]] is the best person to arrange the expedition to catch these betrayers before they sell such a powerful resource to barbarians.

===Precious Cargo (Morrow)===
* '''A band of Disciples are planning something with a dose of true liao'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* ''' The ''Polemarch of Highwatch'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for stopping them'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}

Finally, there have been reports from sharp-eyed sentinels in [[Morrow]] of a band of Disciples who are said to be in possession of a rare errant dose of [[Liao#True_Liao|true liao]]. They appear to be making their way towards [[Morrow#Highwatch|Highwatch]], but the conjunction found by prognosticators opens in their path. What's most concerning is that they might be intending to use the dose of true liao to create a permanent aura of the malign force of Purity there, the site where Urizen committed to the Empire over three centuries ago. The effects of such a thing are impossible to predict, but at the worst, it could send shockwaves through the very bones of the nation.

The sentinels have sent a request to whoever is elected as the [[Polemarch of Highwatch]] at the upcoming summit to send reinforcements to defend the historic site. Traditionally speaking, Sentinels ''are'' the way one deals with Sulemaine's followers, after all.

{{Sword Scholar Links}}

To fight aloud

2026-04-05T10:57:03Z

Apoth:

<ic>"Listen carefully Aquila: they are ''right'' to cast us out, we are unwelcome visitors in their land, as we have always been. The tragedy is that they do not understand why they are right, they have found the right conclusion from the wrong reasoning. They have come to possess a beautiful painting yet display it facing the wall."

The soft-spoken Acolyte looked up from their whetstone; "But if they're right, why must we be at such odds?"

The old teacher smiled and shook his head. "The Way of Virtue does not lead to harmony. Two warriors can choose the same path, yet still fight when their paths cross."

Aquila looked confused "Yes master, but what of the other sword scholars? Are we not to unite our own community? You were alive to remember before we rejoined the Empire and our friends ascended the ranks of the Imperial hierachy. Why did they turn on us?"

"Tolerance is the crack in the foundation of a strong society. Remember the words of Sulemaine: If you love a thing, be prepared to destroy it. Only then are you strong enough to protect it. Our fellow scholars turned to the Empire. They've compromised their beliefs, made their lives easier, and in so doing dulled the edge of their souls."

"And the suffering of those souls?"

Phocas hardened his gaze "Attend your work, Aquila. That is not our problem. The only soul you should concern yourself with right now is your own."

Aquila did not resume. Sharpening his blade was dull work, especially when compared with discussing the teachings. "And...and if they kill us all?"

"They may try. So too did General Cetratus, so too did the Druj at the Fall of the Four Winds. How quickly some forget the old lessons." The old Sword Scholar pressed his acolytye's sword back to the stone. "And if they succeed, that is alright too. We few shall walk in a straight line through the Labyrinth, slicing through its walls and return with renewed determination. Alas, if I do not survive this, I will not leave our former homes with no record of who we were."

"You mean ... you intend to use it?"

"Perhaps, Aquila. Perhaps."

Swordsinger Phocas stroked the pouch strapped tightly to his chest, a small vial with a purple sparkling substance barely visible in the darkness of the cellar where they had taken refuge for the night.</ic>
<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sword.jpg|align=left|caption=Unwholesome influences must be eliminated if the innocent are to be protected.|width=300}}</div>
==Overview==
The re-integration of the [[sword scholar|sword scholars]] to [[Urizen]] and the wider Empire has never failed to be eventful. In the most recent development, the sword scholars split into two factions; one group who decided to forgo the teachings of Sulemaine that some claimed invoked the [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Hate|malign spiritual force of Purity]], and stay aligned with the Empire. Many of these scholars now hold high office in the Imperial bodies of state.

The other group, under the ''nominal'' leadership of [[The_deepest_cut#Interred_With_Their_Bones|Severus of the Blinding Sun]], chose to withdraw from the Empire and remained committed to what they believe are the true teachings of [[Sulemaine|Sulemaine]] i Taziel. Facing the risk of execution should Imperial law catch up with them, most have gone into hiding in the Urizen mountains.

A tension had grown in the mountains, one that could only last so long before something broke it. Last summit, a decisive blow was made that has completely unravelled the Disciples.

==Judgement==
*'''The Disciples of Sulemaine have been driven out of Urizen'''
*'''Some have gone down fighting, unwilling to surrender their beliefs to the Empire's edicts'''
*'''Those who have not been killed have been forced to flee'''
*'''Several hallowed items have been recovered from the defeated Disciples'''

In the Autumn of 387YE, three bodies of state spoke with a single voice. In the [[Senate]], '''Herminius of the House of the Wanderer''' and '''Thalia of Netherwatch''' brought forward the [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Criminalise_Disciples_of_Sulemaine|motion to criminalise membership of the Disciples of Sulemaine]]. At the same time, through the arguments of '''Elagabala''' as [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]], [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Concord:_Hunt_Disciples_of_Sulemaine|the Conclave declared]] that all magicians should ''render aid by blade, spell, or mind to the people of Urizen as they hunt and kill the Disciples of Sulemaine and Severus of the Blinding Sun.'' Unsurprisingly, the Imperial [[Synod]] passed multiple statements with a greater majority urging the faithful to take action:

<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
{{SOPInner|statement=Captains of Urizen! There is a poison in our fields. The Disciples of Sulemaine threaten by spreading the Blasphemy of Hatred, an idea long since tested and discarded as lacking. We send Herminius of the House of the Wanderer with 50 doses of liao to urge all to go forth and excise this pestilence from our home.|by=Solas of the Spire of the Waxing Sun, Urizen National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}

{{SOPInner|statement=On behalf of the Urizen National Assembly, and I, a sentinel of Sunshaper Citadel. We recognise the Vigilance and Courage of captains sending their military units to kill Severus' Followers of Sulemaine. We recognise that military action taken against fellow Urizen is not a decision taken lightly, but that it remains a necessary one. Thanks to the recent developments in the Imperial Senate, it is now a legal one, too.|by=Leyna, Urizen National Assembly|vote=216-0|when=Autumn 387YE}}
</div>

{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:500px; float: right; margin-left: 10px;"
|-
! Military Captains who Drove out the Disciples
|-
| Alcuin
|-
| Athenus
|-
| Boagrius Stillwater
|-
| Caius stillwaters
|-
| Camilla Stillwater
|-
| Cincinnatus
|-
| Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer
|-
| Cyrus Stillwater
|-
| Delara i Fijadoz i Guerra
|-
| Demicius Stillwater
|-
| Elagabala
|-
| Erebus Kentigern Highwind
|-
| Floria Sunshaper
|-
| Gavynn
|-
| Herminius of the House of the Wanderer
|-
| Hugh Ravenspire
|-
| Magnus
|-
| Marcus
|-
| Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach
|-
| Scipio
|-
| Tancred de Coeurdefer
|-
| Valens Leos
|-
| Valerius
|-
| Varrus
|}

Over half an Imperial [[army|army's]] worth of Urizeni military captains sweep methodically across [[Redoubt]], [[Morrow]] and then [[Zenith]] visiting known temples and investigating leads provided by local spires. Many citadels are keen to lend aid in the form of information and supplies to the roving groups. When found, most Disciples resolutely unsheathe their eponymous weapons and make their final stand. They are quickly overwhelmed, even those scholars who are exceptional individual combatants are no match for a squad of sentinels acting in unison. A handful have attempted to flee with varying degrees of success, but there is no doubt that the Disciples of Sulemaine as any kind of identifiable group has been completely demolished.

{{SOP|statement=Vigilance teaches us to seek out the poison in your neighbour's fields, let your own crops be blighted. This assembly requests the writings of the Disciples of Sulemaine are preserved so they can be studied at a later date in order to prevent similar groups forming and to aid in detecting followers of the false virtue of hate.|by=Theodora, Vigilance Assembly|vote=256-30|when=Autumn 387YE}}
The Vigilance Assembly requested that the writings of the Disciples be preserved, a call which some felt ran counter to the spirit of the the [[387YE_Spring_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_7|recent mandate]] enacted by long-time Cardinal Viviane Barossa which warned of the dangers all malign spiritual presences pose. As it was, the mandate did not get a greater majority in the General Assembly, and so many in Urizen openly question it, ironically a recent practice very much spear-headed by the sword scholars themselves and their open hostility to the Synod's authority.

As it is, this excursion was one of a military nature, rather than a delegation of [[seer|seers]] looking to gather information and little is discovered about Sulemaine that is [[Sulemaine|not already known]]. However those involved ''have'' managed to recover several hallowed items. (Anyone who took part in the Hunt the Disciples downtime action will receive a ribbon to attach to an appropriate item, ideally a weapon or piece of jewellery. If your character would have destroyed or disposed of the item, just hand the ribbon back in to GOD).

You can read more about opportunities for the Urizen National Assembly to capitalise on this Vigilant fervour in the '''[[TBC]]''' wind of fortune.

==Fallen Hero==
<div style="float:right; max-width: 500px; width: 50%; margin-left: 10px;"><box>
<p>'''Surviving Disciples'''<br>
The military action has been a resounding success, breaking the power of the Disciples of Sulemaine. Everyone who could pose a threat to the Empire at this time is dead or captured. Only three groups are known to have escaped and none of them possess the power to cause any trouble for the Empire at this time.</p>

<p>We've presented details here about those groups to foreshadow any ''new'' plot that we ''might'' create in the future. Nothing will happen with these groups until that happens - the only way to track one of them down would be to use a plenipotentiary to [[Kimus]] to find where they have gone.
</box></div>
*'''The leader of the Disciples of Sulemaine ''Severeus of the Blinding Sun'' has been captured and will be brought to Anvil for Trial on TBC'''
*'''Remaining groups who survived the purge have splintered into a multitude of sub-factions who are primarily focused on survival'''
Severus of the Temple of the Blinding Sun has been captured. Commonly regarded as the defacto leader of the Disciples of Sulemaine. It is undeniable that he was their most prominent scholar and teacher, the best known by far, and widely respect by other Disciples. He is being brought to Anvil to face trial and presumably execution at the Winter Solstice as an unrepentant member of the Disciples of Sulemaine.

Despite his membership of the recently outlawed order, the Synod are yet to pass judgement on whether he has committed any crimes against the faith. [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_87|Aspar's request]] for a [[Writ of Excommunication]] received heavy support, but did not get the legally required greater majority. In some ways the timing of his arrival at Anvil is poor, since it conincides with the release of new guidance for magistrates on how to apply Imperial law when prosecuting a [[religious crime]]. Given the circumstances, the magistrates have indicated that they will make Severus available to the Synod for inquisition, should they wish to do so, before the trial is conducted. Severus has not made any comment on whether he intends to seek a member of the Synod to plead [[clemency]] on his behalf, though it seems astonishingly unlikely.

With Severus captured, and the majority of the Disciples of Sulemaine slaim, some groups have attempted to flee or go into hiding. The refugees from the ''Temple of the Inviolate Spirit'' attempted to seek refuge with the Silver Flame in Cinion, Spiral, but were turned away and summarily captured. Either Caela and her people have no sympathy for blasphemers, or perhaps they are just aware of the precarious nature of their independance. The ''Last Word'' sect attempted to flee into the Mountain of The Moon, but by the time Imperial forces arrived they were found tied up with a brief note attached to their [[arbiter]] - "In reciprocity, the people of Tsark shall not intrude into Imperial matters".

A handful of those who were once Disciples have managed to escape Imperial justice. A lone survivor from the ''Fellowship of the Door'', a [[stargazer]] named Valeria, was seen being escorted by a Herald of Hayaak to a Summer regio. A dozen members of the ''Wayfarer's Answer'' temple have definitely hidden somewhere in Spiral, possibly by taking advantage of the statues offered by [[Sung]] to support Urizeni still living there. Finally the ''Ten Echoes'', a small coven from Lustri, fled north apparently heading for the Sarangrave or even further.

Urizen is second perhaps only to Dawn in prevalence of Heralds of the Eternals being seen among citizens, some fear that there will have been Disciples who will have used a [[Treacher%27s_Quill|certain ritual]] from Urizen Lore to turn to the one eternal who is [[Agramant|always willing to help]]. So far there is no evidence of that happening, but nobody can completely rule it out.

==The Forge==
{{SOP|statement=Damahkans Wisdom, the blade intended for Sulemaine is reforged and her riddle solved by its wielder Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer. It would not have been possible without the following: Esteban of Zenith Ascendant; Athenus, Cato, and Orania Neofoti of the House of the Wanderer; Kindra Surefoot of Wintermark; Xenia of Urizen; Edmundo of Damahkan's Forge; Members of the Wise Citadel and the Magpies. Your virtuous efforts are recognised.|by=Delara of the Wanderers, Urizen National Assembly|vote=264-0|when=Autumn 387YE|size=small}}
*'''News of the sword originally intended for Sulemaine has spread far and wide across the High Peaks'''
*'''The words of the Synod have provoked interest in the fate of such an important piece of Urizeni history'''
The Urizen National Assembly have let it be known that ''Damahkans Wisdom'', the blade crafted for Sulemaine by the legendary Urizeni artisan has been reforged. Had the Disciples of Sulemaine endured, they might have sought to reclaim the false paragon's heirloom, but now they are scattered and broken, that threat is gone. With the sword scholars [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_40|turning their back on Sulemaine]], this relic has lost some of its religious importance to the people of the High Peaks. That said, it is still a masterwork sword created by Damakhan herself, a link to Urizeni history from a time before the Empire was even forged. As a result, people are interested to know what will become of the Damakhan's legacy, now that the Disciples of Sulemaine are dealt with.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Esteban Ezmara of Zenith Ascendant.jpg|caption='''Esteban Ezmara of Zenith Ascendant''', Architect of the Crucible|align=left|width=200}}</div>
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Clytemnestra.jpg|align=left|caption=Clytemnestra of the House of the Wanderer, General of the Argent Sword|width=250}}</div>
Damakhan's Forge was recently moved by the [[Sadogua|Brother of Wizards]] and has become part of the [[Zenith#Crucible_of_Fate|Crucible of Fate]]. If Damahkans Wisdom were made part of the [[New_Imperial_titles#Regalia|regalia]] of the [[Architect of the Crucible]], it would boost the prestige of the Architect and make it clear that they were Damakhan's heir. It would ensure the importance of the Crucible as an ideal location for a [[Inspirational_location#Memorials|memorial]], if Damakhan were ever to be [[Recognition|recognised]] by the Imperial Synod and make it easier to [[historical research|research Damakhan's life]]. One enthusiastic young Architect suggests that one day, it might be expanded into a full [[Runeforge]], however they were quickly chided for getting far too ahead of themselves.

Of course the sword could be made the regalia of any Urizeni national position - it might even be better to create a new title, one specially designed to bear the sword and preserve Damakhan's legacy. Hwoever it is not just the Urizeni who are interested in the sword. Two [[eternal|eternals]] have both shown interest upon hearing the true sword has been recovered.

''[[Leviathan|She Who Counts the Ripples]]'' is a noted collector of items of historical significance, liking to keep such artefacts safe from the erosion of time. The ''Abyssal Lord'' notes with approval that the sword's wielder is part of the ''Eye of the Wanderer'', a Coven more than capable of casting her ritual. Should they do so and submit the question "What might Leviathan offer us for Damakhan's Wisdom?" and include a few suggestions of what they might be interested in, ''The Deepest One'' will make an exception to her usual rule in order to briefly discuss what Boon he might offer in exchange for allowing him to become the sword's custodian.

On the other hand, the ''[[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Surut|Ashen Knight]]'' has also expressed an interest in acquiring this artefact that was meant for "one of the great haters of Imperial history". The [[Inhabitants_of_the_realms#Heralds|herald]] relaying this information notes that the Court were apparently rather fond of the previous [[general]] of the [[Citadel Guard]]; '''Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach''' and would be more than happy to be friends with a new Urizeni general of similar temperament. If '''General Clytemnestra''' joins the party going to the [[Ourselves_and_immortality#Civility|parley with the Thrice-Cursed-Court]] and offers the sword to the ''Burnt Steward'' as a gift, he will provide the ritual text for ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in return, as a gift for her people. Imperial records make no mention of what this ritual does, only that [[Zakalwe|Zakalwe]] clearly [[Carve the Crystal Guardian#Assurance|takes some issue with it]].

Whatever happens, the Sword currently belongs to Clytemnestra. Unless she had stolen it from someone protected by Imperial law, the [[Imperial Constitution|constitution]] grants her freedom to do with it as she wishes, be it to take advantage of any of these opportunities, continue to bear it as a personal weapon, or indeed mount it on her mantlepiece as [[Pride_of_the_Marches#The_Blade_of_Tom_Drake|Tom Drake famously did]] with his forebear's heirloom. The act of the national assembly has aroused a great deal of interest in the heirloom, but only Clytemnestra has the power to decide what happens to it now.
==Fight or Flight==
* '''Three conjunctions of the Sentinel Gate have been identified that involve the disciples of Sulemaine
The War Scout has informed the civil service of several conjunctions Imperial Heroes may wish to take advantage of to eliminate some of the fleeing groups of Disciples.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Elagabala.jpg|align=left|caption=Elagabala, Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path|width=250}}</div>
===Unexpected (Spiral)===
* '''A group of Disciples are attempting to flee into Mareave'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Grandmaster of the Sevenfold Path'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for intercepting them'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
A tall, thin creature in sparkling robes with sharp eyes and feathered brow, ''Pythia of the Silver Fields'' emerges from the Imperial [[regio]], somehow managing to ''saunter'' through the portal. They bear a message following the [[declaration]] of [[concord]] of the Grandmaster of the [[Sevenfold Path]]. Apparently, the ''[[Jaheris|Arbiter of the Ardent Spire]]'' is keen to help '''Elagabala''' hunt down the members of her former 'lawless sect whose philosophy promotes silence, shame, and inaction' and is willing to share the location of one such group who are attempting to flee across the border of [[Spiral]] into [[Mareave]] where they may be able to get lost in the rocky hills of this new Imperial land. The ''Silverbrow'' does not ask for any formalities such as a declaration of [[Alignment#Acceptance|acceptance]], any payment or anything so transactional and gauche as that; they merely wish to continue improving their relationship with the magicians of the Conclave by helping out where they can. That said, a token of the Grandmaster's gratitude the next time they receive a plenipotentiary from the Archmage of Summer wouldn't go amiss, of course.

As this is a direct offer to the Grandmaster, those interested in catching these criminals before they escape should seek '''Elagabala''' to venture through the [[Sentinel Gate]].

===Borderland (Redoubt)===
* '''A fleeing band of Disciples is attempting to take refuge with the Grendel'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* '''The ''Champion of Loyalty'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for dealing with them'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}
One group of Disciples of Sulemaine who are attempting to flee south to throw themselves upon the mercy of the Grendel are the members of the ''Temple of the Stinging Blade'' of [[Redoubt#Limus|Limus]], [[Redoubt]], famous for using blade oils to make certain that only one well-placed strike is needed to fell any given foe. They have a [[Magic_items#Schema|schema]] they are hoping to barter for safe passage away from Imperial persecution.

The civil service has determined that '''Champion of Loyalty''' is the best person to arrange the expedition to catch these betrayers before they sell such a powerful resource to Barbarians.

===Precious Cargo (Morrow)===
* '''A band of Disciples are planning something with a dose of true liao'''
* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
* ''' The ''Polemarch of Highwatch'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication|responsible]] for stopping them'''
{{AgainstBarbarians}}

Finally, there have been reports from sharp-eyed sentinels in [[Morrow]] of a band of Disciples who are said to be in possession of a rare errant dose of [[Liao#True_Liao|true liao]]. They appear to be making their way towards [[Morrow#Highwatch|Highwatch]], but the conjunction found by prognosticators opens in their path. What's most concerning is that they might be intending to use the dose of true liao to create a permanent aura of the malign force of Purity there, the site where Urizen committed to the Empire over three centuries ago. The effects of such a thing are impossible to predict, but at the worst, it could send shockwaves through the very bones of the nation.

The sentinels have sent a request to whoever is elected as the '''Polemarch of Highwatch''' at the upcoming summit to send reinforcements to defend the historic site. Traditionally speaking, Sentinels ''are'' the way one deals with Sulemaine's followers, after all.

{{Sword Scholar Links}}

Chalice of Callidius

2026-03-12T22:26:11Z

Apoth: /* Description */

User:Apoth

2026-03-03T14:34:56Z

Apoth:

Thomas Gerrish, who played ''Ematius Ankarien'' but is now on Plot Crew.

Random page button [https://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/empire-wiki/Special:Random]

Rule of Risk and Reward

2025-09-25T18:11:21Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Night|20}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}} The target character must have the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill.

{{enchantment}}
===Effects===
The target gains two effective ranks of ritual lore for purposes of performing an [[arcane projection]], subject to the normal rules for effective skill.

The ritual will not grant any benefit to perform a ritual that uses a realm lore skill the character does not possess.

While the enchantment lasts the target experiences a roleplaying effect: ''you feel inspired by the possibilities inherent in ritual magic, and feel an urge to enthusiastically discuss your theories of magic with anyone who will listen.''

{{Season Duration}}

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters from the same [[Groups#Covens|coven]]. Each additional character increases the magnitude by 15. Additional characters must be present throughout.

===Assurance===
This ritual grants an intuitive understanding of magical lores, and as with [[Eternals_and_rituals#Empowerment|other such rituals]], draws on the power of an eternal, in this case [[Sadogua]]. The assurance connected with the ritual was uncertain when the ritual text was first delivered by the Commonwealth but was unearthed by members of the Unfettered Mind shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. The ritual loses all power and ceases to function if the [[Imperial Conclave|Conclave]] ever limits the creation of [[arcane projection|arcane projections]].

==Description==
This ritual was [[We_are_never_ever_getting_back_together#Commonwealth_Rituals|one of several]] presented to the [[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]] of the [[Imperial Conclave]] by the [[magical skills#Magician|magicians]] of the [[Commonwealth]] in Winter 384YE in recognition of the decision to share [[Imperial lore]] with that nation. It was gifted to the [[Unfettered Mind]], and it was they who, in Autumn 387YE, chose to [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Imperial_Lore:_Rule_of_Risk_and_Reward|share it with the Empire]]. The decision followed some successful research at [[the Lyceum]] in which trapped Imperial magicians working with their equally trapped Commonwealth peers [[Beat_of_your_drum#Risk_and_Reward|unlocked]] a method to apply the enchantment to [[#Additional Targets|multiple members]] of the same [[Groups#Covens|coven]] with a single casting.

The original text was put together at the [[Foreign_ports#Volkavaar|University of Volkavaar]]. According to the notes that accompanied the text, it was created by the ''zauberer'' of the ''Order of the Closed Hands'', who asked specifically that it be considered for sharing with their Imperial peers. Apparently their order attracts many of the brightest and most inventive magical students of Volkavaar, and numbers many [[orc|orcs]] among its ranks. The name of the ritual references their rule, whereby they use mathematics to determine if a risky endeavour is worth the reward that may be gained if it is undertaken. The Order cautions that untried magic, while versatile and powerful, is often dangerous. While a magician might believe they know what will happen when they perform a ritual there may sometimes be unconsidered consequences that come about because of the environment or context in which the magic is used.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Sadogua001d.webp|align=right|caption=The [[Sadogua|Brother of Wizards]] is viewed with suspicion in the [[Commonwealth]].|width=200}}</div>
This warning seems particularly apposite given the ritual was clearly developed with the aid of the [[Sadogua|Brother of Wizards]], an [[eternal]] with something of a mixed reputation in the Commonwealth. This caution arises in part from his shameless patronage of many [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] magicians, but also due to his obvious disdain for mortals who do not or cannot practice magic. The Order of the Closed Hands are one of the few large covens prepared to deal with the ''Father of Bats''; apparently they apply the same careful regimen of mathematical examination to all dealings with him to try and determine if the cost of accepting one of his boons will outweigh the apparent benefits of doing so.

While the Order of the Closed Hands approaches the use of the ritual's power with careful consideration, there is no denying that the actual enchantment draws on the resonances of [[Night_magic#Intuition|intuition]] and [[Night_magic#Inspiration|inspiration]] rather than anything more rational. It helps the enchanted magician make leaps of logic that connect seemingly disparate elements of the magic they are performing; one member of the Unfettered Mind described the experience as being similar to redesigning the [[arcane projection]] "on the fly" as they were performing the ritual. They also spoke of having a powerful wordless intuition regarding other [[Rituals#Contributors|contributors]], allowing them to adjust their own practice to act in synch with others. Some magicians clearly find the enchantment to be profoundly inspiring and exhilarating. Others, especially those less practiced in the arts of Night lore, have spoken of finding the chaos of wielding potential Empire-changing magic in this chaotic, unpredictable manner as "deeply terrifying".

Some comparison has been drawn with [[Garden of Teth-Anon]], a ritual of dubious provenance that achieves similar but distinct results but enchants an entre coven. While it enchants a coven-bond, that ritual is significantly more limited in its effectiveness than ''Rule of Risk and Reward'' in that it provides less [[Day magic#Mastery|mastery]] and can be evoked only once each day. When ''Rule'' was added to Imperial Lore, it prompted renewed interest in the [[Day magic]] ritual. It seems that despite their best efforts, the Unfettered Mind have yet to determine which eternal sponsors the power of that ritual which, if stories are to be believed, may be one of the oldest ever added to Imperial Lore.

==Common Elements==
The original Commonwealth method of performing this magic requires careful and considered meditation, and the painting or tracing of intricate designs on the palms, forearms, and forehead of the recipient. The Order of the Clasped Hand note that they use [[blood magic]] when working ''Rule of Risk and Reward'', mixing a few drops from each of the other covenmates of the magician to be enchanted with a little pigment. Often the donation of the blood forms part of the ritual, with each covenmate in turn speaking of their connection to the recipient and how they hope to strengthen their bond in the future. The target themselves is often encouraged to speak of the purposes they hope to put the magic to, and make vows to use their power responsibly and with careful consideration.

Like many rituals that use Night magic, food or drink can form a very resonant component of the enchantment. Anything that allows the recipient to achieve a slightly altered sense of consciousness seems ideal - there have been some experiments in [[Wintermark]] using a mixture of ''[[Infusions of Feathers#Magpie Infusion|Magpie Infusion]]'' with a little milk or honey. In [[the Brass Coast]] the ritual is more likely to involve small amounts of [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Syrah|syrah]] poured into multiple small cups from the same pot, and shared by each member of the coven the recipient belongs to.

Ritualists may be masked, cowled, or veiled, and there is often slow, quiet music designed to help the contributors and their target achieve the right state of mind. [[Dramaturgy|Dramaturges]] have found that the ritual works well not only as a play, but as a ceremonial "putting on" of one of [[Dramaturgy#The_Personae|the Personae]] - especially [[the Witch]] or [[the Mountebank]] - either diegetically within the performance, or in the manner of an actor taking on a role before a play. Likewise in [[Dawn]], [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding|girding]] the target in robes and equipping them with a wand, staff, or rod, can help focus the magic.

The runes [[Wyr]] and [[Aesh]] resonate with the ritual, as do the [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]] of [[the Stork]], [[the Phoenix]], and for some reason [[the Spider]].
[[Category:Night Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Mountain Remembers Its Youth

2025-08-25T22:20:22Z

Apoth: /* Description */

{{Interdicted|ritual|[[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions|Autumn 381YE]]}}
==Rules==
{{Season|Spring|60}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|10}} {{Imperial Reduction}}

{{Regio|Spring}} {{Target Territory}}

During the performance of the ritual the casters must name a [[Territory#Regions|region]] within the target territory which has the ''rugged'' or ''hills'' quality.

{{Curse}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=SwampGas.jpg|caption=This ritual brings a choking death to those who cannot escape the fumes.|align=right|width=500}}

===Effects===
The ritual affects a single [[territory]]. Over the course of the next few days a powerful [[curse]] settles over the area. The ground shakes and the earth cracks, releasing hot, sulphurous gasses from beneath the ground. These cracks are more likely to appear near large concentrations of people, especially [[Imperial army|campaign armies]].

Following the ritual, 500 [[Campaign_outcome#Casualties|casualties]] are spread out over all campaign armies and fortifications in the territory. An [[Imperial army|army]] will not benefit from [[Casualties#Natural_Resupply|natural resupply]] if they end their movement in this territory.

[[Fortification|Fortifications]] are less impacted by this effect, and thus casualties inflicted on fortifications are decreased by 20%.

Any [[farm]] based in the target territory has its production reduced by 72 rings for the coming season, while each [[mine]] and [[forest]] produces four fewer ingots or measures of its base type.

{{Territory Effects}} Given the curse causes earth tremors, and unleashes deadly poisonous vapours from beneath the ground, the population of a territory will certainly be affected by this ritual. Casualties are inevitable. Numbers are likely to be related both to population concentration (there'll likely be fewer deaths in territories where the population is spread out than in one where it is concentrated in one or two areas), and the terrain (more hills and mountains, or more people living in hills and mountains, will likely mean more deaths). Even where people don't die, they are likely to become sick, or have their homes damaged. Once the nature of the curse becomes clear, people are likely to become afraid, and may try and move away from threatened areas. [[Sinecure|Sinecures]] and [[ministry|ministries]], especially those that deal with agriculture, forest resources, or mining, may also be impacted by the curse.

{{Season Duration}}

===Options===
{{Ritual Substitution|beggar's lye|measures}}

==Description==
This ritual was developed at the [[Madruga#The_Lyceum|Lyceum]] under the auspices of [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum|Dean]] '''Simargl''' of the Circle of Zulgan-Tash, and completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 381YE. The original design was undertaken by the well-travelled [[Urizen]], '''Mercurio Ankarien'''.

During the process of [[Dean_of_the_Lyceum#Guiding_the_magicians_of_the_Lyceum|concluding the formulation]], there were additional opportunities to project the likely results of performing the ritual. The potential danger to civilian populations was outlined, as was the likely effect on farms in the area. The fact that the cracks created by the curse are more likely to appear around concentrations of people than not was also determined. There were some questions about the ethical implications of unleashing unrestrained clouds of poison gas, but on the whole, the magicians working on the ritual focused primarily on the theoretical underpinnings and on solving magical problems with shaping the magic effectively.

The tremors the curse causes are dangerous, certainly, but they are the harbinger of destruction rather than the cause of it. They are unlikely to open under structures – the larger the structure the less likely they are to appear close to it. The focus of the ritual is on killing living creatures, not on destroying structures. Cracks will open in the ground in different places at different times over the season, releasing their lethal bounty of choking air. The more armies and fortifications there are in an area, the less each one suffers from the effect of the curse. As a consequence of the way the ritual is designed, the fewer the number of armies there are in the area, the fewer cracks open and the less widespread the foul air becomes. The number of civilian casualties is likely to be tied to the number of armies in the territory.

This ritual does not draw on the power of an [[eternal]], nor does it draw spirits from the Spring realm. Rather, it creates a conduit between pockets of naturally occurring foul air that lies beneath the earth. Many miners are familiar with the concept of firedamp and similar choking or flammable gases. Those with experience of volcanos, in particular, know that there are winds in the earth that are inimical to life on the surface.

The [[curse]] opens these conduits, allowing the volatile gases deep in the earth to spew out. Rather than being flammable, these stinking clouds choke and strangle living creatures. Humans and orcs are not the only beings affected – birds, animals, and plants are all affected to some degree. Trees wither and die, as do crops in the field, and even the grass itself where the destructive poison touches. Standing water in the area may be poisoned as well, killing fish and aquatic plants with equal facility. Where one of these cracks opens, the land is marked with death.

It is possible to avoid the worst effects of this killing cloud by moving quickly out of the area. Anyone who is unable to physically escape the poisonous air, like the wounded, penned animals, the young, and the physically infirm, are much more likely to succumb to the choking death.

The poison gas is quite dense and moves only slowly except in particularly strong winds which may cause the clouds to dissipate more quickly. Rain may also dissipate the clouds, but unfortunately, this will actually spread the poison a little wider – albeit more slowly – by causing it to sink into the surface soil or form poisonous puddles.

Even those who act quickly may not entirely avoid the effects – some exposed to the gas will be envenomed, making them more likely to [[Calls#VENOM|succumb to injuries]] they sustain shortly afterwards.

Finally, the ability to spread panic should not be underestimated – an army whose flank is scattering to avoid the threat of a spreading cloud of sulphurous venom is much more vulnerable to attacks from an organised force.

One word of caution regarding this ritual relates to performing it in territories where there are cities – in the Empire this would likely include [[the League]] [[The_League_territories|territories]], [[Miaren]] (site of [[Miaren#Seren|Seren]]), [[Mitwold]] (site of [[Mitwold#Meade|Meade]]), [[Redoubt]], (site of [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]]), [[Bastion]] (site of the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City|White City]]), and potentially also [[Hahnmark]] (site of [[Hahnmark#Kalpaheim|Kalpaheim]]). The intense concentration of people in these areas is likely to attract several poison-spewing cracks, and the confined nature of these environments, may potentially cause increased loss of civilian life.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Mountain Remembers.png|caption=The trembling earth and gaping cracks portend worse to come.|align=left|width=600}}

==Common Elements==
A map of the target territory is often a focus for performing this ritual. A physical map may be burned, or buried under ash or dust, or washed away with beggar's lye. A map drawn or traced on the ground may be damaged in a way to suggest cracks opening in the ground.

The original ritual, as heavily guided by the Dean, is intended to remind the mountains and hills of the territory of their youth – when the world was young. He recommends that the ritual be accompanied by pounding drums (perhaps in the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] style), with wild dancing (especially fire dancing), and loud ululations from all who are present. By recalling this primordial time, the earth can be persuaded to let loose its poison breath. Several [[Varushka|Varushkan]] and [[Wintermark]] magicians familiar with [[Otkodov]] comment that there are elements in the ritual that remind them of stories they have heard of the [[Thule]] territory of [[Otkodov#Nithoggir|Nithoggir]].

The rune [[Mawrig]] is commonly used during this ritual. The [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] sign of [[the Drowned Man]], or possibly [[the Wanderer]]. Destructive legendary beasts – [[Legendary_beasts#Dragons.2C_Wyverns_and_Wyrms|dragons]], [[Legendary_beasts#Sphinxes_and_Manticores|manticores]], and even [[Mundane_beasts#Kraken|kraken]] – resonate with the ritual. A [[Aspect_magic#Goetia|goetic]] might call on [[Siakha]], the devouring shark-eternal whose resonance is unrestrained destruction but it might also resonate with [[Llofir]] or [[Arhallogen]]. A [[Aspect_magic#Theurgy|theurgist]] may struggle to find a [[Paragons_and_exemplars|paragon or exemplar]] who resonates with the destructive power of this ritual - the closest historical figure the theoreticians at the Lyceum could come up with was [[Casinea#Casca.E2.80.99s_Doom|Casca]], and she is not recognised by the [[Imperial Synod]].

<quote by="Dean Simargl, the Empty One">If you don't like it, don't cast it.</quote>

[[Category:Spring Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Warfare]]

Dance of Navarr and Thorn

2025-08-25T22:19:01Z

Apoth: /* Description */

[[Category:Spring Ritual]][[Category:Rituals]]
==Rules==
{{Season|Spring|40}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|10}} {{Imperial Reduction}}

{{Regio|Spring}} This ritual targets a single territory that does not contain an active network of [[trods]]. The territory must either contain a vallorn, or must be connected to a territory containing a vallorn by an unbroken sequence of territories containing active trods.

The ritual can be performed using the [[Regio#The Imperial regio|Anvil regio]], but in this case it can only target an Imperial territory.

If the ritual targets a territory that contains a vallorn, it must be performed at a Spring regio in a region with the [[Vallorn]] keyword – it cannot be performed using the Imperial regio, or a regio in a region that does not have the vallorn keyword.

This ritual ''can'' target a territory with an active network of trods in the event that the trods are damaged, and in this event will repair the trods.

===Effects===
At the completion of the ritual, weak trods spread across the territory. These trods can be used by [[Navarr]] [[striding|stridings]] to extend the trod network and help weaken the power of the vallorn.

The ritual can create new trods only in an imperial territory. Once the ritual is complete, Navarr stridings must be able to move freely around the majority of the territory to fix the trods in place and begin drawing the strength of the vallorn along them. While other movement along the trods can help to weaken the vallorn, the presence of Navarr stridings is required if the trods are to have any significant effect.

The ritual can be used to repair existing trods even if the territory is not part of the Empire.

Targeting a non-Imperial territory means the ritual must be performed at a powerful Spring regio within that territory. This is rarely effective at creating new trods, and is most useful for repairing damaged or faded trods.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Math Far Distant.jpg|title=The guardian of one of the last copies of this rare ritual text, the vate Math Far Distant.|caption=Math Far Distant, of Brocéliande|align=right|width=300}}

==Description==
This ritual is extremely old, and pre-dates the Empire by several centuries. It was originally codified by the antecedents of the [[Navarr_magical_traditions#Vates|vates]] who used it to create the first trods to begin drawing power away from the vallorn. While the ritual could be performed by a powerful coven from any nation, it was never performed by ritual magicians who were not Navarr before it was entered into Imperial lore. Simply creating trods is not sufficient; the trods must also be constantly powered and strengthened by the peregrinations of Navarr stridings - so performing the ritual without the approval of the Navarr is a foolish endeavour.

The ritual was reasonably widespread among the Navarr in pre-Imperial days, but over time the number of [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts|ritual texts]] detailing it began to decline. The ritual never entered [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial lore]] - early [[Imperial Conclave|conclaves]] rejected attempts to [[Declaration#Declaration of Imperial Lore|declare]] ''The Dance of Navarr and Thorn'' part of the Imperial canon due to its specialised nature and lack of general appeal.

Following the reign of [[Emperor James]], the number of people with access to the ritual declined even further - with the borders of the Empire sealed and well-defended, there was little opportunity to perform it. Simple human nature meant that mastery of the ritual declined even further. However, in Summer 378YE following either a magical disaster or action by powerful [[Druj]] magicians, the trods in occupied [[Reikos]] were seriously damaged. The vate Math Far Distant of [[Brocéliande]], custodian of one of the few remaining ritual texts, entrusted it to '''Merel Pathfinder''' the [[Advisor on the Vallorn]]. Rather than risk the ritual fading from memory, that competent magician ensured that the Dance of Navarr and Thorn was inducted into Imperial Lore.

==Common Elements==
The ritual usually involves a map of the territory on which the trods are traced as the ritual is performed. Blood is a traditional element of many Navarr rituals, and is often used to trace the trods on the map. Some create a symbolic map of the territory on a large scale and move across it with trails of coloured sand. Representatives of as many different stridings as possible are usually included in the performance, along with representatives of any steading that already exists or plans to settle in the target territory.

A ritual re-telling of one of the great dances, especially that of [[Navarr history|Navarr and Thorn]] may form the centrepiece of the ritual. The ritual has never been recorded as being performed by non-Navarr, but it could be speculated that the [[The Witch|witch]] and the [[The Mountebank|mountebank]] would be powerful [[Dramaturgy|dramaturgical]] characters to use with the Dance of Navarr and Thorn - although what that might "reveal" about the characters of these Navarr heroes, and how the Navarr might react, is left as an exercise for the dramaturgical scholar.

The vates of [[Hercynia]] suggest that the [[Runes]] of [[Evrom|Beginning]], [[Hirmok|Dominion]] and the [[Runes#The_Mystic_Runes|Twin-faces of mystery]] will help in the performance of the ritual. Some vates of [[Therunin]] who have ties with the [[Urizen]] suggest that the [[Astronomancy|constellations]] of the [[The Fountain|Fountain]], the [[The Three Sisters|Three Mothers]], the [[The Mountain|Mountain]] or the [[The Chain|Chain]] may be appropriate.

<quote by="Taken from the original ritual text for the Dance of Navarr and Thorn">
A trod starts and ends with a vallorn.

We wove the trods as a weapon but in the fullness of time they gave life to the land through which they passed, and strength to those who travelled them. As our stridings migrate along the trods, so the wild magic at the heart of the vallorn is leached away. The longer the trod and the larger the striding, the more strength each journey leaches. As the wild magic is drawn away, it infuses the land around the trods and makes them fertile.

When Terunael was overrun, the orcs came as a great tempest and drove us apart. We could not walk the trods where the orcs sought us out. The coming of other people created its own problems as each sought to claim their own land and would not let us move across it freely. Only with the founding of the Empire were we able to walk the trods safely in numbers, further than ever before, and see in the distance a world where our ancestors' great mistake might finally be erased.

This ritual is most useful in a territory that has never been part of the Empire. Today, this almost always means barbarian territories conquered by the Imperial armies. A new territory expands the reach of the trods as a whole and helps weaken all the vallorn tied to those trods. Extending the reach of the trods so they cover a greater distance than ever before significantly increases their effectiveness.

Where the Empire has lost control of a territory to the barbarians, it becomes harder to use the trods and they may fray or fade. If a territory were in barbarian hands for more than a decade, the ritual would be needed to repair the trods to return them to full strength. Doing so extends the reach of the trods a little, and may result in a burst of power drawn from the vallorn, but the exact effects are difficult to predict.

The Barrens in particular seem problematic. Trods have been established there twice with the aid of our Dawnish friends at Drycastle – once in 75YE and once again in 245YE. In both cases, the trods have unravelled over the course of a few years. Some few trods are still intact but they are of minimal value in drawing the power of the vallorn and dangerous to walk. It may be that the Druj are to blame, because those orcs have always been strong there and jealous of other magics. It may be that there is a force there – perhaps the dark spirit of the Great Forest of Peytaht – that actively unpicks our trods. If any vate knows, they have not shared their wisdom.

While it could be performed in a territory that is not part of the Empire, doing so is of limited use because stridings simply cannot move freely enough in large enough numbers through the territory to bind the new trods into place. Moreso, without the freedom to move, the freedom to follow the trods where they wind, the trods are without purpose.

The trods could be traced across a territory controlled by an allied power, but only if that power were prepared to allow unrestricted access to large numbers of Navarr. There has been no time when a foreign power was prepared to offer such unfettered access to their lands, and certainly not on the kind of time-scales that would be needed to make newly forged trods effective.

The magic of this ritual draws on the power of patterns and to a degree that of tattoos and brands – it can be imagined that the trods are symbolic tattoos on the face of the earth. It is not a requirement that the ritual be performed by vates, however - any coven could perform the magical working necessary to form the trods. In practice, the creation of trods would be pointless without the support of the Navarr - no other Imperial nation has a nomadic population in sufficient numbers, or is as committed to tracing and re-tracing the trods over the time scales involved in teasing out the malign power of the vallorn.

We do not really know whether the ritual creates the trods in response to the intent of the ritualists, or reveals trods that already exist. Some magicians say that there is no difference – that the ritual both shapes the trods and reveals them in the same way that the best sculptors both shape and are guided by the wood or stone that they use. Regardless, attempts to create trods in straight lines, or specific designs, have proved to be impossible and attempts to guide the trods away from locations that are dangerous or inconvenient have likewise been unsuccessful - the trods go where they want to go.

Less mystically minded magicians describe the process of drawing out the trods to be like guiding the path of a river - the water can be encouraged to flow in a certain direction, but it cannot be made to flow up-hill or to take one path when another offers less resistance.

Trods do not extend across very large bodies of water, such as the Bay of Catazar. The sea is hungry, deep, full of currents that scoff at the idea of permanence. As a river dies when it reaches the sea, so the trods will not long survive exposure to the corrosive ocean. Lakes, major rivers or areas of swamp and marsh provide no particular obstacle as evidenced by the paths that cross the marshes of Therunin.

Water is a good metaphor for our trods. They ebb and flow as we move along them; we are both carried by the current and draw the wild magic behind and around us. They are a dance – the steps drawn on the face of the earth but we the dancers give meaning to their design. Without the design, our movements have no weight. Without the movement, the design is just a drawing. Intent creates the pattern. Intent draws and channels the wild chaos of the vallorn from its heart and tames it, spreads it to the four corners.

Once the wild chaos is tamed, then we may move against the vallorn itself. The beasts that live on the body of the vallorn and breathe its tainted air secure it in place. They are the dancers, while the vallorn is the design. It is never swift, but when we have drawn enough power we can strike to clear the vallorn from a place. It will not return to that place without malevolent intent of another being. This is how we claimed Miaren, one careful step at a time. It is patient work – the vallorn is stronger the closer we come to the HEART, and more vicious. It may be that to weaken several vallorn is easier than to eradicate one, and when the time comes we must choose carefully. Only when all the taint has been cleansed from a territory is the vallorn truly gone from that place.

It is not enough to kill the vallornspawn alone, for the wild magic returns and twists new creatures. It is not enough to walk the trods alone, for like an anchor the vallornspawn hold the taint in place. Both dancer and dance, both thorn and trod, both are required to destroy a vallorn.

This ritual has never been part of Imperial Lore. We brought it before the Imperial Conclave only once, in the first years of the Empire. The magicians chose not to include it at that time because it was seen as being of limited use to anyone outside the Navarr nation. When the Imperial borders were sealed in the time of Emperor James the number of vates who had mastered it dwindled. We should have been more careful to keep knowledge of it alive, but in truth the number of covens who could perform it has always been small.

If the target territory contains a vallorn, the ritual allows that territory to be joined to nearby land to create a network of trods, so that they can be used to begin drawing the power of the entity away. The wider the network of trods that the vallorn is connected to, the more effective they are at leeching power from it. If a new vallorn were uncovered, the first step towards eroding it would be to connect it to the existing Empire-wide network of trods that we already use. In theory, if some power were to significantly damage the trods in a territory, this ritual might be used to repair them. Doing so would not require as much power as forging the trods from scratch, but would likely still be challenging. If the trods in a territory were damaged sufficiently, it is likely that they would slowly erode or unravel. While the damage is very unlikely to spread beyond the borders of the territory where the damage has taken place, the loss of an entire territory from the trod network might severely impede the ability to draw the energy from one or more of the vallorn.</quote>
{{Vallorn links}}

Unending Onslaught

2025-08-25T22:15:02Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Winter|12}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}}

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
The target gains the ability to use the [[Heroic_skills#Relentless|relentless]] ability twice each day as if they knew it without spending any hero points.

They also experience a [[roleplaying effect]]: ''Being struck fills you with rage and an urge to obliterate the one who struck you. Long after the enchantment has faded you will still occasionally feel agonising pain in any limb you have restored through use of this enchantment''.

{{Season Duration}}

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters from the same [[Groups#Banner|banner]]. Every additional character increases the magnitude by 9. Additional characters must be present throughout.

==Description==
This ritual was codified in 384YE by the [[spire|spires]] of [[Urizen]], under the guidance of '''Spyridonakes''', the [[Doyen of the Spires]]. It was based on work originally performed by fellow Urizen '''Ematius'''. Among those who helped to codify the ritual were several scholars in newly-[[Grendel]] occupied [[Spiral]]. While their aid helped to speed the formulation of the ritual, it also means that Salt Lord Kaliact and her court are aware of the existence of this ritual – although it is unlikely to cause them any particular concern.

This ritual grants the target the ability to overcome and endure significant injuries. As with enchantments such as [[Unyielding Constitution]] and especially [[Fight Tooth and Nail]], it draws on the [[Winter_magic#Resonance|Winter resonance]] of ''[[Winter_magic#Survival|survival]]'' – the drive to stay alive. With a few moments to recuperate, even the most savage blow to a limb can be overcome.

The enchantment does not heal so much as repair. By all accounts it can be quite a disconcerting effect to observe; a dislocated arm snapping back into position makes a certain sound that some find distinctly unsettling. Actually experiencing the effect can also be a little unsettling; those who have used it describe a flowering numbness that encompasses the ruined limb as blood flow slows and fractured bone fuses together.

The enchantment also encourages the recipient to ensure that whatever has harmed them is never able to do so again. Being struck even by regular blows can fill them with a near uncontrollable rage and desire to obliterate the one who assaulted them. It also has some lingering effects. The first magicians to experience the enchantment spoke of peculiar incidents where the repaired limb blossomed with agonising pain, reminiscent of the original injury.

==Common Elements==
The ritual is a personal enchantment, and is resonant with [[Verys]] (the Rune of Strength) – a rune not often used with Winter magic. The first performance involved actually cutting the rune into the flesh of the recipient with a knife, and [[blood magic]] is particularly effective with this ritual. The blood of [[draughir]] appears to be unsurprisingly effective in this regard.

A [[aspect_magic#Goetia|goeticist]] might evoke the names of [[Sorin]] or [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Surut|Surut]] – both Winter [[eternal|eternals]] are associated with enduring or overcoming injury, and the rage that the enchantment can create in its recipient is particularly associated with the Ashen Knight.

[[Astronomancy]] links this ritual to the [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellation]] of [[the Oak]] (things endure), while a [[dramaturgy|dramaturge]] might use [[the Doctor]], [[the Blade]], and [[the Battlefield]] to create a play resonant with imagery of survival and overcoming injury.

Finally, this ritual certainly resonates with the aspect of the [[Legendary_beasts#Hydra|Hydra]] – which represents regeneration and personal healing. One [[Navarr|Navarri]] magician involved in the formulation insisted on calling it ''Hydra's Onslaught'' but the name never caught on with their fellow researchers.

[[Category:Winter Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Enchantment]]

386YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders

2025-04-29T23:26:50Z

Apoth: /* Gryphon's Pride */

{{Stub}}

==Overview==
The Military Council is the gathering of Imperial [[general|generals]] and [[General#Admiral|admirals]]. Individually, the generals have responsibility for the [[army orders|orders]] given to the [[Imperial army]] under their command, while the admirals provide the [[navy orders|orders]] for the [[Imperial navy|navies]]. A general commands a single [[Imperial armies|Imperial army]], drawn from volunteers from their nation. Once a general is given their command, they have sole authority to [[army orders|order]] the army to [[army orders#Movement|move]] or [[army orders#Issuing Orders|attack]] as they choose. After each summit, the Civil Service quickly circulate the orders each general has given among Imperial citizens, allowing [[military unit]] captains to decide if they wish to commit their own force to [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support an army]], and if so which army to support.

During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the following orders were submitted by Imperial generals.
==The Brass Coast==
The Brass Coast have three armies: [[Burning Falcon]], [[Fire of the South]] and [[Red Wind Corsairs]]. They can support three armies.

===Burning Falcon===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BurningFalcon Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Aracelis I Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We continue to gather our strength, fuelled with the courage and pride of our people. March to Tassato, carry the flame of the falcon as it grows ever brighter. Hold fast Cousins! Rest and ready. Yourselves for the blazing victories to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fire of the South===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TheFireoftheSouth Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vincente i Zayden i Guerra
* '''Orders:''' Just as the flames of a fire need fuel, so does an army need rest. A well supplied and rested army fights with twice the ferocity. We will stand firm in Astolat on Solid defence ready for our time to rise once more.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Fire of the South with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Red Wind Corsairs===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We grow restless. The Endless seasons of biding and waiting, watching the cycles of the sun and moon. The Brass Coast bleeds, but you and I are still here, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. A long road lies ahead for the children of the flame and their Empire. Do not fear ash. It is a firebird waiting to be born. Our allies march into Reinos, to change the melody of this song. A start. A Spark. Make Ready.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Red Wind Corsairs with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Dawn==
Dawn have three armies: [[Eastern Sky]], [[Golden Sun]] and [[Gryphon's Pride]]. They can support four armies.

===Eastern Sky===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EasternSky Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Dame Aurum De Castellan
* '''Orders:''' Sky, I'm back, and I say: We're headed back home. You've worked tirelessly to support the West for Multiple Seasons now and we need resupply. So… I hope you're ready for the annual Eastern Sky Mana Hunt. The Gryphon is dead, its pride reinstated, and walks a new path. The Sun will continue to shine with us. Now is the time to heal, to help and to rebuild the love our nation has been denied. Welcome our two new Generals with open arms - your new Captain, too. And know per haps, sometime soon, you may be able to look to new Orc Allies and defences of our Barrens. Love will prevail. Celebrate - winners of the hunt gets a weekend of Highwater Caster! Nova Avorei! PS You're going up against SIX other armies, Good Luck
* '''Action:''' Arcane Consolidation in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Eastern Sky with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Golden Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lord Daemon Mortére
* '''Orders:''' Knights of the Golden Sun, we move from our position in the Barrens to Astolat. We will set up a Solid Defence to Resupply. We march as we always have, instead of stopping to route our enemies, tell the people of Dawn and the Empire stories of the sacrifice of the Helms and the Dance. Tell the Troubadours of Zoran De Orzel and his glorious deeds as your general these past 7 years. Above all, remind them that the Golden Sun is still here! Banners High, shields strong, remind them of the number of armies that have rolled over them and we are still here. Remind them we were in Therunin out of loyalty to Navarr and our Empire, that the Golden Sun has held to its Loyalty to stand where it is needed. And assure them it always will be. These are my first words as your new General.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Golden Sun with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Gryphon's Pride===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Pride! You have been most foully betrayed. You have been ordered to murder those who meant our people no harm, in their own homes and hearths! People you bled to liberate! People the hounds died to liberate. So quit the fangs in good order, withdraw to the West and leave bitter strand. Let the Rahvin go home. Block any who would prevent them. Our senator has been murdered. His dying dream was to end this strife. So join me in swearing this oath that we shall protect all the peoples of the Barrens as if they were our own. Let Dawnguard hold, and may Dawn guard and hold all our neighbours who stand in defiance of the Druj. Where the traitors have shown fear we shall at last make flowers grow, and together, with our allies, we will be a black wind that shall drive the Druj into the Sea!
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Highguard==
Highguard have three armies: [[Granite Pillar]], [[Seventh Wave]] and [[Valiant Pegasus]]. They can support three armies.

===Granite Pillar===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GranitePillar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Granite Pillar! I am so proud of your efforts in the mourn. I am proud of you, and the virtue you displayed. We go now to resupply, that more of our loyal siblings may join our virtuous fight. We shall not lie idle. Virtue does not lie idle. Virtue thrives in adversity, and there is many a hard fight in the seasons to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Granite Pillar with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Seventh Wave===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SeventhWave Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Wave, the call of the Crusade still rings in our camps and resonates in our souls. I call on you now to rest and seek reinforcement. Visit those houses that offer your success. So that you may learn more of the marchers to whom our imperial loyalty is shown. Drink of good ale and eat of softbread, within reason, and let this sustenance remind you of our crusading purpose. In all things, seek to strengthen our bonds of kinship and understanding with our gracious hosts.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Seventh Wave with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Valiant Pegasus===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ValiantPegasus Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Zadok
* '''Orders:''' Any crusade will have seasons of rest, seasons of cleansing. This year you have fought in loyalty to the freeborn and to the marchers. It has been hard, dirty, bloody work. All work deserves reward, and now you will call on the loyalty of the marchers to provide hospitality. Clean your wounds, wash your bodies, repair your arms and armour, so you are fresh and cleansed for the fight to come.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Valiant Pegasus with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Imperial Orcs==
Imperial Orcs have three armies: [[Autumn Hammers]], [[Summer Storm]] and [[Winter Sun]]. They can support three armies.

===Autumn Hammers===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnHammers colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ashborn Vana
* '''Orders:''' Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.
* '''Action:''' Plunder on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Autumn Hammers with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Summer Storm===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerStorm Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Irontide Skorr
* '''Orders:''' Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.
* '''Action:''' Balanced Attack on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Summer Storm with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Winter Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Winter Sun, we have rested and guarded our borders while we drew upon our strength. Now we march the full force of an Imperial Legion to the North to make the Druj bleed for the suffering they have wrought upon our navarri kin. Let the chill of Winter harden your resolve as we make Steady Conquest into Bloodwater Marsh and make our first mark on the Sarangrave in blood. We shoulder the suffering of our siblings in the citadel guard and bleed for our Empire with the conviction that chains be broken and worth restored to the subjugated peoples. As we fight forwards, seek the septs if we can, look for their signs and welcome them in virtue.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Winter Sun with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The League==
The League have two armies: [[Towerjacks]] and [[Wolves of War]]. They can support two armies.

===Towerjacks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TowerJacks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Gabriel Barossa
* '''Orders:''' Towerjacks, you know what it is to face a tide of Druj. Let us take the fight to their lands. The people of Sarangrave chaff under the Druj yoke - Look for allies among them and give them sanctuary.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Wolves of War===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WolvesofWar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jean d'Apulian
* '''Orders:''' The Wolves march. First Tassato, then Miaren, finally Astolat. Time to rest at licence, You stormed Feroz, you recovered the Mourn, drink deep and revel my rascals!
* '''Action:''' Give Ground in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Wolves of War with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The Marches==
The Marches have four armies: [[Bounders]], [[Drakes]], [[Strong Reeds]] and [[Tusks]]. They can support five armies.

===Bounders===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bounders Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Mary Birchsmith
* '''Orders:''' Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bounders with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Drakes===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Drakes Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Tancred of Meade
* '''Orders:''' Drakes, we will advance steadily into the ore hills. Haakon is dead, now re-sow the fields, rebuild the homes and find new soldiers to join the drakes.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Strong Reeds===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Amberlain P. Black
* '''Orders:''' Reeds! Do you hear the songs from the Mourn? Jarl Haakon Is Dead! Killed by the hand of folkhero William Hooke. Our siblings in the Mourn are free again and change is coming. Lay Low once again, the marsh will hide us as we haunt and harry the remnants of the Jotun Forces. We are bound by common cause, so we will look to our citizens offer our aid and proof again our bonds of loyalty like the folkheroes of old. To Ground!
* '''Action:''' Lay Low in [[Bregasland]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Strong Reeds with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Tusks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tusks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Stanley Of Chalkdown
* '''Orders:''' Jacks of the Tusks. The work is not done. While General Stan Labours so do we. This season we fight alongside our brothers the Drakes in a "Steady Conquest" in the Ore Hills. We will search every mine, farm and woods to clear out the Jotun in our continuing ambition to make the Mourn whole. I know you are tired and we have asked much of you, but the work is not done and therefore neither are we. Show them what it means to be a Tusk.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Navarr==
Navarr have two armies: [[Black Thorns]] and [[Quiet Step]]. They can support six armies.

===Black Thorns===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BlackThorns Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Orders:''' Blackthorns! Swift and bold you march with the pride of Navarr to Reikos to resupply at broken ride. We will hold the line in Reikos whilst we aid our kin evacuating from Therunin. Bide, grieve, honour our dead and aid our people. Next summit we march to avenge them.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of The Entwined Paths, The Amber Forge and Twilight Forge enchanted the Black Thorns with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Quiet Step===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=QuietStep Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Step, my trusted and courageous Imperial Soldiers, Navarri of the upmost virtue. I have made an oath, witnessed by your nation. That this army will serve your cousins in Navarr. That your hearth will be the one I guard. We will take a solid defence in Reikos. Near the beating heart of the Empire. We will grow stronger so that when the time comes, we will serve what is yours.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Quiet Step with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Urizen==
Urizen have one army: [[Citadel Guard]]. They can support a single army.

===Citadel Guard===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=CitadelGuard Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* '''Orders:''' Sentinels, consider the Chain. We bind ourselves in purpose and in blood with our cousins in virtue. You know your foe. You have driven the Druj from our homes before, and now we bring the fight to them. We will press the tyrants of the mallum in Sarangrave. Empowered by the bond of tears you will not fall - Be relentless in your advance. The Heroes of the Winter Sun, The Towerjacks and Golden Axe will shoulder your burdens. Remember their sacrifice, and honour them with Triumph
* '''Action:''' Winter's Mantle in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Varushka==
Varushka have two armies: [[Golden Axe]] and [[Northern Eagle]]. They can support four armies.

===Golden Axe===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenAxe Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vojsuli Cherenkov
* '''Orders:''' Axe, we have rested well and said goodbye to Belakov. We now head to Sarangrave with the Crimson Slachta. We march with our siblings in Virtue against the Druj, the winters bite will shield the citadel guard to preserve their strength. Target the Druj holdings, leave their septs be and focus our axes against their overlords. Everything behind us is Imperial, Everything in front is barbarian. Axe, with me, March!
* '''Action:''' Take their Land in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Voices of the Unbound Storm enchanted the Golden Axe with [[Knights of Glory]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Northern Eagle===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of our firstborn army, make north and rest your weary hearts. Light up the fires, raise the wards, and gather close against the night. Grieve, celebrate, weep and sing. There is much to remember. Come, Empty One, and send your hound master to our hearths. We share our hospitality, all sheltered by our homeland's tradition. We have many stories to tell, so listen, learn and teach...
* '''Action:''' Hit and Run in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Northern Eagle with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Wintermark==
Wintermark have four armies: [[Bloodcloaks]], [[Fist of the Mountains]], [[Green Shield]] and [[Narwhal's Spear]]. They can support four armies.

===Bloodcloaks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BloodCloak Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lofyn Blood-cloak
* '''Orders:''' My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They they will not have been paying attention.
* '''Action:''' Recover the Lost in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bloodcloaks with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fist of the Mountains===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FistoftheMountains Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Umarth "Winter's Flame" Kannask
* '''Orders:''' Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icewalkers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all lift together. Into them!
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Wolves of the Pale Raven enchanted the Fist of the Mountains with [[Quickening Cold Meat]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Green Shield===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreenShields Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Iron Osric
* '''Orders:''' Where now the horse and the helm of gold? Where the fearless, the free, the bold? Friends are fallen, fine foes lie far. Yet songs still soar from sword and scar. The West will wake from withered pyre, and new tales will burn for the Shadowed Fire Dedicated to the memory of Mercy Thorn-in-Place Kannask
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Narwhal's Spear===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Narwhal's Spear.webp|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Determination of Ice Kaisa
* '''Orders:''' We are a thousand swords drawn together by goldenscale, three traditions in unity. It is now our time to rest and recover. Let us take this opportunity to tell the tales of our heroes and remember our fallen. Tell those who join our number the deeds we have done and think to our future. We have defeated Jarl Haakon, take this season to catch your breath and prepare the next verse in our united saga.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Narwhal's Spear with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.
==Summary==
<table class='wikitable sortable BourseTable'>
<tr><th class='headersort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Army</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Nation</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Start</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Destination</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Action</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Arcane Consolidation</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Sun|Golden Sun]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Gryphon's Pride|Gryphon's Pride]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Granite Pillar|Granite Pillar]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fire of the South|Fire of the South]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Wolves of War|Wolves of War]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Give Ground</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Northern Eagle|Northern Eagle]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Hit and Run</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Strong Reeds|Strong Reeds]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Lay Low</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Drakes|Drakes]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Tusks|Tusks]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Black Thorns|Black Thorns]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Quiet Step|Quiet Step]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Miaren</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Autumn Hammers|Autumn Hammers]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Plunder</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Summer Storm|Summer Storm]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Balanced Attack</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bounders|Bounders]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bloodcloaks|Bloodcloaks]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Recover the Lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fist of the Mountains|Fist of the Mountains]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Winter Sun|Winter Sun]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mareave</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Towerjacks|Towerjacks]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Citadel Guard|Citadel Guard]]</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Winter's Mantle</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Axe|Golden Axe]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Zenith</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Take their Land</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Burning Falcon|Burning Falcon]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Red Wind Corsairs|Red Wind Corsairs]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Seventh Wave|Seventh Wave]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Valiant Pegasus|Valiant Pegasus]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Green Shield|Green Shield]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Military Council]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:386YE]]

386YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders

2025-04-29T21:55:08Z

Apoth: /* Fist of the Mountains */

{{Stub}}

==Overview==
The Military Council is the gathering of Imperial [[general|generals]] and [[General#Admiral|admirals]]. Individually, the generals have responsibility for the [[army orders|orders]] given to the [[Imperial army]] under their command, while the admirals provide the [[navy orders|orders]] for the [[Imperial navy|navies]]. A general commands a single [[Imperial armies|Imperial army]], drawn from volunteers from their nation. Once a general is given their command, they have sole authority to [[army orders|order]] the army to [[army orders#Movement|move]] or [[army orders#Issuing Orders|attack]] as they choose. After each summit, the Civil Service quickly circulate the orders each general has given among Imperial citizens, allowing [[military unit]] captains to decide if they wish to commit their own force to [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support an army]], and if so which army to support.

During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the following orders were submitted by Imperial generals.
==The Brass Coast==
The Brass Coast have three armies: [[Burning Falcon]], [[Fire of the South]] and [[Red Wind Corsairs]]. They can support three armies.

===Burning Falcon===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BurningFalcon Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Aracelis I Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We continue to gather our strength, fuelled with the courage and pride of our people. March to Tassato, carry the flame of the falcon as it grows ever brighter. Hold fast Cousins! Rest and ready. Yourselves for the blazing victories to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fire of the South===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TheFireoftheSouth Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vincente i Zayden i Guerra
* '''Orders:''' Just as the flames of a fire need fuel, so does an army need rest. A well supplied and rested army fights with twice the ferocity. We will stand firm in Astolat on Solid defence ready for our time to rise once more.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Fire of the South with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Red Wind Corsairs===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We grow restless. The Endless seasons of biding and waiting, watching the cycles of the sun and moon. The Brass Coast bleeds, but you and I are still here, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. A long road lies ahead for the children of the flame and their Empire. Do not fear ash. It is a firebird waiting to be born. Our allies march into Reinos, to change the melody of this song. A start. A Spark. Make Ready.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Red Wind Corsairs with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Dawn==
Dawn have three armies: [[Eastern Sky]], [[Golden Sun]] and [[Gryphon's Pride]]. They can support four armies.

===Eastern Sky===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EasternSky Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Dame Aurum De Castellan
* '''Orders:''' Sky, I'm back, and I say: We're headed back home. You've worked tirelessly to support the West for Multiple Seasons now and we need resupply. So… I hope you're ready for the annual Eastern Sky Mana Hunt. The Gryphon is dead, its pride reinstated, and walks a new path. The Sun will continue to shine with us. Now is the time to heal, to help and to rebuild the love our nation has been denied. Welcome our two new Generals with open arms - your new Captain, too. And know per haps, sometime soon, you may be able to look to new Orc Allies and defences of our Barrens. Love will prevail. Celebrate - winners of the hunt gets a weekend of Highwater Caster! Nova Avorei! PS You're going up against SIX other armies, Good Luck
* '''Action:''' Arcane Consolidation in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Eastern Sky with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Golden Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lord Daemon Mortére
* '''Orders:''' Knights of the Golden Sun, we move from our position in the Barrens to Astolat. We will set up a Solid Defence to Resupply. We march as we always have, instead of stopping to route our enemies, tell the people of Dawn and the Empire stories of the sacrifice of the Helms and the Dance. Tell the Troubadours of Zoran De Orzel and his glorious deeds as your general these past 7 years. Above all, remind them that the Golden Sun is still here! Banners High, shields strong, remind them of the number of armies that have rolled over them and we are still here. Remind them we were in Therunin out of loyalty to Navarr and our Empire, that the Golden Sun has held to its Loyalty to stand where it is needed. And assure them it always will be. These are my first words as your new General.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Golden Sun with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Gryphon's Pride===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Pride! You have been most foully betrayed. You have been ordered to murder those who meant our people no harm, in their own homes and hear this! People you bled to liberate! People the hounds died to liberate. So quit the fangs in good order, withdraw to the West and leave bitter strand. Let the Rahvin go home. Block any who would prevent them. Our senator has been murdered. His dying dream was to end this strife. So join me in swearing this oath that we shall protect all the peoples of the Barrens as if they were our own. Let Dawnguard hold, and may Dawn guard and hold all our neighbours who stand in defiance of the Druj. Where the traitors have shown fear we shall at last make flowers grow, and together, with our allies, we will be a black wind that shall drive the Druj into the Sea!
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Highguard==
Highguard have three armies: [[Granite Pillar]], [[Seventh Wave]] and [[Valiant Pegasus]]. They can support three armies.

===Granite Pillar===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GranitePillar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Granite Pillar! I am so proud of your efforts in the mourn. I am proud of you, and the virtue you displayed. We go now to resupply, that more of our loyal siblings may join our virtuous fight. We shall not lie idle. Virtue does not lie idle. Virtue thrives in adversity, and there is many a hard fight in the seasons to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Granite Pillar with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Seventh Wave===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SeventhWave Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Wave, the call of the Crusade still rings in our camps and resonates in our souls. I call on you now to rest and seek reinforcement. Visit those houses that offer your success. So that you may learn more of the marchers to whom our imperial loyalty is shown. Drink of good ale and eat of softbread, within reason, and let this sustenance remind you of our crusading purpose. In all things, seek to strengthen our bonds of kinship and understanding with our gracious hosts.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Seventh Wave with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Valiant Pegasus===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ValiantPegasus Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Zadok
* '''Orders:''' Any crusade will have seasons of rest, seasons of cleansing. This year you have fought in loyalty to the freeborn and to the marchers. It has been hard, dirty, bloody work. All work deserves reward, and now you will call on the loyalty of the marchers to provide hospitality. Clean your wounds, wash your bodies, repair your arms and armour, so you are fresh and cleansed for the fight to come.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Valiant Pegasus with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Imperial Orcs==
Imperial Orcs have three armies: [[Autumn Hammers]], [[Summer Storm]] and [[Winter Sun]]. They can support three armies.

===Autumn Hammers===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnHammers colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ashborn Vana
* '''Orders:''' Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.
* '''Action:''' Plunder on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Autumn Hammers with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Summer Storm===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerStorm Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Irontide Skorr
* '''Orders:''' Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.
* '''Action:''' Balanced Attack on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Summer Storm with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Winter Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Winter Sun, we have rested and guarded our borders while we drew upon our strength. Now we march the full force of an Imperial Legion to the North to make the Druj bleed for the suffering they have wrought upon our navarri kin. Let the chill of Winter harden your resolve as we make Steady Conquest into Bloodwater Marsh and make our first mark on the Sarangrave in blood. We shoulder the suffering of our siblings in the citadel guard and bleed for our Empire with the conviction that chains be broken and worth restored to the subjugated peoples. As we fight forwards, seek the septs if we can, look for their signs and welcome them in virtue.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Winter Sun with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The League==
The League have two armies: [[Towerjacks]] and [[Wolves of War]]. They can support two armies.

===Towerjacks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TowerJacks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Gabriel Barossa
* '''Orders:''' Towerjacks, you know what it is to face a tide of Druj. Let us take the fight to their lands. The people of Sarangrave chaff under the Druj yoke - Look for allies among them and give them sanctuary.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Wolves of War===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WolvesofWar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jean d'Apulian
* '''Orders:''' The Wolves march. First Tassato, then Miaren, finally Astolat. Time to rest at licence, You stormed Feroz, you recovered the Mourn, and drink deep and revel my Rascal!
* '''Action:''' Give Ground in [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The Marches==
The Marches have four armies: [[Bounders]], [[Drakes]], [[Strong Reeds]] and [[Tusks]]. They can support five armies.

===Bounders===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bounders Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Mary Birchsmith
* '''Orders:''' Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bounders with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Drakes===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Drakes Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Tancred of Meade
* '''Orders:''' Drakes, we will advance steadily into the ore hills. Haakon is dead, now re-sow the fields, rebuild the homes and find new soldiers to join the drakes.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Strong Reeds===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Amberlain P. Black
* '''Orders:''' Reeds! Do you hear the songs from the Mourn? Jarl Haakon Is Dead! Killed by the hand of folkhero William Hooke. Our siblings in the Mourn are free again and change is coming. Lay Low once again, the marsh will hide us as we haunt and harry the remnants of the Jotun Forces. We are bound by common cause, so we will look to our citizens offer our aid and proof again our bonds of loyalty like the folkheroes of old. To Ground!
* '''Action:''' Lay Low in [[Bregasland]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Strong Reeds with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Tusks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tusks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Stanley Of Chalkdown
* '''Orders:''' Jacks of the Tusks. The work is not done. While General Stan Labours so do we. This season we fight alongside our brothers the Drakes in a "Steady Conquest" in the Ore Hills. We will search every mine, farm and woods to clear out the Jotun in our continuing ambition to make the Mourn whole. I know you are tired and we have asked much of you, but the work is not done and therefore neither are we. Show them what it means to be a Tusk.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Navarr==
Navarr have two armies: [[Black Thorns]] and [[Quiet Step]]. They can support six armies.

===Black Thorns===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BlackThorns Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Orders:''' Blackthorns! Swift and bold you march with the pride of Navarr to Reikos to resupply at broken ride. We will hold the line in Reikos whilst we aid our kin evacuating from Therunin. Bide, grieve, honour our dead and aid our people. Next summit we march to avenge them.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of The Entwined Paths, The Amber Forge and Twilight Forge enchanted the Black Thorns with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Quiet Step===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=QuietStep Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Step, my trusted and courageous Imperial Soldiers, Navarri of the upmost virtue. I have made an oath, witnessed by your nation. That this army will serve your cousins in Navarr. That your hearth will be the one I guard. We will take a solid defence in Reikos. Near the beating heart of the Empire. We will grow stronger so that when the time comes, we will serve what is yours.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Quiet Step with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Urizen==
Urizen have one army: [[Citadel Guard]]. They can support a single army.

===Citadel Guard===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=CitadelGuard Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* '''Orders:''' Sentinels, consider the Chain. We bind ourselves in purpose and in blood with our cousins in virtue. You know your foe. You have driven the Druj from our homes before, and now we bring the fight to them. We will press the tyrants of the mallum in Sarangrave. Empowered by the bond of tears you will not fall - Be relentless in your advance. The Heroes of the Winter Sun, The Towerjacks and Golden Axe will shoulder your burdens. Remember their sacrifice, and honour them with Triumph
* '''Action:''' Winter's Mantle in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Varushka==
Varushka have two armies: [[Golden Axe]] and [[Northern Eagle]]. They can support four armies.

===Golden Axe===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenAxe Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vojsuli Cherenkov
* '''Orders:''' Axe, we have rested well and said goodbye to Belakov. We now head to Sarangrave with the Crimson Slachta. We march with our siblings in Virtue against the Druj, the winters bite will shield the citadel guard to preserve their strength. Target the Druj holdings, leave their septs be and focus our axes against their overlords. Everything behind us is Imperial, Everything in front is barbarian. Axe, with me, March!
* '''Action:''' Take their Land in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Voices of the Unbound Storm enchanted the Golden Axe with [[Knights of Glory]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Northern Eagle===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of our firstborn army, make north and rest your weary hearts. Light up the fires, raise the wards, and gather close against the night. Grieve, celebrate, weep and sing. There is much to remember. Come, Empty One, and send your hound master to our hearths. We share our hospitality, all sheltered by our homeland's tradition. We have many stories to tell, so listen, learn and teach...
* '''Action:''' Hit and Run in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Northern Eagle with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Wintermark==
Wintermark have four armies: [[Bloodcloaks]], [[Fist of the Mountains]], [[Green Shield]] and [[Narwhal's Spear]]. They can support four armies.

===Bloodcloaks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BloodCloak Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lofyn Blood-cloak
* '''Orders:''' My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They they will not have been paying attention.
* '''Action:''' Recover the Lost in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bloodcloaks with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fist of the Mountains===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FistoftheMountains Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Umarth "Winter's Flame" Kannask
* '''Orders:''' Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icewalkers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all lift together. Into them!
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Wolves of the Pale Raven enchanted the Fist of the Mountains with [[Quickening Cold Meat]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Green Shield===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreenShields Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Iron Osric
* '''Orders:''' Where now the horse and the helm of gold? Where the fearless, the free, the bold? Friends are fallen, fine foes lie far. Yet songs still soar from sword and scar. The West will wake from withered pyre, and new tales will burn for the Shadowed Fire Dedicated to the memory of Mercy Thorn-in-Place Kannask
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Narwhal's Spear===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Narwhal's Spear.webp|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Determination of Ice Kaisa
* '''Orders:''' We are a thousand swords drawn together by goldenscale, three traditions in unity. It is now our time to rest and recover. Let us take this opportunity to tell the tales of our heroes and remember our fallen. Tell those who join our number the deeds we have done and think to our future. We have defeated Jarl Haakon, take this season to catch your breath and prepare the next verse in our united saga.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Narwhal's Spear with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.
==Summary==
<table class='wikitable sortable BourseTable'>
<tr><th class='headersort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Army</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Nation</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Start</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Destination</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Action</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Arcane Consolidation</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Sun|Golden Sun]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Gryphon's Pride|Gryphon's Pride]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Granite Pillar|Granite Pillar]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fire of the South|Fire of the South]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Wolves of War|Wolves of War]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Give Ground</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Northern Eagle|Northern Eagle]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Hit and Run</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Strong Reeds|Strong Reeds]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Lay Low</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Drakes|Drakes]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Tusks|Tusks]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Black Thorns|Black Thorns]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Quiet Step|Quiet Step]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Miaren</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Autumn Hammers|Autumn Hammers]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Plunder</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Summer Storm|Summer Storm]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Balanced Attack</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bounders|Bounders]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bloodcloaks|Bloodcloaks]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Recover the Lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fist of the Mountains|Fist of the Mountains]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Winter Sun|Winter Sun]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mareave</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Towerjacks|Towerjacks]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Citadel Guard|Citadel Guard]]</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Winter's Mantle</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Axe|Golden Axe]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Zenith</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Take their Land</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Burning Falcon|Burning Falcon]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Red Wind Corsairs|Red Wind Corsairs]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Seventh Wave|Seventh Wave]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Valiant Pegasus|Valiant Pegasus]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Green Shield|Green Shield]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Military Council]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:386YE]]

386YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders

2025-04-29T21:21:04Z

Apoth: /* Fist of the Mountains */

{{Stub}}

==Overview==
The Military Council is the gathering of Imperial [[general|generals]] and [[General#Admiral|admirals]]. Individually, the generals have responsibility for the [[army orders|orders]] given to the [[Imperial army]] under their command, while the admirals provide the [[navy orders|orders]] for the [[Imperial navy|navies]]. A general commands a single [[Imperial armies|Imperial army]], drawn from volunteers from their nation. Once a general is given their command, they have sole authority to [[army orders|order]] the army to [[army orders#Movement|move]] or [[army orders#Issuing Orders|attack]] as they choose. After each summit, the Civil Service quickly circulate the orders each general has given among Imperial citizens, allowing [[military unit]] captains to decide if they wish to commit their own force to [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support an army]], and if so which army to support.

During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the following orders were submitted by Imperial generals.
==The Brass Coast==
The Brass Coast have three armies: [[Burning Falcon]], [[Fire of the South]] and [[Red Wind Corsairs]]. They can support three armies.

===Burning Falcon===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BurningFalcon Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Aracelis I Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We continue to gather our strength, fuelled with the courage and pride of our people. March to Tassato, carry the flame of the falcon as it grows ever brighter. Hold fast Cousins! Rest and ready. Yourselves for the blazing victories to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fire of the South===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TheFireoftheSouth Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vincente i Zayden i Guerra
* '''Orders:''' Just as the flames of a fire need fuel, so does an army need rest. A well supplied and rested army fights with twice the ferocity. We will stand firm in Astolat on Solid defence ready for our time to rise once more.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Fire of the South with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Red Wind Corsairs===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We grow restless. The Endless seasons of biding and waiting, watching the cycles of the sun and moon. The Brass Coast bleeds, but you and I are still here, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. A long road lies ahead for the children of the flame and their Empire. Do not fear ash. It is a firebird waiting to be born. Our allies march into Reinos, to change the melody of this song. A start. A Spark. Make Ready.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Red Wind Corsairs with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Dawn==
Dawn have three armies: [[Eastern Sky]], [[Golden Sun]] and [[Gryphon's Pride]]. They can support four armies.

===Eastern Sky===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EasternSky Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Dame Aurum De Castellan
* '''Orders:''' Sky, I'm back, and I say: We're headed back home. You've worked tirelessly to support the West for Multiple Seasons now and we need resupply. So… I hope you're ready for the annual Eastern Sky Mana Hunt. The Gryphon is dead, its pride reinstated, and walks a new path. The Sun will continue to shine with us. Now is the time to heal, to help and to rebuild the love our nation has been denied. Welcome our two new Generals with open arms - your new Captain, too. And know per haps, sometime soon, you may be able to look to new Orc Allies and defences of our Barrens. Love will prevail. Celebrate - winners of the hunt gets a weekend of Highwater Caster! Nova Avorei! PS You're going up against SIX other armies, Good Luck
* '''Action:''' Arcane Consolidation in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Eastern Sky with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Golden Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lord Daemon Mortére
* '''Orders:''' Knights of the Golden Sun, we move from our position in the Barrens to Astolat. We will set up a Solid Defence to Resupply. We march as we always have, instead of stopping to route our enemies, tell the people of Dawn and the Empire stories of the sacrifice of the Helms and the Dance. Tell the Troubadours of Zoran De Orzel and his glorious deeds as your general these past 7 years. Above all, remind them that the Golden Sun is still here! Banners High, shields strong, remind them of the number of armies that have rolled over them and we are still here. Remind them we were in Therunin out of loyalty to Navarr and our Empire, that the Golden Sun has held to its Loyalty to stand where it is needed. And assure them it always will be. These are my first words as your new General.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Golden Sun with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Gryphon's Pride===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Pride! You have been most foully betrayed. You have been ordered to murder those who meant our people no harm, in their own homes and hear this! People you bled to liberate! People the hounds died to liberate. So quit the fangs in good order, withdraw to the West and leave bitter strand. Let the Rahvin go home. Block any who would prevent them. Our senator has been murdered. His dying dream was to end this strife. So join me in swearing this oath that we shall protect all the peoples of the Barrens as if they were our own. Let Dawnguard hold, and may Dawn guard and hold all our neighbours who stand in defiance of the Druj. Where the traitors have shown fear we shall at last make flowers grow, and together, with our allies, we will be a black wind that shall drive the Druj into the Sea!
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Highguard==
Highguard have three armies: [[Granite Pillar]], [[Seventh Wave]] and [[Valiant Pegasus]]. They can support three armies.

===Granite Pillar===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GranitePillar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Granite Pillar! I am so proud of your efforts in the mourn. I am proud of you, and the virtue you displayed. We go now to resupply, that more of our loyal siblings may join our virtuous fight. We shall not lie idle. Virtue does not lie idle. Virtue thrives in adversity, and there is many a hard fight in the seasons to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Granite Pillar with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Seventh Wave===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SeventhWave Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Wave, the call of the Crusade still rings in our camps and resonates in our souls. I call on you now to rest and seek reinforcement. Visit those houses that offer your success. So that you may learn more of the marchers to whom our imperial loyalty is shown. Drink of good ale and eat of softbread, within reason, and let this sustenance remind you of our crusading purpose. In all things, seek to strengthen our bonds of kinship and understanding with our gracious hosts.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Seventh Wave with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Valiant Pegasus===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ValiantPegasus Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Zadok
* '''Orders:''' Any crusade will have seasons of rest, seasons of cleansing. This year you have fought in loyalty to the freeborn and to the marchers. It has been hard, dirty, bloody work. All work deserves reward, and now you will call on the loyalty of the marchers to provide hospitality. Clean your wounds, wash your bodies, repair your arms and armour, so you are fresh and cleansed for the fight to come.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Valiant Pegasus with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Imperial Orcs==
Imperial Orcs have three armies: [[Autumn Hammers]], [[Summer Storm]] and [[Winter Sun]]. They can support three armies.

===Autumn Hammers===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnHammers colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ashborn Vana
* '''Orders:''' Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.
* '''Action:''' Plunder on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Autumn Hammers with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Summer Storm===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerStorm Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Irontide Skorr
* '''Orders:''' Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.
* '''Action:''' Balanced Attack on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Summer Storm with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Winter Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Winter Sun, we have rested and guarded our borders while we drew upon our strength. Now we march the full force of an Imperial Legion to the North to make the Druj bleed for the suffering they have wrought upon our navarri kin. Let the chill of Winter harden your resolve as we make Steady Conquest into Bloodwater Marsh and make our first mark on the Sarangrave in blood. We shoulder the suffering of our siblings in the citadel guard and bleed for our Empire with the conviction that chains be broken and worth restored to the subjugated peoples. As we fight forwards, seek the septs if we can, look for their signs and welcome them in virtue.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Winter Sun with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The League==
The League have two armies: [[Towerjacks]] and [[Wolves of War]]. They can support two armies.

===Towerjacks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TowerJacks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Gabriel Barossa
* '''Orders:''' Towerjacks, you know what it is to face a tide of Druj. Let us take the fight to their lands. The people of Sarangrave chaff under the Druj yoke - Look for allies among them and give them sanctuary.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Wolves of War===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WolvesofWar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jean d'Apulian
* '''Orders:''' The Wolves march. First Tassato, then Miaren, finally Astolat. Time to rest at licence, You stormed Feroz, you recovered the Mourn, and drink deep and revel my Rascal!
* '''Action:''' Give Ground in [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The Marches==
The Marches have four armies: [[Bounders]], [[Drakes]], [[Strong Reeds]] and [[Tusks]]. They can support five armies.

===Bounders===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bounders Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Mary Birchsmith
* '''Orders:''' Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bounders with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Drakes===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Drakes Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Tancred of Meade
* '''Orders:''' Drakes, we will advance steadily into the ore hills. Haakon is dead, now re-sow the fields, rebuild the homes and find new soldiers to join the drakes.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Strong Reeds===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Amberlain P. Black
* '''Orders:''' Reeds! Do you hear the songs from the Mourn? Jarl Haakon Is Dead! Killed by the hand of folkhero William Hooke. Our siblings in the Mourn are free again and change is coming. Lay Low once again, the marsh will hide us as we haunt and harry the remnants of the Jotun Forces. We are bound by common cause, so we will look to our citizens offer our aid and proof again our bonds of loyalty like the folkheroes of old. To Ground!
* '''Action:''' Lay Low in [[Bregasland]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Strong Reeds with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Tusks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tusks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Stanley Of Chalkdown
* '''Orders:''' Jacks of the Tusks. The work is not done. While General Stan Labours so do we. This season we fight alongside our brothers the Drakes in a "Steady Conquest" in the Ore Hills. We will search every mine, farm and woods to clear out the Jotun in our continuing ambition to make the Mourn whole. I know you are tired and we have asked much of you, but the work is not done and therefore neither are we. Show them what it means to be a Tusk.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Navarr==
Navarr have two armies: [[Black Thorns]] and [[Quiet Step]]. They can support six armies.

===Black Thorns===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BlackThorns Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Orders:''' Blackthorns! Swift and bold you march with the pride of Navarr to Reikos to resupply at broken ride. We will hold the line in Reikos whilst we aid our kin evacuating from Therunin. Bide, grieve, honour our dead and aid our people. Next summit we march to avenge them.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of The Entwined Paths, The Amber Forge and Twilight Forge enchanted the Black Thorns with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Quiet Step===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=QuietStep Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Step, my trusted and courageous Imperial Soldiers, Navarri of the upmost virtue. I have made an oath, witnessed by your nation. That this army will serve your cousins in Navarr. That your hearth will be the one I guard. We will take a solid defence in Reikos. Near the beating heart of the Empire. We will grow stronger so that when the time comes, we will serve what is yours.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Quiet Step with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Urizen==
Urizen have one army: [[Citadel Guard]]. They can support a single army.

===Citadel Guard===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=CitadelGuard Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* '''Orders:''' Sentinels, consider the Chain. We bind ourselves in purpose and in blood with our cousins in virtue. You know your foe. You have driven the Druj from our homes before, and now we bring the fight to them. We will press the tyrants of the mallum in Sarangrave. Empowered by the bond of tears you will not fall - Be relentless in your advance. The Heroes of the Winter Sun, The Towerjacks and Golden Axe will shoulder your burdens. Remember their sacrifice, and honour them with Triumph
* '''Action:''' Winter's Mantle in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Varushka==
Varushka have two armies: [[Golden Axe]] and [[Northern Eagle]]. They can support four armies.

===Golden Axe===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenAxe Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vojsuli Cherenkov
* '''Orders:''' Axe, we have rested well and said goodbye to Belakov. We now head to Sarangrave with the Crimson Slachta. We march with our siblings in Virtue against the Druj, the winters bite will shield the citadel guard to preserve their strength. Target the Druj holdings, leave their septs be and focus our axes against their overlords. Everything behind us is Imperial, Everything in front is barbarian. Axe, with me, March!
* '''Action:''' Take their Land in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Voices of the Unbound Storm enchanted the Golden Axe with [[Knights of Glory]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Northern Eagle===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of our firstborn army, make north and rest your weary hearts. Light up the fires, raise the wards, and gather close against the night. Grieve, celebrate, weep and sing. There is much to remember. Come, Empty One, and send your hound master to our hearths. We share our hospitality, all sheltered by our homeland's tradition. We have many stories to tell, so listen, learn and teach...
* '''Action:''' Hit and Run in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Northern Eagle with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Wintermark==
Wintermark have four armies: [[Bloodcloaks]], [[Fist of the Mountains]], [[Green Shield]] and [[Narwhal's Spear]]. They can support four armies.

===Bloodcloaks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BloodCloak Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lofyn Blood-cloak
* '''Orders:''' My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They they will not have been paying attention.
* '''Action:''' Recover the Lost in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bloodcloaks with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fist of the Mountains===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FistoftheMountains Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Umarth "Winter's Flame" Kannask
* '''Orders:''' Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icebreakers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all lift together. Into them!
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Wolves of the Pale Raven enchanted the Fist of the Mountains with [[Quickening Cold Meat]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Green Shield===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreenShields Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Iron Osric
* '''Orders:''' Where now the horse and the helm of gold? Where the fearless, the free, the bold. Friends are fallen, fine foes lie far. Yet songs still soar from sword and scar. The words will make from withered pyre, and new tales will burn for the Shadowed Fire Dedicated to the memory of Mercy Thorn
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Narwhal's Spear===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Narwhal's Spear.webp|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Determination of Ice Kaisa
* '''Orders:''' We are a thousand swords drawn together by goldenscale, three traditions in unity. It is now our time to rest and recover. Let us take this opportunity to tell the tales of our heroes and remember our fallen. Tell those who join our number the deeds we have done and think to our future. We have defeated Jarl Haakon, take this season to catch your breath and prepare the next verse in our united saga.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Narwhal's Spear with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.
==Summary==
<table class='wikitable sortable BourseTable'>
<tr><th class='headersort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Army</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Nation</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Start</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Destination</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Action</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Arcane Consolidation</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Sun|Golden Sun]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Gryphon's Pride|Gryphon's Pride]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Granite Pillar|Granite Pillar]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fire of the South|Fire of the South]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Wolves of War|Wolves of War]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Give Ground</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Northern Eagle|Northern Eagle]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Hit and Run</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Strong Reeds|Strong Reeds]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Lay Low</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Drakes|Drakes]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Tusks|Tusks]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Black Thorns|Black Thorns]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Quiet Step|Quiet Step]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Miaren</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Autumn Hammers|Autumn Hammers]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Plunder</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Summer Storm|Summer Storm]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Balanced Attack</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bounders|Bounders]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bloodcloaks|Bloodcloaks]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Recover the Lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fist of the Mountains|Fist of the Mountains]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Winter Sun|Winter Sun]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mareave</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Towerjacks|Towerjacks]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Citadel Guard|Citadel Guard]]</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Winter's Mantle</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Axe|Golden Axe]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Zenith</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Take their Land</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Burning Falcon|Burning Falcon]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Red Wind Corsairs|Red Wind Corsairs]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Seventh Wave|Seventh Wave]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Valiant Pegasus|Valiant Pegasus]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Green Shield|Green Shield]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Military Council]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:386YE]]

386YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders

2025-04-29T20:34:42Z

Apoth: /* Northern Eagle */

{{Stub}}

==Overview==
The Military Council is the gathering of Imperial [[general|generals]] and [[General#Admiral|admirals]]. Individually, the generals have responsibility for the [[army orders|orders]] given to the [[Imperial army]] under their command, while the admirals provide the [[navy orders|orders]] for the [[Imperial navy|navies]]. A general commands a single [[Imperial armies|Imperial army]], drawn from volunteers from their nation. Once a general is given their command, they have sole authority to [[army orders|order]] the army to [[army orders#Movement|move]] or [[army orders#Issuing Orders|attack]] as they choose. After each summit, the Civil Service quickly circulate the orders each general has given among Imperial citizens, allowing [[military unit]] captains to decide if they wish to commit their own force to [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support an army]], and if so which army to support.

During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the following orders were submitted by Imperial generals.
==The Brass Coast==
The Brass Coast have three armies: [[Burning Falcon]], [[Fire of the South]] and [[Red Wind Corsairs]]. They can support three armies.

===Burning Falcon===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BurningFalcon Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Aracelis I Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We continue to gather our strength, fuelled with the courage and pride of our people. March to Tassato, carry the flame of the falcon as it grows ever brighter. Hold fast Cousins! Rest and ready. Yourselves for the blazing victories to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fire of the South===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TheFireoftheSouth Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vincente i Zayden i Guerra
* '''Orders:''' Just as the flames of a fire need fuel, so does an army need rest. A well supplied and rested army fights with twice the ferocity. We will stand firm in Astolat on Solid defence ready for our time to rise once more.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Fire of the South with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Red Wind Corsairs===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We grow restless. The Endless seasons of biding and waiting, watching the cycles of the sun and moon. The Brass Coast bleeds, but you and I are still here, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. A long road lies ahead for the children of the flame and their Empire. Do not fear ash. It is a firebird waiting to be born. Our allies march into Reinos, to change the melody of this song. A start. A Spark. Make Ready.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Red Wind Corsairs with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Dawn==
Dawn have three armies: [[Eastern Sky]], [[Golden Sun]] and [[Gryphon's Pride]]. They can support four armies.

===Eastern Sky===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EasternSky Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Dame Aurum De Castellan
* '''Orders:''' Sky, I'm back, and I say: We're headed back home. You've worked tirelessly to support the West for Multiple Seasons now and we need resupply. So… I hope you're ready for the annual Eastern Sky Mana Hunt. The Gryphon is dead, its pride reinstated, and walks a new path. The Sun will continue to shine with us. Now is the time to heal, to help and to rebuild the love our nation has been denied. Welcome our two new Generals with open arms - your new Captain, too. And know per haps, sometime soon, you may be able to look to new Orc Allies and defences of our Barrens. Love will prevail. Celebrate - winners of the hunt gets a weekend of Highwater Caster! Nova Avorei! PS You're going up against SIX other armies, Good Luck
* '''Action:''' Arcane Consolidation in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Eastern Sky with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Golden Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lord Daemon Mortére
* '''Orders:''' Knights of the Golden Sun, we move from our position in the Barrens to Astolat. We will set up a Solid Defence to Resupply. We march as we always have, instead of stopping to route our enemies, tell the people of Dawn and the Empire stories of the sacrifice of the Helms and the Dance. Tell the Troubadours of Zoran De Orzel and his glorious deeds as your general these past 7 years. Above all, remind them that the Golden Sun is still here! Banners High, shields strong, remind them of the number of armies that have rolled over them and we are still here. Remind them we were in Therunin out of loyalty to Navarr and our Empire, that the Golden Sun has held to its Loyalty to stand where it is needed. And assure them it always will be. These are my first words as your new General.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Golden Sun with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Gryphon's Pride===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Pride! You have been most foully betrayed. You have been ordered to murder those who meant our people no harm, in their own homes and hear this! People you bled to liberate! People the hounds died to liberate. So quit the fangs in good order, withdraw to the West and leave bitter strand. Let the Rahvin go home. Block any who would prevent them. Our senator has been murdered. His dying dream was to end this strife. So join me in swearing this oath that we shall protect all the peoples of the Barrens as if they were our own. Let Dawnguard hold, and may Dawn guard and hold all our neighbours who stand in defiance of the Druj. Where the traitors have shown fear we shall at last make flowers grow, and together, with our allies, we will be a black wind that shall drive the Druj into the Sea!
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Highguard==
Highguard have three armies: [[Granite Pillar]], [[Seventh Wave]] and [[Valiant Pegasus]]. They can support three armies.

===Granite Pillar===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GranitePillar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Granite Pillar! I am so proud of your efforts in the mourn. I am proud of you, and the virtue you displayed. We go now to resupply, that more of our loyal siblings may join our virtuous fight. We shall not lie idle. Virtue does not lie idle. Virtue thrives in adversity, and there is many a hard fight in the seasons to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Granite Pillar with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Seventh Wave===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SeventhWave Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Wave, the call of the Crusade still rings in our camps and resonates in our souls. I call on you now to rest and seek reinforcement. Visit those houses that offer your success. So that you may learn more of the marchers to whom our imperial loyalty is shown. Drink of good ale and eat of softbread, within reason, and let this sustenance remind you of our crusading purpose. In all things, seek to strengthen our bonds of kinship and understanding with our gracious hosts.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Seventh Wave with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Valiant Pegasus===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ValiantPegasus Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Zadok
* '''Orders:''' Any crusade will have seasons of rest, seasons of cleansing. This year you have fought in loyalty to the freeborn and to the marchers. It has been hard, dirty, bloody work. All work deserves reward, and now you will call on the loyalty of the marchers to provide hospitality. Clean your wounds, wash your bodies, repair your arms and armour, so you are fresh and cleansed for the fight to come.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Valiant Pegasus with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Imperial Orcs==
Imperial Orcs have three armies: [[Autumn Hammers]], [[Summer Storm]] and [[Winter Sun]]. They can support three armies.

===Autumn Hammers===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnHammers colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ashborn Vana
* '''Orders:''' Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.
* '''Action:''' Plunder on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Autumn Hammers with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Summer Storm===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerStorm Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Irontide Skorr
* '''Orders:''' Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.
* '''Action:''' Balanced Attack on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Summer Storm with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Winter Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Winter Sun, we have rested and guarded our borders while we drew upon our strength. Now we march the full force of an Imperial Legion to the North to make the Druj bleed for the suffering they have wrought upon our navarri kin. Let the chill of Winter harden your resolve as we make Steady Conquest into Bloodwater Marsh and make our first mark on the Sarangrave in blood. We shoulder the suffering of our siblings in the citadel guard and bleed for our Empire with the conviction that chains be broken and worth restored to the subjugated peoples. As we fight forwards, seek the septs if we can, look for their signs and welcome them in virtue.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Winter Sun with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The League==
The League have two armies: [[Towerjacks]] and [[Wolves of War]]. They can support two armies.

===Towerjacks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TowerJacks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Gabriel Barossa
* '''Orders:''' Towerjacks, you know what it is to face a tide of Druj. Let us take the fight to their lands. The people of Sarangrave chaff under the Druj yoke - Look for allies among them and give them sanctuary.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Wolves of War===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WolvesofWar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jean d'Apulian
* '''Orders:''' The Wolves march. First Tassato, then Miaren, finally Astolat. Time to rest at licence, You stormed Feroz, you recovered the Mourn, and drink deep and revel my Rascal!
* '''Action:''' Give Ground in [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The Marches==
The Marches have four armies: [[Bounders]], [[Drakes]], [[Strong Reeds]] and [[Tusks]]. They can support five armies.

===Bounders===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bounders Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Mary Birchsmith
* '''Orders:''' Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bounders with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Drakes===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Drakes Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Tancred of Meade
* '''Orders:''' Drakes, we will advance steadily into the ore hills. Haakon is dead, now re-sow the fields, rebuild the homes and find new soldiers to join the drakes.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Strong Reeds===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Amberlain P. Black
* '''Orders:''' Reeds! Do you hear the songs from the Mourn? Jarl Haakon Is Dead! Killed by the hand of folkhero William Hooke. Our siblings in the Mourn are free again and change is coming. Lay Low once again, the marsh will hide us as we haunt and harry the remnants of the Jotun Forces. We are bound by common cause, so we will look to our citizens offer our aid and proof again our bonds of loyalty like the folkheroes of old. To Ground!
* '''Action:''' Lay Low in [[Bregasland]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Strong Reeds with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Tusks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tusks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Stanley Of Chalkdown
* '''Orders:''' Jacks of the Tusks. The work is not done. While General Stan Labours so do we. This season we fight alongside our brothers the Drakes in a "Steady Conquest" in the Ore Hills. We will search every mine, farm and woods to clear out the Jotun in our continuing ambition to make the Mourn whole. I know you are tired and we have asked much of you, but the work is not done and therefore neither are we. Show them what it means to be a Tusk.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Navarr==
Navarr have two armies: [[Black Thorns]] and [[Quiet Step]]. They can support six armies.

===Black Thorns===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BlackThorns Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Orders:''' Blackthorns! Swift and bold you march with the pride of Navarr to Reikos to resupply at broken ride. We will hold the line in Reikos whilst we aid our kin evacuating from Therunin. Bide, grieve, honour our dead and aid our people. Next summit we march to avenge them.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of The Entwined Paths, The Amber Forge and Twilight Forge enchanted the Black Thorns with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Quiet Step===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=QuietStep Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Step, my trusted and courageous Imperial Soldiers, Navarri of the upmost virtue. I have made an oath, witnessed by your nation. That this army will serve your cousins in Navarr. That your hearth will be the one I guard. We will take a solid defence in Reikos. Near the beating heart of the Empire. We will grow stronger so that when the time comes, we will serve what is yours.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Quiet Step with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Urizen==
Urizen have one army: [[Citadel Guard]]. They can support a single army.

===Citadel Guard===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=CitadelGuard Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* '''Orders:''' Sentinels, consider the Chain. We bind ourselves in purpose and in blood with our cousins in virtue. You know your foe. You have driven the Druj from our homes before, and now we bring the fight to them. We will press the tyrants of the mallum in Sarangrave. Empowered by the bond of tears you will not fall - Be relentless in your advance. The Heroes of the Winter Sun, The Towerjacks and Golden Axe will shoulder your burdens. Remember their sacrifice, and honour them with Triumph
* '''Action:''' Winter's Mantle in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Varushka==
Varushka have two armies: [[Golden Axe]] and [[Northern Eagle]]. They can support four armies.

===Golden Axe===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenAxe Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vojsuli Cherenkov
* '''Orders:''' Axe, we have rested well and said goodbye to Belakov. We now head to Sarangrave with the Crimson Slachta. We march with our siblings in Virtue against the Druj, the winters bite will shield the citadel guard to preserve their strength. Target the Druj holdings, leave their septs be and focus our axes against their overlords. Everything behind us is Imperial, Everything in front is barbarian. Axe, with me, March!
* '''Action:''' Take their Land in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Voices of the Unbound Storm enchanted the Golden Axe with [[Knights of Glory]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Northern Eagle===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of our firstborn army, make north and rest your weary hearts. Light up the fires, raise the wards, and gather close against the night. Grieve, celebrate, weep and sing. There is much to remember. Come, Empty One, and send your hound master to our hearths. We share our hospitality, all sheltered by our homeland's tradition. We have many stories to tell, so listen, learn and teach...
* '''Action:''' Hit and Run in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Northern Eagle with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Wintermark==
Wintermark have four armies: [[Bloodcloaks]], [[Fist of the Mountains]], [[Green Shield]] and [[Narwhal's Spear]]. They can support four armies.

===Bloodcloaks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BloodCloak Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lofyn Blood-cloak
* '''Orders:''' My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They they will not have been paying attention.
* '''Action:''' Recover the Lost in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bloodcloaks with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fist of the Mountains===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FistoftheMountains Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Umarth "Winter's Flame" Kannask
* '''Orders:''' Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icebreakers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all live together. Into them!
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Wolves of the Pale Raven enchanted the Fist of the Mountains with [[Quickening Cold Meat]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Green Shield===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreenShields Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Iron Osric
* '''Orders:''' Where now the horse and the helm of gold? Where the fearless, the free, the bold. Friends are fallen, fine foes lie far. Yet songs still soar from sword and scar. The words will make from withered pyre, and new tales will burn for the Shadowed Fire Dedicated to the memory of Mercy Thorn
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Narwhal's Spear===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Narwhal's Spear.webp|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Determination of Ice Kaisa
* '''Orders:''' We are a thousand swords drawn together by goldenscale, three traditions in unity. It is now our time to rest and recover. Let us take this opportunity to tell the tales of our heroes and remember our fallen. Tell those who join our number the deeds we have done and think to our future. We have defeated Jarl Haakon, take this season to catch your breath and prepare the next verse in our united saga.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Narwhal's Spear with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.
==Summary==
<table class='wikitable sortable BourseTable'>
<tr><th class='headersort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Army</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Nation</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Start</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Destination</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Action</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Arcane Consolidation</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Sun|Golden Sun]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Gryphon's Pride|Gryphon's Pride]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Granite Pillar|Granite Pillar]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fire of the South|Fire of the South]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Wolves of War|Wolves of War]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Give Ground</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Northern Eagle|Northern Eagle]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Hit and Run</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Strong Reeds|Strong Reeds]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Lay Low</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Drakes|Drakes]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Monstrous Assault</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Tusks|Tusks]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Black Thorns|Black Thorns]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Quiet Step|Quiet Step]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Miaren</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Autumn Hammers|Autumn Hammers]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Plunder</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Summer Storm|Summer Storm]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Balanced Attack</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bounders|Bounders]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bloodcloaks|Bloodcloaks]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Recover the Lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fist of the Mountains|Fist of the Mountains]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Winter Sun|Winter Sun]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mareave</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Towerjacks|Towerjacks]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Citadel Guard|Citadel Guard]]</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Winter's Mantle</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Axe|Golden Axe]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Zenith</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Take their Land</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Burning Falcon|Burning Falcon]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Red Wind Corsairs|Red Wind Corsairs]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Seventh Wave|Seventh Wave]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Valiant Pegasus|Valiant Pegasus]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Green Shield|Green Shield]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Military Council]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:386YE]]

386YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders

2025-04-29T20:21:26Z

Apoth: /* Gryphon's Pride */

{{Stub}}

==Overview==
The Military Council is the gathering of Imperial [[general|generals]] and [[General#Admiral|admirals]]. Individually, the generals have responsibility for the [[army orders|orders]] given to the [[Imperial army]] under their command, while the admirals provide the [[navy orders|orders]] for the [[Imperial navy|navies]]. A general commands a single [[Imperial armies|Imperial army]], drawn from volunteers from their nation. Once a general is given their command, they have sole authority to [[army orders|order]] the army to [[army orders#Movement|move]] or [[army orders#Issuing Orders|attack]] as they choose. After each summit, the Civil Service quickly circulate the orders each general has given among Imperial citizens, allowing [[military unit]] captains to decide if they wish to commit their own force to [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support an army]], and if so which army to support.

During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the following orders were submitted by Imperial generals.
==The Brass Coast==
The Brass Coast have three armies: [[Burning Falcon]], [[Fire of the South]] and [[Red Wind Corsairs]]. They can support three armies.

===Burning Falcon===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BurningFalcon Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Aracelis I Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We continue to gather our strength, fuelled with the courage and pride of our people. March to Tassato, carry the flame of the falcon as it grows ever brighter. Hold fast Cousins! Rest and ready. Yourselves for the blazing victories to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fire of the South===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TheFireoftheSouth Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vincente i Zayden i Guerra
* '''Orders:''' Just as the flames of a fire need fuel, so does an army need rest. A well supplied and rested army fights with twice the ferocity. We will stand firm in Astolat on Solid defence ready for our time to rise once more.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Fire of the South with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Red Wind Corsairs===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We grow restless. The Endless seasons of biding and waiting, watching the cycles of the sun and moon. The Brass Coast bleeds, but you and I are still here, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. A long road lies ahead for the children of the flame and their Empire. Do not fear ash. It is a firebird waiting to be born. Our allies march into Reinos, to change the melody of this song. A start. A Spark. Make Ready.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Red Wind Corsairs with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Dawn==
Dawn have three armies: [[Eastern Sky]], [[Golden Sun]] and [[Gryphon's Pride]]. They can support four armies.

===Eastern Sky===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EasternSky Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Dame Aurum De Castellan
* '''Orders:''' Sky, I'm back, and I say: We're headed back home. You've worked tirelessly to support the West for Multiple Seasons now and we need resupply. So… I hope you're ready for the annual Eastern Sky Mana Hunt. The Gryphon is dead, its pride reinstated, and walks a new path. The Sun will continue to shine with us. Now is the time to heal, to help and to rebuild the love our nation has been denied. Welcome our two new Generals with open arms - your new Captain, too. And know per haps, sometime soon, you may be able to look to new Orc Allies and defences of our Barrens. Love will prevail. Celebrate - winners of the hunt gets a weekend of Highwater Caster! Nova Avorei! PS You're going up against SIX other armies, Good Luck
* '''Action:''' Arcane Consolidation in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Eastern Sky with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Golden Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lord Daemon Mortére
* '''Orders:''' Knights of the Golden Sun, we move from our position in the Barrens to Astolat. We will set up a Solid Defence to Resupply. We march as we always have, instead of stopping to route our enemies, tell the people of Dawn and the Empire stories of the sacrifice of the Helms and the Dance. Tell the Troubadours of Zoran De Orzel and his glorious deeds as your general these past 7 years. Above all, remind them that the Golden Sun is still here! Banners High, shields strong, remind them of the number of armies that have rolled over them and we are still here. Remind them we were in Therunin out of loyalty to Navarr and our Empire, that the Golden Sun has held to its Loyalty to stand where it is needed. And assure them it always will be. These are my first words as your new General.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Golden Sun with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Gryphon's Pride===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Pride! You have been most foully betrayed. You have been ordered to murder those who meant our people no harm, in their own homes and hear this! People you bled to liberate! People the hounds died to liberate. So quit the fangs in good order, withdraw to the West and leave bitter strand. Let the Rahvin go home. Block any who would prevent them. Our senator has been murdered. His dying dream was to end this strife. So join me in swearing this oath that we shall protect all the peoples of the Barrens as if they were our own. Let Dawnguard hold, and may Dawn guard and hold all our neighbours who stand in defiance of the Druj. Where the traitors have shown fear we shall at last make flowers grow, and together, with our allies, we will be a black wind that shall drive the Druj into the Sea!
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Highguard==
Highguard have three armies: [[Granite Pillar]], [[Seventh Wave]] and [[Valiant Pegasus]]. They can support three armies.

===Granite Pillar===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GranitePillar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Granite Pillar! I am so proud of your efforts in the mourn. I am proud of you, and the virtue you displayed. We go now to resupply, that more of our loyal siblings may join our virtuous fight. We shall not lie idle. Virtue does not lie idle. Virtue thrives in adversity, and there is many a hard fight in the seasons to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Granite Pillar with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Seventh Wave===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SeventhWave Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Wave, the call of the Crusade still rings in our camps and resonates in our souls. I call on you now to rest and seek reinforcement. Visit those houses that offer your success. So that you may learn more of the marchers to whom our imperial loyalty is shown. Drink of good ale and eat of softbread, within reason, and let this sustenance remind you of our crusading purpose. In all things, seek to strengthen our bonds of kinship and understanding with our gracious hosts.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Seventh Wave with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Valiant Pegasus===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ValiantPegasus Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Zadok
* '''Orders:''' Any crusade will have seasons of rest, seasons of cleansing. This year you have fought in loyalty to the freeborn and to the marchers. It has been hard, dirty, bloody work. All work deserves reward, and now you will call on the loyalty of the marchers to provide hospitality. Clean your wounds, wash your bodies, repair your arms and armour, so you are fresh and cleansed for the fight to come.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Valiant Pegasus with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Imperial Orcs==
Imperial Orcs have three armies: [[Autumn Hammers]], [[Summer Storm]] and [[Winter Sun]]. They can support three armies.

===Autumn Hammers===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnHammers colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ashborn Vana
* '''Orders:''' Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.
* '''Action:''' Plunder on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Autumn Hammers with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Summer Storm===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerStorm Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Irontide Skorr
* '''Orders:''' Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.
* '''Action:''' Balanced Attack on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Summer Storm with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Winter Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Winter Sun, we have rested and guarded our borders while we drew upon our strength. Now we march the full force of an Imperial Legion to the North to make the Druj bleed for the suffering they have wrought upon our navarri kin. Let the chill of Winter harden your resolve as we make Steady Conquest into Bloodwater Marsh and make our first mark on the Sarangrave in blood. We shoulder the suffering of our siblings in the citadel guard and bleed for our Empire with the conviction that chains be broken and worth restored to the subjugated peoples. As we fight forwards, seek the septs if we can, look for their signs and welcome them in virtue.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Winter Sun with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The League==
The League have two armies: [[Towerjacks]] and [[Wolves of War]]. They can support two armies.

===Towerjacks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TowerJacks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Gabriel Barossa
* '''Orders:''' Towerjacks, you know what it is to face a tide of Druj. Let us take the fight to their lands. The people of Sarangrave chaff under the Druj yoke - Look for allies among them and give them sanctuary.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Wolves of War===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WolvesofWar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jean d'Apulian
* '''Orders:''' The Wolves march. First Tassato, then Miaren, finally Astolat. Time to rest at licence, You stormed Feroz, you recovered the Mourn, and drink deep and revel my Rascal!
* '''Action:''' Give Ground in [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The Marches==
The Marches have four armies: [[Bounders]], [[Drakes]], [[Strong Reeds]] and [[Tusks]]. They can support five armies.

===Bounders===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bounders Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Mary Birchsmith
* '''Orders:''' Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bounders with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Drakes===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Drakes Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Tancred of Meade
* '''Orders:''' Drakes, we will advance steadily into the ore hills. Haakon is dead, now re-sew the fields, rebuild the homes and find new soldiers to join the drakes.
* '''Action:''' Monstrous Assault in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Strong Reeds===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Amberlain P. Black
* '''Orders:''' Reeds! Do you hear the songs from the Mourn? Jarl Haakon Is Dead! Killed by the hand of folkhero William Hooke. Our siblings in the Mourn are free again and change is coming. Lay Low once again, the marsh will hide us as we haunt and harry the remnants of the Jotun Forces. We are bound by common cause, so we will look to our citizens offer our aid and proof again our bonds of loyalty like the folkheroes of old. To Ground!
* '''Action:''' Lay Low in [[Bregasland]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Strong Reeds with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Tusks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tusks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Stanley Of Chalkdown
* '''Orders:''' Jacks of the Tusks. The work is not done. While General Stan Labours so do we. This season we fight alongside our brothers the Drakes in a "Steady Conquest" in the Ore Hills. We will search every mine, farm and woods to clear out the Jotun in our continuing ambition to make the Mourn whole. I know you are tired and we have asked much of you, but the work is not done and therefore neither are we. Show them what it means to be a Tusk.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Navarr==
Navarr have two armies: [[Black Thorns]] and [[Quiet Step]]. They can support six armies.

===Black Thorns===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BlackThorns Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Orders:''' Blackthorns! Swift and bold you march with the pride of Navarr to Reikos to resupply at broken ride. We will hold the line in Reikos whilst we aid our kin evacuating from Therunin. Bide, grieve, honour our dead and aid our people. Next summit we march to avenge them.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of The Entwined Paths, The Amber Forge and Twilight Forge enchanted the Black Thorns with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Quiet Step===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=QuietStep Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Step, my trusted and courageous Imperial Soldiers, Navarri of the upmost virtue. I have made an oath, witnessed by your nation. That this army will serve your cousins in Navarr. That your hearth will be the one I guard. We will take a solid defence in Reikos. Near the beating heart of the Empire. We will grow stronger so that when the time comes, we will serve what is yours.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Quiet Step with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Urizen==
Urizen have one army: [[Citadel Guard]]. They can support a single army.

===Citadel Guard===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=CitadelGuard Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* '''Orders:''' Sentinels, consider the Chain. We bind ourselves in purpose and in blood with our cousins in virtue. You know your foe. You have driven the Druj from our homes before, and now we bring the fight to them. We will press the tyrants of the mallum in Sarangrave. Empowered by the bond of tears you will not fall - Be relentless in your advance. The Heroes of the Winter Sun, The Towerjacks and Golden Axe will shoulder your burdens. Remember their sacrifice, and honour them with Triumph
* '''Action:''' Winter's Mantle in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Varushka==
Varushka have two armies: [[Golden Axe]] and [[Northern Eagle]]. They can support four armies.

===Golden Axe===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenAxe Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vojsuli Cherenkov
* '''Orders:''' Axe, we have rested well and said goodbye to Belakov. We now head to Sarangrave with the Crimson Slachta. We march with our siblings in Virtue against the Druj, the winters bite will shield the citadel guard to preserve their strength. Target the Druj holdings, leave their septs be and focus our axes against their overlords. Everything behind us is Imperial, Everything in front is barbarian. Axe, with me, March!
* '''Action:''' Take their Land in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Voices of the Unbound Storm enchanted the Golden Axe with [[Knights of Glory]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Northern Eagle===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of our firstborn army, make north and rest your weary hearts. Light up the fires, raise the wards, and gather close against the night. Grieve, celebrate, weep and sing. There is much to remember. Come, empty one, and send your hound master to our hearths. We share our hospitality, all sheltered by our homeland's tradition. We have many stories to tell, so listen, learn and teach...
* '''Action:''' Hit and Run in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Northern Eagle with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Wintermark==
Wintermark have four armies: [[Bloodcloaks]], [[Fist of the Mountains]], [[Green Shield]] and [[Narwhal's Spear]]. They can support four armies.

===Bloodcloaks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BloodCloak Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lofyn Blood-cloak
* '''Orders:''' My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They they will not have been paying attention.
* '''Action:''' Recover the Lost in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bloodcloaks with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fist of the Mountains===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FistoftheMountains Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Umarth "Winter's Flame" Kannask
* '''Orders:''' Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icebreakers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all live together. Into them!
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Wolves of the Pale Raven enchanted the Fist of the Mountains with [[Quickening Cold Meat]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Green Shield===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreenShields Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Iron Osric
* '''Orders:''' Where now the horse and the helm of gold? Where the fearless, the free, the bold. Friends are fallen, fine foes lie far. Yet songs still soar from sword and scar. The words will make from withered pyre, and new tales will burn for the Shadowed Fire Dedicated to the memory of Mercy Thorn
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Narwhal's Spear===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Narwhal's Spear.webp|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Determination of Ice Kaisa
* '''Orders:''' We are a thousand swords drawn together by goldenscale, three traditions in unity. It is now our time to rest and recover. Let us take this opportunity to tell the tales of our heroes and remember our fallen. Tell those who join our number the deeds we have done and think to our future. We have defeated Jarl Haakon, take this season to catch your breath and prepare the next verse in our united saga.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Narwhal's Spear with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.
==Summary==
<table class='wikitable sortable BourseTable'>
<tr><th class='headersort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Army</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Nation</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Start</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Destination</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Action</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Arcane Consolidation</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Sun|Golden Sun]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Gryphon's Pride|Gryphon's Pride]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Granite Pillar|Granite Pillar]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fire of the South|Fire of the South]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Wolves of War|Wolves of War]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Give Ground</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Northern Eagle|Northern Eagle]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Hit and Run</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Strong Reeds|Strong Reeds]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Lay Low</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Drakes|Drakes]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Monstrous Assault</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Tusks|Tusks]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Black Thorns|Black Thorns]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Quiet Step|Quiet Step]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Miaren</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Autumn Hammers|Autumn Hammers]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Plunder</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Summer Storm|Summer Storm]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Balanced Attack</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bounders|Bounders]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bloodcloaks|Bloodcloaks]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Recover the Lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fist of the Mountains|Fist of the Mountains]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Winter Sun|Winter Sun]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mareave</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Towerjacks|Towerjacks]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Citadel Guard|Citadel Guard]]</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Winter's Mantle</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Axe|Golden Axe]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Zenith</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Take their Land</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Burning Falcon|Burning Falcon]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Red Wind Corsairs|Red Wind Corsairs]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Seventh Wave|Seventh Wave]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Valiant Pegasus|Valiant Pegasus]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Green Shield|Green Shield]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Military Council]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:386YE]]

386YE Winter Solstice Military Council orders

2025-04-29T20:18:53Z

Apoth: /* Gryphon's Pride */

{{Stub}}

==Overview==
The Military Council is the gathering of Imperial [[general|generals]] and [[General#Admiral|admirals]]. Individually, the generals have responsibility for the [[army orders|orders]] given to the [[Imperial army]] under their command, while the admirals provide the [[navy orders|orders]] for the [[Imperial navy|navies]]. A general commands a single [[Imperial armies|Imperial army]], drawn from volunteers from their nation. Once a general is given their command, they have sole authority to [[army orders|order]] the army to [[army orders#Movement|move]] or [[army orders#Issuing Orders|attack]] as they choose. After each summit, the Civil Service quickly circulate the orders each general has given among Imperial citizens, allowing [[military unit]] captains to decide if they wish to commit their own force to [[Military_unit#Support_Army|support an army]], and if so which army to support.

During the Winter Solstice 386YE, the following orders were submitted by Imperial generals.
==The Brass Coast==
The Brass Coast have three armies: [[Burning Falcon]], [[Fire of the South]] and [[Red Wind Corsairs]]. They can support three armies.

===Burning Falcon===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BurningFalcon Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Aracelis I Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We continue to gather our strength, fuelled with the courage and pride of our people. March to Tassato, carry the flame of the falcon as it grows ever brighter. Hold fast Cousins! Rest and ready. Yourselves for the blazing victories to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fire of the South===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TheFireoftheSouth Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vincente i Zayden i Guerra
* '''Orders:''' Just as the flames of a fire need fuel, so does an army need rest. A well supplied and rested army fights with twice the ferocity. We will stand firm in Astolat on Solid defence ready for our time to rise once more.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Fire of the South with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Red Wind Corsairs===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=RedWindCorsairs Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Delora i Sol-Devorador i Erigo
* '''Orders:''' Freeborn! We grow restless. The Endless seasons of biding and waiting, watching the cycles of the sun and moon. The Brass Coast bleeds, but you and I are still here, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. A long road lies ahead for the children of the flame and their Empire. Do not fear ash. It is a firebird waiting to be born. Our allies march into Reinos, to change the melody of this song. A start. A Spark. Make Ready.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Tassato]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Red Wind Corsairs with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Dawn==
Dawn have three armies: [[Eastern Sky]], [[Golden Sun]] and [[Gryphon's Pride]]. They can support four armies.

===Eastern Sky===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=EasternSky Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Dame Aurum De Castellan
* '''Orders:''' Sky, I'm back, and I say: We're headed back home. You've worked tirelessly to support the West for Multiple Seasons now and we need resupply. So… I hope you're ready for the annual Eastern Sky Mana Hunt. The Gryphon is dead, its pride reinstated, and walks a new path. The Sun will continue to shine with us. Now is the time to heal, to help and to rebuild the love our nation has been denied. Welcome our two new Generals with open arms - your new Captain, too. And know per haps, sometime soon, you may be able to look to new Orc Allies and defences of our Barrens. Love will prevail. Celebrate - winners of the hunt gets a weekend of Highwater Caster! Nova Avorei! PS You're going up against SIX other armies, Good Luck
* '''Action:''' Arcane Consolidation in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Eastern Sky with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Golden Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lord Daemon Mortére
* '''Orders:''' Knights of the Golden Sun, we move from our position in the Barrens to Astolat. We will set up a Solid Defence to Resupply. We march as we always have, instead of stopping to route our enemies, tell the people of Dawn and the Empire stories of the sacrifice of the Helms and the Dance. Tell the Troubadours of Zoran De Orzel and his glorious deeds as your general these past 7 years. Above all, remind them that the Golden Sun is still here! Banners High, shields strong, remind them of the number of armies that have rolled over them and we are still here. Remind them we were in Therunin out of loyalty to Navarr and our Empire, that the Golden Sun has held to its Loyalty to stand where it is needed. And assure them it always will be. These are my first words as your new General.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Golden Sun with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Gryphon's Pride===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GryphonPride Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ser Guy of the Twisted Rose
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Pride! You have been most foully betrayed. You have been ordered to murder those who meant our people no harm, in their own homes and hear this! People you bled to liberate! People the hounds died to liberate. So quit the fangs in good order, withdraw to the West and leave bitter strand. Let the Rhavin go home. Block any who would prevent them. Our senator has been murdered. His dying dream was to end this strife. Do join me in swearing this oath that we shall protect all the peoples of the Barrens as if they were our own. Let Dawnguard hold, and may Dawn guard and hold all our neighbours who stand in defiance of the Druj. Where the traitors have shown fear we shall at last make flowers grow, and together, with our allies, we will be a black wind that shall drive the Druj into the Sea!
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Highguard==
Highguard have three armies: [[Granite Pillar]], [[Seventh Wave]] and [[Valiant Pegasus]]. They can support three armies.

===Granite Pillar===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GranitePillar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Sychar of Ebon's Hall
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Granite Pillar! I am so proud of your efforts in the mourn. I am proud of you, and the virtue you displayed. We go now to resupply, that more of our loyal siblings may join our virtuous fight. We shall not lie idle. Virtue does not lie idle. Virtue thrives in adversity, and there is many a hard fight in the seasons to come.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Granite Pillar with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Seventh Wave===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SeventhWave Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Melkior of Balthazar’s Vineyard
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Wave, the call of the Crusade still rings in our camps and resonates in our souls. I call on you now to rest and seek reinforcement. Visit those houses that offer your success. So that you may learn more of the marchers to whom our imperial loyalty is shown. Drink of good ale and eat of softbread, within reason, and let this sustenance remind you of our crusading purpose. In all things, seek to strengthen our bonds of kinship and understanding with our gracious hosts.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Seventh Wave with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Valiant Pegasus===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=ValiantPegasus Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Zadok
* '''Orders:''' Any crusade will have seasons of rest, seasons of cleansing. This year you have fought in loyalty to the freeborn and to the marchers. It has been hard, dirty, bloody work. All work deserves reward, and now you will call on the loyalty of the marchers to provide hospitality. Clean your wounds, wash your bodies, repair your arms and armour, so you are fresh and cleansed for the fight to come.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Valiant Pegasus with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Imperial Orcs==
Imperial Orcs have three armies: [[Autumn Hammers]], [[Summer Storm]] and [[Winter Sun]]. They can support three armies.

===Autumn Hammers===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnHammers colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Ashborn Vana
* '''Orders:''' Hammers, we march into Jotun Lands. We take the fight to them. We fight to show our loyalty to the Empire and take blades away from the throats of the freeborn. We show the Jotun they can bleed not only in blood, but coin too, where the lasambrians feel it most. We call upon the contracts in the Autumn Realm with Callidus and their heralds to Plunder Reinos with us. Draw the Jotun Down.
* '''Action:''' Plunder on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Autumn Hammers with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Summer Storm===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerStorm Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Irontide Skorr
* '''Orders:''' Legionnaires of the Summer Storm, we continue to fight the Jotun. Using a well balanced attack and the Clarity that the Day Realm brings, we shall fight with Loyalty and Vigilance. Push into Reinos and support the Brass Coast. Be wise in your choices and fight with courage. Defend those behind us.
* '''Action:''' Balanced Attack on [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Summer Storm with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Winter Sun===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterSun Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Skywise Rykana
* '''Orders:''' Heroes of the Winter Sun, we have rested and guarded our borders while we drew upon our strength. Now we march the full force of an Imperial Legion to the North to make the Druj bleed for the suffering they have wrought upon our navarri kin. Let the chill of Winter harden your resolve as we make Steady Conquest into Bloodwater Marsh and make our first mark on the Sarangrave in blood. We shoulder the suffering of our siblings in the citadel guard and bleed for our Empire with the conviction that chains be broken and worth restored to the subjugated peoples. As we fight forwards, seek the septs if we can, look for their signs and welcome them in virtue.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Winter Sun with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The League==
The League have two armies: [[Towerjacks]] and [[Wolves of War]]. They can support two armies.

===Towerjacks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=TowerJacks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Gabriel Barossa
* '''Orders:''' Towerjacks, you know what it is to face a tide of Druj. Let us take the fight to their lands. The people of Sarangrave chaff under the Druj yoke - Look for allies among them and give them sanctuary.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Wolves of War===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=WolvesofWar Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jean d'Apulian
* '''Orders:''' The Wolves march. First Tassato, then Miaren, finally Astolat. Time to rest at licence, You stormed Feroz, you recovered the Mourn, and drink deep and revel my Rascal!
* '''Action:''' Give Ground in [[Astolat]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==The Marches==
The Marches have four armies: [[Bounders]], [[Drakes]], [[Strong Reeds]] and [[Tusks]]. They can support five armies.

===Bounders===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Bounders Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Mary Birchsmith
* '''Orders:''' Bounders, we pause to help our siblings in the Brass Coast. Our war is not over, but we share an enemy. Through Steady Conquest into Reinos via Burnish in Segura we will draw them out and give us the time we need, together in loyalty we will stand, the Jotun will fall and we will not be alone but we will not leave others alone. We must be united.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bounders with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Drakes===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Drakes Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Tancred of Meade
* '''Orders:''' Drakes, we will advance steadily into the ore hills. Haakon is dead, now re-sew the fields, rebuild the homes and find new soldiers to join the drakes.
* '''Action:''' Monstrous Assault in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Strong Reeds===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=StrongReeds Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Amberlain P. Black
* '''Orders:''' Reeds! Do you hear the songs from the Mourn? Jarl Haakon Is Dead! Killed by the hand of folkhero William Hooke. Our siblings in the Mourn are free again and change is coming. Lay Low once again, the marsh will hide us as we haunt and harry the remnants of the Jotun Forces. We are bound by common cause, so we will look to our citizens offer our aid and proof again our bonds of loyalty like the folkheroes of old. To Ground!
* '''Action:''' Lay Low in [[Bregasland]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Strong Reeds with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Tusks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Tusks Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Stanley Of Chalkdown
* '''Orders:''' Jacks of the Tusks. The work is not done. While General Stan Labours so do we. This season we fight alongside our brothers the Drakes in a "Steady Conquest" in the Ore Hills. We will search every mine, farm and woods to clear out the Jotun in our continuing ambition to make the Mourn whole. I know you are tired and we have asked much of you, but the work is not done and therefore neither are we. Show them what it means to be a Tusk.
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Mournwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Navarr==
Navarr have two armies: [[Black Thorns]] and [[Quiet Step]]. They can support six armies.

===Black Thorns===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BlackThorns Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Rhisiart Dancewalker
* '''Orders:''' Blackthorns! Swift and bold you march with the pride of Navarr to Reikos to resupply at broken ride. We will hold the line in Reikos whilst we aid our kin evacuating from Therunin. Bide, grieve, honour our dead and aid our people. Next summit we march to avenge them.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of The Entwined Paths, The Amber Forge and Twilight Forge enchanted the Black Thorns with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Quiet Step===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=QuietStep Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vesna Borkovna Prochnost
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of the Step, my trusted and courageous Imperial Soldiers, Navarri of the upmost virtue. I have made an oath, witnessed by your nation. That this army will serve your cousins in Navarr. That your hearth will be the one I guard. We will take a solid defence in Reikos. Near the beating heart of the Empire. We will grow stronger so that when the time comes, we will serve what is yours.
* '''Action:''' Solid Defence of [[Reikos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Quiet Step with [[Bound by Common Cause]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Urizen==
Urizen have one army: [[Citadel Guard]]. They can support a single army.

===Citadel Guard===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=CitadelGuard Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Andronikos of the Lighthouse at Nikephoros
* '''Orders:''' Sentinels, consider the Chain. We bind ourselves in purpose and in blood with our cousins in virtue. You know your foe. You have driven the Druj from our homes before, and now we bring the fight to them. We will press the tyrants of the mallum in Sarangrave. Empowered by the bond of tears you will not fall - Be relentless in your advance. The Heroes of the Winter Sun, The Towerjacks and Golden Axe will shoulder your burdens. Remember their sacrifice, and honour them with Triumph
* '''Action:''' Winter's Mantle in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Varushka==
Varushka have two armies: [[Golden Axe]] and [[Northern Eagle]]. They can support four armies.

===Golden Axe===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GoldenAxe Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Vojsuli Cherenkov
* '''Orders:''' Axe, we have rested well and said goodbye to Belakov. We now head to Sarangrave with the Crimson Slachta. We march with our siblings in Virtue against the Druj, the winters bite will shield the citadel guard to preserve their strength. Target the Druj holdings, leave their septs be and focus our axes against their overlords. Everything behind us is Imperial, Everything in front is barbarian. Axe, with me, March!
* '''Action:''' Take their Land in [[Sarangrave]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Voices of the Unbound Storm enchanted the Golden Axe with [[Knights of Glory]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will receive a share of the Guerdon.

===Northern Eagle===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=NorthernEagle Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Jaromir Ostrovyn Kostka
* '''Orders:''' Soldiers of our firstborn army, make north and rest your weary hearts. Light up the fires, raise the wards, and gather close against the night. Grieve, celebrate, weep and sing. There is much to remember. Come, empty one, and send your hound master to our hearths. We share our hospitality, all sheltered by our homeland's tradition. We have many stories to tell, so listen, learn and teach...
* '''Action:''' Hit and Run in [[Astolat]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Northern Eagle with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

==Wintermark==
Wintermark have four armies: [[Bloodcloaks]], [[Fist of the Mountains]], [[Green Shield]] and [[Narwhal's Spear]]. They can support four armies.

===Bloodcloaks===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=BloodCloak Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Lofyn Blood-cloak
* '''Orders:''' My Cloaks, my Pride for too long have the enemies of our empire coveted the freeborn lands. Arrogant in their brazen bantering and merciless onslaughts. Now is the time to show the freeborn that their homes and families are not coins to be counted in a bargain, if they are a cost it is a cost too high. Strike into Reinos, free thralls and recover the lost and fallen who march beside us. Show the Jotun and Lasambrians that we will not sell the coast and if they believe that we are weak of heart or will. They they will not have been paying attention.
* '''Action:''' Recover the Lost in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Coven of Barabbas enchanted the Bloodcloaks with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Fist of the Mountains===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=FistoftheMountains Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Umarth "Winter's Flame" Kannask
* '''Orders:''' Under the Shining Claw, that great Tusk, we etch Rhiv, the rune of Blood into our weapons. We call these ancient winter magics to us and I bind them to my purpose. A cost is always paid. My family paid that cost, the price of our ambition. Mercy, Thorn-in-place, my wife, died a shield to the Empire. Loyal to the end, remember her storm and learn. I bind the quickened cold meat to that purpose. Even in death, we will endure. Grandmother Winter sets us a riddle. We begin to have the answer. Mystics, cast the runes. Icebreakers, look far and carefully. Let us find the Pale Raven's answer. The weight of costs is heavy. We must all live together. Into them!
* '''Action:''' Steady Conquest in [[Reinos]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Wolves of the Pale Raven enchanted the Fist of the Mountains with [[Quickening Cold Meat]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Green Shield===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=GreenShields Colour.png|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Iron Osric
* '''Orders:''' Where now the horse and the helm of gold? Where the fearless, the free, the bold. Friends are fallen, fine foes lie far. Yet songs still soar from sword and scar. The words will make from withered pyre, and new tales will burn for the Shadowed Fire Dedicated to the memory of Mercy Thorn
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.

===Narwhal's Spear===
<div style="float:right; width: 150px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Narwhal's Spear.webp|align=right|width=200}}</div>
* '''General:''' Determination of Ice Kaisa
* '''Orders:''' We are a thousand swords drawn together by goldenscale, three traditions in unity. It is now our time to rest and recover. Let us take this opportunity to tell the tales of our heroes and remember our fallen. Tell those who join our number the deeds we have done and think to our future. We have defeated Jarl Haakon, take this season to catch your breath and prepare the next verse in our united saga.
* '''Action:''' Billet in [[Upwold]]
* '''Enchantment:''' Concordium of Pallas enchanted the Narwhal's Spear with [[Brotherhood of Tian]].
* '''Guerdon:''' Military units supporting this army will not be rewarded by the Imperial Senate.
==Summary==
<table class='wikitable sortable BourseTable'>
<tr><th class='headersort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Army</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Nation</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Start</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Destination</th><th class='headerSort' tabindex='0' role='columnheader button' title='Sort ascending'>Action</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Eastern Sky|Eastern Sky]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Arcane Consolidation</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Sun|Golden Sun]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Gryphon's Pride|Gryphon's Pride]]</td><td>Dawn</td><td>The Barrens</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Granite Pillar|Granite Pillar]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fire of the South|Fire of the South]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Wolves of War|Wolves of War]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Give Ground</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Northern Eagle|Northern Eagle]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Hit and Run</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Strong Reeds|Strong Reeds]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Bregasland</td><td>Lay Low</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Drakes|Drakes]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Monstrous Assault</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Tusks|Tusks]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Black Thorns|Black Thorns]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Therunin</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Quiet Step|Quiet Step]]</td><td>Navarr</td><td>Miaren</td><td>Reikos</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Autumn Hammers|Autumn Hammers]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Plunder</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Summer Storm|Summer Storm]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Balanced Attack</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bounders|Bounders]]</td><td>The Marches</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Bloodcloaks|Bloodcloaks]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Recover the Lost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Fist of the Mountains|Fist of the Mountains]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Reinos</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Winter Sun|Winter Sun]]</td><td>Imperial Orcs</td><td>Mareave</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Towerjacks|Towerjacks]]</td><td>The League</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Steady Conquest</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Citadel Guard|Citadel Guard]]</td><td>Urizen</td><td>Redoubt</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Winter's Mantle</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Golden Axe|Golden Axe]]</td><td>Varushka</td><td>Zenith</td><td>Sarangrave</td><td>Take their Land</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Burning Falcon|Burning Falcon]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Astolat</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Red Wind Corsairs|Red Wind Corsairs]]</td><td>The Brass Coast</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Tassato</td><td>Solid Defence</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Seventh Wave|Seventh Wave]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Valiant Pegasus|Valiant Pegasus]]</td><td>Highguard</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Green Shield|Green Shield]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[#Narwhal's Spear|Narwhal's Spear]]</td><td>Wintermark</td><td>Mournwold</td><td>Upwold</td><td>Billet</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Military Council]]
[[Category:Recent History]]
[[Category:386YE]]

386YE Winter Solstice winds of fortune

2025-04-12T19:09:41Z

Apoth: /* According to Principle */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:386YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Virtue Exalts.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=600}}</div>
==Overview==
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 which 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 represents 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 opinion, and we're not trying to trick you.

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.
__TOC__
==Winds of Fortune==
===I am Easy to Find===
* '''Imperial citizens'''
[[Emperor Vesna]] has used their power to [[The_Throne#Address_the_Empire|address the Empire]] to present a personal message to all Imperial citizens relating to the [[386YE_Winter_Solstice_interlude#In_the_Barrens|situation]] in [[the Barrens]].

The message has been distributed across the Empire by the civil service, and you can read it in the '''[[I am easy to find]]''' wind of fortune.
===Secret Meeting (Plenipotentiary)===
* '''Archmages, Imperial Conclave; Pale Ravens, Nation's Guard, Whelps (?), Lunete de Cercle, those who believe they bear the heart of Elayne Silverlark; Churnspire Adjutor, those who bear gifts of Meraud; mana-site owners of the Marches; artists of many kinds who are privy to secrets'''
Six [[Archmage|archmages]], six [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] responses. The [[eternal|eternals]] are bound by ancient compact to respond in some way to each plenipotentiary missive, although sometimes they respond in unexpected ways. Three have chosen to meet with Imperial magicians, in one way or another. Three have chosen to respond in other ways. There is also a matter for the [[Imperial Conclave]] to discuss, arising from a [[Imperial Synod|Synod]] judgement at the Autumn Equinox that relates specifically to the practice of plenipotentiary.

You can find details of the meetings, and notes about the other responses, in the '''[[Secret meeting]]''' wind of fortune.
===Hammers and Boxes===
* '''Imperial Orcs, the League, Wintermark; Archmage of Autumn; Imperial Conclave, Imperial Senate; Autumn magicians and traders; General of the Wolves of War; Herminius of the House of the Wanderer, Bella Di Sarvos'''
Over the last three months, several emissaries of the [[Realm#Autumn|Autumn realm]] have visited the Empire. Some hail from [[Estavus|Shikal the Fire Mountain]] and are apparently here at the behest of the [[Archmage of Autumn]]. Others come from the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]], and provide updates relating to the ritual [[Ephisis' Scale]]. They're also interested in arranging certain trades - including one relating to the [[enchantment]] on the [[Wolves of War]].

You can learn about the proposals of Estavus, and the deals of the City of Gold and Lead, in the '''[[Hammers and boxes]]''' wind of fortune.
===Gifts of a Green Mother===
* '''Imperial Conclave; Archmage of Spring; anyone with access to the regalia of the Archmage of Spring; Spring magicians; owners of farms, forests, and mana sites; Imperial Senate, Imperial Synod; Day magicians; orcs, briars, humans interested in becoming briars; people with access to realmsroot'''
As mentioned [[Secret_meeting#Forest_Queen|previously]], an emissary of the [[Yaw'nagrah|Green Mother]] has visted the Empire and offered a number of boons to Imperial citizens. They include an offer to secure her aid in uniting the [[vallorn]] hearts; a boon to remove [[Wither the Seed|malign curse]] over [[Brocéliande]]; the ability for Spring magicians to brew a potent magical substance in a [[Churning Cauldron of Bravash|churning cauldron]]; a chance for owners of [[farm|farms]], [[forest|forests]], and [[mana site|mana sites]] to receive some of the eternals largesse if they can find a coven prepared to accept her "bloodamber boon" on their behalf; additional potence for certain [[enchantment|enchantments]] used on [[orc|orcs]] and those with the [[briar]] [[lineage]] - or humans who might wish to gain that lineage; and of course several opportunities to keep tabs on people who are accepting these boons. With Yaw'nagrah under the [[alignment#Enmity|enmity]] of the Conclave, it's quite illegal for ''anyone'' to accept ''any'' of her boons.

You can learn about these many opportunities and boons, and the challenges related to accepting them, in the '''[[Gifts of a green mother]]''' wind of fortune.
===Send for Me (Appraisal)===
* '''Freeborn, especially of Feroz; Imperial Senate; Keeper of the Breadbasket, Marcher farm owners'''
At the Autumn Equinox, [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Seed_Exchange|the Imperial Senate requested]] an [[appraisal]] related to seed banks, inspired by the [[Upwold]] Seed Exchange. As no specific researcher was requested, ''Gerard La Salle'' has asked [[Appraisal#Graciana_i_Lòpez_i_Guerra|Graciana i Lòpez i Guerra]] to consider the matter. The Freeborn prognosticator is known for her unusual techniques and novel approaches to any problem. And deliver she has! With particular reference to ruined [[Feroz]], Graciana has presented a number of proposals for the consideration of the Senate, and in the process has begun to assess the extent of the damage done to the territory by the wicked [[Grendel]] Governor Rahab.

You can find out about the results of the appraisal, as well as details of the situation in Feroz, in the '''[[Send for me]]''' wind of fortune.

===Million Miles of Water===
* '''Imperial Orcs, Marchers, Freeborn, League; Imperial Senate, Imperial Military Council'''
Like the rest of the [[Broken Shore]], the territory of [[Mareave]] is warm and dry and much of its north is arid and thirsty. Farms struggle to grow crops or raise herds on such dry ground. This is a major barrier to growing the territory's prosperity and attracting more [[Imperial Orcs]] from distant [[Skarsind]] to establish new homes here. [[The Marches|Marcher]] experts from [[Mitwold]] and [[Upwold]] and [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] talented in drawing prosperity and growth from barren earth have been invited to the territory on the urging of their National Assemblies to help with this matter. There are also ruins here, built in the Skouran style, including the remnants of an immense aqueduct. There are many options here, and many different ways to address the climate in the new Imperial territory.

You can learn about these various options, and the implications they might have for the larger Empire, in the '''[[Million miles of water]]''' wind of fortune.
===Wasp Nest===
* '''Navarr, Highguard; Imperial Synod; Mistress of Monuments; Benefactor of High Chalcis, High Herbalist of Sybella, Generals of the Valiant Pegasus and the Bloodcloaks; Imperial Senate; Keeper of the Garden; Hazelelponi of the Shattered Tower; apothecaries'''
In [[Full_of_sacred_sound#A_Peerless_Kinship|peerless kinship]], [[Highguard|Highborn]] pilgrims come to [[Therunin]], to work with their peers among the [[Navarr]]. they seek a way to lay to rest the ghosts that throng in the east of the marshy territory, and with a little help from an injured [[Dawn|Dawnish]] soldier a path is laid. But the path cannot be walked, and the living are in as much danger as the dead in Therunin right now. With their final peerless kinship, the Highborn seek ways to help heal not only the spirits of Therunin, but also the water and soil corrupted by the taint of Sephal's Cauldron - and perhaps also ways to cement closer ties between the two nations.

You can read about the suggestions that have arisen from this final use of peerless kinship, as well as the glimmer of hope for the future, in the '''[[Wasp nest]]''' wind of fortune,
===Fake Empire (Appraisal)===
* '''Imperial Senate, Imperial Military Council, Imperial Diplomats, Grandmasters, Ambassadors, and Æsa Sigeing'''
The second [[appraisal]] commissioned by the [[Imperial Senate]] instructs [[Appraisal#Naomi_of_Virtue's_Rest|Naomi of Virtue's Rest]] to discover how the Empire might disrupt relations between each [[Grendel]] salt lord. She was asked to find ways to not only disrupt relations between the salt lords but also with their allies, both internal and external. Although this appraisal falls squarely within her expertise, its scope means that her response has been a little limited in application. As a consequence, the prognosticator has split her appraisal into two parts - the first is designed to provide a description of the current situation, providing an overview of the Salt Lords Council, how it is made up and how it functions. The second part of her appraisal lays out what is known about the Grendel's allies and presents some ideas for how they might be approached.

You can read about her findings, and the various suggestions she has made, in the '''[[Fake empire]]''' wind of fortune.
<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly_General.png|caption=The General Assembly|align=right|width=200}}</div>

===A Little Understanding===
* '''Imperial Synod, Imperial Senate'''
At the Autumn Equinox, three of the [[cardinal|cardinals]] of the [[Imperial Synod]], and a citizen who was acting as [[proxy]] to the [[Cardinal of Prosperity]], publicly swore an oath to bear an [[aura]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Peace|Peace]] for the coming year, doing nothing to resist its effects. All four were quickly [[Sanction#Condemnation|condemned]] as [[Religious_crime#Heresy|heretics]] and [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy|blasphemers]] by the Assembly of [[Vigilance]]. The magistrates are now bound to conduct a trial to investigate the [[religious crime|religious crimes]] these cardinals are accused of. Meanwhile, the General Assembly must wrestle with the threat of a growing schism - following so closely on the heels of the [[True faith|recent crisis]] concerning [[Vardas]] - and contemplate what it means for the Way that cardinals dabble with the power of "false virtues".

You can find out about the legal considerations, as well as the potential repercussions of various outcomes, in the '''[[A little understanding]]''' wind of fortune.
===The War of Thorns and Flowers===
* '''Highguard, the League, Varushka; Imperial Senate; Imperial Synod; Imperial Conclave; Master of the Koboldi, Master of Ice and Darkness; anyone interested in the war against the vallorn'''
The nations of the Empire have begun to rise to the challenge of the coming [[A thousand years of longing|war with the vallorn]]. The [[highguard|Highborn]] have called the [[Grey Pilgrim|grey pilgrims]] home, allowing them to raise another army. [[The League]] have asked their most ambitious and innovative people to study the problem, while the [[Varushka|Varushkans]] have sought to draw on dark powers to battle civilisation's most implacable enemy. Other nations still debate the shape of the future, and they are by no means united in what the best course of action may be. These three nations, though, have chosen to face their enemy and begin to draw their plans against it.

You can learn about the upheavals in the three nations that choose to support the [[Navarr]], and how they can shape the coming war, in the '''[[The war of thorns and flowers]]''' wind of fortune.
===According to Principle===
* '''Ambassador to the Commonwealth; Imperial Senate; League Assembly; Gisli Baerson'''
The [[Commonwealth]] are a militaristic nation committed to the idea of ensuring the greatest good to the greatest number of people. As fellow signatories of the [[Liberty Pact]] they are perhaps the closest allies the Empire has among the great powers of the known world. At the moment they are locked in fierce battle with their historical rivals, the [[Principalities of Jarm]], but they still take time to answer messages from Imperial allies. In this wind, there is a discussion of war, news of visitors from the Commonwealth's universities and an opportunity they present, major changes to trade with the ports of [[Foreign_ports#Leerdam|Leerdam]] and [[Foreign_ports#Volkavaar|Volkavaar]], and an intrigued response to an invitation to visit the [[Holberg|Greatest City in the Empire]].

You can learn about diplomatic matters related to the Commonwealth, and the opportunities they present, in the '''[[According to principle]]''' wind of fortune.

Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae

2025-03-13T22:13:11Z

Apoth: /* Assurance */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|100}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|10}} {{Imperial Reduction}}

{{Regio|Summer}}

This ritual targets a specific region. During the performance of the ritual the casters must name a region within the target territory which has the "hills" quality.

The ritual may target a region in a territory which is under Imperial control (that is, which is eligible to appoint a Senator) when cast from the [[Regio#The_Imperial_Regio|Imperial regio]]. To affect a region in a territory that is not under Imperial control, the ritual must be performed at a regio within the target territory.

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
The ritual targets a single region of hills or mountains within a territory. Over the course of the next few days a powerful [[enchantment]] settles over the region which conjures a citadel of stone-hard, semi-translucent ice to offer protection to armies belonging to the force that controls the area.

{{fortification}}

{{Season Duration}}

===Assurance===
This ritual [[Ritual_theory#Conjuring_and_Summoning|calls forth]] a fortification from the Summer realm, and as with other such rituals, draws on the power of an [[eternal]], in this case [[Cathan Canae]]. The [[Ritual_theory#Agreement|assurance]] connected with the ritual was lost for several centuries but unearthed by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. The ritual loses all power and ceases to function if the city of [[Hahnmark#Kalpaheim|Kalpaheim]] ever falls to the enemies of [[Wintermark]].

''Oswiu Thrice-Runed'', one of the magicians of the order, points out that this assurance specifically references the enemies of Wintermark rather than simply barbarians. The runesmith is certain that if barbarians were to ever conquer Kalpaheim then the ritual would cease to function, but they are uncertain if the Lady of the Frost would consider the Imperial Senate [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Relinquishment|relinquishing]] Hahnmark to be a violation of the assurance. Oswiu advises that the [[Archmage of Summer]] contact the Queen of Ice and Darkness if such a motion were to ever be considered.

==Description==
This [[enchantment]] causes a fortification formed of enchanted ice to manifest at a strategically significant location in the target region. This citadel is called forth from the frigid realm of [[Cathan Canae]], the Queen of Ice and supports the force that controls the area. In some cases, a series of mighty towers appears instead or, more rarely, a number of vertiginous icy walls manifest at either end of an important pass.

The fortification is extremely resistant to damage; fire does not melt it and siege engines find it exceptionally hard to damage. In some cases, especially in winter, howling winds and unseasonal snowfall will assail besieging forces. These effects are irregular, but highlight the raw ferocity of the frozen north and the coldest season. The ritual is an enchantment, and can in theory be [[Ilium#Using_Ilium_in_Rituals|made permanent]] with [[ilium]]. This has not been achieved in the history of the Empire, but in theory such a citadel would last until destroyed.

This ritual increases the difficulty a hostile force will have in claiming a territory, even if there is no army to oppose them directly, Local militia and the like are able to take advantage of the defensive [[enchantment]] to hold off larger forces, at least for a time.

==Common Elements==
It is common with this ritual to invoke the name of Cathan Canae, or to call on the memory of famous castle builders such as [[Semmerholm#Semmer.27s_Rose|Willard d'Onnecour]] or [[the Sentinel]]. [[Dramaturgy]] involving the erection of a castle, especially on [[The Battlefield]] at the orders of [[The Captain]] might be appropriate, as might evocations of the constellation of [[The Oak]].

A map is sometimes used as an additional element, often obscured during the casting with water or exposed to snow or ice. Sometimes the map is created from sand or painstakingly drawn with salt or coloured powders as part of the ritual, reinforcing the idea of raising a magical fortification.

The runes [[Verys]] and [[Feresh]] are commonly used during this ritual, and the constellation of [[The Oak]] is often invoked.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Warfare]]

Lions of Phoenix Reach

2025-03-13T11:48:10Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|24}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Resource|[[mana site]]}}

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
This ritual calls a group of burning spirits from the Summer realm, who take on physical forms drawn from the material of a [[mana site]]. The magical flows of the mana site are used to bind the spirit and the material together.

The owner of the mana site experiences a [[roleplaying effect]]: you feel an urge to destroy small, fragile objects, especially if those objects can be consumed by fire.

The beasts effectively form a powerful [[military unit]] under the control of the character who controls the target mana site, and fights under that character's command during the coming season. The target mana site produces no crystal mana during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the beasts return to the mana site and explosively discorporate, restoring its production to normal.

The military unit created consists of supernatural troops that can be [[Military_unit#Downtime_Options|assigned]] any of the tasks that a normal military unit can undertake. While they are effective at all these tasks, the warriors are especially well suited to [[Military_unit#Support_a_Military_Campaign|fighting as part of a campaign army]] and receive a five rank bonus (equivalent to an additional 100 fighting force) when they do so.

{{Season Duration}}

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional mana sites in the same [[territory]]. Each additional mana site increases the magnitude by 18. The character who controls each mana site must be present throughout the ritual, and each receives control of their own military unit.

==Description==
This ritual was developed at the [[Zenith#The_Halls_of_Knowledge|Halls of Knowledge]] in [[Zenith]] under the direction of [[Provost of the Halls of Knowledge|Provost]] '''Octavius'''. The initial work on the ritual was performed by '''Ioseph of Phoenix Reach''' who created an [[Spontaneous_magic#Arcane_Projection|arcane projection]] designed to pull spirits from the Summer realm into the mortal world, clothe them in metal and stone armour, and unleash them on his enemies.

In the process of concluding the formulation, some modifications were required to the arcane projection. No prior agreement exists with any [[eternal]] or spirits of the Summer realm, so the ritual needed some redesign to allow it to lure the entities who would be armoured in fire and stone to form the supernatural warriors. The work was relatively simple to resolve, adapting some of the formulae involved in forming the [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow|shadow warriors]] and [[Carve the Crystal Guardian|crystal guardians]] in the similar – yet distinct – rituals of [[Night magic|Night]] and [[Day magic|Day]].

Calling up actual magma from the earth itself, especially in a controlled fashion, proved to be significantly more difficult than the arcane projection might have suggested. In the end, it proved unnecessary – and might have even been counterproductive – to the final intent of the ritual. Indeed, some of the scholars working on the ritual theorised that toying with volcanic forces might be easier with the [[Spring magic|Spring realm]] – but that attempts to do so in a controlled fashion were almost certainly doomed to messy and destructive failure.

This ritual does not draw on the power of an eternal – rather it reaches into the Summer realm and pulls forth spirits of fire, sunlight, and destruction. They naturally take the form of potent war-beasts – lions, rams, drakes, bears, and bulls. It is possible that they could take more humanoid shapes if they wished – but so far they have resisted any attempt to make them do so as this would make them (in their own words) “far too small and heavy”.

The ritual [[enchantment|enchants]] a mana site. In a dramatic and somewhat awe-inspiring display, burning golden columns of fire and light swirl into existence at the points where the flows of mana are most concentrated. Crystals and other materials are torn from the ground into these swirling columns, along with chunks of stone and any nearby metal. These materials fuse with the columns of fire, which collapse and take on the form of great beasts. So far the most common forms identified were great lions, armoured bears, massive oxen, proud rams, and more than a few great draconic shapes similar to wyverns or large drakes.

The bodies of these creatures burn constantly, providing warmth and light in a large radius. They are almost impossible to miss, but they are armoured by shaped plates of metal, crystal, and stone. When they eventually launch their suicidal charge, they flame like comets into the heart of the enemy ranks and burst with a thundering detonation that can be heard for miles around.

The Lions of Phoenix Reach are best suited to assist an army on the battlefield, although their fiery presence means they ideally need to fight by themselves a safe distance from mortal soldiers – especially soldiers who do not want to be caught in the inevitable fireball when they explode.

They can also, in theory, be instructed to engage in paid work. Several of the magicians working on the ritual appeared concerned about this and argued that it should be made impossible to use them in this fashion for the safety of innocent bystanders, but even attempting to do so would have required the magnitude of the ritual to be increased ruinously. In the end, the calmer head of Gerontus of Horizon's Reach prevailed – they pointed out that the Lions were ultimately tied to the will of the one who operated the mana site, and as long as they resisted the Lions' desire to incinerate everything nearby there should be no more danger in them protecting a caravan or guarding a brothel than in assigning them to fight alongside Imperial soldiers.

===Spirits of the Summer Realm===
The spirits are immaterial in their natural state, the power of the ritual forces them to create physical – albeit powerfully energetic – bodies with which they can interact with the material world. Their exact provenance is unclear – they do not appear to belong to any specific eternal court and they are not especially communicative. As near as can be determined by brief conversations – they appear intelligent if not especially bright in human terms - they variously call themselves Sun Brothers, Burning People, Gildenfire, and Skyborn. They claim to live in the sky and in “the high places where stone dances” - possibly a reference to a Summer realm volcano.

They talk about making themselves “tiny” and “heavy” when they are summoned. Given that one of these entities is several times the size of an ox, their true size must be immense indeed. One of the magicians responsible for working on the ritual suggested that it might be that in their natural form they are composed of some magical substance part-way between cloud stuff and light, and that becoming material limits them in some fashion.

While they fight alongside an [[Imperial army]] at the command of the individual whose [[mana site]] provided their corpus, they are extremely volatile. It is difficult to prevent them from charging into the thick of the enemy lines and exploding violently in a conflagration of flame that burns everything in their path and sends pieces of their metal armour spearing outwards in a ring.

Like many such spirits, they seem largely unconcerned with the prospect of death. It appears likely that, as with the spirits called up with rituals such as [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]], [[Carve the Crystal Guardian]], [[Quickening Cold Meat]], [[Foam and Spittle of the Furious Sea]], [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]], and even [[Knights of Glory]] or [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]], the spirits simply return to their realm when their bodies are destroyed.

==Common Elements==
The ritual may include a map of the mana site to be enchanted. [[Urizen]] scholars who worked on the ritual suggest that a map of the entire area may be useful to gather more information about the likely flows of mana that surround the site, allowing that information to be woven into the invocation itself.

Where possible the ritual should be performed using at least some crystals that come from the mana site in question although this is not a requirement. Other common features include minerals or stones from the target area; valuable metals such as [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] or [[Materials#Weltsilver|weltsilver]]; symbols of [[Pride]] or [[Courage]]; or armour (especially pieces of magical armour rich in orichalcum).

As with many Urizen rituals, mirrors, light and careful invocations are common elements. The spirits themselves have a resonance for items such as these that capture or involve fire and light – but they have just as much resonance for weapons of war.

[[Verys]], Rune of Strength, and [[Mawrig]], Rune of Destruction, are both ideal for use with this ritual. One Dawnish witch, Percival of the Crimson Petals of Whispermere, has already suggested it would be an excellent ritual with which to evoke the characteristics of the [[Legendary_beasts#Dragons.2C_Wyverns_and_Wyrms|dragon]] - irresistible force, majesty, the power to destroy small villages - but admits they have yet to actually attempt the ritual in this fashion but promises to keep the Conclave appraised once his experiments are completed.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Mantle of the Kriegszauberer

2025-03-13T11:47:16Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|22}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}} The target character must possess the [[Magical skills#Battle Mage|battle mage]] skill.

{{enchantment}}
===Effects===
The target character gains three additional ranks of [[Combat skills#Endurance|endurance]], and four points of [[Magical_skills#Extra_Mana|personal mana]], but only while wearing [[Weapons & armour#Mage_Armour|mage armour]].

They also experience a [[roleplaying effect]]; ''you are certain that your magic, and that the strength and courage of your comrades, is a match for any challenge they may encounter on the battlefield.'' .

{{Season Duration}}
===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters from the same [[Groups#Covens|coven]]. Each additional character increases the magnitude by 17. Additional characters must be present throughout.
==Description==
This ritual formed part of a gift given to the [[Imperial Conclave]] by the ''zauberer'' - magicians - of the [[Commonwealth]] in recognition of the decision to share [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial lore]] with that nation. Four scrolls were provided to different [[Grandmaster|Grandmasters]] chosen by the Conclave and delivered at the Spring Equinox 384YE. The scroll containing Mantle of the Kriegszauberer was provided to the Grandmaster of the [[Rod and Shield]], '''Sakari Nightscale''', who almost immediately [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Imperial_Lore:_Mantle_of_the_Kriegszauberer|arranged]] to have it added to Imperial lore.

The ritual scroll itself was created at [[Commonwealth_ports#Volkavaar_.28Western_Commonwealth.29|Volkavaar University]], specifically for "''the Order of the rod and the shield, who wisely encourage magicians to use their powers in defence of the Empire, even if they are not a warrior by calling''." According to the scroll, the magic of the ''kriegszauberer'' is "''a powerful and versatile weapon, one that can help determine the outcome of a clash of arms if it is employed cleverly and as part of a wider strategy. Some kriegszauberer are adept healers, restoring their injured comrades so they can continue fighting. Others are warriors themselves, able to shatter the weapons and shields of their enemies, or send weak soldiers flying to disrupt the enemy formation. Unfortunately, the fact that the kriegszauberer cannot employ their skills while wearing real armour limits their ability to operate on the front lines of an engagement. This ritual enchantment does its best to improve both their ability to resist the blows of their enemies, and their ability to use their magic in a decisive manner before they are ultimately overrun.''"

The ritual builds on the less powerful [[Crimson Ward of Summer Stars]], providing significantly more protection and also infusing the magician with a reservoir of power that will let them perform several more [[spellcasting|incantations]] - power that can be replenished by the usual means. It ''can'' lead to a little overconfidence, but also encourages the magician to rely on their comrades as well as themselves.

==Common Elements==
Imperial magicians are still experimenting with the resonances of this [[Summer magic|Summer ritual]]. Given it innately involves a battle-magician and their mage amour, that connection is often the focus of the ritual performance. The mage armour may be ceremonially donned as part of the performance, each piece accompanied by an invocation or marked with a rune or symbol. [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Dawn_magical_traditions#War_witches|warwitches]] have been quick to point out the value of [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding|girding]] when creating this enchantment. Key points on the body that correspond roughly to the locations where mage armour is worn (the brow, the shoulders, the forearms, the shins, the belly, the chest and the neck) might also take place. A practitioner of [[blood magic]] might prick the skin at each of these locations, spilling a few drops of blood, before donning the corresponding piece of mage armour.

The rune [[Feresh]] seems to resonate well with this ritual, along with evocations of [[The Stallion]], of horses or bears, and especially of [[Legendary_beasts#Unicorn|unicorns]] and [[Legendary beasts#Gryphons|gryphons]]. A [[dramaturgy|dramaturge]] may find that [[the Captain]] has strong associations with this ritual, but a scene involving [[the Witch]], who provides a gift of [[the Ring|a ring]], also serves to strengthen the ritual, especially if the scene takes place in [[the Counting House]].
[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Leonine Pavilion

2025-03-13T11:39:03Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|20}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Area enchant}}

{{Enchantment}} This is also a [[aura#Location_Aura|location aura]].

===Effects===
This ritual enchants an area with a potent aura.

Anyone who enters the area becomes aware of (and subject to) the aura, and experiences a powerful [[roleplaying effect]]: you are strongly reminded of your accomplishments, and the deeds you are most proud of. You feel an urge to boast about, discuss, and celebrate those accomplishments.

The area can provide a source of supernatural strength to anyone in the area, allowing them to overcome an unwanted [[roleplaying effect]]. This ability requires the character to roleplay talking about, reflecting on, and celebrating their accomplishments and the accomplishments of anyone else in the vicinity. They must also remain in the area. If they leave, the unwanted roleplaying effect returns assuming it has any duration left.

A character who engages in at least fifteen minutes of boasting and carousing in this location aura recovers all lost [[Heroic skills#Hero|hero points]].

There is no effect if the character is on a battlefield or in a similar stressful environment. If the character makes or suffers an attack during this time, or spends any hero points, then the fifteen minutes is interrupted and must be begun again from scratch. This magic is not sufficient to allow recovery of hero points to any character who is under an effect that prevents recovery of hero points overnight such as Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt.

This enchantment is a location aura, similar to that created using the consecration ceremony. A location can only be under one aura at a time. This ritual will replace any standard location aura (including those created by similar rituals), but is not powerful enough to remove a location aura with a [[Aura#Strong Auras|strength]] higher than one. Likewise, any consecration can replace (or remove) this enchantment. A detect magic spell performed in the area determines the realm and magnitude of the effect. The insight skill will not detect any spiritual element to the enchantment.

{{Season Duration}}

==Description==
Inspired by conversations with heralds of [[Eleonaris]], '''Sagua I’Ezmara''' commissioned the ritual text from '''Aquillian Ankarien'''. It was then codified by the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]] under the direction of the [[Master of Ice and Darkness]], '''Ceinwen of the Eternal Family'''. Work was completed shortly before the Summer Solstice 383YE. The ritual was originally entitled “Swim the Eternal Sea”; the Master of Ice and Darkness chose to rename it during the codification. It was added to [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial lore]] in Spring 384YE, following a [[Imperial lore|declaration]] by the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Sagua i Ezmara.

The ritual reminds individuals in the enchanted area of the deeds and accomplishments they are most proud of, and encourages them to celebrate them. They are gently urged to ruminate on their successes, and share them with others. Those who partake in the magical aura, especially those with the changeling lineage, feel the urge to speak about and celebrate not only their own accomplishments, but those of other people sharing the area with them.

Comparisons have been drawn with some of the virtuous auras created through liao ceremonies, specifically those created by priests dedicated to the virtue of [[Pride]]. Yet from observation and experience, the aura is substantially different to those familiar from centuries of liao use. The tenor of the magical aura is much more about considering and sharing accomplishments and deeds one feels proud of.

Leon of the White Oak, a [[magister]] closely involved in the initial codification of the ritual raised concerns that the Summer magic used to create the aura encouraged individuals to “boast” about their deeds and accomplishments. A fellow magical theorist at the college, the [[changeling]] Eduard de Cassilon, countered that while that was the case the “boasting” was not “vain boasting” but rather a legitimate urge to share ones pride at real accomplishments and deeds. Sadly, Leon was unable to reconcile his concern that the ritual might lead to unvirtuous behaviour among those exposed to it and regretfully quit the project before the completion of the codification.

The ritual is quite similar in design and application to the more well-known rituals [[Chamber of Delights]], [[Solace of Chimes]], and [[Chamber of Pallas]]. The aura woven by the magic is distinctive because it has a much more “boisterous” flavour than those three rituals. Rather than quiet conversation, those exposed to the aura are inspired to engage in carousing or celebratory behaviour that can become quite raucous – particularly with people already prone to such things.

As with the other rituals, magicians involved in the codification theorize that were the Leonine Pavilion infused with [[ilium]], the aura would be especially [[Aura#Strong Auras|strong]]. They speculate that in addition to the usual resistance to replacing such an enchantment with an enchantment not also infused with ilium, removing or replacing the aura with the consecration would require true liao. As always, the reticence of the Synod to "waste" true liao on magical experimentation in this means there is still no definitive proof either way.

==Performing the Ritual==
This appreciation of the individual as a part of larger success and taking pride in your own actions without diminishing the actions of others is presented as a potential aspect to performing this ritual. This might include each of the ritualists adding a personal symbol to the decoration of the chamber they are enchanting; singing a song with themes of heroic or glorious action; or each sharing a short tale of personal accomplishment while passing a goblet or cup between them.

The ritual lends itself well to [[dramaturgy]] – [[the Captain]] and [[the Bishop]] are both resonant personae albeit in very different ways, especially in conjunction with [[the Cup]], [[the Blade]], or [[the Battlefield]] – while there are many reasons for a person to feel proud of their deeds and accomplishments martial imagery seems especially resonant with the creation of the Leonine Pavilion.
The rune Feresh has undisputed resonance with the ritual and banners depicting the rune may be hung in the and displayed prominently.

Unsurprisingly, [[aspect_magic#Goetia|goetic]] magicians would evoke [[Eleonaris]] or [[Barien]] during the casting of this ritual. [[aspect_magic#Theurgy|Theurgists]] might evoke the names of any paragon or exemplar they feel a personal connection to – there are few inspirational virtuous figures who have not performed great deeds or accomplishments. A magician who works with [[aspect_magic#Beast Magic|beast magic]] might use depictions of gryphons, unicorns, or lions in their performance as these beasts resonate strongly both with the Summer realm
and the idea of pride and celebration.

Regardless, there are several notes from magicians that the ideal location to perform the ritual is a place with plenty of seats and tables – not so much because it supports the magic but because it is simply easier to go with the urges created by the aura when in a comfortable surrounding.
[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Auras]]

Golden Voyage

2025-03-13T11:36:50Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|18}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Resource|[[fleet]]}}

{{enchantment}}
===Effects===
As long as the target fleet engages in [[Fleet#Take_Independent_Action|privateering]] during the coming season, it encounters adventures, obstacles and opportunities that result in additional profit. The ritual increases the effective level of the target fleet by 6 ranks, which is sufficient to slightly more than double the production of a starting fleet.

The character who controls the target resource experiences a [[roleplaying effect]] for as long as the enchantment persists: ''you feel a yearning to see new things, visit new places, and engage in acts of heroic or glorious adventure''.

{{Season Duration}} {{Downtime buff}} If the fleet does not engage in privateering during the next downtime, the ritual has no effect.

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional fleets belonging to characters in the same [[territory]]. Each additional fleet increases the magnitude by 14. The character who controls each fleet must be present throughout the ritual.

==Special==
Under normal circumstances, the privateering action represents hunting barbarian vessels in the Bay of Catazar. A player who controls a fleet enchanted with this ritual is encouraged to create stories of exploration and adventure beyond the Bay of Catazar if they wish.

==Description==
The ritual was based on an arcane projection developed in Winter 380YE by the [[the Brass Coast|Freeborn]] '''Andreas i Sol-Devorador i Erigo''' of the Krakenfire Armada. It was initially devised as part of a challenge issued by General Karkinos, a herald of the Summer Eternal known as King [[Rhianos]], the Regent of the Eternal Ocean. It was codified at the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]] under the guidance of '''Luke of the Shattered Tower''', who served as [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness|regent]] of that [[College_of_Magic|college of magic]]. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 380YE.

The ritual enchants both the crew and the vessels in equal measure. The ship (or ships) that form the [[fleet]] are strengthened against mundane dangers … but also, inexorably, attract such dangers. Even as an unexpected tempest blows the ship off course, so the sails and the rigging resist damage from that storm. Even as the ship draws the ire of a behemoth beast of the deep ocean, so that beast's talons and beak fail to quite penetrate the planks of the hull.

The crew is likewise invigorated with the enthusiasm and optimism of youth. Like young people secure in their own immortality, like youths who have yet to experience the spectre of death that dogs the heels of every mortal from the moment of birth, they throw themselves with gusto and reckless abandon into dangerous situations – not only for the opportunity to secure profit, but for the sheer wild thrill of running along the spines of a great behemoth to drive a spear into its eye, or exploring the tiger-haunted jungles of a mysterious island.

While the [[enchantment]] persists, the fleet encounters strange obstacles - mist-shrouded islands not on any map inhabited by unliving courtiers; a disgruntled Night magician with a penchant for making people think they are pigs; a pod of friendly dolphins who help lost sailors find fresh food and water on an island of marvellous orichalcum apple trees; a sea battle with an angry independent pirate who must be faced down or outrun; a ghost ship haunted by the spirits of dead Sarcophan who must be defeated in a rhyming contest lest they try to drag the Imperial vessel beneath the waters; an island populated by savage dodo birds who guard strange egg-like stones of tempest jade and emerald; a leviathan whale that spews ambergris all over the deck of a ship; strange birds with gems set in their foreheads; the ruined tower of a stormlord of ancient days, long since gone to dust, but whose walls still bear valuable tapestries; an uncharted island that turns out to be the shell of a great sea turtle ... and so forth. Each of these encounters presents a challenge that, when overcome, leads to a little booty and a tale of daring to tell in Anvil.

Those members of the crew who are a little too reckless, or a little too unlucky will find that the danger presented by these adventures is very real. Some may fall, or be crippled, or broken in spirit, or claimed as consort by shapeshifting horrors or undead courtiers. Perhaps the captain will secure a ransom in orichalcum and jade, but the damage to their ship will be so extreme that they must spend most of that ransom keeping their vessel afloat.

Regardless of the details, the ritual brings an experience, an adventure, an opportunity to be seized. The opportunity for wealth is truly the least interesting element of the ritual's power.

The ritual will not aid a fleet that engages in trade, or seeks to support a naval military force. The enchantment ensures that a privateering fleet will encounter adventures that lead to increased profit. It seems to touch a power similar to the serendipity that is evoked by several Autumn rituals. Fate and destiny, and the powers of chance, are gently warped to favour the preferred outcome – that a ship and its crew will encounter opportunities for risk and adventure.

Under normal circumstances, the Summer realm does not resonate with ideas of profit and wealth – and this ritual has little interest in such Autumnal elements. Rather the ritual weaves themes of prowess and triumph together to guide the hand of chance. In theory, a fleet enchanted with this ritual could end up destroyed by the dangers they faced, or receive no extra profit at all – beyond a wild story of behemoths, forlorn princes, cruel merrow pirates, and sea-tigers.

One element of the ritual that may need to be carefully monitored is that it fills the sea captain with the urge to seek out new vistas, new opportunities, and reckless endeavours – a stronger version of the same urge that takes the crew of the ships the ritual targets. Individuals already prone to reckless pursuit of the new, those addicted to the thrilling excitement of roof-top chases and deadly challenges, are in significant danger of losing control and getting themselves killed, or captured by Grendel pirates, or challenging terrible foes to single combat.

==Performing the Ritual==
The ritual both strengthens a fleet and fills its crew with an urge to seek adventure. It is equally resonant with the [[Sular|Rune of Discovery]] and the [[Jotra|Rune of Battle]]. A [[blood magic|blood mage]] might share blood with a visitor to the Empire, seeking to draw on their exotic and alien nature to guide the ritual to seek out new things and new experiences. An [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] or [[Varushka|Varushkan]] might have the target swear an oath to seek opportunity and adventure without concern for the risks involved.

Lanterns, [[Technology#Lightstones|lightstones]], or lamp oil may be used as a conduit for the ritual. Woven with magic, enchanted and purified, they are sent with the target fleet which uses them to light its way over the seas. Stones from a distant shore may also be used, especially those stones taken from the ballast of far traveling vessels.

[[aspect_magic|Aspect magicians]] call on beasts that travel far across the sea. In The Brass Coast, dolphins are called on; among the [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]], an albatross. For the [[Dawn|Dawnish]], the Kraken or the Wingèd Horse, or the legendary beasts of distant nations may be named. The theurgist may evoke [[Zemress]]; the goetic will surely call on Rhianos, regent of the eternal ocean.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Resource]].

Gidyon's Refrain

2025-03-13T11:29:06Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|12}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}}

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
The target gains the ability to respond as they wish to any [[roleplaying effect]] they are exposed to - but they must sing a stirring song loudly and enthusiastically while they do so.

They can respond to any roleplaying effect as they see fit, as if they had a source of [[roleplaying effects#spiritual strength|spiritual strength]], but only as long as they continue to sing. When they cease singing they are subject to the roleplaying effect as normal. A roleplaying effect is effectively suppressed for as long as the character sings - it is not removed or countered by the enchantment. Other characters still experience the roleplaying effect unchanged - this does not offer protection to a group.

As long as they are subject to the enchantment, the target also experiences a ''roleplaying effect'': you feel the urge to sing enthusiastically. This becomes an almost overpowering urge to join in when you are around other people who are already singing.

This enchantment is a personal aura, similar to that created using the [[anointing]] ceremony. An individual can only be under the effect of one personal aura at a time. This ritual will replace any standard personal aura (including those created by similar rituals), but is not powerful enough to remove a personal aura with a [[Aura#Strong Auras|strength]] higher than one. Likewise, any anointing can replace (or remove) this enchantment. A [[detect magic]] spell determines the realm and magnitude of the effect. The insight skill does not detect any spiritual element to the enchantment.

{{Season Duration}}

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters from the same [[Groups#Sects|sect]]. Each additional character increases the magnitude by 9. Additional characters must be present throughout.
==Description==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Onni Gidyon Veromaa.jpg|caption=The music of Onni Gidyon Veromaa served as inspiration for this ritual.|title=The power of the enchantment relies on enthusiasm rather than technical ability - and in a pinch volume is often indistinguishable from enthusiasm|align=right|width=300}}
This ritual was codified at the [[Madruga#The_Lyceum|Lyceum]] during Spring 380YE under the guidance of [[Dean of the Lyceum|Dean]] '''Simargl, the Empty One''', of the Circle of Zulgan Tash. It is believed that the ritual takes its name in honour of the late Onni Gidyon Veromaa, a talented [[stzena]] from the Circle of Zulgan Tash dedicated to protecting their vale from external threats. It was [[Declaration#Declaration_of_Imperial_Lore|added]] to [[Imperial_lore#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial lore]] by the [[Imperial Conclave|Conclave]] during the Winter 380YE [[Varushka_culture_and_customs#The_Feast_of_the_Loom|Feast of the Loom]] - a time which has special significance for the Varushkan people.

There is an undeniable relationship between music and spirituality, between music and passion. Music stirs the soul. A man whistles as he passes a burial ground, gaining confidence. A child sings as she crosses a rickety bridge, taking courage from the music and conquering her fear that something dreadful might lurk beneath. Through the magic of the enchantment created by this ritual, the target is able to empower their will and their spirit with a musical recitation. As the music soars, the target becomes capable of overcoming external influences on their actions.

The relationship between music and heroism is most commonly understood in only one direction. Songs that immortalise or commemorate the actions of the brave, the mighty, the clever and the victorious are as common as songs that mourn the dead, the lost, the fallen. In both cases, the music creates a connection between the one who sings and the events they describe. The singer is ''[[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding|girded]]'' in the memory of the deeds recounted as surely as if they were donning the armour of the hero they sing of.

The [[Urizen]] might say that technical brilliance is required to work magic with music, but the [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] at least would surely disagree. Gusto, enthusiasm, passion - the joyous noise dispels the darkness when even the most tone-deaf musician breaks the chains of shame and self-consciousness to raise their voice against fear and despair. Between the notes of the song flows the capacity to choose one's own path.

An important element of using the enchantment is choosing the right song - although it could be argued there are no wrong songs. The ritual grants self-determination and protects from outside influence regardless of what tune is chosen. The only requirement is that the one who is enchanted make music enthusiastically. By raising their voice, they raise the bulwarks of their spirit. They make their soul and their will adamant. They are the champion that holds back the storm with the song of the hearth and the home, they are every warrior who raises their voice in the [[Battle Anthem]] as they march to war.

Usually, though, unless one is a [[Wintermark_culture_and_customs#Art_and_history|scop]] or stzena, a simple song is best. Something that can be sung instinctively, and whose words and tune are not so complex that they will interfere with the ability to focus on other tasks - especially tasks that will end the aura that oppresses them. Singing is a physical task - the ignorant may underestimate how tiring it can be to keep a song going for a long period of time. When the voice falls silent, the oppressive aura resurges, the haunting spirit returns, the pan of the wound recurs.

A chorus can help the enchanted one - the support of other musicians can help the singer keep their tune alive. For all the power of this magic, brave comrades who will raise their voices alongside the target are worth more than all the technical expertise in the world.

==Common Elements==
The ritual draws on resonances of confidence and music. As such it is deeply appropriate for the magicians to draw on the [[Music of the spheres]] when performing the ritual. Magicians not versed in that esoteric tradition may instead work with their target and any onlookers to create a more straightforward musical performance.

In the simplest form, a hymn, choir, or round might be performed, led by the magicians and relying on voices raised enthusiastically. In others, musicians may participate as well. It would be deeply appropriate for magicians of the Brass Coats to include energetic dancing as well, while in [[Wintermark]] or [[Dawn]] loud horns or drums might be particularly resonant.

The target of the ritual should be at the centre of any performance - whether musical or magical. The ritualists may paint or carve the rune [[Zorech]] (for passion, a concept often associated with heroic and confident behaviour) onto the target, but [[Feresh]], the Rune of Majesty, has an even stronger resonance. Feresh grants a measure of protection from outside influences, especially those that might cause doubt, confusion, shame, or humility, and in this aspect is often called the Helm.

A fortifying drink, especially a mildly alcoholic beverage, is a suitable component for this ritual. Poured and ceremonially offered to the target, who wets their lips and soothes a throat parched from singing, it is then passed to the other participants. Alternatively, a single vessel might have liquid poured into it by several magicians in turn, representing the spiritual strength and mental fortitude of the group that is finally consumed by the chosen champion.

In [[dramaturgy]], [[the Captain]] is the most appropriate [[dramaturgy#The Personae|persona]] to evoke, while in [[Blood magic]] drops of blood taken from a willing participant known for their musical ability, bravery, or self-confidence may be used instead. A [[Varushka|Varushkan]] may evoke the image of [[Pride|proud]] [[Varushka_religious_beliefs#The_Virtuous_Animals|creatures]] such as deer or eagles - coincidentally creatures also associated with the rune Feresh.

The [[eternal]] [[Eleonaris]] has strong resonance with this ritual, as does the eternal [[Janon]] (for all that Janon is a denizen of the Night realm rather than the Summer realm).

For some reason the ritual has an additional resonance with bees. Bees are a Varushkan creature associated with [[Prosperity]], which makes their involvement in this ritual somewhat counter-intuitive. Still, a chorus that accompanies the ritual with droning or humming appears to help the magic flow more easily around the target.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Auras]]

Sutannir's Promise

2025-03-13T11:26:24Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|10}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}}

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
Once per day, while in an area [[consecration|consecrated]] to [[Courage]], the target may spend ten minutes of [[appropriate roleplaying]] including passionate and motivating speech. Any listener who was in the area for the entire period recovers all [[heroic skills#hero|hero points]]. This ability cannot be used on a battlefield or in a similar stressful environment. A listener who has lost the ability to recover hero points overnight cannot recover them through the use of this power.

While under the effect of this [[enchantment]], the target experiences a [[roleplaying effects|roleplaying effect]]: ''You are filled with a conviction that you can change the world, provided you do what you know to be right.''

{{Season Duration}}

==Description==
This ritual was developed at the Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun under the direction of '''Luke of the Shattered Tower'''. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 382YE, and it was entered into [[Imperial lore]] by the [[Imperial Conclave|Conclave]] during the [[382YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Imperial_Lore|Summer Solstice 382YE]]. The original work to create this ritual was undertaken by '''Carlos i Guerra''', Freeborn Hakima of the Seers of Oran.

The effect of this ritual is partly inspired by, and patterned after, the [[Heroes' Horn]] musical instrument employed by priests across the Empire. The horn allows a priest to use a musical performance to draw on the power of a consecration of Courage to inspire an audience. The enchantment strengthens the target's ability to draw on that consecration, even if they are not a priest. Through their impassioned words, woven with [[Summer magic]], they help their audience connect with the power of the consecrated area, and create a resonance between them and the spiritual power that surrounds them.

The power of the ritual does not provide any ability to actually ''create'' a consecrated area. Unless the recipient is a priest [[dedication|dedicated]] to Courage already, they will need the assistance of an individual trained in the ceremonial use of liao. The enchantment works only with the consecration of Courage – it does not work with consecrations drawn from other spiritual powers nor with magical [[Aura#Location_Aura|auras]] of any kind. Further, as with auras such as those created by [[Chamber of Delights]], it cannot help individuals who have lost the ability to replenish themselves with sleep - those subjected to [[Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt]] for example.

A side effect of the enchantment is that it fills the recipient with the certainty that they can undertake great deeds, and change the world even, provided they do what they know to be right. In some ways it is as if the recipient carries a portion of the consecration of Courage with them at all times.

The sutannir for whom this ritual is named are a specific kind of priest found in [[the Brass Coast]]. Pious Freeborn place an emphasis on celebration, rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, and dancing. The sutannir embrace that tradition, often painting their faces and limbs with stylised flames in bright colours or donning flamboyant costumes.

When it comes to preaching, or speaking about the Way, sutannir keep their words short and evocative, knowing that their audience wishes to be inspired rather than lectured. This approach has an obvious resonance with the magic of of the ritual. Summer magic is spontaneous, inspirational, and of-the-moment. Long, droning speeches have little resonance with Summer. Yet at the same time the enchantment requires that the recipient inspire the people who will benefit from its magic for a specific period of time.

To combat this, the enchanted recipient can take a leaf out of the sutannir's book. Short speeches about the Virtues interspersed with musical performances, or dramatic recitation of poems or songs can easily fill the required time with entertainment that keeps the audience focused and engaged with the preacher. Such activities work regardless of culture; a [[Wintermark]] audience will appreciate inspiring tales of past heroes, while a [[Highguard|Highborn]] audience can be inspired by stories of the paragons and exemplars of Courage.

==Common Elements==
Drawing as it does on the role of the sutannir, when performing this ritual, flames may be painted on the face and limbs of the target, or especially around the eyes. They may be girded in flamboyant, brightly coloured costumes, or bound with crimson or golden cloth. The nature of the magic is to help inspire one's allies, so anything that draws attention, or grants confidence, especially the colour red, is appropriate.

As during a ceremony, the ritual may involve the slow rhythmic beating of drums – symbolic of the hearts the target wishes to touch with their magic. Horns may be blown, or the ritual may involve the singing of hymns of Courage or songs about inspirational courageous figures. The recitation of a tale of a heroic figure by the target of the ritual is also resonant.

While Courage is sometimes represented by the rune [[Jotra]], this ritual is much more resonant with the Rune of Majesty – [[Feresh]] – which is also called the eagle and is associated with the Virtue of [[Pride]]. By enhancing what is present, Summer magic strengthens that quality of the target that inspires others. A practitioner of [[aspect magic]] may evoke the eagle, the swan, or the heron as well as the more obvious symbolic animals such as jackdaw, bear, or boar. In the time since the ritual was codified into Imperial lore it has proved popular with martially-minded [[aspect_magic#Theurgy|theurgists]] who greatly appreciate the way it combines magical prowess with virtuous behaviour. They, obviously, evoke the spirits of [[paragons and exemplars]] known for their Courage such as [[Inga Tarn]] and [[Gilda Ashwine]].

A [[dramaturgy|dramaturgist]] will find this ritual resonates well with [[the Bishop]], especially in the aspect of Couros (for magic that inspires and encourages). The [[Dramaturgy#The_Thrones|Throne]] of [[the Battlefield]] is likewise resonant.

As part of the ritual, it is also natural for the target to receive an [[anointing]] of Courage, especially the [[Auras_of_Courage#The_Purity_of_Courage|Purity of Courage]]. The [[Auras_of_Courage#The_Light_of_Courage|Light of Courage]] may be a poor fit for this ritual, depending on the circumstances – it takes a skilled public speaker to inspire an audience while simultaneously confronting them with truths that may be deeply unpalatable.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

From the Mouths of Babes

2025-03-13T11:25:03Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|8}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} While performing this ritual the ritualist must write a message on a piece of paper. The message can be up to fifty words long, and must be recited verbally during the performance of the ritual. At the completion of the ritual, the written message is given to the referee.

===Effects===
When the ritual is complete, the message is received by the Summer [[eternal]] [[Meraud]]. The paper is given to the referee as a record of the message.

This ritual does not transfer pictures or items.

The eternal is peripherally aware of who sent the message.
===Option===
The magnitude of the ritual is reduced by 6 if the ritual is performed using the [[Apprentice_Ability|apprentice]] rules. In this case, the message must be recited by the apprentice.
===Assurance===
As with many such [[Ritual_theory#Rituals_that_deal_with_Eternals|rituals that deal with eternals]], there is an element built into the formula that means Meraud may withdraw from the agreement supporting it. While many of these stipulations are not common knowledge, anyone who has studied the text confirms that there is a simple "get out clause" in the ritual, which is: "''If the Imperial Conclave ever declares [[Alignment#Enmity|enmity]] against Meraud, this ritual will cease to function.''" Should the Conclave pass a [[declaration]] of enmity against Meraud this ritual will immediately stop working. Removing the enmity will ''not'' cause the ritual to begin working again - a new ritual would need to be created with the approval of Meraud before communication could be re-established.

==Description==
The Summer eternal Meraud is also known as the ''Summer Enchanter''. This ritual was apparently designed by (or at the behest of) the ''Golden Magician''. Meraud is a sometime rival of the Night eternal [[Sadogua]], and it is likely this ritual was inspired by the well-known [[Missive for Sadogua]]. The inclusion of an [[Apprentice_Ability|apprentice]] as a component of the ritual reflects Meraud's interest in the Imperial Academy, and in the relationship between magicians and their apprentices in general. Indeed, Meraud is known to occasionally take on mortal children as apprentices for a season or two, showing them some of the wonders of his domain, and generally leaving them with a somewhat haphazard appreciation of the arts of weaving mighty magic.

The ritual itself was entered into [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial Lore]] during the Summer Solstice 380YE summit, by the magician '''Andreaus'''. The original text itself is believed to have originated with the eternal, and its entry into Imperial Lore was allegedly part of some agreement with the [[Rod and Shield]] [[Conclave order]]. There was some confusion regarding payment, and the location of the ritual text, and its addition to lore was not finalized until over a year later, shortly after the Winter Solstice 381YE. The [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanters|enchantress]] Robyn Vandale of [[Dawn groups#House_Vandale|House Vandale]] provided the funds needed to complete the process; during this time she suggested that the ritual should be renamed "''Vandale's Apprentice''" or possibly even "'''Vandale's Missive''" in recognition of the source of the money. While the name has caught on in some parts of Dawn, many magicians prefer to refer to it by its original name.

The ritual is very simple; all it does is transfer a spoken message to the ear of the eternal Meraud. There is no requirement that the Golden Archmage acknowledge or answer the message, only that he listens to it. If he does choose to respond, any answer is likely to come in the form of visits from heralds. That said, the message can be used to petition Meraud for favours, or to try and arrange an audience, with mixed success so far.

One key element of the ritual that makes it stand out is the advantage of using one or more [[Apprentice Ability|apprentices]] during its performance. If one or more of the contributors are being coached by more experienced magicians, the ritual becomes significantly easier and cheaper to cast. This is believed to be an element specifically included by Meraud to encourage the spread of magic through the citizens of the Empire - or to demonstrate his approval for and tacit patronage of the [[The_Academy|Imperial Academy]].

As with [[Missive for Sadogua]], some number of priests are a little suspicious of this ritual, claiming that it is tantamount to praying, or to making Imperial citizens minions of, a non-human power. There are grumbles about [[Religious_crime#Idolatry|idolatry]], and some devout magicians actively discourage the use of rituals such as this.

==Common Elements==
A key component of this ritual is a written copy of the message, which must be spoken aloud during the performance. The message is sometimes read verbatim, as from a scroll, with great pomp and ceremony. It might also be destroyed - it is commonly burnt ('''OOC Note:''' If you do actually burn the message, it is still important to have an OOC copy to give to the referee).

Another important element of the ritual is the apprentice (most often a child) who may be called upon to speak the message to be delivered to Meraud. Not every ritual uses such a child, but the inclusion means that the ritual is significantly easier and cheaper to cast. The apprentice must be a [[Rituals#Contributors|contributor]] to the ritual - and indeed some magicians may prefer to ensure all the contributors are apprentices as that is likely even more appealing to Meraud.

Ritualists include other elements appropriate both to the eternal and the Realm of Summer. Marking the parchment with a symbol associated with Meraud such as the lion-and-rod, or a falling star, or with one of the [[Wintermark]] [[runes]] [[Verys]] or [[Tykonus]] for example. The ritual itself is intended to be performed in a flashy, dramatic fashion - trumpets or drums are appropriate, as is firebreathing, or invocations of Meraud's many titles in a respectful or bombastic fashion.

If the ritual is performed by an apprentice, the young person who will work the ritual is often painted with runes (potentially including [[Queros]]), or with a depiction of the [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] constellation of [[the Chain]]. It is also not uncommon for everyone performing the ritual to paint their faces as, or wear masks depicting, lions or tigers.

A [[dramaturgy|dramaturgist]] might cunningly work the requirement for using a child into the ritual by scripting a page or squire who delivers the important message as part of their play - ideally to a [[Dramaturgy#The_Personae|Persona]] representing Meraud. There is some argument among dramaturgists as to which persona most represents the Summer Mage - [[the Prince]], [[the Witch]], and [[the Bishop]] are all considered to have resonance depending on how they are depicted.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Skar's Gentle Push

2025-03-13T11:23:55Z

Apoth: /* Performing the Ritual */

{{CaptionedImage|file=Irontide Skar.jpg|caption=Irontide Skar, former general of the Summer Storm.|align=right|width=450}}
==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|6}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}}

{{enchantment}}
===Effects===
The target character gains the [[Combat_skills#Shield|shield]] skill.

As long as they are enchanted, the target experiences a [[roleplaying effects|roleplaying effect]]: ''you feel the urge to be at the forefront of any confrontation, and to wade into any armed conflict, wielding your shield to protect yourself and your allies.

{{Season Duration}}
__TOC__
===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters from the same [[Bands#Banners|banner]]. Each additional character increases the magnitude by 4. Additional characters must be present throughout.

==Description==
This ritual is developed from work originally done by Irontide Lok of the [[Imperial Orcs]]. It was codified at the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]] under the guidance of Ceinwein Eternal of the Eternal family. Work was completed shortly before the Spring Equinox 383YE.

The ritual's name is a reference a former general of the [[Imperial_Orcs_military_concerns#The_Summer_Storm|Summer Storm]], Irontide Skar - the same general referred to in [[Unshackled_Gift#Skar.27s_Strength|Skar's Strength]] [[potion]]. A bold warrior and veteran of many campaigns, Irontide Skar is known as a master of the use of the shield in battle. He is also known to be an adept of the art of pushing forward while defending himself and his allies with a great shield – the “gentle push” of the name. Some magicians involved in the codification of the ritual pondered whether the “Irontide” itself may be a reference to this tactic.

This ritual has some commonality with the much more potent [[Might of the Myrmidon]]. Rather than sparking the potential to be a mighty warrior in a green recruit, however, it empowers them with the much more focused ability to use a shield to its full potential. There is a limit to the effectiveness of the magic, which is the will and spirit of the one chosen to bear the enchantment. While the ritual gently encourages the shieldbearer to seek out opportunities for heroism and glory, or to put themselves where their shield will be of the most value, it cannot turn a sheep into a lion.

Enhancing individuals to make them more capable is the single most important resonance of [[Summer magic]]. The ritual easily exploits the resonance of prowess that runs throughout Summer Magic.

==Performing the Ritual==
The magic has some similarity to [[Might of the Myrmidon]] and similar rituals. It commonly involves girding the target with a shield – ideally the shield they are to use. There is a strong influence of [[Imperial Orcs]] magical philosophy in parts of the ritual – having the target swear an oath related to how they will use the shield resonates strongly with the magic, as does having a magician perform the create bond incantation to bond the bearer to their shield if it is a magical item.

While much of the focus is on the one who will be [[enchantment|enchanted]], it is also resonant with the magic involved to name the shield – or give it a name if it is unnamed – and where possible have the bearer speak about why it is an item of [[worth]] – the Imperial Orcs concept of items gaining significance through use – or how they intend to use it so that it gains worth.

Some [[Dawn_magical_traditions|witches]] suggest that these ideas resonate strongly with their magical traditional of [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding|girding]], while [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]] scholars draw parallels with the idea of naming and how names have power.

When the ritual is performed on a band of warriors rather than a single person, a [[aspect_magic#Theurgy|theurgist]] suggests that it is resonant to reinforce bonds of loyalty and mutual respect, on the grounds that the targets will presumably all fight together and be responsible for protecting each other. The names of [[paragons and exemplars]] known to be legendary warriors such as [[Adelmar the Lion]] may be invoked – although not all are equally appropriate. The magicians codifying the ritual suggest that [[Inga Tarn]] and [[Bolstering_Bill_(Exemplar)|Bolstering Bill]] with their well-known affection for two-handed weapons would be poor choices.

Another suggested method of performing the ritual is to recreate a scene from the life of General Skar, where the recipient is called on to attack one of the contributors who blocks the blow with their sword and strikes the opponent a glancing blow with their shield.

Some Imperial Orc magicians have suggested that it might be resonant to call on the name of Irontide Skar, as if he were an ancestor; others say that it would be unwise or potentially even blasphemous to use the name in this fashion. There is much less concern about referencing the ''Iron Defender'' – the shield gifted by the Imperial Orcs to [[the Throne]] – which can be seen as an iconic item of great worth with a strong resonance to this ritual. Others have also suggested the names of the artifact [[Pilgrim's Shield|Pilgrim's Shields]] might be used in a similar fashion.

Any Summer rune resonates with the ritual but [[Verys]] and [[Feresh]] are most common. An evocation of [[the Stallion]] or [[the Oak]], the evocation of a ferocious animal such as a [[aspect_magic#Beast Magic|bear, badger]], or [[Legendary_beasts#Chimera|chimera]], or the names of [[Cathan Canae]], [[Eleonaris]], or [[Adamant|King Adamant]] are also appropriate.
[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Clad in Golden Raiment

2025-03-13T11:22:44Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|5}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Resource|[[Military unit]]}}

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
The military unit gains a small bonus to its effectiveness when it is [[Military_unit#Support_Army|assigned]] to support a [[Imperial army|campaign army]]. {{Military Unit Strength|20|1}}

The character who controls the military unit experiences a short-lived [[roleplaying effect]]:They greatly desire recognition and approval for themselves and their military unit; they want to ensure people know that they are the leader of a powerful force of fighters. Anyone who belittles or disparages them or their soldiers is likely to be met with anger and perhaps even physical violence. The effect persists for at least ten minutes after the ritual is complete.

{{Season Duration}}

{{Downtime buff}}

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional military units controlled by members of the same [[Groups#Banners|banner]]. Each additional military unit increases the magnitude by 3. The character who controls each unit must be present throughout the ritual.

===Option===
Any caster who has mastered the ritual may choose to substitute [[Materials#Orichalcum|orichalcum]] for crystal mana when contributing to it. Every 2 ingots of Orichalcum spent counts as 1 crystal mana when contributing to the ritual.

==Description==
This ritual was developed under the guidance of the [[Varushka|Varushkan]] '''Simargl, the Empty One''' of the Circle of Zulgan-Tash during his tenure as [[Dean of the Lyceum]]. It grants great strength of will and fighting spirit to a [[military unit]] for the coming season. The soldiers in that unit are [[Pride|proud]] of their identity as part of a fighting group, and prepared to defend their name and honour against anyone who mocks, disrespects or disparages them or their fellow soldiers. They stand up taller, take great pains to ensure their weapons and armour are maintained, and bear symbols of their military identity prominently and passionately. They are driven to demonstrate their martial prowess to their fellow soldiers, and the camaraderie they feel at being part of a military force is greatly enhanced.

Unlike the more powerful [[Raise the Standard of War]], the ritual rarely causes discipline problems. The pride the soldiers feel in their military unit, and the camaraderie the ritual engenders towards their fellow soldiers, reduce the likelihood of clashing with other soldiers - as long as they receive the respect they feel they deserve. It is rarely wise to assign a band of fighting folk enchanted with this ritual to an Imperial army containing soldiers from rival units or associated with factions who are traditional enemies - even worse, two unfriendly bands ''both'' enchanted with this ritual are likely to come to blows in short order.

While the ritual lacks the raw power of Raise the Standard of War and similar ritual enchantments, its advantages are twofold. First, it is quite effective at enchanting a number of military commanders and their warrior bands in one go. Second, the enchantment can be easily performed by any relatively competent Summer ritualist without drawing on their coven bond. It is also cheap enough in terms of crystal mana (and versatile enough that orichalcum can be used to spread the cost) that even the poorest military commander should be able to afford the initial outlay, and provide their forces with a small but still militarily relevant bonus.

==Common Elements==
This ritual enhances a small military force, using a connection to its leader to spread magic through the entire unit. It should be quite common to include a banner or standard bearing the sigil, heraldry, livery or colours of the target unit. The researchers suggest that evocation of [[Paragons and Exemplars]] of [[Pride]] and [[Courage]] would be appropriate to the performance of this ritual, as might [[dramaturgy|dramaturgical]] workings that employ [[the Prince]], [[the Captain]] and possibly even [[the Bishop]] or [[Astronomancy |constellations]] such as [[the Chain]] or [[the Stork]].

The hearth magic of [[Dawn hearth magic#Girding|girding]] the military leader is especially appropriate to this ritual, especially in rich cloth the colour of gold, the sound of martial horns or drums, and the presence of warriors from the same nation as the target as witnesses, especially if they engage in spirited cheering or support.

The eagle-rune of [[Feresh|majesty]] is very appropriate to the performance of this ritual.

[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]
[[Category:Warfare]]
[[Category:Resource]]

Stag Knight's Glory

2025-03-13T11:17:16Z

Apoth: /* Description */

==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|2}}
===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}}

The ritual fails if you or the target are hit, or attack another character.
===Effects===
Within 10 seconds of the ritual being complete, the target can make a single heroic call based on the weapon that they are using.

They may call [[Calls#STRIKEDOWN|STRIKEDOWN]] if they are wielding a [[Weapons & armour#Polearms|polearm]], [[Calls#IMPALE|IMPALE]] if they are wielding a [[Weapons & armour#Great weapons|great weapon]] or [[Calls#CLEAVE|CLEAVE]] if they are wielding a [[Weapons & armour#One-handed_Weapons|one handed weapon]], or a [[Weapons & armour#One-handed_Spear|one handed spear]]. The target ''cannot'' use an [[Weapons & armour#Implements|implement]] to deliver an empowered blow.

Any character who contributes to the casting of the ritual experiences a roleplaying effect: you feel invincible, as if you can accomplish anything and overcome any obstacle. The effect is short-lived, fading after ten minutes or so.

The call ''must'' be used within 10 seconds of the performance being completed.

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters. The magnitude increases by one for every two additional targets. All targets must be present throughout, and the ritual fails if any of the targets are hit, or attack another character.

==Description==
This ritual was codified for the Spring Equinox 385YE at the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]], under the guidance of '''Ceinwen''' of the Eternal Family, the [[Master of Ice and Darkness]]. Based on work originally performed by the witch '''Alexander''' of [[Dawn]], it was the final ritual [[385YE_Summer_Solstice_Conclave_sessions#Imperial_Lore:_Stag_Knight.27s_Glory|entered into Imperial lore]] by Simargl the Empty One before they stepped down as the [[Dean of the Lyceum]] during the Summer Solstice 385YE.

Inspired by the work of Dawnish war weavers using spring rituals such as [[Hands of Sacred Life]] and [[Blood of the Hydra]] to heal groups of combatants on the field of battle, this ritual calls upon the Summer realm and the resonance of [[Summer magic#Prowess|prowess]] to give subjects of this ritual a brief burst of martial skill. The recipients can use this power to face what’s in front of them with a single great swing of their weapon. It can be cast on a single warrior but is intended to be cast on a small group of coordinated knights in a glorious charge.

While rituals like ''Blood of the Hydra'' channel the energy slowly into the targets body to promote and speed healing, this ritual is more volatile. The power burns out quickly, unless channelled into a single mighty strike. In essence, this is a ritual version of the [[Empower]] spell familiar to battle-magicians across the Empire. It is likely that such a ritual may even have existed once, but has been lost to the mists of time. Magical scholars broadly agree that the incantations and spells magicians use today may have begun as rituals and were slowly refined and mastered to allow them to be performed with a mortal beings' natural magical reserves rather than crystal mana. Blood of the Hydra is one example, but rituals such as ''Hands of Sacred Life'', [[Hakima's Glass]], [[Ascetic Star of Atun]], are all obvious predecessors of [[heal]], [[detect magic]], and the [[purify]] spell respectively.

Empower, however, is significantly more difficult to use as a ritual because the duration of the effect is so short. The single magically-empowered strike must take place within ten seconds of the ritual's climax. This means that it must almost certainly be performed on the front lines of a fight, ensuring the recipients have enough time to reach their foe, and putting the ritual casters themselves in danger. Another option, of course, is for the ritualists to perform the ritual on themselves, allowing them to make a powerful strike with any weapon they are proficient with. Again, though, it will need to be cast near a fight if it is to be effective.

==Common Elements==
The ritual is specifically intended to be cast quickly and in dangerous environments. As a ritual inspired by Dawnish practices, when performing the ritual, casters often invoke [[aspect_magic#Heraldic_Magic|proud and ferocious beasts]] such as [[Mundane_beasts#Big_Cats|lions]], bears, [[Legendary_beasts#Gryphon|gryphons]], [[Legendary_beasts#Unicorn|unicorns]], and [[Legendary_beasts#Chimera|chimera]]. It also works well when accompanied by loud, inspirational music, signing, or the sound of horns – none of which are particularly subtle but resonate strongly with the magic.

Depending on circumstances, the targets of the ritual may be [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding|girded]], but it is much easier for the casters to grant then favours, perhaps marked with one of the [[Runes#Runes_of_Summer|Summer Runes]], or with depictions of [[the Phoenix]] or [[the Chain]] [[Astronomancy#Constellations|constellations]]. A coven of [[dramaturgy|dramaturges]] might likewise improvise a shot scene involving some or all of [[the Captain]]. especially in her aspect as ''Vassa'', [[the Bishop]] as ''Couros'', [[the Ring]] or [[the Blade]], and (unsurprisingly) [[the Battlefield]].
[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Kahraman

2025-02-19T21:54:52Z

Apoth: /* Strategic Considerations */

{{stub}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=RegionsofKahraman.png|caption=A treacherous land of broken rock and barren mountainsides ... and great wealth.|title=Regions of Kahraman|align=left|width=600}}
== Overview ==
The mountains of Kahraman rise from the great grasslands of Segura to the south and the Mournwold to the north, presenting a treacherous land of broken rock and barren mountainside. Fast-flowing streams spill down deep jagged-edged valleys. There is precious little in the way of vegetation, only scrub that clings to the slopes. However, there are riches in the mountains: here, the Freeborn find precious metals and minerals, often as sediment lying in the streambeds. Scattered settlements shelter in the valleys, with the remains of stone fortresses and watchtowers decaying on the heights above, remnants from the days before the Empire when the Freeborn warred with the Marches.

To the south of the mountains of Kahraman lie sweeping grass plains, a seemingly desolate landscape dotted with strange rock formations shaped by the wind. Here the Freeborn graze the bulk of their herds of goats and sheep. The wind from the west, the Delés, is constant and bitingly cold at night. As a result, for shelter, Freeborn communities settle in bowl-shaped depressions cut from the earth, their tents sunk below the plains' surface.

The [[family|families]] of Kahraman have a somewhat undeserved reputation for being quarrelsome; as a response, the Freeborn established the post of [[Dhomiro of the Cinnabar Hills]] to help mediate their disputes and to encourage trade between the sometimes quite isolated settlements here. The Dhomiro is an [[Imperial title]] that is appointed each Autumn by Freeborn citizens who control [[fleet|fleets]].

==Recent History==
Since [[Liathaven]] and the [[Mournwold]] fell into the hands of the [[Jotun]] barbarians, there has been an increase in raids by orcs from the north. The Freeborn maintained vital trade routes and communications with the [[Navarr]] holdouts in [[Liathaven#Beacon Point|Beacon Point]], until the Jotun orcs forced the Navarr into Kahraman in late 379YE. By the spring of the new year, the Jotun had pushed deep into Kahraman, eventually making it all the way to the Great Mine of Briante until they were repelled by Imperial armies. After several months of fighting, the barbarians were chased back into the forests of Liathaven and by the Winter Solstice 380YE was Kahraman was free from barbarian occupation. However, the Jotun left a warning on the walls of [[#Damata|Damata]], saying that [[380YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Quiet_on_the_Western_Front|they had come once and would come again]].

A second serious invasion [[All_the_way#Take_Control|began]] in 384YE, this time spearheaded by the Lasambrian Jotun. Rather than echoing previous invasions, which went straight for the rich resources of Serra Damata and Serra Briante, they focused their efforts on the plains of [[#Gambit|Gambit]] and [[#Jade Range|Jade Range]]. After significant [[Down that road|early gains]], they eventually faced the might of all three [[Navarr]] armies and both Freeborn armies. Their attempt to take [[Of earth and sky|capture Braydon's Jasse]], and cut the mountains off from the rest of the Empire, were blocked and by the end of the year they were once again [[No_Peace#Red_Hills|driven out]]. It wasn't long before yet another offensive began, this time emerging from Liaven's Glen [[Grind|straight into Braydon's Jasse]]. The Jotun captured Fort Braydon for the first time in recorded history, dealing significant damage to the fort in the process. The [[Shallows_and_miseries#The_Flames_of_Fort_Braydon|Imperial counter-attack]] was quick to push them back out, but the short but fierce fighting saw the walls of that ancient bulwark finally collapse.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Celesti_Mines.jpg|caption=The mountains of Kahraman conceal a rich bounty of precious metals.|align=right|width=300}}

==Major Features==
=== The Gilded Peak ===
The mountain that separates the valley of Briante and the ancient stronghold of '''Fort Braydon''' bears a most peculiar summit, which at sunset or dawn gleams as if the rock is made of gold. The mountain is treacherous, and no-one has yet achieved it, although many have tried. “Climbing the Gilded Peak” has passed into local parlance as a phrase meaning “a fool’s dream”.

===The Northern Peaks===
The mountains along the northern borders of Kahraman are the home of several vicious clans of orc barbarians. Descended from mine working slaves who revolted during the [[The Orc Rebellion|orc rebellion]], they refused all overtures from the Empire and expressed no interest in becoming [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial orcs]]. Rather they created out-of-the-way strongholds for themselves and proceeded to prey on travellers and poorly defended caravans. Most of their spite was reserved for traders trying to cross the mountains to [[Liathaven]], but in the years since they went rogue they have launched more than one concerted attack on a mining camp or northern village. The Empire would very much like to deal with them permanently, but they are like weeds - when one group is put down, another springs up a few years later to claim its territory.

===The [[Great Mine of Briante]]===
The Great Mine of Briante is a Bourse resource located in [[#Serra Briante|Briante]]. Custodianship of the Great Mine is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Imperial Bourse]]. It produces 22 Imperial wains of mithril every season. Control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Autumn Equinox.

===The [[Damatian Cliffs]]===
The Damatian Cliffs are a Bourse resource located in [[#Serra Damata|Damata]]. Custodianship of the Cliffs is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Imperial Bourse]]. It produces 27 Imperial wains of white granite every season. Control is allocated to any Imperial citizen by open auction during the Summer Solstice.

===The [[The Red Depths|Red Depths]]===
The Red Depths are a Bourse resource located in [[#Serra Damata|Damata]]. Custodianship of the Red Depths is an [[Imperial Title]] that brings with it a Seat on the [[Imperial Bourse]]. It produces 19 Imperial wains of mithril every season. It is assigned to the Freeborn candidate who receives the most support from the Brass Coast owners of [[fleet]] resources during the Autumn Equinox.

===Roads of Kahraman===
The roads of Kahraman have seen extensive [[Rebuild Roads of Kahraman|rebuilding]] since the traitor ''Stephen of Sarcombe'' supported the Lasambrian Jotun in their [[Down_that_road#One_Tree_at_a_Time_(Battle)|strike]] at the northern regions. During the Winter Solstice 384YE '''Delara i Fijadoz i Guerra''', in their role as Senator for Kahraman, raised a motion to [[appraisal|appraise]] the territory [[384YE_Winter_Solstice_Senate_sessions#Appraise_Kahraman|for ways to restore or improve the infrastructure]]. The next season the imperial Senate approved the motion to set about rebuilding with the addition of [[Time_and_time_again#No_More_Bandits|Kamkrag]], simple two-storey stone towers surrounded by a low wall, with stout doors and barred windows, across the territory. Specific Kamkrag have words of recognition and thanks engraved on them; the Imperial Orcs, the Fijadoz Family, and the Highguard Benefactors Council are all recognised for their efforts in providing funding for the rebuilding efforts.

===Fort Braydon (destroyed)===
Fort Braydon was very old, built in the early decades of [[the Brass Coast]] to protect the miners of [[#Braydon's Jasse|Braydon's Jasse]] from the barbarian orcs who once dominated Kahraman. Long before the reign of [[Empress Teleri]] brought the Mournwold under [[Imperial_history#.2874_YE.29_Westward_expansion|Imperial control]] and finally [[Imperial_history#.2888_YE.29_Invasion_of_Kahraman|drove the orcs west into the hills]], it watched over them and over the passes to the north. Several times in the centuries since there were calls for the [[fortification]] to be decommissioned - calls the Freeborn defeated each time they were raised. While the castle itself protected a "safe" border, the garrison has long served to police the northern hills of the territory against bandits and the incursions of the western orcs. When the Mournwold [[Mournwold#Recent_History|fell]], the fort helped to drive back more than one attempt to extend Jotun dominion south, and supported efforts to keep the Lasambrians out of the rich hills. The continuing war with the Jotun secured Fort Braydon's important role in protecting the cinnabar hills from western aggression. That aggression came to a head in a recent invasion 385YE where the Jotun briefly held Fort Braydon, and sadly the walls of the ancient fortification were torn down in the [[Shallows_and_miseries#The_Flames_of_Fort_Braydon|savage Imperial counter-attack]] a season later.

==Regions==
===Braydon's Jasse===
* '''Quality:''' Hills
The valleys of Braydon's Jasse are home to many small mining villages and the isolated homes of Freeborn families who value their privacy. The region is home to some of the oldest settlements in the territory - the mines here were run by Freeborn families for centuries before the formation of the Empire when most of the land here was in the hands of the barbarian orcs. The most famous feature of the Jasse was '''Fort Braydon''', an old fortress dating from the days before the [[The Marches|Marchers]], when the Brass Coast kept watch against the barbarians and the [[Feni]]. The recent barbarian incursions led to the rebuilding of its walls and strengthening of its defences, but after many centuries of guarding the region it is no more. ('''OOC Note:''' Fort Braydon was a rank 1 [[fortifications|fortification]]). Not far from the ruins stands the [[Azure Sutannir#Azure Chorus|Azure Chorus]], a temple-cum-performance space that attracts travelers, pilgrims, and performers from across the south-western Empire.

===Gambit===
Wide, arid plains characterise Gambit - named because every venture begun there is said to run a little extra risk but offer a little extra profit. Sunk into a natural depression in the rock-slopes that mark the southern limits of the Kahraman mountains is '''Rojota'''. Surrounded by goat-farming land, it is a hard place to scratch a living. Its fame is for a peculiar method of foretelling the future. Precious - for the Brass Coast - scraps of wood are left to weather in dust blown by the Delés and interpreted by [[sutannir]] skilled in such matters. There are more trees in western Gambit than in any other part of the Brass Coast - gnarled red-wood trees believed to be distant cousins of the [[beggar's lye|beggarwood]] tree, adapted to survive in the arid grasslands of Kahraman and the Lasambrian Hills. The wood is unsuitable for construction or shipbuilding, and apparently good for little save burning. As a whole, the sparse woodlands are referred to as the Sand Forest due to the way the trees greedily trap every drop of water in their roots and leave the land even drier.

===Jade Range===
The Jade Range takes its names both from the rich deposits of [[Materials#Tempest Jade|tempest jade]] in the hills and from the dark, rich colouration of its grassy plains, kept lush by great underground aquifers. The grazing here is good, nearly a match for that of the Great Grasses in [[Madruga]] or the Sobral Grasses of Segura. The plains are spotted with settlements, the largest of which is probably '''Nestor’s Bounty''', named for a scrivener who made a vast fortune writing contracts for the sale of rich claims found in the hills. As with Briante, this town is well-known for its mines, particularly precious stones and tempest jade.

===Serra Briante===
* '''Quality:''' Hills
This hilly region is named for the '''Briante''' valley and the town that shares the same name. Surrounded by rich open-cast mines, Briante is now home for a number of displaced [[Navarr]] [[steadings]], pushed out of [[Liathaven]] by the [[Jotun]] incursions. The town still maintains the Navarr beacons that once allowed the inhabitants of southern Liathaven to maintain simple communication with their northern neighbours - as well as provide early warnings of potential attacks from western lands outside the Empire. The [[Great Mine of Briante]] - one of the great wonders of the Empire and perhaps even the world - lies at the heart of the valley.

===Serra Damata===
* '''Quality:''' Hills
One of the most important settlements in the Serra Damata is the town from which the region took its name - '''Damata'''. For centuries a trading centre for the surrounding peaks, where rich deposits of [[Materials#Oricalchum|orichalcum]] are still found, Damata was famed for its walls, every metre of which is covered in finely calligraphed script, recording stories that have been told amongst the Freeborn for generations. One day, they say, there will be no more room for writing, and then the town will perish, its life written. Until the Jotun invaded, [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[troubadour|troubadours]] and [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]] [[Wintermark_culture_and_customs#Art_and_history|scops]] alike travelled for some distance to learn the stories on the walls of Damata. The [[Damatian Cliffs]], a valuable Imperial Bourse seat, are found near Damata.

In Winter 379YE, a [[380YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Southern_Hills|force of barbarian orcs]] swept down out of Liathaven, conquered Damata, and then moved on to secure the Damatian Cliffs. After the region was [[380YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Quiet on the Western Front|reclaimed by Imperial armies]] at the end of 380YE it was found that the town had weathered its occupation without the walls sustaining any damage. The Jotun had in fact added to the walls, carving an ominous warning that said "We came. We shall come again".

One of the most noteworthy mountain peaks in Serra Damata was the Red Pinnacle that straddled the western border with both Liathaven and Reinos. In Summer 385YE Imperial heroes forever changed the face of the landscape by [[Shallows_and_miseries#Redgate_Pass_.28Battle.29|ripping the mountain peak asunder]] with the aid of heralds of Estavus. In doing so, new and unclaimed sources of [[Landscape|bounteous mineral wealth]] were discovered in the ruined crevices and depths that remain of the Red Pinnacle.

==Strategic Considerations==
* '''The Kahraman Peaks impede movement between Liathaven and Kahraman'''
* '''The destruction of the Red Pinnacle blocks movement into and out of Liathaven and Reinos from northern Kahraman'''
{{Strategic Considerations|Kahraman}} The Kahraman Peaks make it difficult for armies to pass between Kahraman and Liathaven. Armies can move between [[Kahraman#Braydon's Jasse|Braydon's Jasse]] and [[Liathaven#Liaven's Glen|Liaven's Glen]] with relative ease, but elsewhere things are not so straightforward. Armies cannot move between [[#Serra Briante|Serra Briante]] and Liathaven, nor can an army move between [[#Serra Damata|Serra Damata]] and [[Liathaven#Beacon's Point|Beacon's Point]] following the destruction of '''Redgate Pass'''. A second pass exists between Serra Damata and [[Liathaven#Liath's Heart|Liath's Heart]], but due to the presence of the vallorn on the northern side it is of minimal use to Imperial forces.


As part of a deal with the House of Fire and Flame, heralds from the city of [[Estavus]] in the Autumn Realm, the Red Pinnacle mountain was [[Shallows_and_miseries#Redgate_Pass_.28Battle.29|brought down by the Empire]] during the Summer Solstice 385YE. This collapse blocked the Redgate Pass, and caused extensive additional damage. It is not possible for campaign armies to enter or leave the territory through [[#Serra Damata|Serra Damata]]. Armies can still move west from [[#Gambit|Gambit]] but access to the mountains, and the [[Damatian Cliffs]], from Jotun territory is currently blocked.
{{Senate Elections|Senator_for_Kahraman|Territory=Kahraman|Season=Autumn}}

==OOC Notes==
* As of the start of the Summer Equinox 385YE, all the regions of Kahraman are in Freeborn (and thus Imperial) hands
* Fort Braydon was a rank 1 [[fortification|fortification]], and as of the start of the Summer Equinox 385YE it is destroyed.
* [[mine|Mines]] in the territory benefit from the [[#Roads of Kahraman|Roads of Kahraman]] and produce an extra two ingots each season.
{{Brass Coast Links}}
[[Category:Gazetteer]][[Category:Imperial Territory]][[category:The Brass Coast]]

Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine

2025-02-10T16:10:27Z

Apoth: /* Gifts of Martial Prowess */

{{CaptionedImage|file=PrelateAdelmar'sShrine.png||caption='''Limonos of the Astral Observatory''', first Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine|align=left|width=350}}
<div style="float: right; width: 250px;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Assembly Ambition.png|caption=This title is appointed by the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Assembly of Ambition]]|width=250px}}</div>
==Overview==
The Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine is an [[Imperial title]] appointed by the Assembly of [[Ambition]]. The Academy of Arms was [[Expand Academy of Arms|commissioned]] by the Imperial Senate during the Spring Equinox 385YE as part of an [[Build_up_my_body#Place_of_Pilgrimage|opportunity]] to create a place of pilgrimage.

==Responsibilities==
The Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine has a responsibility to protect the pilgrims who visit the Academy. In addition, if the Academy of Arms were to be threatened in any way, it would be the responsibility of the Prelate to deal with those threats.

==Powers==
===A Portion of Liao===
The sinecure provides 12 doses of [[liao]] to the Prelate each season, to be used as they see fit.
__TOC__
===Gifts of Martial Prowess===
The Academy of Arms is home to many accomplished artisans who work to provide support to those taking part in training. These artisans have committed to providing the Prelate with a set of magic items across the year for them to bestow on those looking to improve themselves. The Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine receives a [[Lowther's Gaze]] at the Spring Equinox, [[Greensteel Bracelets]] at the Summer Solstice, and an [[Alder's Edge]] at the Autumn Equinox.

===Academy Training===
The Prelate can allow a single [[military unit]] to train in the gymnasium and palaestra. The Prelate can grant permission to a single military unit to train there each season. At the end of that time, the starting military unit is upgraded by one rank to reflect the gain in skills and training. A military unit that is already upgraded is unable to gain the benefits. To use this power the Prelate player should email [mailto:plot@profounddecisions.co.uk plot@profounddecisions.co.uk] with the CID of the owner of the military unit being upgraded that season.

===Bearer of Arete's Promise===
During the [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Endowment_:_Arete.27s_Promise|Autumn Equinox 385YE]] the Imperial Conclave voted to [[Endowment|endow]] the ''Arete's Promise'', an artefact [[Alder's Edge]], to the Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine adding it to the regalia of the title.

==Academy of Arms==
The Academy has a large gymnasium and palaestra where students can train and study. Along the back wall of the palaestra is a series of frescoes honouring those who were instrumental in the expansion of the Academy; a wolf with butterfly wings to honour Ranae de Rondell who was responsible for the Academy's consecration; a mighty lighthouse on a desolate rock to honour the [[Urizen_groups#The_Lighthouse_at_Nikephoros|Lighthouse at Nikephoros]] and a bright sun partially occluded by a dense web, rising over two mountains to honour Laelius of the Waxing Sun who provided the wains for the Academy's expansion.

Visitors are able to take part in the lessons the Academy offers alongside the existing students. There is extensive accommodation to house the many visitors and a small auditorium where the resident priest can deliver sermons on the life and achievements of Adelmar. The structure serves as a grand site of pilgrimage, attracting devotees of [[Ambition]] not only from across the Empire but from across the known world.

==Appointment==
The Prelate of Adelmar's Shrine is a [[New_Imperial_titles#The_Imperial_Synod|virtue position]] which is [[Appointment|appointed]] by [[judgement]] of the [[Assembly#The_Virtue_Assemblies|Ambition assembly]] each year during the Summer Solstice.

The title can be held by any Imperial citizen. They can be [[revocation|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#General_Assembly|General Assembly]], the Ambition Virtue Assembly, and by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine|Assembly of the Nine]].
{{RecentElections|Prelate_of_Adelmar%27s_Shrine}}
[[Category:Title]][[Category:Ambition]]

Seven lords of virtue

2025-02-03T13:33:19Z

Apoth: /* Significance */

<ic>The portly Asavean priest glided across the marble flagstones of the courtyard toward Tomas. Olybrius Pancratius, High Priest of the Outer Temple of Baddu, Initiate of the Three-fold Angle, Acolyte of the Weltsilver Chisel. The Asaveans did love their titles.

He wore a long, formal tunic under a polished mithril pectoral inlaid with tiny pieces of white granite that matched the statues flanking the portico. The little man beamed ear-to-ear, and enthusiastically welcomed the (slightly embarrassed) civil servant.

"I am very pleased you have come, Tomas." he said in thickly accented Imperial. "Very pleased. Are you ready for the grand tour?"

Tomas disentangled himself with a little difficulty.

"Yes, I thought I would take you up on your offer to have a look at this temple of yours. You made it sound like a wonder of the ages. I have to admit, you were not exaggerating as much as I had thought."

Olybrius beamed even wider.

"Thank you, thank you. It is exceptionally beautiful as you can see - but then it would never do for us to honour the God of Builders with anything less than the finest, most splendid building mortal hands might construct!"

Tomas winced inwardly. Despite nearly two years in Nemoria, he still found talk of gods and their temples discordant. Olybrius gestured for the civil servant to accompany him, and lead the way through the stone statue garden that surrounded the temple. It was indeed impressive - great white columns soared at least forty feet, supporting a great fresco showing the Asavean god engaged in various activities, primarily to do with construction and building. The craftsmanship was exquisite, Tomas could tell. Every angle perfect, every straight line immaculate. From his reading, he knew that the proportions of every element of the temple were carefully calculated to some esoteric geometry handed down by the priests of the god - the false god, he reminded himself.

They skirted a deep rectangular pool that occupied much of the central courtyard, where delicately calculated gets of water launched themselves into the air in a mathematically significant fashion.

The great stone doors that led into the temple halls stood closed, which surprised the merrow civil servant a little. He expected Olybrius to lead him to a side entrance, but the priest quickened his pace slightly, and came to a halt at the bottom of the steps that swept up toward the portal. There was already a small crowd there. The priest placed one hand on Tomas' elbow to stop him, and the pair waited.

"It is beautiful," whispered Tomas. "Imposing. Impressive."

Olybrius smiled indulgently. "For the fane of a heathen god, you mean? What would your dour priests say!"

Tomas was used to being teased by now. It never ceased to amaze him how lightly even a powerful and influential priest like Olybrius seemed to take his professed faith. Since their first meeting in the hot steam room of one of the bath houses near the embassy, the rotund little priest had regaled his Imperial guest with tales of political maneuvering and scandal rather than with parables or homilies about Baddu, God of Architects.

"I can appreciate the beauty, the art, without worrying about the state of my soul, you know. I'm surprised you haven't making more of an effort to convert me." said Tomas, only half joking.

Olybrius attempted to give his guest a frosty look as he pretended to be affronted.

"I would not dream of such a thing! A woman or a man's faith is sacrosanct! Our temples exist to give aid and succor only to those who seek it out - we do not go looking for followers like a beggar seeking alms! The most sincere petitioner is the one who comes of their own accord. Or because they want something, as my father would often say. All we priests can do is demonstrate the many ways in which Baddu can help those who are truly deserving."

"According to the texts I have read, your Lords of Virtue are very ethereal - they provide aid for your soul as it departs this life. For us the gods are beings of this world - so the rewards for devotion come in this life. This temple was built to the glory of Baddu - and to show those who are curious what rewards might befall those who pledge their life to Him. We priests are here to demonstrate the wonders of Baddu - not hawk his secrets on the street corner!"

The priest shuddered, and then seemed to regain his composure. The smile returned, serene but with a conspiratorial look to it now. He leaned closer and whispered "Would you like a demonstration of the wonder of Baddu?"

"A demonstration?" Tomas asked, obviously intrigued, despite his concerns.

Olybrius did not answer. Instead he gestured for Tomas to stay where he was, and stepped through the crowd to mount the shallow steps. He turned to face the assembly, who fell silent. He had positioned himself in such a way that the peaked roof of the temple behind him was directly above his head - as was the noonday sun. A beam of light illuminated Olybrius - probably directed by concealed mirrors Tomas thought.

The priest raised both his arms and in his native tongue spoke what Tomas took to be a blessing. Several times, the crowd around Tomas murmured a few words - a catechism of some sort, he thought. Then, after only a few minutes, the sermon was clearly over. Olybrius lowered his arms and turned to face the portal behind him. He raised one hand, his fingers spread, and shouted a single word at the top of his lungs:

"Aberto!"

Nothing happened for a moment and then suddenly the pools behind Tomas exploded - seven jets of water burst upward, spraying the crowd with a fine mist that smelled strongly of jasmine. At the same time, a great gong sounded somewhere within the temple and the massive portals - each one apparently made from a single immense slab of white granite, weighing more than Tomas could imagine - began to swing smoothly open of their own accord.

The crowd began to stream up the steps. Olybrius beckoned for Tomas to follow him. The priest was rosy-cheeked, sweating a little.

"Was that magic?" asked Tomas in an undertone, curious. Olybrius shook his head, amused.

"No, not at all."

"Slaves then? Pulling the doors open on your signal?"

Olybrius looked even more amused.

"No. Why go to all that trouble just to have slaves do it?"

"How then? Those doors look as if they weigh a tonne!"

"Quite a few tonnes, actually," the priest said, a little primly. They had reached the top of the stairs and Tomas was again stricken by just how massive this structure was, and how cunningly the proportions worked to create a feeling of awe in the approaching supplicant.

"Would you believe me if I told you it was the power of the god of builders?"

"I... well... " Tomas floundered slightly. He did not wish to risk his new found friendship, but he was uncomfortable lying about something so important. "No. No, I'm afraid I can't believe that." He said at last.

Olybrius' expression became beatific. For the first time since they had met, there was no suggestion of slightly sardonic good humour, or world-weary cynicism, about the priest. His eyes shone with something else, something ''entirely'' different.

"Nevertheless..." he said in a quiet voice, his expression serious for a change. "That is ''exactly'' what it was."

And then he turned and led the way into the immense columned hall of the temple of Baddu.
</ic>

==Overview==
Lady Madrianna of the Blue Stones (who advises the Asavean government on international affairs) has placed a public petition before the [[Imperial Senate]] on behalf of the Plenum. In conjunction with Hueva Joãon, Caesli Onorato, and Olybrius Pancratius - ranking priests of Asavea associated with Balo of the Foam, the Black Bull, and Baddu the Great Architect respectively - the Asavean government has requested that the Empire allow them permission to build a temple in the Empire. The temple would be dedicated to their patron-god of sailors, and to their beast-god of guardians and soldiers.

In Asavea, it appears, faith is closely tied to temples - places where priests can do their jobs in comfort, and where people can learn about the gods and make sacrifices.

At the moment, the lack of anywhere to give sacrifices makes many Asaveans reticent to come to the Empire. They take proper sacrifices very seriously. Of special interest to Asavean sailors in general, are the gods Balo, the gentle god of the sea, who in the Asavean pantheon provides sailors with good winds, fair seas; and the Black Bull, a warrior-god who provides protection against piracy, bandits and violent sea creatures.

The Asaveans assume that Imperial mariners, likewise, would appreciate the opportunity to offer sacrifices (?) and prayers (?) to the Seven Lords of Virtue (?) and so are more than happy to be magnanimous, offering an opportunity to build a temple of the Way in the city of Nemoria..

This represents a third attempt to gain the aid of the Empire - but their first formal request. In the past, they have tried going through the ambassador, and through the Synod, but finally - exasperated - they have approached the Imperial government directly.

Perhaps more significantly, they have been made aware of the newly created [[Create_titles_of_Civilian_Commissioners|civilian commissioners]] and obviously seen an opportunity ...

==Significance==
The Plenum is prepared to give permission for the Empire to construct a large shrine or small temple in Nemoria (the capital of Asavea). This is dependent, however, on the Empire permitting the construction of a temple somewhere on the Bay of Catazar.
===Temple of Balo and the Black Bull===
In game terms, a temple dedicated to Asavean deities could be represented by a number of different [[commission|commissions]] but in this case the Asaveans are talking about building a [[folly]] (albeit one that may function a little bit like a [[ministry]]). They are seeking permission to construct a temple in a region somewhere on the Bay of Catazar with the ''coastal'' quality (see [[#suitable locations|below]]).

If given permission to build a '''minor temple''', the Asaveans would complete the structure in a season. They will provide their own white granite - and employ local labour rather than bringing their own slaves. They will then dispatch priests and acolytes to operate it. In deference to Imperial sensibilities they have agreed that they will ensure the priest and their staff were free folk - minor nobles - rather than slaves.

If given permission to build a '''major temple''', the construction would take six months. Again, they will provide their own white granite and pay local labourers to build the structure rather than importing their own slaves. While it is more difficult, they will do their best to ensure that everyone associated with the temple is a free citizen; and employ local servants and guards rather than bringing slaves to fill those positions. It is clear they expect the Empire to be bowled over by their munificence.

The immediate effect would be twofold. Firstly, an improvement of diplomatic relations with Asavea; and secondly improved opportunities for Imperial citizens [[fleet#trade|trading]] with Asavea.

In addition, in the event that they are permitted to construct a major temple, they will be the opportunity for a named Imperial citizen to deal directly with Asavean merchants and potentially acquire valuable goods at a bargain price (effectively, a [[Resource#Campaign_Resource|campaign resource]] allowing a named character to purchase Asavean goods such as orichalcum, tempest jade, iridescent gloaming, and cerulean mazzarine).

===Temple of the Seven Virtues===
As soon as permission is given to build a temple in the Empire, the Plenum will allow the construction of a temple of similar size in Nemoria, dedicated to one or more of the "gods" of the Way. The Empire would be responsible for building the structure themselves, however.

A '''minor temple''' of the way would require 10 wains of white granite to be provided. Labour costs would be significantly higher than they are in the Empire - professional labourers expect higher wages due to a lack of competition, and it might even be simpler to just import Imperial citizens to do the building work. Consequently the temple would require 5 Thrones to complete.

A '''major temple''' would require 20 wains of white granite to construct, and would take two seasons to complete. Again, labour costs would be significantly higher - 10 Thrones would be required to complete the work.

In either case, the entire cost in Thrones to build the temple could be waived it the person commissioning the temple chose to accept the kind offer of the Joãon family.

When complete, the immediate effect of the Temple would be a small improvement in diplomatic relations with the Empire. In addition, an Imperial citizen would need to be named to serve as an intermediary between the priests in Asavea and the Empire. This would certainly include providing them with the valuable [[liao]] needed to perform spiritual ceremonies, but this would also likely result in gifts from the grateful (effectively creating an [[Imperial title]] allowing the character to trade liao for Asavean goods). It is important to note that as the temple will be built on distant shores, it would ''not'' provide votes in the Imperial Synod, or doses of liao, however.

===The Larger Picture===
If a temple of the Asavean gods was built in the Empire, there would be a small but immediate improvement to trade with the distant port of Nemoria. Any Imperial ship visiting that foreign port would receive an extra measure of iridescent gloaming from each trip.

If the Temple of the Seven Virtues was completed, any Imperial ship visiting Nemoria would also receive an extra ingot of Orichalcum.

The effect of this improved trade would last as long as good relations between Asavea and the Empire were maintained. The same would apply to the [[Resource#Campaign_Resource|campaign resources]] allowing the purchase Asavean goods.

Furthermore, a Temple of the Seven Virtues in Nemoria, might well provide further opportunities to spread the teachings of the Way to Asavea - although it is worth noting that there is actually ''no'' requirement for the [[Imperial Synod]] to be involved in these commissions in any way.

===Arranging the Commissions===
It would be possible for this opportunity to be dealt with through the Senate. In this case, the [[senator]] who raised the motion would be assumed by the Asaveans to be responsible for providing the materials to build the Temple of the Seven Virtues in Nemoria.

Alternatively, any of the new [[Create_titles_of_Civilian_Commissioners|civilian commissioners]] could give permission to build the temple in a suitable region. In this case, the Asaveans would assume the civilian commissioner was also responsible for providing the materials to build the Temple of the Way in Nemoria.

The motion or announcement should include the [[Motion_wording#Necessary_Details|necessary details]] of whether the Temple of the Seven Virtues is to be built with paid labour or with the aid of the Joãon. The motion might also decide to restrict the temple to one or more of the Imperial virtues, rather than to the Way as a whole.

It would also be important to note both who will be responsible for liaising with the priests of Asavea (and control the ministry they provide), and who would liaise with the Imperial priests in Nemoria (controlling the ministry in Asavea). The person responsible for the motion or announcement is free to either declare a method of electing someone or simply name the person they want to gain the position (in the case of the liaison with the Asavean temple).

In the case of the liaison with the Temple of Bahlo, the decision would need to be acceptable to the Asavean priests although that is likely to be a formality. Regardless of where the temple is physically built, a citizen of any nation might be named as liaison.

{{anchor|suitable locations}}
<box>'''Suitable Locations'''<br>
The Asaveans would want to build their own temple in one of the following regions: [[Feroz#Cazar Straits|Cazar Straits]], [[Feroz#Fontargenta|Fontargenta]], or [[Feroz#Oranseri|Oranseri]] in [[Feroz]]; [[Madruga#Calvos Sound|Calvos Sound]], [[Madruga#Free Landing|Free Landing]], [[Madruga#Lightsea|Lightsea]], or (especially) [[Madruga#Siroc Plains|Siroc Plains]] in [[Madruga]]; or [[Redoubt#Naris|Naris]] in [[Urizen]]. If [[Sarvos]] were in Imperial hands again, they would also be quite prepared to build their temple in [[Sarvos#Bocche|Bocche]], [[Sarvos#Uccelini|Uccelini]], or (ideally) [[Sarvos#Cigno|Cigno]].

For obvious reasons, they would prefer to avoid building their temple in [[Necropolis]].</box>
[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:380YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]]

Fly high

2025-02-03T13:32:36Z

Apoth: /* Limited Opportunities */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:381YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>Alon von Holberg delved into his pocket and pulled out a money purse... and then a second. He upended one on the table and rings and crowns bounced off the scared and pitted wood. He smirked at Pietro as he did so.

"Where did you get that!?" Pietro had not seen so much money in... well in longer than he could comfortably remember.

Alon's grin widened.

"Why Pietro my dear little dove, I ''took'' it! Myself and some of our fine fellows were having a wander in the lovely new park as you do, and it is very lovely indeed if you have not seen it already. The menagerie in particular is well worth the trip. So exotic! But imagine our surprise when we came across some of Leona's crew also enjoying the lovely new park. So we greeted each other politely, and had a lovely chat, and the chat turned into a discussion most forceful, and bless me if they didn't give us their purses. And some jewellery."

Alon turned his head slightly so Pietro could see a thick golden ring piercing his earlobe. It was still bleeding slightly from the new piercing.

"Leona is very unhappy, apparently. She's going to be even more unhappy when we turn up at the Ribald Goose to explain the new order of things to her." Alon stopped smiling. "You're coming with us of course?"

"I'm not sure Alon," Pietro started, disgusted by the whine in his voice but unable to stop it. "I... I had a bad pie last night and I'm feeling rough and..."

"Oh my poor, sweet lad! You don't want to let ''that'' stop you! You just need a little pick-me-up! I've got just the thing!"

The rangy bravo pulled a glass vial out of another of his pockets, and upended about half of it on the back of his hand. He tossed the vial over to Pietro, and with a great snorting snotty breath inhaled all the little blue crystals. His eyes rolled back, and so did his head, and he howled like a dog at the roof.

"Oh but that is good, that is good." he said as he lowered his head. His grin if anything was even wider. His eyes were like shards of blue glass, and both nostrils marked with blue powder. "It's good for what ails you, matey boy. Get it down you. And then... then we'll go and have a nice quiet pint at the Ribald Goose!"</ic>
==Overview==
Over the last season, three grand construction projects in [[the League]] have been completed. The [[Lorenzo's Legacy#Blood Red Roads|Blood Red Roads]], in all their glory, now stretch practically from one side of the Empire to the other. The [[Holberg#Holmauer_Park|Grand Park]] of [[Holberg]] has finally been completed. A series of red stone monoliths - [[Lorenzo's_Legacy#The_Legacies_of_Virtue|magical monuments]] to the virtue of Lorenzo Macelliao von Temeschwar - now focus and enhance the flows of mana through each of the four League territories.

It is, indeed, a wonderful time to be a citizen of the League - splendors and wonders abound and the cities grow larger, more prosperous and more inspiring by the month,

==The Park==
In Holberg, work has finally been finished on the [[Holberg#Holmauer_Park|Holmauer Park]]. During the Druj occupation, the suburbs of [[#Holmauer|Holmauer]] were reduced to rubble choked with [[vermin]] - both the four-legged and two-legged kind. In Spring 380YE Katarzyna Von Carstein - a [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish]] immigrant now a citizen of [[the League]] - presented a bold proposal to [[Reclaimers|reclaim]] the ruins. The [[Imperial Senate]] agreed with her ambitious plan, although the [[Construct_the_Park_of_Holberg|construction]] took at least twice as long as first estimated. Over time the shattered wasteland was cleared and the [[territory#region|region]] laid out as broad parkland.

In contrast to the cramped, bustling, brick-and-stone aesthetic of the city proper, Holmauer is now a serene, restful area of open parks and well-maintained orchards dotted with buildings of white granite and fine marble. The extensive landscaping of the park has led to pleasant paths snaking through flower gardens, grassy banks and natural forest areas. The park includes a beautiful open-air venue for concerts and plays, a public bathhouse built by the finest [[Highguard|Highborn]] artisans, and the wonderful [[Keeper_of_the_Imperial_Menagerie#Imperial_Menagerie|Imperial Menagerie]]. All in all, the park is a [[great work]] that utterly transforms Holmauer into one of the richest, most beautiful, and most desirable areas to live in in the entire League.
===Opportunity : The Garden City===
The Druj are gone and show no signs of coming back - their attention seems focused on [[Dawn]] and [[Urizen]]. Indeed, there is every indication that the Dawnish have severely bloodied their noses in [[Semmerholm]] - almost as badly as the Imperial armies bloodied their noses the last time they came near Holberg! With Holmauer Park complete, there is a lot of talk about the scars of war that are still visible in the city proper - in Holfried.

An ambitious plan has been put forward by some of the Merchant-Princes of Holberg; what if the same principles that turned Holmauer into a park were turned on Holfried? Obviously, the walls would be maintained, and the various civic buildings would be preserved, but there is a lot of empty, crumbling real-estate in the city left vacant by the dead or those who quit the city and never returned. With enough investment, the main streets could be lined with trees and flowering plants; windows could be adorned with window boxes; flat roofs converted into gardens; wells and cisterns expanded to service fountains. The ugliness of the war with the Druj could be swept away entirely and the city would, categorically, become the most beautiful city in the League, and by extension the Empire, and most likely the most wondrous on the ''continent''.

Estimates suggest the transformation of the city into a garden would take a year, and would require an investment of 60 wains of weirwood, 40 wains of white granite, and 25 Thrones. Once work was complete, it would represent a monumental great work that in conjunction with the Grand Park of Holmauer and the Blood Red Roads would see an appreciable boost to the amount of money received by League-owned businesses in the city.

Another alternative has been suggested by several professors at the University. Instead of focusing solely on beautiful flowers and fountains, the burghers could be convinced to set aside portions of their window-boxes and roof-gardens to produce medicinal plants. Rather than fountains, the cisterns and wells could be used to support the growth of healing herbs. In this case, the city would be no less green and wholesome, but the great work would provide healing herbs rather than additional money. Such herbs would still provide an opportunity to increase prosperity by selling them to professional dealers, but would also prove invaluable should the city ever come under siege again.

===Opportunity : Imperial Menagerie===
The [[Keeper_of_the_Imperial_Menagerie#Imperial_Menagerie|Imperial Menagerie]] was the first part of Holmauer Park completed. It is very pleasant to visit, and the ''rakshasa'' is a great draw, but in all honesty the rest of the exhibits are significantly less impressive than they might be. But with the completion of the Blood Red Roads, there is a direct link between the city so isolated from the rest of the Empire for so long, and the southern coast. Combined with the expertise of Holberg's engineers, there is a definite opportunity to expand the menagerie collection dramatically.

If the Imperial Senate wished, they could pass a [[Senate motion]] instructing the civil service to locate wonderful new exhibits for the menagerie. The immediate impact would be obvious - where now the menagerie contains a few forlorn dire penguins and the like, hunters and trappers would bring great bears, lions, gazelle, and even more exotic beasts. Suitable environments would need to be built - 20 wains of weirwood and 5 Thrones would be sufficient to expand the menagerie in this way. Not only would the menagerie continue to be self-sufficient, but it would also generate a healthy income for the [[Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie]]. In addition to their existing powers, providing them with 16 crowns each season.

More importantly however, over the next few seasons the civil service would track down opportunities to add truly unique creatures to the menagerie. It is doubtful anything as wonderful as Flocki would turn up, but the world is wide and full of the most astonishing beasts. It is doubtful the civil service would just be able to ''acquire'' such creatures - but they would certainly be able to create [[opportunity|opportunities]] for the Keeper of the Imperial Menagerie to do so on behalf of the Empire.

<div style="display:inline-block; float: right; margin-left: 10px;">
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total Money Spent</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>77 Crowns</td><td>50 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>93 Crowns</td><td>58 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>110 Crowns</td><td>67 mana crystals</td></tr>
<tr><td>128 Crowns</td><td>75 mana crystals</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
==Lorenzo's Legacy of virtue==
Each of the four League territories is now home to a great work that enhances the production of every League-owned [[mana site]] in that territory by a significant margin. The amount of mana available on the open market is set to increase, and this increase may end up reaching as far as Anvil.
===Opportunity : Tassato Mana Exchange===
The incipient increase in the amount of mana in the League presents two straightforward opportunities. The [[Steward_of_the_Tassato_Mana_Exchange#Tassato_Mana_Exchange|Tassato Mana Exchange]] is already well served both by Imperial merchants trading crystal mana and by traders from abroad - especially the [[Tassato#The_Jarmish_Lodge|representatives]] of the [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmish princes]].

With a [[senate motion]], ten wains of mithril, and 20 crowns the Tassato exchange could be expanded even more, ''dramatically'' increasing the amount of mana available for purchase by the Keeper by not only a significantly enlarging the vaults, but by establishing agencies in the other three cities to take advantage of the bounty of mana there. (The additional levels of purchase that would be available are shown in the table right).

Alternatively, an [[opportunity]] exists to construct a branch of the Mana Exchange in each of the other three cities. With an investment of 12 mithril and 24 crowns for each exchange, senate motions could be used to [[commission]] new exchanges in each League city, each the equivalent of a standard 16 wain [[ministry]]. Bookies on the street of cards are already taking bets on the names of the new exchanges - you can get good odds on anything named after the Imperatrix, but nothing better than 5:4 for anything in red with cleavers.

Only ''one'' of these two opportunities may be taken - it is not possible to enlarge the existing exchange and construct new exchanges elsewhere. However there is nothing to stop a senator raising a motion to improve the Tassato Mana Exchange, or to build an exchange in a single League city, using the standard costs for a ministry.

==Bite==
At the same time the rich are becoming richer, there are a few minor disturbances among those at the other end of the economic scale. For the most part they deal with themselves; occasionally the militia or the magistrates get involved. The most recent kerfuffle is caused by the appearance of a new narcotic on the streets of the League cities. Originating in Holberg, the [[bravo|bravos]] call it ''Bite''. Nobody is sure when it first appeared, but it has definitely become more prevalent since the Autumn Equinox. With the completion of the [[Lorenzo's_Legacy#Blood_Red_Roads|Blood Red Roads]], the drug is also starting to show up in [[Tassato]], [[Sarvos]], and [[Temeschwar]].

Reliable sources are hard to secure - almost everyone seems to be getting it from a friend of a friend - and the price varies widely depending on who is selling it. A coarse granular blue powder, it is snorted raw or occasionally used in an infusion. It is reported to heighten both confidence and aggression. There is some concern among a few magistrates, but the general consensus at the moment is that the drug is probably no worse than alcohol in terms of its influence on serious crimes.

There ''has'' been an increase in brawls between brands of bravos in Holberg and Tassato, and to a lesser degree in Sarvos and Temeschwar, but brawls are nothing new and as they rarely involve bystanders the authorities are not minded to get involved at the moment.
===Participation===
If you are the player of a [[the League|League]] character who has either the [[bravo]] or [[mountebank]] [[archetype]] listed on the system, then you may e-mail plot@profounddecisions.co.uk and request a dose of ''bite'' be included in your character pack. How you acquired it is up to you - no money will be deducted from your account - but in general it should have been acquired from a distant acquaintance who will have themselves purchased it from someone else. You will need to secure an appropriate phys-rep - a pouch or phial of blue sand, dust, or crystals would be ideal. Please do not e-mail in unless you meet these criteria - the drug is not available to any character who is not a League character with the appropriate archetype.

The deadline for requesting a dose of bite is midnight 20/04/2018.

==Limited Opportunities==
The opportunity to commission the garden city is available only during the current summit - it is very much dependent on the enthusiastic support of the people of Holberg following the opening of the Grand Park. Likewise, the opportunity to expand the Tassato Mana Exchange, or to build new exchanges, is dependent on the excitement of Lorenzo's Legacies of virtue being completed and expires at the end of the summit if it has not been commissioned.

The opportunity to expand the Imperial Menagerie is not time dependent however - as long as the mausoleum is still popular and "Flocki " is still alive, the expansion may be commissioned at any time.

The opportunity to secure a dose of "bite" exists only during the weeks running up to the event; further doses can only be acquired in play.

==Resolution==
The Imperial Senate declined to commission the transformation of Holberg into a garden city, and this opportunity is no longer available. They did choose to commission the [[Magic_Butcher#The_Temeschwar_Mana_Exchange|Temeschwar Mana Exchange]] and the [[Steward_of_the_Sarvos_Mana_Exchange#Sarvos_Mana_Exchange|Sarvos Mana Exchange]], but not the one in Holberg; this opportunity has likewise expired although there is nothing to stop the commission of a traditional [[ministry]] at the standard costs.

The opportunity to expand the Imperial Menagerie remains, however, unless the situation changes.

Limitu Principality House of the Way

2025-02-03T13:32:08Z

Apoth: /* Ministry */

<ic>This ministry was closed by the Prince of Limitu Principality shortly before the Autumn Equinox 382YE. When it was active it did not represent an [[Imperial title.]]</ic>

==Overview==
The position of co-ordinator of Limitu temple is ''not'' an [[Imperial title]]. Limitu Principality House of the Way (or ''the Majaviis'' in the northern dialect spoken in Limitu) is a temple of [[the Way]] build by Imperial expatriates in the northern [[Principalities of Jarm]]. As part of its operation, it receives regular donations of [[liao]] from the Empire. With this in mind, the priests operating the temple have asked that an Imperial co-ordinator be appointed to deal with the donations.


During the Spring Equinox 379YE, Jimenez i Erigo (a representative of a group of priests living in the northern principality of Limitu) approached the Imperial Synod for assistance building a temple of the Way. The Magician-Prince Hillar of Limitu had given the priests - most of them Imperial missionaries - permission to build a "significant temple" in his principality, provided they arranged all the construction themselves. With the assistance of the Imperial priests, the missionaries were able to secure the materials and labour to create the temple, and work was completed shortly before the Summer Solstice 379YE.

During their visit, the missionary representative requested that the Assembly of Nine suggest someone specifically to co-ordinate Imperial support for the new temple of the Way.

==Responsibilities==
The co-ordinator is responsible for maintaining the relationship between the Imperial Synod and the faithful in Limitu principality. This involves arranging regular donations of liao, and offering advice or assistance to the missionaries in northern Jarm should they require it. In theory, the co-ordinator might also be asked to vouch for the missionaries during any dealing with the Magician-Princes of Jarm.

Liao is very hard to acquire in the Principalities of Jarm, and without it the potent ceremonies of the priests of the Way will be of limited use. If the missionaries at the House of the Way are to encourage the people to take them seriously they will need considerable amounts of this expensive (in Jarm) substance. While they are investigating local alternatives, that is certainly a long-term project.

==Powers==
===Point of Contact===
The virtuous priests of Limitu principality will look to the co-ordinator when they require assistance or advice in spreading the Way in northern Jarm. In addition, it is likely that the Magician-Princes of Jarm will likewise expect to deal with the co-ordinator over any business involving the temple, the missionaries, or the practice of the Way in Jarm (especially Northern Jarm).

===Ministry===
<div style="float: right; max-width: 450px; margin-left: 10px;">
<table><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Total Liao Donated</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Crystal mana received</td></tr>
<tr><td>12 Liao</td><td>10 crystal mana</td></tr>
<tr><td>30 Liao</td><td>20 crystal mana</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 Liao</td><td>30 crystal mana</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
The co-ordinator can provide liao to the priests of northern Jarm; in return they receive a small bounty of crystal mana. This functions in the same manner as a traditional [[ministry]]. The amount of mana received is reflected by the size of the donation of liao provided. The ambassador donates the liao during downtime from their character page. Liao is removed from, and crystal mana is placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.

The production of the ministry is entirely dependent both on the gratitude of the priests in northern Jarm, and on the forbearance of the Jarmish Magician-Prince of Limitu.

This exchange represents donations to the missionaries, in return for which the Synod receives a portion of the donations of crystal mana made by Jarmish converts to the Way.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Eodread Oswinsson.jpg|title=Eadread Oswinson was the first liason chosen by the Assembly of Nine|caption=One Imperial is responsible for overseeing donations.|align=right|width=300}}

==Appointment==
The co-ordinator is suggested by the Assembly of Nine, and accepted by the priests in the Jarmish temple. The missionary representative suggested that it would be ideal if the co-ordinator were a magician, given the Jarmish prejudice against "mundanes".

Anyone may hold the position of co-ordinator; as this is not an Imperial title, there is no requirement for the holder to be an Imperial citizen.

The co-ordinator can be removed at any time by the priests of the Limitu Principality temple. The temple itself could be shut-down or embargoed by the Magician-Prince of Limitu Principality, or by an order of the Jarmish House of Princes. The Assembly of Nine could also reassign the position at any time by sending a [[Call Winged Messenger|Messenger]] to Limitu temple informing them of the change.

==OOC Note==
The position of Co-ordinator is not an Imperial title. A character could hold this position and still have an Imperial title. The Empire has little control over the position; in theory possession of the title and how it works is at the mercy of non-player characters. The Senate cannot abrogate the existence of the position, nor amend its powers or responsibilities. Likewise, while the Assembly of Nine can appoint someone to the position, there is no requirement for the missionaries (or the Jarmish princes) to recognise a candidate they deem unsuitable.

{{Responsibilities Expectation}}

[[Category:Foreign Nations]]
[[Category:Synod]]
[[Category:Title]]

Construct college of magic in Morrow

2025-02-03T13:31:35Z

Apoth: /* Cost */

<ic>To construct a magical College aligned with the Realm of Summer within the territory of Morrow. The Dean of the College to be appointed by vote of the Conclave<br><br>''Proposed by Redoubt, seconded by Kallavesa''</ic>

===Overview===
* Permission to create a [[College of Magic]] in [[Morrow]], specialising in [[Summer magic]].
* Corvus, Archmage of Summer, was called as an expert witness.

* No funding was sought

===Date===
* Winter 378YE

===Cost===
* Materials: 90 wains of White Granite, 30 wains of Mithril, 20 wains of Weirwood
* Time: 1 year
* Labour: 35 Thrones
* Upkeep: 25 Thrones (this number is dependent on the number of other colleges in the Empire)
* Special: This college of Summer magic is being built to designs provided by the [[Eternal]] [[Meraud]]; as such it differs from the [[College_of_Magic|standard cost]] to build a [[College of Magic]].

===Progress===
* This commission has lapsed

===Campaign Outcome===
* When complete, the college will automatically create the [[Imperial title]] of "Dean".
* Dean of the college will be appointed through the [[Declaration#Declaration of Candidacy|Declaration of Candidacy]].


[[Category:Senate Motion]]
[[Category: 378YE Winter]]
__NOTOC__

Stone and stone

2025-02-03T13:31:12Z

Apoth: /* By Order of the Master */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:383YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>
There it was again. A soft tapping noise... three times, in a short staccato beat. She definitely wasn't imagining it.

She put the jar down and cocked her head on one side to listen. Nothing... and then... There it was again! It was louder this time, or maybe it was just because she was paying attention.

It seemed to be coming from the north wall. Cautiously she moved towards it and somewhat tentatively placed her ear against the smooth stone. She held her breath for a few moments before her patience was rewarded. The same tapping noise, but five times this time. Two short and three long.

She stood there wondering what on earth could possibly be causing the noise before realisation dawned. She kicked herself for being as foolish - of course the wall wasn't making a noise! Someone was obviously tapping on the other side.

It was bitter cold out, so she grabbed her shawl, the red one her cousin had woven for her as a wedding present, and wrapped it round her shoulders. Then she stormed out of her shop, determined to see who it was that was messing about. If this was Lunt's snot-ridden children messing about again, they'd be getting a flea in their ear and no mistake. Lunt's children were old enough to swing a sword now, they should be training hard, not messing about outside her shop!

It wasn't Lunt's kids. Well... not unless one of them been afflicted by some terrible curse and turned into a lizard thing. Given Lunt's eldest had a face like a squashed pumpkin and a temper like a raging ancestor arguably this might be an improvement. But no... this creature was not him.

It was short, barely up to her shoulder, but squat and muscular. Every inch of it that was visible was covered in bright scarlet scales and it had some kind of blood red crest that ran from its head of jet black hair down to its flat nose. Despite its strange appearance it was dressed like in a long tunic with a heavy leather apron over the top. It had a large pointed ear pressed against the wall which it was softly tapping on with a small brick hammer.

Her wall she reminded herself. She'd bought this shop from a Wintermarker and paid a fair price for it. It was her shop now so that was her wall. She put her hands on her hips and coughed loudly "What are you doing?" she asked in a tone that was polite but made clear that she would brook no nonsense.

The creature turned to face her with what might have been a guilty look. It was impossible to tell. Its lips spread into a wide grin revealing a mouth full of sharp teeth. If that was meant to be ingratiating it was not working.

"Survey" it said in a surprisingly baritone voice for such a small creature. "The Delver in the Deeps is enamoured of your beautiful town. He has commanded us to survey every stone... to hear what they have to say." It held up the brick hammer as if to demonstrate that this showed the truth of what it was saying.

She pursed her lips and considered giving the creature a piece of her mind, but then she remembered something Jarrak, the old thief taker always said, about being open for business but closed for trouble. "Fine!" she announced. "But you mark my words" she said, wagging her finger at the strange creature. "If there's any funny business I'll bring the thief takers down on you and your Delver." Before he could answer, she spun on her heels and started back towards the door. "Open for business - closed for trouble" she told herself again and she made a mental note to go and see Jarrak as soon as the sun went down. Best he know what sort of trouble was in town.
</ic>
==Overview==
{{Audio|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzVCn9S5sGE}}
Sometimes, it may seem a little peculiar that [[Adamant|King Adamant]] has only actually been actively involved in Imperial affairs for four years. Yet since his ''koboldi'' servants helped [[A_job_worth_doing|repair the Castle of Thorns]] in the Winter of 379YE, at the behest of the Auric Horizon of [[Urizen]], the Summer [[eternal]] has been conspicuously active in offering aid to citizens of the Empire prepared to work with his peculiar little heralds.

As well as [[Queens_and_kings#The_Talented_Koboldi|supporting miners]], and helping to rebuild the devastated [[fortification]] in [[Semmerholm]] into the marvellous [[Semmerholm#The_Adamant_Gate|Adamant Gate]], the eternal offered an [[opportunity]] to build a special [[Mean_what_you_say#King_Adamant_and_the_Academy_of_Stone|College of Engineering]] and establish an Imperial citizen as the [[Master of the Koboldi]]. Construction on the college is now complete, and the first Master is due to be appointed by the Imperial Conclave during the Winter Solstice. Perhaps it is this as much as the [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] sent by the Summer Archmage that has set Adamant's mind on ways that he might further assist his Imperial friends.

Over the last several months, bands of ''koboldi'' have been enthusiastically popping all over the Empire to peer at things, tap them with hammers, measure them, and ask wide-eyed but surprisingly specific questions of local citizens. As the Winter Solstice gets closer, the ''koboldi'' reveal the fruits of their busy months of labour: a series of proposals for ways the ''Granite Throne'' might help the Empire to build new architectural marvels.

The heralds of the Stone Monarch have also mentioned that their master intends to send an emissary to speak to the Master of the Koboldi, and the Archmage of Summer, once the Declaration of Candidacy has been completed; you can learn a little more about this in the [[Impossible landscapes#Adamant|Impossible landscapes]] Wind of Fortune.

==By Order of the Master==
* '''Adamant presents opportunities to [[commission]] unique structures in the Empire.'''
* '''These opportunities can (currently) only be undertaken by the [[Master of the Koboldi]]'''
* '''The normal rules about making progress on a commission apply'''
* '''Many of these projects do not use standard materials'''
* '''The opportunities presented will be available to the Master of the Koboldi for the foreseeable future, unless there is a significant change in circumstances'''

Only the [[Master of the Koboldi]] - once they are appointed - can commission any of these structures. The [[opportunity|opportunities]] presented by the ''koboldi'' require the involvement of the heralds and their eternal monarch. While the [[Imperial Senate]] could most likely duplicate some of the effects using an [[appraisal]], others are entirely dependent on the involvement of the Summer realm. Likewise, no [[Bearer of an Imperial Wayleave]] can enlist the labour of the ''koboldi'', and even the [[Arcane Architect]] and the [[Crystal Architect of the Spires]] cannot work adamant nor wield the magical dominion over stone that the ''koboldi'' enjoy.

However, Adamant has placed no time-limit on the availability of his koboldi. The opportunities presented will be available to the Master of the Koboldi for the foreseeable future, unless there is a significant change in circumstances. The most likely reasons for the opportunities to lapse would be if the Imperial Conclave declares Adamant an [[amity and enmity#enmity|enemy of the Empire]]; if the [[Imperial Senate]] abrogates or amends the powers of the Master of the Koboldi; or if the College of Engineering in [[Temeschwar]] is no longer in Imperial hands.

It's also worth noting that while the Master of the Koboldi can only commission one project each season, they don't have to wait for one to finish before they can commission another one. There are, after all, a lot of koboldi. Once work begins, the usual rules regarding a commission apply - anyone can contribute materials toward their completion (using the downtime system). And unlike more traditional commissions, these opportunities use materials significantly more diverse than [[mithril]], [[white granite]], or [[weirwood]].

The Delver in the Deeps loves gold, silver, and precious gems of every kind. He has little interest in rings, crowns, and thrones, but the things he does like can usually be purchased on the open market. As such, the monetary costs of these commissions represent the need to buy treasure for the King Under the Mountain, rather than labour costs.

==Tower of the Dragon==
* '''The Master of the Koboldi can commission an official residence for the Archmage of Summer'''
* '''The cost would be 15 wains of white granite and 30 crowns in treasure and gems
<table style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Trading</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>15 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>1 Stonedragon's Eye</td></tr>
<tr><td>18 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>1 Deepglimmer</td></tr>
<tr><td>36 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>2 Deepglimmer</td></tr>
<tr><td>42 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>1 Mountainheart Stone</td></tr>
</table>
To thank those who have made [[Adamant]] and his servants feel so welcomed in the Empire, the ''koboldi'' propose to build a jewelled tower of adamant that would serve as a residence of the Summer Archmage. The tower would be built of unbreakable adamant with windows of reinforced tempest jade; the koboldi would provide the material themselves along with all the labour. It would contain living chambers, offices, and a sealed vault specifically for use by the Archmage to protect their valuables. The tower would have two gates, one flanked by statues of Archmage Corvus of Urizen and Archmage Andreas Gremani of [[Varushka]], and the other by the [[Highguard|Highborn]] Archmages Solomon and Luke.

The tower will be located near a Summer [[regio]] that can be used by Adamant to create a portal into the mines of the Summer Realm where the ''koboldi'' throng. As a consequence, in addition to providing an effectively indestructible and impenetrable home for the Summer Archmage, they would be able to receive emissaries from the deep Summer realm of the Mountain King.

This would give the Summer Archmage a new power - they would be able to trade ingots of [[materials#Tempest Jade|tempest jade]] for magical jewels that enhance the use of Summer magic - something the ''koboldi'' believe will further help the Archmage to support their brethren Summer magicians in the Empire. This would function as a [[ministry]] that the Archmage could use to acquire a small number of ''Mountainheart Stones'' and ''Deepglimmers'' each season.

In the unlikely event that Adamant ever become subject to [[declaration]] of [[Amity and enmity#Enmity|enmity]] by the Imperial conclave, the tower would be sealed, the koboldi will cease trading, and any goods the archmage has placed in the vaults there will be left on the lawn.
===Jewels from the Deep Mountain===
The three unique magic items that the koboldi will trade with the Summer Archmage are each crafted in the Summer realm.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
====Mountainheart Stone====
* '''Description:''' A fist-sized multi-faceted orb of crystal, usually deep red in colour.
* '''Form:''' Paraphernalia. Takes the form of a piece of ritual [[Magic_items#Paraphernalia|paraphernalia]]. The item must be present in the ritual to use its magical properties.
* '''Effect:''' Twice per day the coven may perform a Summer ritual that does not count towards their daily limit of rituals performed.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' When this covenstone is used, each contributor feels an urge to acquire beautiful and valuable things - fine clothes and jewels, masterwork weapons and armour, expensive food and drink. The effect fades over the course of the hour following the ritual.

====Deepglimmer====
* '''Description:''' A large gemstone, usually a dark colour such as cobalt blue or deep purple, often set into a ring or amulet.
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a piece of [[Magic_items#Talismans|jewellery]]. You must be wearing this item to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' Any character can bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Once per day gain 1 rank of Summer lore for the purposes of performing a ritual, subject to the normal rules for effective skill.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' While wearing this item, you find it easy to get lost in the beauty of gems, jewels, and polished metal.

====Stonedragon's Eye====
* '''Description:''' An orb of crystal or glass, usually golden or emerald in colouration, sometimes with a vertical flaw in the centre reminiscent of a cat's eye
* '''Form:''' Paraphernalia. Takes the form of a piece of ritual [[Magic_items#Paraphernalia|paraphernalia]]. The item must be present in the ritual to use its magical properties.
* '''Effect:''' Members of the coven who are performing a Summer ritual they have mastered may use tempest jade in place of crystal mana. Every two measures of tempest jade spent count as one crystal mana.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' After this covenstone is used, each contributor feels an urge to create or build something, using whatever they can lay their hands on. The effect fades over an hour.
</div>
Click ''Expand'' to see details of the items that can be created by the koboldi for the Archmage.

==The Gildenheim Deepforge==
* '''The Master of the Koboldi can commission a subterranean forge in [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]]'''
* '''The cost would be 30 wains of White Granite and 60 crowns in treasure, and take three months to complete'''
* '''The ''Smith at the Deepforge'' would be able to oversee the creation of a number of unique [[magic items]], and could use [[ilium]] to create [[Magic_items#Schema|schema]] of those items.'''
* '''Building the Deepforge would use up the ruins of the Gildenheim Runeforge'''
<table style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Eastern Forge</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 ingots of Orichalcum</td><td>1 [[#Reaver's Shield|Reaver's Shield]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>1 [[#Mask of the Dragon|Mask of the Dragon]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 ingots of Orichalcum</td><td>1 [[#Oathwright's Warskirt|Oathwright's Warskirt]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>18 ingots of Green Iron</td><td>1 [[#Warlord's Bulwark|Warlord's Bulwark]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>24 ingots of Orichalcum</td><td>1 [[#Armour of the Legion|Armour of the Legion]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 ingots of Dragonbone</td><td>1 [[#Bonesetter's Ring|Bonesetter's Ring]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>31 ingots of Green Iron</td><td>1 [[#Pitfighter's Blade|Pitfighter's Blade]]</td></tr>
</table>
<table style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Western Forge</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>7 ingots of Orichalcum</td><td>1 [[#Reaver's Shield|Reaver's Shield]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>1 [[#Mask of the Dragon|Mask of the Dragon]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 ingots of Orichalcum</td><td>1 [[#Oathwright's Warskirt|Oathwright's Warskirt]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>18 ingots of Green Iron</td><td>1 [[#Warlord's Bulwark|Warlord's Bulwark]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>24 ingots of Orichalcum</td><td>1 [[#Armour of the Legion|Armour of the Legion]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>27 ingots of Dragonbone</td><td>1 [[#Bonesetter's Ring|Bonesetter's Ring]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>31 ingots of Green Iron</td><td>1 [[#Pitfighter's Blade|Pitfighter's Blade]]</td></tr>
</table>
<table style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Smith's Conclave</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Reaver's Shield</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Mask of the Dragon</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Oathwright's Warskirt</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Warlord's Bulwark</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Armour of the Legion</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Bonesetter's Ring</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 rings of Ilium</td><td>Schema for Pitfighter's Blade</td></tr>
</table>

The ruined [[runeforge]] below [[Skarsind#Gildenheim|Gildenheim]] was [[Gildenheim_runeforge|discovered by chance]] in the Autumn of 379YE. The ''koboldi'' are very excited when they learn of it, and spend some time poking around the ruins with long-suffering [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] guides. After actually examining the thing, however, the ''koboldi'' attitude changes dramatically. They become secretive, huddling together for hurried conversations in their own hissing, yipping tongue, and casting worried glances around the ruins. Eventually the cause of their concern becomes apparent; they nervously reveal that as near as they can tell most of the workings of the runeforge are ''horribly accursèd.'' Once back in more wholesome tunnels, however, their dark mood quickly lifts, and by the time they reach the streets of Gildenheim again they are already chattering enthusiastically about how best to make use of the ''dreadful ruins''.

If instructed to do so by the Master, they will widen and reinforce the caverns, and the passages that lead to them, creating stairs and expanding the delve as only koboldi can. They would dispose safely of any components of the runeforge that are too dangerous to use, and repurpose the rest to create a potent magically-enhanced subterranean forge dedicated to creating magic items for Imperial Orcs. To be on the safe side, they'd liaise with the scholars at the [[Skarsind#Legion's Rookery|Legion's Rookery]] to incorporate images of appropriate Imperial Orc ancestors to keep a watchful eye out for any lingering maledictions. The ''koboldi'' themselves would help in the forges as long as they were welcome, but even in their absence the facilities they created would continue to serve Imperial Orc smiths and [[Crafting skills#artisan|artisans]]. Indeed, by serving as a place where Imperial orc [[crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] could come together and share their knowledge with one another, it provides a significant opportunity.

This project would resolve the status of the ruined runeforge and in its place create a potent [[ministry]]. A ''Smith at the Deepforge'' would need to be [[New_Imperial_titles#Appointment|appointed]] to oversee it, and each season they would be able to use tempest jade, green iron, dragonbone, and orichalcum to forge magic items with which to outfit Imperial Orc champions that reflected the unique understanding of the many strands of Imperial orc crafting that have developed over the years. With access to [[ilium]], it would even be possible to create [[Magic_items#Schema|schema]] for these items allowing their manufacture to be mastered and made outside the Deepforge as well!

How the ''Smith at the Deepforge'' would be appointed is a matter for the Master of Koboldi to determine when they [[Senate_announcement|announce]] the commission. The advice of the Civil Service is that the ''well worn path'' would most likely be the [[Tally_of_the_Votes#Voting|Tally of the Votes]] by the [[Imperial Bourse]] - the structure is intended to aid Imperial Orc legions and the vote of those who command [[military unit|military units]] that have supported [[Imperial army|Imperial armies]] thus seems appropriate.

Once complete, the Deepforge would continue to function regardless of whether Adamant were considered an [[amity and enmity|ally or enemy]] of the Empire.
===Arms and Armour===
The remains of the runeforge, coupled with the enthusiasm of the koboldi, and the scattered lore of the Imperial Orcs themselves permits the Deepforge to create unique magic items. The inspiration for these items comes in part from the mystical nature of the runeforge, and in part from the Imperial Orcs and their ancestors themselves. The only exception is the ''Mask of the Dragon'' which is a magical ritual focus that the ''koboldi'' will cheerfully share with the Imperial Orc smiths once the Deepforge is ready.

<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
====Pitfighter's Blade====
* '''Description:''' A one-handed weapon - which need not necessarily be a sword - that brings a reservoir of inner strength. In the hands of an [[orc]], it strengthens their ability to hear their [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#Imperial_Orc_ancestors|ancestors]] when they wield it in battle.
* '''Form:''' Weapon. Takes the form of a [[Weapons_%26_armour#One-handed_Weapons|one-handed weapon]]. You must be wielding this weapon to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' Any character can bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' You gain one additional hero point. If you are an orc, you gain two additional hero points instead.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' When you wield this weapon in battle, if you are an orc you find it easier to hear the voices of your ancestors
====Armour of the Legion====
* '''Description:''' A suit of heavy plate, inscribed with [[Imperial Orcs hearth magic#Insignia|insignia]] chosen by the one it is crafted for, reinforces an orc's connection to their nation and their people.
* '''Form:''' Armour. Takes the form of a suit of [[Weapons_%26_armour#Heavy_Armour|heavy armour]]. You must be wearing this armour to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' Any character can bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' You gain one additional rank of endurance. If you are an orc, you also gain one additional hero point
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' If you are an orc, you feel a sense of pride in your heritage and your identity as an orc
====Reaver's Shield====
* '''Description:''' Usually a round shield, the Warlord's Bulwark is invariably marked with a hand-painted [[Imperial Orcs hearth magic#Insignia|insignia]], regularly refreshed by the bearer after each battle it is used in.
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a [[Weapons_%26_armour#Shields|full-sized shield]]. You cannot make a magic buckler. You must be wielding this shield to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Combat skills#Shield|shield]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' If you are an orc, you gain an additional rank of endurance.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' If you are an orc you are strongly aware of the bonds that tie you to other orcs
====Warlord's Bulwark====
* '''Description:''' This shield could bear the insignia of one of the Imperial orc armies. Bearers could then record the details of their victories - and their defeats - on the inside of the shield.
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a [[Weapons_%26_armour#Shields|full-sized shield]]. You cannot make a magic buckler. You must be wielding this shield to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Combat skills#Shield|shield]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' If you are an orc, you may spend a hero point to use the [[Heroic_skills#Get_it_Together|get it together]] skill as if you know it. Once per day you may use the get it together skill without spending a hero point.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' You feel an urge to take charge in any dangerous situation, and expect others to do as you say until the danger has passed.

====Bonesetter's Ring====
* '''Description:''' Crafted from inscribed bone, the Bonesetter's Ring helps the wearer to save their fellows from the embrace of the [[Imperial_Orcs_religious_beliefs#The_Howling_Abyss|Howling Abyss]].
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a piece of [[Magic_items#Talismans|jewellery]]. You must be wearing this item to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' Any character can bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' You can use the stay with me skill as if you knew it. If you are an orc, twice per day you can use stay with me on another orc without spending any hero points.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' You are profoundly aware of the value of orc lives - even those of enemy orcs

====Oathwright's Warskirt====
* '''Description:''' This leather skirt and sturdy belt can be hung with small items of [[worth]]. It helps an orc magician to survive in the thick of battle, as well as reminding them of the importance of words, promises, and oaths.
* '''Form:''' Armour. Takes the form of a suit of [[Weapons_%26_armour#Mage_Armour|mage armour]]. You must be wearing this armour to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have both the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] and [[Magical skills#Battle Mage|battle mage]] skills to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' You gain one additional rank of endurance. If you are an orc, you gain an additional rank of endurance.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' You are aware of the need to choose your words carefully, and take promises very seriously.
====Mask of the Dragon====
* '''Description:''' A gift from the ''koboldi'', this ritual focus takes the form of mask in the shape of a lizard's or dragon's face, often studded with fragments of tempest jade and orichalcum.
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a [[Magic_items#Talismans|ritual focus]]. You must be wearing this item or holding it in hand to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Gain 2 ranks for the [[Strength of the Bull]] and [[Unbreakable_Behemoth%27s_Strength|Unspeakable Behemoth's Strength rituals]], subject to the normal rules for effective skill. When contributing to a performance of either these rituals, you may choose to substitute tempest jade for crystal mana. Every 2 ingots of tempest jade spent counts as 1 crystal mana, up to the normal limit determined by your effective rank of night lore.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' You feel an urge to hoard minerals, especially small gems and bits of tempest jade
</div>
<br>
Click ''Expand'' to see details of the items that can be made at the Gildenheim Deepforge.

===Exclusive Opportunities===
* The ruins could still be reconstituted into a working runeforge as detailed in [[Forge_of_sorrows#Significance|Forge of sorrows]]
* The ruins could be excavated and transported to Runegrott in [[Wintermark]] to form the foundation of a new runeforge as detailed in [[Conduit_to_destiny#The_Runed_Ruins|Conduit to Destiny]]
* The Thule orcs are still interested in acquiring the runeforge ruins as detailed in [[Spear of the stars#An interest in relics|Spear of the stars]]
* All the opportunities, including the building of the deepforge, are mutually exclusive; only one can be taken.

==The Deepwyrm Aerie==
* '''The Master of the Koboldi could commission a special [[ministry]] in the mountains of [[Miekarova]] overlooking the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]].'''
* '''In addition to providing protection to the college and the region of [[Miekarova#Srodkoja|Srodkoja]] it would grant additional benefits to the [[Master of Ice and Darkness]]'''
<table style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Dragonscale Brewing</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">Production</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>3 doses of [[Philtres_of_the_High_Peaks#The_Philtre_of_Heavenly_Lore|Philtre of Heavenly Lore]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>14 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>3 doses of [[Tinctures of True Eminence#Dragon's Blood|Dragon's Blood]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>3 doses of [[Tinctures of True Eminence#Goldencrown|Goldencrown]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 ingots of Tempest Jade</td><td>3 doses of Deepscale Tonic</td></tr>
</table>
Patronage of the [[Master_of_Ice_and_Darkness#The_Icy_Crag_of_the_Eternal_Sun|Icy Crag of the Eternal Sun]] is fought over by the Summer eternals, and Adamant himself has thrown his hat into the ring. Yet Adamant is also a pragmatic creature - at least as regards contests - and appears to approve of the College regardless of which lord of the Summer realm serves as patron. A small band of ''koboldi'' appear at Volchitrava in the middle of a snowstorm, their topaz and emerald scales buried beneath copious layers of fur and wool. Once they have warmed up a little, they launch several expeditions into the area surrounding the village and the College - under the careful gaze of the Gremani family who ensure they do not stray from the road or get themselves eaten by wolves.

After a fortnight as guests of the village and the College, the ''koboldi'' present a shocking proposal. They want to construct an aerie - to carve a giant draconic face into the side of one of the mountains overlooking Volchitrava and Olodny. They have already consulted storytellers, wise ones, and wardens alike and there is an agreement that no dark spirit is associated with the peak. More importantly for the koboldi, there is a Summer regio aligned with Adamant within the mountain's caves. Constructing the aerie is not cheap - it would require 30 wains of white granite and 60 crowns in treasure and other inducements - but once it was complete, the Dragon of the Glimmering Depths would send some of his deepwyrms through it to live within the mountain.

The koboldi describe the deepwyrms as impressive, majestic creatures like massive lizard-serpents with four pairs of taloned legs and scales of deep midnight blue. Fed almost exclusively on tempest jade, they are able to exhale gouts of thunderous energy at any who dare to try and stand against them. While they cannot exist for long in the mortal world, they are terrible engines of destruction that would certainly fight to protect the college of magic regardless of who it looked to for patronage.

As a consequence, should any army attempt to conquer the region of Srodkoja in Miekarova, the deepwyrms would fight to defend it. Furthermore, while it seems unlikely Srodkoja would be attacked any time soon, there would be additional benefits for the Master of Ice and Darkness. As well as the prestige of having their college watched over by dragon-kin, the koboldi will teach some of the professors at the college how to use the scales that fall from the deepwyrms to brew unique magical elixirs. As long as the deepwyrms are well fed with tempest jade, the Master of Ice and Darkness would receive doses of several potions valuable to magic users, both [[Magical_skills#Battle_Mage|battle mage]] and [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore|master of Summer lore]] alike.

One of the elixirs - the ''Deepscale Tonic'' is of particular interest; as potent as [[Tonics_of_the_Deep_Forest#Ironblood_Tonic|Ironblood Tonic]], but rather than distancing the drinker from their emotions it rouses emotions in them similar to those created by the [[Unbreakable Behemoth's Strength]] ritual.

Both these benefits would be lost if Adamant were placed under [[amity and enmity#enmity|enmity]] by the Imperial Conclave.

===From Beneath the Earth===
* '''The Master of the Koboldi could commission the Dragonwyrm Aerie for 30 wains of white granite and 60 crowns in treasure and jewels. Work would take three months to complete.'''
* '''The Aerie would protect the region of Srodkoja in Miekarova in a manner similar to a [[fortification]], but only if the region were attacked directly.'''
* '''Scales collected from the deepwyrms would provide the Master of Ice and Darkness with magic [[potion|potions]] depending on how well the beasts were fed.'''
* '''All benefits are lost if a declaration of [[Amity and enmity#Enmity|enmity]] is made against Adamant by the Conclave.'''
If the Aerie is built, it functions in a similar manner to a [[fortification]]. Should [[Miekarova]] be attacked, it would provide an effective 1,000 strength fortification that would ''only'' come into play if the Srodkoja [[territory#region|region]] were directly attacked (and would coincidentally mean the territory was not considered undefended if the attackers came from that direction). Unlike a normal fortification, the Aerie does not collapse until its effective strength is reduced to 0. However, while it will [[Fortification#Automatic Repair|regain strength normally]], it can only be [[Fortification#Emergency Repair|emergency repaired]] with magic.

==Three Great Beasts==
* '''Three opportunities exist to build large magical statues in the [[Mournwold]], in [[Hahnmark]], and in [[Weirwater]]
* '''Each statue is a separate commission - a [[great work]] that provides additional prosperity to [[mine|mines]] in the territory'''
* '''Each great beast costs 40 wains of white granite and 80 crowns in gold and jewels to construct, and takes three months'''
The Light in the Depths is a patron of miners and mine-owners. How else can the Dragon-in-Darkness fill his gleaming hoard with the fruits of the deep earth? In the past, Adamant has offered to send his servants to aid mine workers, but as the Winter solstice approaches the ''koboldi'' propose something a little more permanent that also plays into their master's well-known affection for [[Morrow#The_Three_Watchers|giant stone statues]]. After a lot of animated discussion, and a lot of conversation with tired miners, they have laid out plans for enchanted statues that will bring prosperity to the mine owners in three specific territories.

While each of the great works has obvious utility, one of the ''koboldi'' foremen mentions in an off-hand way that completing construction of one of the statues would be an indicator to Adamant of how seriously the Empire takes the business of securing the treasures of the earth. Doing so would no-doubt encourage their master to consider additional boons related to the operation of mines - perhaps similar to those he has already offered [[Queens_and_kings#The_Talented_Koboldi|involving white granite]], or relating to familiar Summer magic rituals such as [[Delve Deep, Beneath the Mountain]].
===The Black Boar===
In [[Mournwold]], in [[the Marches]], the ''koboldi'' have a plan for a massive black stone statue of a boar in the hills south of [[Mournwold#Southmoor|Sarcombe]]. The ''Black Boar'' would harness the power of a Summer [[regio]], and use it to offer strength and protection to miners across the territory. One local [[landskeeper]] has pointed out that the proposed location in the southern hills means that one could draw imaginary lines on the map linking the ''Black Boar'', the Old Pig in [[Mournwold#Freemoor|Freemoor]], and the broken-crowned stag statue in [[Mournwold#Green March|Green March]] known as ''High Courage'', and that the line between the two pigs passes right through the [[Singing Caves]], but the ''koboldi'' say this is probably just a coincidence. Once completed, every mine in the Mournwold owned and operated by a Marcher would share in a bounty of 50 [[Materials#Green Iron|Green Iron]] each season, following the normal rules for a [[great work]].
===The Alabaster Owlbeast===
In [[Weirwater]], in [[Dawn]], the ''koboldi'' propose to build an immense white stone statue of a [[Legendary_beasts#Mandowla|Mandowla]], a great beast associated in [[aspect_magic#Heraldic_Magic|Heraldic magic]] with strength, striaghtforwardness, and practicality. Again, harnessing the power of a Summer regio, the statue would be built in [[Weirwater#Wickmoor|Wickmoor]] on top a hill to the northwest of the [[Weirwater Vales]], so that it would be easily visible for miles around. The plans include the use of two massive [[Technology#Lightstones|lightstones]] that would need to be imported from [[Urizen]] or perhaps [[Wintermark]], which would make the colossus especially visible at night - a beacon that would not only inspire miners but also help to navigate the deep woods and dangerous forests of Weirwater. "''I don't know about you,''" one of the ''koboldi'' is reported to have said on more than one occasion, "''but all these trees do my head in. How do you people ever manage to go anywhere without getting lost?''" Once completed, the ''Alabaster Owlbeast'' would provide every mine in Weirwater with a share in a bounty of 900 rings, representing precious metals and gemstones hewn from the earth alongside the magical materials the mines also produce.
===The Three Magpies===
In [[Hahnmark]], in [[Wintermark]], the ''koboldi'' have drawn up plans to sculpt a great tableau of three great magpies, along the sheer rock face of the mountain known as ''Rodthorn''. The relief would be visible across the [[Hahnmark#Hahnmark|Northspires]], and as with the other two proposals harness the power of a Summer regio. The Rodthorn Peak is notable to scholars and historians because some of the more extensive troll ruins found in northern Hahnmark, although the tableau itself would not impinge on any of the known troll workings. The construction effort would need several tons of white stone to be carried up the mountain, but the koboldi are confident that this will not be especially difficult - they are very good with cranes and working in dangerous environments. Once complete, the ''Three Magpies'' would provide every mine in Hahnmark with a share in a bounty of 25 [[materials#Orichalcum|Orichalcum]] and 25 [[Materials#Tempest Jade|Tempest Jade]].

==Girdle the Flame==
* '''Adamant proposes transforming part of the [[Redoubt#The_Court_of_the_White_Fountain|Court of the White Fountain]] into unbreakable adamant.'''
* '''The commission would cost 10 rings of [[ilium]], and take three months.'''
* '''Once the commission were complete, it would require a casting of [[Hammers of the Brilliant Shore]] at magnitude 110 to complete the transformation.'''
As well as his other interests, Adamant has a clear interest in the construction of great [[fortification|fortifications]] throughout the Empire. In the past, his ''koboldi'' have been enthusiastic supporters of efforts to improve the defensive value of the Walls of Holberg, the Castle of Thorns in Astolat, and of course the Court of the White Fountain in [[Redoubt]]. Built in the foothills of [[Redoubt#Optarion|Optarion]], it is a towering pinnacle surrounded by a massive semi-circular wall that completely fills the [[Spiral#The_Three_Passes|Onyx Pass]] - one of only two easily accessible routes for armies to pass between Redoubt and [[Spiral]]. Impressive as the tower is, it pales into insignificance next to the White Fountain itself - a gout of liquid fire that bursts from somewhere deep within the earth, arcs high into the air before being gathered in a black basin and disappearing back beneath the ground again. It is said the entire [[Citadel Guard]] can muster in the courtyard before the fountain - and indeed that the army itself was raised here back in the earliest days of Urizen as a nation.

Once upon a time, a second Urizen fortification stood across the Onyx Path, on the slopes of [[Spiral#Ateri|Ateri]]. Sadly, [[Spiral#Ruins_of_Fort_Mezudan|Fort Mezudan]] now lies in ruins - destroyed in an awesome magical storm conjured by [[Grendel]] masters of [[Spring magic|Wind magic]]. While hostilities between the Empire and the southern [[orc|orcs]] may have abated for the time being, Adamant is apparently concerned about what might happen to the Court of the White Fountain when they inevitably resume.

With that in mind, his koboldi propose reinforcing the Court with ''adamant'' - that unbreakable material that can be found only in the Summer realm. As with the [[Semmerholm#The_Adamant_Gate|Adamant Gate]] in distant [[Semmerholm]], this would mean that the Court of the White Fountain would become effectively indestructible - that no matter how much strength was brought against it, the tower itself would never fall.

Doing so is no minor undertaking; it would require the [[Master of the Koboldi]] to [[commission]] the project, and provide 10 rings of [[ilium]]. It would take the ''koboldi'' three months of work, and would also require additional magic. At the culmination of the project, Imperial magicians would need to perform the [[Hammers of the Brilliant Shore]] ritual with a magnitude of 110 (sufficient to restore 500 strength if the castle were damaged). Once this was done, the fortification would be reinforced with brilliant adamant and - as the ''koboldi'' off-handedly remark - most likely outlive the Empire it defends.

'''OOC Note:''' Completing this project causes the Court of the White Fountain to gain the ''unbreakable'' quality. This means that damage to the fortification cannot reduce it to below 1,000 military strength. It can be captured, but it cannot be destroyed.

==The Red Iron Door==
* '''There are signs of a great number of [[trogoni]] massing in the tunnels deep beneath [[Delver_of_the_Depths#Lorenzo.27s_Deep_Pockets|Lorenzo's Deep Pockets]] and that they may threaten [[Miaren]], [[Upwold]], [[Temeschwar]], and [[Hahnmark]].'''
* '''The koboldi believe the dangerous trogoni infested tunnels of the great north-western sinkhole can be sealed'''
* '''If left unsealed, there should be at least a year before the trogoni gather enough force to be a major threat - assuming nothing else changes.'''
And finally... while visiting [[Hahnmark]], the ''koboldi'' become aware of the [[Temeschwar#Lorenzo.27s_Deep_Pockets|grand sinkhole]] that [[Rocks_and_gravel|catastrophically opened up]] in the north-western Empire in late Spring 381YE. They are keen to have a proper look at it, and prevail on a small group of adventurous types to give them a short tour. They are both horrified and fascinated, and express concern about the number of [[trogoni]] they can feel massing in the depths of the sinkhole. Serious concern. They seem to think that the excavation of the sinkhole, and especially the construction of several structures related to crystal mana in its vicinity, have attracted great numbers of the burrowing beasts to the vicinity of Lorenzo's Deep Pockets. They've no idea when the trogoni will attack, but they think it likely that within a year or so a legion of the subterranean horrors will pour out of the ground and attack mines and mana sites across southern [[Hahnmark]] and [[Temeschwar]], and throughout northern [[Upwold]] and [[Miaren]].

In response to some immediate panic when they mention their observations, the koboldi apologise and explain that they may have over-stressed the danger. A little. While the trogoni threat ''is'' growing, it's not an ''imminent'' threat. Unless something changes - something that angers the trogoni already gathered or prompts a feeding frenzy - there's at least a year before there's enough trogoni beneath the sinkhole to be a major threat. Unfortunately, they're pretty sure that sending troop into the sinkhole to deal with the trogoni is exactly the sort of thing that might cause them to come boiling out and try to eat everyone's faces.

If the Empire wants to head off this potential disaster - albeit a disaster on a small scale - the servants of Adamant have a solution. Somewhere in the depths of the sinkhole there is a shaft that leads unimaginably far down into the earth where the trogoni seethe and multiply - something [[Delver_of_the_Depths#Trogoni_Burrows|posited by Snowstorm Henk]] when the [[orc]] scholar [[Delver_of_the_Depths#Exploration_of_the_Sinkhole|explored the sinkhole]] last Winter. They believe that sealing that shaft will greatly reduce the threat of the trogoni - especially if the right kind of seal is applied. They are no strangers to dealing with hordes of terrible underground monsters, and believe that some of the [[runes]] carved into the [[Delver_of_the_Depths#Ancient_Tunnels|ancient tunnels]] might suggest a way forward.

They propose to construct a great door of [[mithril]] alloyed with [[Materials#Green Iron|Green Iron]] and [[Materials#Orichalcum|Orichalcum]]. This would be marked with thousands of runes - primarily [[Verys]], [[Tykonus]], and [[Feresh]] - and then manoeuvred into place in the depths of the sinkhole. Creating the door itself is a challenge - but something the koboldi are confident they can achieve. The door would require a [[commission]] from the Master of the Koboldi, and cost 10 wains of mithril, and 25 ingots each of Green Iron and Orichalcum. It would take three months to complete.

Once the door had been constructed - and they are keen to stress it is a ''very big'' door - then putting it in place would require a significant armed force committed to assisting them - if not an actual [[Imperial army]] then at least a significant force of [[military unit|trained warriors]]. Once the door were in place and the shaft sealed, the threat of the trogoni in the north-west Empire would be nullified. It would also allow the [[Delver of the Depths]] to send their workers into the deeper parts of the sinkhole without anywhere near as much chance that they will be eaten by underground horrors - potentially increasing the revenue of the sinkhole.

Furthermore, once the door has been tested and proved successful, the koboldi propose to share the secrets of its construction with the Empire, allowing Imperial miners to make use of the runes and magics involved to create their own anti-trogoni seals, greatly reducing the threat of the armoured monsters to mines and mana sites across the Empire.
===Sealing the Sinkhole===
* '''Constructing a ward against the trogoni is a commission for the Master of the Koboldi that costs 10 wains of mithril, and 25 ingots each of green iron and orichalcum. It would take three months to complete.'''
* '''Once the door was built, it would need to be installed. This would create an [[opportunity]] for [[military unit|military units]] to delve into the sinkhole.'''
The commission represents the creation of a [[folly]], which is within the power of the [[Master of the Koboldi]] to commission. If the door is completed, it will create a new [[opportunity]] while [[military unit|military units]] can take part in a project to secure the lower levels of the sinkhole and let the koboldi seal the sinkhole. This would both defuse the threat of the subterranean army, and potentially give opportunities to increase to the productivity of the sinkhole. If their scheme is successful, the koboldi will share the methods of making similar seals with the Empire - meaning that owners of [[mine]] and [[mana site]] [[Resource#Personal_Resource|personal resources]] would no longer need to fear the threat of future trogoni attacks.

As [[Rocks_and_gravel#Weltsilver_Bounty|initial forays]] into the sinkhole suggested, there are likely sufficient trogoni down there to be function as the equivalent of an [[Imperial army]] should they be roused - one that would need to be dealt with by similar degree of force. However ignoring this problem presents no danger in the immediate future - the trogoni won't attack unless something happens that triggers their wrath. They are drawn to crystal mana and [[materials#Tempest Jade|tempest jade]] in particular so it is likely that the construction of any [[sinecure]] or [[great work]] relating to these materials in any of the territories bordering the sinkhole would trigger them, but other than that they should remain quiescent for years.

The koboldi do not claim that their red iron door plan is the only way to deal with the threat of the trogoni. They are very enthusiastic about it, but there are doubtless other ways that the threat of a trogoni attack could be dealt with. The [[Imperial Senate]] could commission an [[appraisal]] into the situation, and no doubt uncover other ways to deal with challenge of the burrowing horrors.

==Further Reading==
You can find details of some of Adamant's previous interactions with the Empire, as well as a description of the eternal themselves, elsewhere on the wiki.
* [[Adamant]]
* [[Master of the Koboldi]] details the [[Imperial title]] associated with the newly completed College of Engineering
* [[A_job_worth_doing|A job worth doing]] recounts the Winter 379YE first appearance of Adamant's ''koboldi''
* [[Queens_and_kings#The_Talented_Koboldi|Queens and Kings]] explains his 381YE offer to help [[mine]] owners expand their delves
* [[Budded_roses#A_Gate_of_Adamant|Budded roses]] Details Adamant's offer to help rebuild the destroyed Gate fortification in Semmerholm
* [[Hunter_of_stars#Adamant|Hunter of stars]] talks about the 382YE Spring plenipotentiary in which (among other things) Adamant mentions the College of Engineering
* [[Mean_what_you_say#King_Adamant_and_the_Academy_of_Stone|Mean what you say]] contains further details the College of Engineering opportunity
* [[An_affirming_flame#The_Three_Watchers|An affirming flame]] is not precisely about Adamant, but involves a mage offering to call in a favour from the eternal to build a grand structure
* [[Sun_green#The_Disappointment_of_Adamant|Sun green]] talks about a rare moment where Adamant was not angry, but disappointed
* [[Some_heavenly_music#The_Architects_of_Stone|Some heavenly music]] is a Wind of Fortune for the coming Winter Solstice that involves a book of rituals related to the King 'Neath The Peak
==Resolution==
The first [[Master of the Koboldi]] - Sagua i'Ezmara - was appointed by the Imperial Conclave during the Winter Solstice amid fierce competition. They commissioned the creation of the Red Iron Door, the results of which are detailed in [[One side stone, one side fire]].

Begin to speak

2025-02-03T13:30:09Z

Apoth: /* Timetable */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:384YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Plenipotentiary]]
<ic>"... and so the two children crept through the enchanted woods until at last the trees pulled back to reveal a pale silver clearing bathed in the light cascading down from the moon above." Izzy, her hands held apart and upright to bookend the scene, paused for a moment to cast a furtive glance in the direction of her audience. She needn't have worried, both the earl's children were rapt with attention, waiting for their troubadour to continue the fairy tale. "What do you imagine was in the clearing?" she demanded of them.

"A troll!" shouted Kay.

"A unicorn..." pleaded Rodric.

Izzy pretended to looked shocked. "You're both right!" she proclaimed. "There was in fact a great troll, its face a mass of twisted warts, each one so knobbly that there were three warts on top of it. And next to that was a graceful unicorn, white as snow and still as a millpond..."

"I want to fight the troll!" Kay interjected.

"I want to ride the unicorn!" insisted Rodric, "Like the First Empress did!".

Izzy raised a single finger and shook it firmly at the two children. "It's more glory than you can dream of to fight a troll. Win or lose, your name would become a legend. But a unicorn is much more dangerous than a troll. The Lord of the Forest may be graceful and beautiful, but his heart is black as night and knows only jealousy and despite. If you were to clamber on his back he would bear you aware into the night and never stop and you would never be heard of again!"

The two children gasped in horror, while Izzy clutched her face in mock concern. "Fortunately... neither the misfigured troll nor the black-hearted horse had seen the two children... and so silent as field mice... they crept forwards..."
</ic>
{{Audio|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAgis3VHLJ0}}
<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Fox on a String.jpg|align=left|caption=The world is bound with secret knots.|width=600}}</div>
==Overview==
* '''Six eternals responded to plenipotentiary messages from the Imperial archmages.'''
* '''Three have offered parley; three have made other arrangements'''
Each of the Empire's [[archmage|archmages]] is able to contact an [[eternal]] of their realm with a [[Archmage#Plenipotentiary|plenipotentiary]] message. The eternals they address are bound to respond in some way. They may agree to a formal [[Archmage#parley|parley]], or a private meeting, or suggest something entirely unexpected.

During the Spring Equinox, each archmage has dispatched a plenipotentiary and as the Summer Solstice approaches, six eternals send messengers to deliver their replies.
{{CaptionedImage|file=NightRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}

==Azoth==
* '''The eternal Azoth has declined a formal parley'''
* '''Instead they plan to host a night market in the Hall of Worlds between 11pm and midnight on Friday'''
* '''The current Archmage of Night is Elyssiathain of Urizen'''
Barely a week after the Spring Equinox, the first messenger arrives in Anvil with a response to an archmage. The figure appears very much like an orc, but with curling horns reminiscent of those borne by a [[cambion]]. They wear a gown of flowing colours, and it takes them over an hour to make their way to the Hub as they engage in animated conversation with anyone who makes eye contact or stands still for more than a moment. They are a herald of [[Azoth]], who they refer to as "''eldest and youngest''".

At this time, the ''crucible'' declines the invitation of the Archmage of Night, they won't agree to a formal parley unless they know exactly what it is the Archmage wants to discuss. However, they are pleased that the night market was well received last time and hope that the archmage will be pleased by its return. To this end, they have given orders for a number of their servants to come to the Hall of Worlds on Friday evening of the Summer Solstice to host another market. There will be any number of wonders offered for sale; preparations mundane and sublime; magical substances fused from dreams and starlight; words of transformation and transfiguration; and perhaps even the opportunity to consider the role the runes [[Gralm]] and [[Ull]] have in shaping mortal lives. The heralds who operate the night market will accept payment each according to their nature whether that be Imperial coinage, magical resources, [[herbs]], and less tangible things.

It is Azoth's intention that the market will begin at one-minute past 11pm and will last until exactly midnight after which there will be no more trades and the market will return to the Night Realm. The civil service have informed Azoth that the Imperial Conclave does sometimes run beyond this point, and they have indicated that they are happy to take that risk and have a plan for what to do if that happens.

While the market will not be a formal parley - it is difficult to conduct business when only one being at a time can speak - Azoth presumes that the Archmage of Night can ensure the safety of their servants, and the merchandise they present.
{{CaptionedImage|file=SummerRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}

==Jaheris==
* '''The eternal Jaheris, Ruler of the Forest of Arden, agrees to formal parley'''
* '''The meeting will take place at half-past-one in the afternoon on Saturday'''
* '''The current Archmage of Summer is Brother Luke'''
The heralds who emerge from the Imperial Regio a month after the Spring Equinox attract immediate attention. A silver-haired woman accompanied by a pair of twisted goblin knights, like gnarled treeroots given arms and legs and shoved into black armour. Without paying the slightest heed to the mortals around her, this silent herald glides through Anvil, presents a furled scroll to the first civil servant she encounters, and then returns whence she came. The knights accompanying her, by contrast, leer menacingly at anyone who comes near and make nasty little comments to one another about the people they encounter.

The scroll is beautifully written and decorated, and represents an agreement from the [[Jaheris|Moonsilver Prince]] indicating that he is delighted to have received Brother Luke's message and enthused about the idea of a formal parley. He suggests a meeting in the ''grove of sighs'' (a chamber between the mortal world and the Summer Realm) to take place at half past one in the afternoon on Saturday during the Summer Solstice. The Archmage should bring themselves (or send a proxy in their stead), along with no more than perhaps a dozen others. Specifically, Jaheris would like to see representatives of House de Rondell of [[Dawn]]. Jaheris would also like a performer to attend; someone who can entertain the gathering with songs or poetry. They will be recompensed for their time, of course.

Topics under discussion will include the challenge of the Summer Tourney; the Hand of Dumon and the Iron Confederacy; the nature of that most hateful of bitter Queens; relations between the Summer Realm and the Empire with particular reference to friendship and patronage; which enemy of the Empire poses the greatest threat to their sovereignty; and the minor matter of resolving business with a certain eternal who has apparently tormented the Shattered Tower over the years.
{{CaptionedImage|file=DayRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}

==Roshanwe==
* '''The eternal Roshanwe, the Walker on the Littoral, agrees to formal parley'''
* '''The meeting will take place at four o'clock in the afternoon on Saturday'''
* '''The current Archmage of Day is Skywise Gralka'''
The messenger of [[Roshanwe]] emerges from the Imperial Regio at sunset. Garbed as a Highborn seeker, albeit in a style that is hundred of years out of date, they make their way to the Hub with a message from their mistress. She is apparently surprised that the Archmage of Day wishes to speak to her again so soon, but she accepts the offer of parley. However, she has a very specific guest list that she wishes to meet with. Specifically, she asks that the Archmage bring with her the [[Grandmaster]] of the [[Sevenfold Path]] and the [[Cardinal]] of [[Wisdom]] (or individuals sent to represent them if the grandmaster and cardinal have other claims on their time); two [[sword scholar|sword scholars]]; and six human candidates who wish to take on the mantle of the [[merrow]]. The meeting will take place in a chamber arranged by Roshanwe and will touch on the matter of [[Sulemaine]], the nature of the merrow, and the Pilgrimage of Discovery.

Assuming all of that is acceptable to the Archmage of Day, the meeting will take place at four o'clock on the Saturday of the coming Summit.
{{CaptionedImage|file=AutumnRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}

==Estavus==
* '''Estavus declines a parley'''
* '''Instead, in conjunction with the City of Gold and Lead, she offers major boons to Imperial citizens prepared to pay for them'''
* '''The current Archmage of Autumn is Edmundo of Damakan's forge'''
Midway between Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice, a squat construct of brass and porcelain in the shape of an oversized child appears at Anvil. It delivers a message from the ''Prince of Shikal'', speaking in a disturbing off-kilter voice full of clicks and ticks. The ''Forgemistress'' declines the invitation of the Archmage of Autumn at this time. They are explicit that the ''Towers of Calx and Coom'' do not possess the ability to support coastal fortresses. His other request piques the interest of the eternal; they are not prepared to provide the specific magical aid he has requested, but the ''Bronze Artisan'' will offer aid in a similar vein.

Inspired by the Archmage's request, the ''Hammer of Fire and Stone'' has agreed terms with the [[Ephisis|City of Gold and Lead]], and during the coming Solstice offers the following bargains. In each case, the bargain is sealed using the [[Ephisis' Scale]] ritual; along with the materials the magicians must include a [[Lann]] rune to indicate they wish to trade with Estavus. In return, Estavus will provide a single mystic scroll, a piece of metallic parchment that will allow up to a dozen magicians who study it to master the ritual knowledge it contains before the magic fades. The herald warns that the scrolls will lose their enchantment by the end of the summit, so they must be used before then.

The first bargain is a ritual named '''Ramparts of Ashlar''' that will enchant an existing region containing a [[fortification]]. The effective strength of the target fortification is increased by 3000. It is of magnitude 150, and it has an assurance - it ceases to function if a servant of the Empire ever refuses a lawful demand of the [[Lictors|Brass Magistrates]]. One mystic scroll will be delivered as payment for each Ephisis' Scales that contains the rune of Lann and 300 ingots of tempest jade.

The second bargain is a ritual named '''Hammers of Fury''' that will place an enchantment on the forges, foundries and smithies throughout a territory. These sites will be infused with the heat of Shikal's forges, and able to forge the arms and armour needed to equip an army with supernatural speed. This will reduce the time needed to muster [[Imperial army|armies]] in the territory by one season. Mines throughout the territory will see their production of metals reduced by two ingots, but will each gain one pouch of warm ashes in its place. It is of magnitude 80, and it has an assurance - it will only function so long as the Empire possess a working [[runeforge]]. The mystic scroll will be delivered as payment for each Ephisis' Scales that contains the rune of Lann and 300 ingots of weltsilver.

The third bargain is a ritual named '''Machines of Destruction''' that calls the minotaurs of Shikal to emerge from the Autumn realm dragging immense siege weapons. Bronze onangers and trebuchets, brass battering rams and siege towers and mithril ladders. The minotaurs will fight alongside an army on campaign allowing them to issue the [[Army_qualities#Siege|storm the walls order]]. The ritual is magnitude 135, and it has an assurance - it ceases to function if Estavus is ever placed under enmity by the Imperial Conclave. The mystic scroll will be delivered as payment for any Ephisis' Scales that contains the rune of Lann and 300 ingots of orichalcum.

The fourth bargain is a ritual named '''Accoutrements of War''' that calls forth heralds from the Towers of Calx and Coom bearing arms and armour fashioned in the heart of a volcano. These brass armaments gleam with an inner fire and will provide a powerful boost to any military unit that is supporting an Imperial army before they lose their inner fire after a season of campaigning. This temporary bonus increases the effective fighting force of the unit by 100, the equivalent of 5 normal upgrades. If instead, the unit takes the paid work action, they will receive twelve random ingots of metal in addition to their normal returns. The ritual is magnitude 20, and it has an assurance - it ceases to function if the Empire ever breaches the terms of a parley with an Autumn eternal. The mystic scroll will be delivered as payment for any Ephisis' Scales that contains the rune of Lann and 75 ingots of green iron.

The final bargain is open-ended; for the duration of the Summer Solstice, any Imperial magicians who include the rune Lann in a box of [[Materials#Natural_Materials|forest materials]] will receive from Estavus' forge two pouches of [[Vis#Warm_Ashes|warm ashes]] for every ten measures they provide. There are fifty pouches of warm ashes available and once they are gone, the materials will be returned.

Having delivered the message, the herald departs leaving behind only a square piece of metallic paper with the details of the bargains written on it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=WinterRUne.jpg|align=right|width=100}}

==Tharim==
* '''The Bound King has agreed to a parley during the Summer Solstice'''
* '''The parley will take place in a chamber at ten o'clock Saturday evening'''
* '''The current Archmage of Winter is Ematius of Urizen'''
The herald of Tharim who brings a response to the Archamge of Winter's plenipotentiary is a hulking figure bound in chains and laden down with boulders and iron balls. They speak in a croaking, sibilant voice as they acknowledge the respectful tone of the Archmage's missive. In return Tharim agrees to a parley, in a chamber his servants will prepare.

Tharim will be available at ten o'clock Saturday evening. The meeting is for the Archmage of Winter (or their representative), Sirus Skybreaker, the Keeper of Tharim's Throne, and one other. The topics for discussion will be the matters of Jack-in-Chains and Karvor Eyepeel, and the binding of Winter spirits. On the final matter - the discussion of which eternal provides their patronage to [[Quickening Cold Meat]] - that too will be discussed but only if the Archmage is absolutely certain that they want to know the answer.

Before departing, the herald mentions that it might not be a bad idea for the Archmage to bring some tribute - a gift representing the respect that they have for Tharim. Something suitable to ensure his mood is receptive rather than vituperative. Or not. After all, a poor gift is likely to offend Tharim significantly more than not bringing a gift at all.
{{CaptionedImage|file=SpringRune.jpg|align=right|width=100}}

==Siakha==
* '''Siakha has sent a herald to accept the invitation of the Spring Archmage'''
* '''Siakha will send some of her heralds to the Hall of Worlds at half-past eleven on Saturday night'''
* '''However, before there can be any discussion the Empire must prove its strength by defeating the favoured of Siakha'''
* '''A conjunction to the Barrens at five o'clock on Saturday afternoon provides an opportunity to do so'''
* '''The Empire must take the Spring Archmage's staff with them'''
* '''No meeting with Siakha's representatives will be a formal parley'''
* '''The current Archmage of Spring is Ser Fabienne De Miel'''
The herald of [[Siakha]] that appears in Anvil a week before the Summer Solstice makes no effort to find a civil servant, merely accosting the first citizen that passes near the Imperial Regio. The broad-mouthed horror wields a vicious pole-arm and makes no effort to conceal their anger and hatred as they deliver the message from the ''Mother of Wrecks''. Siakha agrees to send some of her favoured ones to the Hall of Worlds to face the Archmage of Spring and their lackeys. However, before there will be any talk, the Empire must demonstrate that they are worthy of her time. Ibiss Briarheart has issued a challenge, now they must make good on their words.

Let the Spring Archmage bring their minions to the ''Stormwood'' in [[the Barrens#The Bleaks|the Bleaks]], where the favoured of Siakha are waiting for them. If they are strong enough to take the Stone of Storms from Siakha's followers, then the ''Unending Tempest'' will in turn send a message with her heralds to the Hall of Worlds that same evening at half-past eleven. If not, then she will send her heralds without any message. The civil service have informed the herald that the Imperial Conclave does sometimes run beyond this point. The creature's response was a broad grin in a way that suggested that the eternal would welcome an opportunity to kill as many of the Conclave as possible.

There is one more requirement. Siakha does not care who takes up the challenge, whether it is the Spring Archmage or his proxy or whoever. However the person who travels to the Barrens must bear the [[Archmage#Staff_of_the_Archmage|Staff of Spring]] - the Archmage's staff of office - with them. This herald is clear that Siakha will not negotiate - on this or any other demands that the ''Empress of Sharks'' makes.

Neither meeting will be a parley. The ''Salt-born Devourer'' is clear that any creature who attempts to speak with her ''must'' accept that violence is her preferred form of communication. The civil service advises all magicians attending Conclave to be aware that Siakha has attacked the Spring Archmage during a meeting before and that it must be considered highly likely that she will do so again. As if to make this very point, once it has ascertained that the watching citizens have understood the message, the creature proceeds to attempt to murder as many of them as possible, inflicting horrific injuries with its pole-arm before it is finally brought down.

[[Detect_magic#Discover_Conjunction|Examination]] of the [[Sentinel Gate]] indicates that there is a [[Sentinel_Gate#Conjunctions|conjunction]] that can be used to reach the Stormwood, in the Bleaks during the coming summit. Further details are available [[Begin_to_speak#Stormwood_.28Conjunction.29|below]].
===Accessibility===
Please be aware that [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely|combat is highly likely]] in the Hall of Worlds during this encounter.
{{Conjunction Link|384YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Large_Conjunctions}}

===Stormwood (Conjunction)===
* '''The civil service suggests that the [[Archmage of Spring]] take responsibility for the conjunction'''
* '''The Empire must take the Stone of Storms from Siakha's followers'''
* '''If successful, then Siakha's heralds will bring a message with them when they confront the Hall of Worlds that evening'''

Siakha demands proof that the Empire is worthy of her time. At the request of the Archmage of Spring, her heralds are coming to confront the Empire in the Hall of Worlds during the summit, but there will be no attempt at communication unless the Empire can first prove their strength. To do that they must recover the Stone of Storms from a group of Druj favoured by Siakha. The civil service has little information on what to expect, but it will involve a force of Druj, who may be supported by some Siakhan heralds. It is also not clear whether they know the Empire is coming. Nobody who attempts this should expect any quarter to be given by the orc followers of the ''Mother of Wrecks''; the eternal only favours those who are notoriously bloodthirsty.

'''Success or failure:''' The Empire will need to claim the Stone of Storms. Given the nature of Siakha and the attitude of the Druj, it seems inconceivable that this will involve anything less than a fight to the death by both parties. If they recover the Stone of Storms, then the eternal will send a message with their "entourage" when they come to the Hall of Worlds at half-past eleven.

==Timetable==
These meetings are taking place in a number of places; in the Hall of Worlds, in encounter tents reached via the Hall of Worlds, and even one in the woods reached via the Sentinel Gate. The times, and the eternals involved, are summarized here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Day !! Time !! Eternal !! Realm !! Note
|-
| Friday || 23:00 || [[Azoth]] || Night || Not a parley; Night Market in Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 13:30 || [[Jaheris]] || Summer || Parley; Chamber reached via the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 16:00 || [[Roshanwe]] || Day || Parley; Chamber reached via the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 17:00 || [[Siakha]] || Spring || Definitely not a parley; Skirmish
|-
| Saturday || 22:00 || [[Tharim]] || Winter || Parley; Chamber reached via the Hall of Worlds
|-
| Saturday || 23:30 || [[Siakha]] || Spring || Definitely not a parley; dependent on previous events; Hall of worlds
|-
|}

Hunters and wolves

2025-02-03T13:29:50Z

Apoth: /* Accessibility Info */

[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:381YE Autumn]][[Category:Recent History]]
<ic>"I'm sorry, but I'd like to just take a look in your sack, neighbour." Jeanna's tone made it clear she would brook no-nonsense.

The militiawoman's face was neutral, but her hand rested on the head of her axe.

The hairy man flinched away slightly as she reached for him, grimacing, twisting his face into what he obviously intended to be a disarming grin. All he managed to do was make her even more certain he was up to something - the grin accentuated his staring yellow-tinged eyes, and his broken teeth.

"No no no officer, it is nothing, nothing to worry about." he tried to reassure her. "Just a head. A ''pig'' head. Yes! Just a pig head for my supper!"

The man glared at her, and clutched the bag protectively.

"Don't try to steal it now!"

The militiawoman looked past the drooling beggar to her two companions. Ranulf peered down into the ditch and then jumped back, swearing. He began to run down along the path to where Jeanna stood, waving his arms, shouting. The man looked back over his shoulder to see what was going on, his brow furrowing.

Jeanna took an executive decision and grabbed the sack away from the beggar-man while he was distracted. It was surprisingly heavy. She tipped it out, and two human heads thudded onto the snow. Her stomach lurched.

As soon as she took the sack, the maniac stopped capering and launched himself at her, howling like a cornered wolf. He tore at her face with his broken, bloody nails and tried to get his hands around her neck.

Ranulf reached them just as Jeanna stopped beating him unconscious.

"The ditch was full of bodies," he said breathlessly, then looked down at the prone figure. "Is he dead?"

"Not yet," said Jeanna..She gingerly touched the bruise on the side of her neck. "But I think we might have solved the mystery of the Hahnmark strangler..."</ic>
==Overview==
Three incidents involving Winter eternals have been brought to the attention of the Imperial citizenry in the last few months. The Tomb-King [[Sorin]] has dispatched a herald to recruit participants for a trial of suffering. The Bound-King [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Tharim|Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] has taken advantage of the recent [[Declaration#Declaration of Amity|Declaration of Amity]] to send heralds to the Empire. In [[Hahnmark]], an agent of [[Agramant]] is captured while trying to sow discord and distrust between [[Wintermark]] and [[Varushka]].
<div style="float:right; width: 600px;"><ic>I am Exquy and I speak for Sorin, The Hungry Wolf.

It is my duty to organise the Trials of the Pallid Charm.

These trials concern themselves with hard choices and suffering, which will be of no surprise to those who understand the concerns of the Tomb King. Nominations for the trial are open to those who have an aching need that drives them. This dark and barren ache is often carved out of past suffering, of wrongs survived, and sharpened to a hungry bite with time. Some nurture it, others suppress it. Those who face the trials of the Pallid Charm will need to be ready to face the truths that lie in the pits of their bellies and the marrow of their bones. Through the trials the Empty One will choose where his aid might best be placed, and what sacrifice should be asked in return for that aid.

In this year of 381YE we wish to be sure all who might wish to court the attention of The Hungry Wolf in order to progress in these trials have the opportunity. So we will place in your Hall of Worlds a locked and chained box in which you may place a name during the Friday evening of this Equinox. You may nominate yourself or another, by giving a full name and known associations as well as detailing one or two places in Anvil where the so named individual is likely to be found on the Saturday and Sunday of this Equinox. Do not write of suffering or of needs or ambitions, such writing at this time will be ignored. Our agent, Ania of Necropolis will seek you out and speak with you and hear those tales. She will recommend to us a small number from among you to go forwards to the first Trial at the Winter Solstice.
</ic></div>

==The Trials of the Pallid Wolf==
* '''The grim eternal Sorin seeks participants in a trial of hard choices and suffering.'''
When the soberly dressed [[draughir]] arrives at the [[Astolat#The_Castle_of_Thorns|Castle of Thorns]] shortly before the Autumn Equinox she is at first assumed to be bringing messages from [[Highguard]] [[Senator|Senators]]. It is quickly established, however, that she is actually acting as a messenger on behalf of a herald of [[Sorin]] named Exquy - presumably on behalf of the Hungry Wolf himself. She politely asks that the message she delivers be circulated to as many Imperial Citizens as possible; and the civil service have tried to make this letter available to anyone who may be interested.

It is clear that Sorin is not offering a general means of communication with this offer. Any information other than the specific details requested are likely to be ignored by the human agent and heralds alike.

===Accessibility Info===
The First Trial of the Pallid Charm is a tent encounter with good wheelchair access available and optional seating. It is not well lit by default and uses some smoke effects, though we can amend both these on request. (just add this OOC request to your IC details when submitting them). It is designed as a high stress experience and this cannot be changed due to the nature of the Eternal. Although combat is possible dependent on player action, the trial operates IC rules to ensure that safe and fair declarations of non combatant status are possible should combat break out. Subsequent trials will base their accessibility on the needs of participants that progress.

==In the Copse of the Bone Birch==
Three weeks after the Summer Solstice, three peculiar creatures emerge from a stand of birch trees in [[Upwold#Birchland|Birchland]], near the village of Bickwoll. Known as the ''Copse of the Bone Birch'', the area is part of a Winter [[regio]]. Wrapped in black cloaks, each one is accompanied by the clank of chains and shows the marks of mortification on their bodies. They are by all accounts heralds of the eternal [[The_Thrice-cursed_Court#Tharim|Tharim]].

Their appearance interrupts the ceremonial watering of the birch trees - a ritual designed to protect the local trees from disease and parasites - and causes some consternation. In cold, arrogant tones they explain to the gathered [[Bands#Covens|coven]] that their presence is in accord with the wishes of the [[Imperial Conclave]]. They then split up. One heads north, the other east, and while Beaters manage to follow them for a while they soon lose them in the dark woods.

The third creature, calling itself '''Obligatus''' picks an old stump near the middle of the [[regio]], sits down ... and doesn't move for two months. Landskeeper '''Benjamin Bickwoll''' is keeping a close eye on the situation and has grumpily allowed that he might be prepared to receive and maybe even answer any [[Call Winged Messenger|winged messengers]] any other Landskeepers might want to send to him. ('''OOC NOTE:''' ''Benjamin Bickwoll, the Copse of the Bone Birch, near Bickwoll, Birchland, Upwold'' should do it.)

<div style="width: 500px; float: right;"><quote by="Rooslan Stanvich Prochnost, Varushkan Assembly, Summer Solstice 381YE, Upheld 120 - 10">
The Varushkan National Assembly support our allies in Wintermark. The rumours of assault and mutilation on the bodies of Wintermark citizens have been investigated and found to be the work of a common enemy bound to create division between our nations. Varushka stands with Wintermark, proud citizens of the Empire, Loyal allies.
</quote></div>

<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right;"><quote by="Ylmiska Ferbow, Wintermark Assembly, Summer Solstice 381YE, Upheld 178 - 0">
The Wintermark Assembly support our allies in Varushka. The rumours of assault and mutilation on the bodies of Wintermark citizen have been investigated and found to be the work of a common enemy bound to create division between our nations. Wintermark stand with Varushka. Proud citizens of the Empire and Loyal allies.
</quote></div>

==The Hahnmark Strangler==
In recent months there have been various lurid reports of mutilated corpses in Skarsind and neighbouring parts of Wintermark. These reports have been investigated thoroughly by the Imperial magistrates who discovered that several of the reported acts were the work of a deranged fanatic, a devotee of Agramant who lost all reason in a terrible storm a few winters back. The individual had murdered at least one person and appeared to be deliberately defiling bodies.

The individual has been caught, tried and executed and there is no reason to expect any further influence from Agramant on this matter. It appears that his intentions were to try and deepen the divisions between Wintermark and Varushka arising from the incident with Dogri Thulebane and the Iron Helms. Fortunately these attempts appear to have conclusively failed.
===OOC Note===
This entry is not a plot - but rather an in-character explanation for in-character events that came to light at recent events in which the Iron Helms were accused of mutilating bodies. The source of the stories was a player who had not intended to deceive anyone but had unfortunately misinterpreted the nature of the ongoing events and assumed that it would be ok to create personal events to reflect them. It is usually fine for players to check minor background elements in response to ongoing events but it is always important to check with us before creating events of this significance - so that we can confirm if they are consistent with the campaign or not.

The League groups

2025-02-03T13:29:17Z

Apoth: /* The Church of the Enduring Flame */

{{stub}}
==Overview==
There are many important guilds, cartas, troupes and more in the League. Despite the number, only a comparative handful are involved in the affairs of the Empire (that is, attend the seasonal summits at Anvil). Their influence can wax and wane, and involvement in Imperial affairs is not always a reflection of their prominence within the nation itself. This page presents in-character information about the groups that attend, or have attended, [[Anvil]] — the kind of thing that someone who asked about them might uncover from talking to their peers. In each case, the information is provided by the players and edited before being put on the wiki.

The majority of groups listed here are made up of player-characters. You should not create a character who is part of a group, or has personal history with one, without first clearing it with the appropriate players. You should also check before including other players' groups in your background. The background team are unlikely to approve a background that significantly impacts or involves another player character group without their permission. There are also a handful of prominent NPC groups included for completeness, but they are not intended for use by player characters.

It was originally compiled by The Harlequin and Gabriel Barossa, after the Autumn Equinox of 381YE.

==Guilds of Temeschwar==

===Ashen Tower===
Formed by Drogon and Dante Morisini around 350YE, the Ashen Tower was originally formed by citizens who had migrated from Highguard, which is still shown in their stark black and white heraldry. They also still cleave to the Highborn principle that Virtue can and will redeem your soul. Brought to the League by the brothers, the Tower sought to rid Temeschwar of the Vyig threat, before focussing their efforts on the liberation of Holberg. A number of prominent members were lost fighting for the city. Despite these losses, the Tower grew, with their valour attracting many of the dispossessed and orphaned of the city into their ranks. As one of their bravos put it "we are a home for all the young minds wishing to pull themselves out of the gutter and in some cases down to it."

Now known across the Empire for its military prowess, the Tower remains a guild where which many claim you can find redemption, Virtue and family, whilst watching over the League.
* '''Motto:''' Ever Vigilant

===Bloody Butchers===
The Bloody Butchers Guild has played a crucial role in Imperial affairs for centuries. Legends as well as their boasts tell that it hosted a sumptuous banquet for Aldones de Sarvos, Barrell of Tassato and Maria Ivanova von Temeschwar at which they formed the League and worked with the First Empress to found the Empire. This magnificent 'First Feast' continues to inspire a tradition of fine feasting today.

They claim their guildmaster was a close aide of the First Empress and her quartermaster general. She called him 'The First Butcher' in recognition of his logistical prowess in supplying cured meat for the Empire's armies. Many songs which they have commissioned are sung of his cunning which was said to be as sharp as his cleaver, and of his courageous death in battle beside the First Empress.

As the Guild's power and influence grew over the years, it diversified into many varied businesses, whilst never forgetting its bloody beginnings in butchery. One of its greatest Master Butchers about a century ago became known as 'The Gold Butcher', for her work serving the Empire as Master of the Mint. She used the Guild's wealth to help finance the Empire, issuing Butchers Bonds to raise funds. In doing so she founded the Butchers Bank and coined its famous motto.

In recent times, following the death of Empress Britta, the Butchers Guild became fabulously prosperous by dominating the Bourse and founding the League Trading Company. With its great wealth it has funded many great works for the Empire, including the Colossus of Sarvos, the Bloody Theatre of Temeschwar, the Blood Red Quays Art Gallery of Sarvos, the Blood Red Museum of Tassato, the Lorenzo Legacies of Virtue and, most impressively of all, 'The Butchers Benevolence: The Blood Red Roads'.
* '''Motto:''' Blood is our bond

===The Church of the Enduring Flame===
The Church of the Enduring Flame was formed in the town of Tagliona near Tassato by Umberto Lucito di Tagliona during the Second Interregnum in around 285 YE from the non-militant wing of the now defunct Church of Burning Avidity.

Preaching the Virtue of Ambition, the sect's membership are not bound to a single guild but drawn from dedicants from across the houses and cities of the League, acting as a bridging point on matters of faith and ambitious competition. Historically, the sect has been known to both fan the flames of disputes between guilds and to facilitate reconciliation of old scores, largely dependent upon their own inscrutable interpretation of the Virtues.

The sect is known to possess a number of historical relics significant to Ambition within the League, not least one of the surviving torches from the Night of a Thousand Torches in Temeschwar that has been on display in their cathedral in the city (with very reasonable price of admittance).

Since the death of Empress Britta, the Church of the Enduring Flame has swelled in size, welcoming members from both the priesthood and laity. They have found a number of successes within the Synod, most notably spearheading the effort to have Ratibor of Temeschwar recognised as an exemplar. Their links to this ancient boyar also saw them continuing his legacy with their involvement in the recent efforts to purge League cities of the Vyig.

===The Sea Wolves===
The Sea Wolves are a free company formed from the original crew of the Cerberus, and their allies who helped them reclaim the ship from Asavea. Tragic and unfortunate circumstances allowed ruthless debt collectors to wrench the mighty black and gold galleon from the crew's control. Unwilling to meekly accept the situation, they swore oaths of loyalty to each other whilst planning a detailed heist. Together they liberated their ship from the foreign power and sailed triumphantly home to Temeschwar. Since that day they have steered clear of Asavean waters and resentment towards the nation runs strong amongst members of the free company.

Between mercenary contracts the Sea Wolves sail far and wide trading in fine wines, ciders and ports. The crew saves a portion of their stock to sell to the heroes at Anvil during each solstice. The Sea Wolf brand is becoming widely known amongst those who fancy themselves connoisseurs of the finer alcoholic beverages. This trading inclination means the company maintains a strong business presence in Temeschwar. It uses this financial base to equip and support their martial endeavours. When on shore leave the crew is set ‘at licence'. They can usually be found in taverns, drinking, gambling, boasting, and fighting; often all at the same time. The Sea Wolves' camp is large and loud with entertainers being enthusiastically welcomed to the fireside. Rival bravos are also welcomed although scuffles are to be expected. Fortunately the free company’s cicisbeos are more than capable of soothing a few bruised egos.

On the battlefield, the Sea Wolves pride themselves on rigorous professionalism. They fight together, with pole arms and two-handed swords, well supported by battle mages and healers. Their oath reflects their fierce commitment to loyalty, to their financial success, and to their independent lifestyle aboard the Cerberus.

==Guilds of Holberg==
===Adelaarsgilde===
Adelaarsgilde was founded in the wake of the [[379YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Hammer_and_Blade|liberation of Holberg]] in 379YE by the grandchildren of Hippoliete van Holberg and their spouses. The guild's twin raison d'êtres are to improve the quality of discourse around religion, magic, trade and politics within the Empire, and to introduce their young children to the ways of Anvil, so that they might better become virtuous and clever citizens.

The most famous Adelaarsgilde venture is The Great Debarcle, a conversation café in Holberg which combines home baked Holbergian delicacies with academic debates. The Great Debarcle is home to Adelaarsekte, which has strong links to the university and has been influential in encouraging Holberg's citizens to extend their hospitality to the Sand Fisher orcs. In Holberg, the café is frequented by both local and visiting priests. Adelaarsgilde is financially supported by a number of businesses, including importers of victuals and fabrics, a bank and trading house, with the latter two being notable for their open policies on pricing. The conversation café is further supported by the family’s bakers, who produce a variety of savoury and sweet goods.

All members of Adelaarsgilde are trained in dramaturgy, exploring the liminal spaces between Night and Day, and of particular note are their rituals performed through the apprenticing of younger members of the guild - often chaotic affairs replete with mishaps, setbacks, and mayhem.

===Holberg Haudegen===
The Holberg Haudegen are a halberd company, well supported by all the various sutlers and logistical base you could want for a large, campaigning free company. Founded by the canny Otto Friedrich Von Holberg, the third son of one of the richer burghers of Holberg, the company is known for its discipline on the battlefield. As well as travelling the length and breadth of the empire, this free company has also fought in the distant battlefields of Axos and Faraden.

Arising from the numerous tradespeople who support the soldiers, the company has among its numbers a lot of surprisingly influential business owners, and several senatorial candidates have been surprised at the influence they wield.

Though their bravos, soldiers, and other followers can be a bit rowdy off the field, the guild has a strong tradition of giving great rewards to those who have proven their worth. Entertainment is often hired in for soldiers who have proved their worth and they are paid "on the drum". Visitors to their camp have often been impressed by the graceful dancing of Haudegen soldiers, moving in stylised formations that are more than slightly reminiscent of their disciplined movement on the battlefield.

Every member of the company is given a wage when they sign on and walk under the halberd arch, as well as extra rewards for those who live to be veterans - these being marked by cards worn on hats and equipment. The company is for hire to most bidders in the Empire for the right amount, considering themselves reassuringly expensive.
* '''Motto:''' Last in, first out, get paid
===The Feasting Crow===
The Feasting Crow Tavern and Theatre was formed when a group of Navarri from the Summer Crows striding decided to settle and spotted business opportunities in the newly liberated city of Holberg. Lacking the funds for the major renovation their cellar bar required, they joined with a merchant prince of Holberg and a theatre troupe to work on the project. Group members include Caerwyn Von Holberg, retired senator for Therunin, who has served as proxy senator for Holberg.
* '''Motto:''' We're not going back!
===House of Seven Mirrors===
The House of Seven Mirrors was originally founded as a private political salon by Lisabetta Giacomi von Holberg. It would be a place where those gathered might seek to increase their knowledge through discussion of new ideas and ways in which to put those ideas into practice. The guildhouse in Holberg contains seven specially-commissioned mirrors which each represents one of the seven Virtues, and draw on the hearth magic of Holberg to encourage all those present to reflect the Virtues as they speak. The guild first came to Anvil in Winter 378YE, and soon after hosted luminaries of Anvil at a public salon evening in Holberg.

Following the election in 380YE of their prince as the twentieth Empress, the guild continues to support the Imperatrix in her duties. But each member of the guild also has their own sphere of excellence and influence at Anvil; ranging from economic, political, magical, and religious, to the sartorial and social. As a result, the House has considerable knowledge of the inner workings of Anvil and the wider Empire, and members have held, and continue to hold, a variety of Imperial titles.

Lisabetta acquired the famous Ledger Domain business following the liberation of Holberg, to enable the House to expand its publishing activities in the realm of political and informational works. The most notable is ‘The Book of the Empire’ - a substantial and handsome volume which draws on Imperial Civil Service records to provide the most useful information for those interested in statecraft. The guild also publishes the highly-regarded ‘Anvil Almanac’ each season: this is a compendium of current Imperial concerns, and includes a full listing of the holders of Imperial titles.

==Guilds of Sarvos==
===Compagnia de Rossi===
The Compagnia de Rossi is a carta with multiple financial interests within the League such as successful trade and shipping, commercial applications of magic, bridging interests between the Senate and the Bourse, the sale of stocks and shares in the wain/ilium market, and stakeholding either directly or indirectly in such organisations as Red Raven Holdings, the League Trading Company, the Crimson Tapestry, and the Burnished Compass. In the past they have also engaged in contract brokerage for mercenary companies.

Based in Sarvos (although originally from Temeschwar) the guild is guided by the Signeur who is first in a company of equals.

===Carta Di Vergo===
* '''Motto:''' By sword and song
The Di Vergo family claim that the Di Vergo Playhouse has been in Sarvos for centuries, potentially predating the Empire. Whether this is actually true or not is entirely lost to the flames of the Sack of Sarvos. The guild, however, was founded recently, and members and associates of the guild are diverse indeed. From members of the Di Vergo Playhouse in Sarvos, the Brothers Blythe of Tassato, a vast number of healers, alchemists, and even a bakery, the guild has a great deal of talent to its name.

Members of the guild are oath-bound to do good and be moral people, and many of their efforts are based on investment in community projects as well as the prosperity and culture of the Empire. Another priority is helping defend the Empire from both domestic and foreign threats. Any aspirant members of this guild are encouraged to take a strong moral stand on issues facing the Empire, and be, or aspire to be, good.

===Carta Rosa D'Ora===
An old trading camorra from the docks of Sarvos, the Carta Rosa D'Ora briefly saw scandal when the eldest two children, Cesare and Nerezza, vanished. Rumours spread that Nerezza, a draughir, had killed her own brother.
The camorra's leadership was practically wiped out during the sacking of Sarvos. Its prince, Gioninno, was killed and his wife and daughter - Christina and Leticia - have lived in Tassato since.

The camorra might have collapsed at this point, but Nerezza returned and claimed the princeship. She declared the camorra to be affiliated with both the Dolcezzas, through blood, and the Ashen Tower. The ruins of the camorra's house now form the foundation of the building housing the Ashen Tower of Sarvos.

===Church of The Little Mother ===
* '''Motto:''' Share all that is worthwhile with all who deserve
The most famous League church is the Church of The Little Mother. Originally based in Sarvos, churches dedicated to the Little Mother, an exemplar of Prosperity and the matron of children and orphans, are found in all League cities and in some parts of other nations as well. The Little Mother takes in orphaned or abandoned children, ensuring that they receive a chance in life. Children are taught basic numeracy and literacy before being apprenticed to a master in the city. The Church sustains itself with donations, often made by former beneficiaries, and is well respected by the Imperial authorities and League people. It can also wield a surprising amount of political power, as many influential people owe their start in life to the priests of the Little Mother.

Led by the Mother Bishop, no matter the gender, the position has been held by strong leaders, most notably the late Ynez di Caricomare, known as 'the mother to many, helping guide people along their path'. She even held the position of Cardinal of Prosperity for a time, being a strong voice on the Council of Nine. Sadly however, Ynez and several others were cut down in the line of duty.

Lately however the church has seen a revival under its new mother bishop.

===Carta Notturno===
Granted their charter in the early years of Emperor Ahraz's reign, the Carta Notturno was founded by street mages, traders, and madames in an effort impose some order on the infamous night markets of Sarvos' Piazza della Notte. Due to its humble beginnings and relatively recent formation, the Carta is traditionally seen as an upstart guild with a shady image. Their reputation as barely legitimised mountebanks and tradespeople on the make has clung on over the years and, combined with a knack for making the best of bad situations, attracts a certain amount of resentment from more established Sarvosian guilds. The sinking of the Caricomare brought the guild a large influx of refugee members, whose efforts have enhanced its prosperity significantly. The Carta operates a diverse network of business concerns, and their fleets can be found trading across the known world (backed by powerful magic, if rumour is believed).

Though their fortunes have risen and fallen over time, a recent leadership change has allowed the Carta to shake off a decade of stagnation and resurface on the League political scene. When the Interregnum started, the guild's leaders scented opportunity and ventured to Anvil for the first time. Bringing the vibrant spirit of the Piazza della Notte with them, they operate from the brightly lit and multi-coloured Peacock's Tale cocktail bar, sending their diverse membership out to pluck the threads of influence across all the great chambers of the Imperial State.

Belying its dubious reputation, the Carta Notturno was the primary investor in rebuilding the Caricomare district of Sarvos, probably due to their history of re-homing refugees. Since then they have become known for putting both money and fundraising efforts into public works across the Empire and are regularly visited by people wishing to promote ideas for improving the lives of citizens.
===Accademia dell'Arte===
* '''Motto:''' There is both Pride and profit in mastery of one's art
A new guild in its infancy, The Accademia dell'Arte brings together independent artisans, artists, magical actors and playwrights, alchemists, poet-philosophers, and free thinkers. Why? There are philosophical reasons, sure, but mostly it is for delectable, delicious and deplorable ''profit''.

...that, and the scandalous parties. The ''alleged'' scandalous parties. "But what can one expect from the antics of debauched artists?", asks the eccentric founder of the guild, Giacomo de'Geni. "Those who seek their muse at the bottom of a cup of wine; in the arms of another's lover; in the dregs of an alchemist's draught. They are flighty, that muse. Who knows where they will appear next!"

Originally based in Tassato, now relocated along with its founder to Sarvos.

===Golden Chalice===
* '''Motto:''' Ambition through Prosperity
The Golden Chalice claims a long and storied history that no one can verify, but the ancestral "carta" with the guild seal looks legitimate enough. Under poor lighting. While drunk. Regardless, the modern guild is centred around a handful of dock-houses and one cock-fighting ring on the Caricomare docks, with members in the other cities.

The Golden Chalice is dedicated to furthering ambitions that are "grand, benevolent and leave a lasting legacy", and is active in trade, politics and magic to that effect.

===Prospero's Chosen===
Based in the Sarvos docks, Prospero's Chosen has many fingers in many pies. A hybrid trading and mercenary company, the group turns itself to anything to earn coin, in the past dabbling in mercenary work, trading, and rumoured to be involved in other, less savoury activities. Members have been known to duel for the honour of the band, and any slight is answered with cold steel.

The symbol of the group is a skull, with the letter "P" on the forehead, and their chief colours are black and gold.

===First Spark Carta===
* '''Motto:''' Sparks Ignite!
Founded at the start of 384 YE, the First Spark Carta is a guild with two missions:

The First Mission is to seek out those who come to Anvil for the first time and help them to navigate the heart of Imperial Power.<br>
The Second Mission is to promote engagement and competition and in doing so oppose complacency, stagnation and corruption.

Founded by Estella Lucati, Prince-Bishop of Ambition, the carta is passionately devoted to The Way and how it intersects with the two missions. Resplendent - and easy to find - in their distinctive blue-and-yellow colours, members of the First Spark Carta are always keen to meet those new to Anvil and hear their stories, provide insight, advice or signposting or render aid where needed.

===Carta Bellamarina===
* '''Motto:''' By Blood and Brine
The Carta Bellamarina is reputed to be one of Sarvos' older guilds and are rumoured to have been involved in maritime services for centuries. Once in possession of significant property in the Caricomare district of Sarvos, they were hit severely by its flooding and their influence has waxed and waned considerably since then. Their guild palace was rebuilt on piles out in the waters of the Caricomare and was, for a while, only reachable by gantries or a chain ferry.

==Guilds of Tassato==
===Printers Guild===
* '''Motto:''' With Courage and Vigilance we spread the truth
With the charter changing hands less than ten years ago, the recent infamy of the Printers’ Guild has eclipsed the historic successes and scandals. In just a few short years they have become famous both for the benevolence with which they have given to the Empire's museums and sinecures, as well as the questionable virtue with which they have antagonised eternals, heroes, and villains.

When the Senate and the Conclave refused to retrieve the Imperial Crown from Bas Celik, the Printers’ Guild stepped forwards to fill the void and reclaimed this priceless relic. Safely stewarding it for three years, the jealousy of smaller souls saw it sequestered by the Conclave. Within a season it was lost. Pilfered from supposedly sealed vaults by the Silver Mask (one of their notorious former members) and given to the Sumaah Republic.

The passion of the prince of the Printers’ Guild is the Pledge - a newspaper that divides the Empire. In his words, "many cry out it contains lies, but when pressed all they can find is the hard hitting truths that make them squirm." Although the guild has offices in all the League cities, it is the home of the Pledge in Tassato Mestra with which they are most often associated.

Famously, the guild boasts a range of involvement in the Synod that no-one else can match, since their members include both cardinals and those who have been excommunicated, along with everything between. They even believe that they are preaching to their readers.

Never shy, always controversial, they boast that if you are planning on attending Anvil and have an opinion that you want spreading far and wide then make friends with the Printers’ Guild and write for The Pledge.

===The Gilded Horn Carta===
Signed in Mestra before the formation of the Empire, the Gilded Horn Carta was founded from the diverse strands of the already powerful Rezia family, which had its various stakes in the city since antiquity. From Mestra it has spread to the rest of the League, and has played an active hand in its development since those early days.

The heart of the Gilded Horn’s operations is the Street of Pleasures in Mestra. Newcomers could be forgiven for thinking the Carta owns the whole street, but their rivals point out the other guilds between the brazen frontages of businesses owned by the Gilded Horn. For those in search of enjoyment, luxury, or the finer things in life, the Gilded Horn is a good place to start, though a critic would whisper that this Carta has something of an unsavoury reputation for debauchery.

Naturally, with such strong holdings on the Street of Pleasures, its members are often entertainers, singers, actors or cicisbeos. The Carta has one of the largest Autumn covens in the Empire, and has found renown in casting a permanent enchantment upon the Wolves of War; the largest known permanent ritual in recent times.

The Rezia family that runs the guild is largely of Cambion blood, but the Carta is no camorra; they will take the time to explain that the Carta recruits only the most promising candidates, and the most capable and driven individuals are married or adopted by the family.
The Gilded Horn has always been politically active, but since the death of Britta it is common to find one of their membership seeking election in Senate, the Synod and the Conclave.

===Camorra Barossa===
* '''Motto:''' Steel guard my body, Virtue guard my soul
The Camorra Barossa, better known as the Crimson Foxes, are an old family from Tassato Regario, with roots going back pre-Empire. Members are all part of the Barossa line by birth, marriage or adoption.

Many of the camorra have been noted actors and playwrights and commonly have a love of dramaturgy, both for rituals and entertainment. They only have limited involvement in League politics, but are closely allied to the Empress Lisabetta.

Since the Interregnum, members of the camorra have served in numerous imperial positions, but are probably most well known for their martial and Bourse interests. The family regularly sends soldiers to support the armies and have given the League two generals, in addition to numerous exploits via the sentinel gate. Enemies of the camorra are quick to joke about the tragic litany of deaths in battle they have endured, but the Foxes point with pride to the victories those deaths have won. One such death was Nicolo Barossa, the exemplar of Prosperity, who was the first Master of the Imperial Mint after the death of Britta and one of several members of the family to sit on the Bourse since.

===Jolly Jackdaw Cartel===
* '''Motto:''' On laughter, we soar!
The Jolly Jackdaw Cartel pride themselves on their humour and razor wit. Though far from the most powerful or wealthy of the Leagues cartels, the Jackdaws try to make up for this with their numbers and connections. The Jackdaws make no secret of their willingness to recruit any bravo. No matter their experience, wealth, or standing in society the cartel will take them in.

There is no recorded beginning of the cartel, but it is believed they were born from the rivers. The myriad servants and vagabonds that travelled between the great cities, working for richer and mightier folk. They all shared high ambitions, and by joining together they found strength and purpose. Enough to help lift one another from the gutter.

Their guild house, the Rookery is located in the riotous streets of Tassato Mestra. Yet the Jackdaws travel both through the League and across the Empire, looking for work and often managing to cause trouble in equal measure, safe in the knowledge that the flock will be there to aid if need be.

Due to the Jackdaw’s tendency to travel each leader of the Guild holds the title of Count of Vagabonds. In battle, The Jolly Jackdaws fight as a "''flock''"; relying on skirmish tactics and teamwork to achieve their objectives.

===Carta Della Trama===
*'''Motto:''' Through deed or scar, leave your mark
The Carta Della Trama is made up mostly of mariners, traders, and craftsfolk with a strong focus on the production of magical items through artisans. Members of the Carta have been engaged in dealings for several years, often meeting in establishments across the League to share a drink and exchange resources, items, and money. They would also share stories and rumours about threats or opportunities from around the Empire, thus providing each other with the most valuable of resources; information.

As time passed and members of this little network grew in affluence, they eventually found their way to Anvil and in the company of the most influential figures from across the Empire. It was then they realised that in order for each of them to achieve their fullest ambitions, they should band together in loyalty to take a more coordinated approach. From there, in the summer of 384YE, the Carta Della Trama was forged.

With their founding Prince, Antonio Benedito Altassato, hailing from Tassato Mestra, the Carta lists that as the location of their headquarters. Truth be told, the Carta Della Trama proudly boast of having prominent members and houses in all four corners of the League and see that as a strength from which to draw.

The Carta’s first big project was the launching of the League Assemblage of Artisans, and they are always actively looking to build connections with other artisans and traders alike. With ambition as the wind in their sails and the fire in their forge, the Carta Della Trama continue to seek to work with those of a similar mindset.

==Guilds of [[Spiral#Apulian|Apulian]]==
===The Crimson Reapers===
* '''Motto:''' Reap what you sow
Formed in the harsh winter of 379YE by Prince Drogon, the name of the Free Company was chosen as a gift to the Reaper itself during the festival that bears its name.

As a Free Company, the Reapers are noted for their high proportion of battlemages alongside hard-bitten bravos. For the right price, they will carry their blades in support of any nation of the Empire and are often called upon to pay the prices the Winter realm demands in return for powerful battlefield rituals.

Recently, they have committed themselves to the protection and cultivation of the League’s fifth city, Apulian. Their military units were among the first to follow the [[Wolves of War]] in the “conquest” of the territory.

Although they cultivate a dark image with their associations with death and the brutal reputation of their bravos, inside their own camp they pride themselves on offering a warm welcome. Their guests can see past the masks to find ambitious citizens driven to protect the Empire.

[[Category:The League]]

Ratify Dumonist Treaty

2025-02-03T13:28:45Z

Apoth: /* Outcome */

[[Category:Senate Motion]][[Category: 384YE Autumn]]
__NOTOC__
<quote by="Proposed Miekarova, Seconded Miaren"> To ratify treaty with the Iron Confederacy. That the Iron Confederacy agrees to step down trade embargo to sanction. In return for the Empire instructing the magistrates to co-operate with the Suranni templars in tracking down members of the Hand of Dumon.</quote>

==Overview==
* The motion presents a [[Ambassador#Treaty|treaty]] negotiated by the [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy]].
* The treaty has two provisions: the Iron Confederacy will remove the [[Tariffs#Embargo|embargo]] on trade with the Empire, replacing it with [[Tariffs#Sanctions|sanctions]].
* The Imperial magistrates will cooperate with [[Iron Confederacy|Suranni]] lawkeepers in tracking down members of the illegal Hand of Dumon.
* Passed

==Date==
* Autumn 384YE.
==Outcome==
* The treaty has been enacted by the Civil Service; new trade status is dependent on the Iron Confederacy also ratifying the treaty
* The treaty is subject to some additional [[scrutiny]] as the Imperial magistrates determine the best way to cooperate with the Suranni templars.

Hand of the Healers

2025-02-03T13:28:25Z

Apoth: /* Overview */

<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Rain King.png|align=left|caption=Spring brings flowers, gentle rains, and the heralds of the Tarnfather.|width=400}}</div>
==Overview==
The Hand of the Healers is an [[Imperial title]] that serves as custodian of the [[#Houses of Healing|Houses of Healing]] at [[Therunin#Peakedge Song|Peakedge Song]] in [[Therunin]], constructed with the aid of the eternal [[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]], and intended to support the healers of the Empire. They have several responsibilities, and in return receive access to powerful [[magic items]] that aid healing, including some that are unknown to Imperial lore. These gifts are dependent on Ossegrahn continuing to have a good relationship with the Empire and the [[Imperial Conclave]].

The motion to construct the House of Healing was passed during the [[385YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Construct_House_of_Healing|Spring Equinox 385YE]]. The House of Healing is supported by the followers of [[Ossegrahn]] and the original opportunity for the construction was presented by heralds of the Cupbearer during the Spring Equinox 385YE. More information on the opportunity can be found in the [[Rain_king#Houses_of_Healing|Rain king]] wind of fortune.

==Responsibilities==
The Hand of the Healers has a number of responsibilities; they must strive to support healers throughout the Empire, both magical and mundane, helping them to overcome sickness and heal injuries wherever possible. They are expected also to actively work to reduce suffering in the world, especially through the use of murderous curses or unnecessary violence. Finally, if the House of Healing or any who work there or visit as patients were to come under threat, it would be the responsibility of the Hand to deal with those threats.

==Powers==
===Offerings of Lord Rain===
<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Healing Implements'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>14 crowns</td><td>1 [[Ambergelt Baton]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>17 crowns</td><td>1 [[Boneweaver]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>18 crowns</td><td>1 [[Bloodwoven Braid]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>22 crowns</td><td>1 [[Staff of Life]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>30 crowns</td><td>1 [[Woundbinder]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>32 crowns</td><td>1 [[Grimnir's Hearthfire]]</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Healing Attire'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>18 crowns</td><td>1 [[Trollsweave Vest]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>25 crowns</td><td>1 [[Robe of Blood and Bone]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>41 crowns</td><td>1 [[Moonsilver Doublet]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>50 crowns</td><td>1 Lifetender's Shawl</td></tr>
</table>
<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Healing Foci'''</td><td style="background-color: LightBlue;"></td></tr>
<tr><td>7 crowns</td><td>1 [[Escharotic Cauldron]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>10 crowns</td><td>1 [[Phial of the Sun]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>11 crowns</td><td>1 Cupbearer's Mask</td></tr>
<tr><td>12 crowns</td><td>1 Doctor's Mask</td></tr>
<tr><td>16 crowns</td><td>1 [[Chrysalis Pendant]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>23 crowns</td><td>1 Vine Mask</td></tr>
<tr><td>30 crowns</td><td>1 Chirurgeon's Ring</td></tr></table></div>
The House of Healing functions as a [[ministry]] - the Hand of the Healers has access to three different purchase tracks allowing them to purchase implements, attire, and foci useful for healing from the followers of Ossegrahn. The Hand of the Healers makes their decision how much money to spend during downtime from their character page. They can only purchase one item from each of the three collections. Money is removed from, and ribbons are placed into, the character's inventory when the downtime is processed.

If Ossegrahn were ever subject to a [[Declaration]] of [[Alignment#Enmity|Enmity]] by the Conclave the ministries would cease to function.

===Gift of Rainfather===
Ossegrahn provides the Hand of the Healers with a unique amulet for their personal use that increases their personal healing abilities. The details of this amulet are not widely known. '''OOC Note:''' This takes the form of a ribbon, and the player would need to provide their own physrep.

==Appointment==
The appointment, replacement or removal of the Hand of the Healers is made by the [[Declaration]] of [[Candidacy]] as part of a [[Conclave session]].

The Hand of the Healers serves until they are replaced by another magician using the Declaration of Candidacy. The Hand cannot be [[Revocation|revoked]] by the [[Imperial Synod]].
==Houses of Healing==
<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Dreekbourne, Herald of the Cupbearer">I'm not sure I understand what you are asking. Healing herbs... heal. They do what they do? You can find new things to heal with them but you cannot find new things for them to do .</quote></div>
These gentle houses stand amidst tranquil and restful gardens near [[Therunin#Peakedge Stead|Peakedge Stread]] in [[Therunin]]. There are half a dozen primary lodges, built in a manner reminiscent of a Navarr [[wayhouse]], along with another half dozen smaller structures intended to house contagious patients or visiting artisans. The burgeoning gardens contain examples of every plant with healing properties that can grow in Therunin, as well as large numbers of aromatic or simply beautiful flowing plants that contribute to the restful atmosphere. At the heart of the settlement is a quiet spring of pure water that is also a Spring regio tied to the domain of the [[Ossegrahn|Tarnfather]], which allows gentle heralds to visit the Houses and assist the healers there.

The Houses of Healing were constructed as a result of an [[Rain king#Do_Least_Harm|offer]] made by the servants of [[Ossegrahn|Lord Rain]] at the Spring Equinox 385YE. The [[Archmage of Spring]] at the time, Ibiss Briarheart, asked if Ossegrahn would sponsor a college to study herb lore and the [[Surgical skills#Physick|healer's arts]], but while the heralds appreciated the sentiment, they did not believe such a thing was possible. Certainly they didn't know of any way for a physick to use herbs in a way the Empire doesn't. The Archmage also asked whether Ossegrahn might provide aid to Imperial healers, and the followers of the Spring eternal were very much more enthusiastic about the possibility of offering direct, practical aid to those who work to keep people alive (even if they do sometimes do it on a battlefield).

After some discussion, among themselves and with the Cupbearer himself, the heralds put forward a proposal. There are a number of [[Crafting skills#Artisan|artisans]] in the Empire and elsewhere who are friends and allies to Ossegrahn who will craft [[magic items|magical tools]] for the benefit of the Empire's healers. Thus, the ''Houses of Healing'' were proposed, to be built either near [[Therunin#Peakedge Stead|Peakedge Stead]] in [[Therunin]], or at the [[Gardens of High Chalcis]] in [[Reikos]]. There are apparently Spring regio near both locations that would serve as the foundation for their construction.

In addition to providing a safe and tranquil location for the artisans to work, they allow for the study of [[Surgical skills#Chirurgry|chirurgery]], [[Surgical skills#Physick|physick]], [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|herblore]], and healing magic, as well as providing healing to any who visit. Ossegrahn proposed that a single individual would be appointed to oversee the Houses, called the ''Hand of the Healers'', and they would bear additional responsibilities both to the doctors and healers of the Empire and to the friends of Ossegrahn who support them. In return, the eternal would serve as a patron, guiding and inspiring healers to find ways to reduce the suffering in the world.

The ''Hand of the Healers'' has access to ministries that allow them to purchase [[magic items]] intended to assist mundane and magical healers. Some of these items are unknown to Imperial crafters, being either secrets unique to a small group of artisans, or secured from sources outside the Empire. In each case, the artisans and merchants are individuals who have a good personal relationship with the Rainfather or one of his heralds. In addition, once each year, the Rainfather himself agrees to provide the ''Hand of the Healers'' with a unique amulet for their personal use that would increase their personal healing abilities.

These powers are contingent on good relationship with Ossegrahn. In the event the Conclave declared [[alignment#Enmity|enmity]] against him, they would be lost. There is no guarantee they would automatically be recovered if the Conclave later changed their mind. Without the support of Ossegrahn the Houses of Healing would simply revert to being a hospital (it would essentially be a [[folly]]).

{{RecentElections|Hand_of_the_Healers}}

==Tools of Healing and Protection==
Click ''Expand'' to see a summary of the items that the Houses of Healing can provide which are not common knowledge among Imperial artisans.
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
====Lifetender's Shawl====
* '''Form:''' Armour. Takes the form of a [[Magic_items#Armour|robe]]. You must be wearing this robe to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Three times per day you can [[Spellcasting#Swift casting|swift cast]] the [[heal]], [[purify]], or [[restore limb]] spell on another character without spending any mana. You must be able to cast the appropriate spell to use this power, and cannot use it on yourself.
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' While wearing this robe your empathy for other people is greatly enhanced. When you see a living creature in pain, you feel an urge to alleviate that pain, regardless of how you feel about that person.

====Doctor's Mask====
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a [[Magic_items#Talismans|ritual focus]]. You must be wearing this item or holding it in hand to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Gain 1 rank for the [[Blood of the Hydra]], [[Hands of Sacred Life]], and [[Hearthfire Circle]] rituals, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks|normal rules for effective skill]].
====Cupbearer's Mask====
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a [[Magic_items#Talismans|ritual focus]]. You must be wearing this item or holding it in hand to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Gain 1 rank for the [[Chirurgeon's Healing Touch]], [[Fountain of Life]], and [[Hands of the Healer]] rituals, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks|normal rules for effective skill]]. When contributing to a performance of one of these rituals, you may choose to substitute [[weltsilver]] for crystal mana. Every 2 measures of weltsilver spent counts as 1 crystal mana, up to the normal limit determined by your effective rank of spring lore.
====Vine Mask====
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a [[Magic_items#Talismans|ritual focus]]. You must be wearing this item or holding it in hand to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirement:''' You must have the [[Magical skills#Magician|magician]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Gain 2 ranks for the [[Regrow the Land's Heart]], and [[Rivers of Life]] rituals, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks|normal rules for effective skill]]. When contributing to a performance of one of these rituals, you may choose to substitute [[ambergelt]] for crystal mana. Every 2 measures of ambergelt spent counts as 1 crystal mana, up to the normal limit determined by your effective rank of spring lore.
====Chirurgeon's Ring====
* '''Form:''' Talisman. Takes the form of a tool. You must be holding this item in hand to use its magical properties.
* '''Requirements:''' You must have the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon|Chirurgeon]] skill to bond to this item.
* '''Effect:''' Twice per day you can use the [[Heroic skills#Stay with me|stay with me]] skill as if you knew it without spending any [[heroic skills#hero|hero points]].
* '''Roleplaying Effect:''' Whenever someone nearby is injured, you feel an echo of that injury. It is easy to be overwhelmed with grief when someone dies, even a total stranger.</div>

{{Responsibilities Expectation}}
[[Category:Title]]
[[Category:Conclave]]

Hook of the Hoarfrost Guardian

2025-02-03T13:28:02Z

Apoth: /* Common Elements */

{{CaptionedImage|file=NBUrizen.jpg|caption=This ritual is part of [[Urizen magical traditions#Urizen Lore|Urizen lore]] rather than [[Imperial lore]].|align=right|width=200}}
==Rules==
{{Season|Summer|40}}
{{Urizen Lore}}

===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} {{Target Character}} The target character must possess the [[Combat_skills#Weapon_Master|weapon master]] skill.

{{enchantment}}

===Effects===
The target of the ritual may call [[Calls#STRIKEDOWN|STRIKEDOWN]] four times each day while wielding a [[Weapons_%26_armour#Polearms|pole-arm]] with which they are proficient.

In addition, the target experiences a roleplaying effect: ''whenever you feel you are being thwarted, belittled or insulted you feel an urge to batter the source of your irritation until it stops moving. You find it easier to endure cold climates (within the bounds of OOC safety considerations), and find the idea of spending time in snowy wastelands or high mountains appealing.''

As long as the enchantment lasts you may [[Roleplaying_effects#Overcoming_Roleplaying_Effects|respond]] to any [[roleplaying effect]] that would make you calm or placid by becoming incredibly angry instead.

{{regain heroics}}

{{Season Duration}}

===Additional Targets===
This ritual can affect additional characters from the same [[banner]]. Each additional character increases the magnitude by 25. Additional characters must be present throughout.
===Options===
{{Ritual Substitution|tempest jade|ingots}}
===Assurance===
This ritual draws on the power of the ice giants who attend the court of [[Cathan Canae]]. As part of the [[Ritual_theory#Agreement|agreement]] with the heralds, the ritual will lose all potency and ceases to function if "''the spear of Heyrrokyn should ever be destroyed.''" This information was hidden in the wording of the ritual text and uncovered quite by chance by a librarian at the [[Morrow#Grand_Library_of_Canterspire|Grand Library of Canterspire]] after the ritual entered Urizen lore. Unfortunately, there are no notes in the original text as to what the spear of Heyrrokyn is, where it may be found, nor why the ice giants would care about its destruction. While it is certainly possible for the ice giants to empower the ritual again should the assurance be broken, it would require a new set of negotiations and there is no guarantee that it will work the same way it did previously.
<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage|file=Ice Giant.png|caption=This ritual draws on the power of the ice giants - heralds of [[Cathan Canae]] who lead her armies and regularly garrison her [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae|frozen citadels]].|align=right|width=400}}</div>

==Description==
This ritual was one of the very first to become part of [[Urizen magical traditions#Urizen lore|Urizen lore]], following the Autumn Equinox 383YE. Contributed by Mord Thorntarry of the [[spire]] of Auric Horizon, the ritual was one of those contained in the book ''Meditations''. Written by Callus Strategos, [[Dean of the Lyceum]] during the reign of [[Empress Britta]], the book also contained [[Swords in the Noonday Sun]], [[Good Green Oak]], [[Eyes of the Hills]] and two rituals that had already become part of [[Imperial lore]] - [[Find the Best Path]] and [[Hammers of the Brilliant Shore]].

The ritual draws on the "''strength and viciousness of the “ice giants” that accompany Cathan Canae, and evokes the image of their hooked pole-arms''". The [[eternal]] commonly known as the ''Queen of Ice and Darkness'' or the ''Lady of the Frost'' is not ''directly'' involved, but from a legal standpoint there is no difference between drawing on the power of the heralds of an eternal and drawing directly on Cathan Canae herself. This judgement has been further supported by recent discoveries around the way heralds and eternals respond to the [[Declaration|declarations]] of [[amity and enmity]]. As such, performing the ritual while Cathan Canae is under enmity would still be a crime.
Codified in the reign of [[Emperor Guntherm]], it was formulated at a time where the ''Mistress of Blizzards'' had only recently ceased to be considered an [[Amity and enmity#Declaration of Enmity|enemy]] of the Empire; her open support for the [[Jotun]] [[orc|orcs]] has long complicated her relationship with the [[Imperial Conclave]]. According to ''Meditations'', the ritual was formulated during the peace with the Jotun secured by the Emperor so that he could focus his attention on the [[Druj]] in the east. However it allegedly saw little use before Cathan Canae was again placed under enmity by the Conclave for her alleged role in the death of the Wintermark [[the Throne|Throne]].
<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="''Meditations'', Callus Strategos">The Marchers in particular seem to appreciate this ritual, although I understand that there have been some problems with their friars. They dislike the anger the ritual brings with it, apparently. On the few occasions I was able to perform it on one of them I must confess I saw very little difference in their dour exteriors.</quote></div>
The western barbarians are certainly aware of this ritual, or at least possess a common [[Cathan_Canae#Boons|boon]] from Cathan Canae that works very similarly. Callus wrote of encountering a Jotun warband whose warriors appeared to employ a similar enchantment that involved great spears marked with the [[rune|runes]] [[Tykonus]] and [[Verys]] on their hafts. It led him to express a suspicion that "''sneaky Heftan the Fox – who did much of the work on the foundation of this ritual – might have been a better thief, or a better diplomat, than he was a magical researcher.''"

Employing Hook of the Hoarfrost Guardian can be a little daunting; it fills the recipient with barely controlled fury as well as with savage combat mastery. Obviously a warrior whose [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#Poise|poise]] is without question can control and channel this rage into even greater effectiveness of the battlefield, but less sophisticated recipients of the ritual might end up being overwhelmed by the anger it creates. As such, Urizen magicians are advised to take care as to where and upon whom they employ this powerful enchantment.

==Common Elements==
As a personal [[enchantment]], the ritual often includes anointing or girding the recipients in some manner as a symbol for the bestowing of power. Pure, cold water poured or dabbed on the forehead, shoulders, and hands has a particular resonance with the ritual, especially if that water is made by melting ice or snow. Even better is actual ice or snow, although securing such material is dependent on the weather. Marking the weapon of the recipient in the same manner, or tying something indicative of strength or potency to the haft of the pole-arm, is also appropriate. Practitioners of [[blood magic]] have indicated that a little blood [[Blood_magic#The_Source|taken]] from a [[changeling]] mixed with water is especially appropriate for such anointing.

When [[materials#Tempest jade|tempest jade]] is [[#Options|employed]] in the performance of the ritual, having the recipients crush the ingots underfoot is considered the ideal way to draw on its power.

The [[astronomancy|astronomantic]] constellation of [[the Mountain]] resonates well with this ritual, as does the enduring power of [[the Oak]].
[[Category:Summer Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]